Dec 9, 2003 By Patty Shultz 3 min read

CONNELLSVILLE – Organizational representatives, department officials and residents with proposals to improve local buildings, public safety and infrastructure are hoping to garner a portion of the city’s annual state grant allocation next year. Connellsville Redevelopment Authority executive director Ralph Wombacker received 10 suggestions for funding through the state Development Block Grant (CDBG) program at a public hearing held Monday to solicit requests.

The city is expected to receive approximately $425,000 through the state program with about $350,000 available for projects.

The Connellsville Historical Society Restoration Committee requested $50,000 be earmarked for the upgrading of a West Patterson Street property purchased by the organization. According to a letter submitted by the committee, the structure is in need of roof, chimney, plumbing, electrical and heating improvements.

Glenn Bell, president of the Coke Center Radio Club, requested the city earmark $2,800 for the purchase of replacement communication equipment.

Bell said the licensed members assist the city in emergency communications and is in need of certain items to upgrade its operation.

Councilwoman Chris Wagner, who oversees the city recreation department, asked that $50,000 be allocated to the Connellsville Community Center for the renovation of its auditorium.

“It’s in deplorable condition,” said Wagner, noting at one time the auditorium provided plays, musicals and other activities for children. “Many children are unable to travel to see these types of performances.

“If the auditorium was renovated, we could bring the shows to Connellsville.”

Wagner speculated the renovation would be a two-phase project with the first undertaking to include repairs to the stage, upgrading of the electrical system and the purchase of new seating and carpeting.

The New Haven Volunteer Hose Co. requested the city again earmark funding for its purchase of a Quint aerial truck.

To date the city has set aside nearly $200,000 for the truck purchase through the CDBG program.

Councilwoman Judy Keller requested $22,500 for the replacement of windows at the East Side Fire Station.

Keller said the current windows date back to 1954 when the facility was constructed.

“(The replacement) would save the city in heating bills,” she said.

Joe Childs, the city fire chief, asked that $20,500 be earmarked for the purchase of fire hose and nozzles, smoke ejectors and turnout gear, along with other equipment for the city department.

Councilman Bruce Jaynes requested the city continue its past practice of upgrading the storm sewerage system and move forward with projects along Fourth and Fifth streets and Water Street.

Jaynes said that Widmer Engineering Inc. has completed design work for Fourth and Fifth streets and that the city should allocate funding to complete the work.

The redevelopment authority also received written requests from Patty Richter and Barry and Cookie Shipley for funding to replace sidewalks in the 700 block of South Arch Street and the east side of 7th Street.

Mayor Judy Reed requested an undesignated sum of money be earmarked for a feasibility study to be conducted along the Youghiogheny River for potential development and for a residential revitalization study.

Additional written requests will be accepted until Dec. 31.

In January, the information will be transferred to council members who will make the final determination about which projects will be funded through the 2004 program.

Letters of request should be addressed to the redevelopment authority at 124 W. Crawford Ave., Connellsville, Pa., 15425.