Officials hope to finalize block grant plans
CONNELLSVILLE – Officials are hoping to finalize a listing of projects that will be funded by the city’s annual state community block grant allocation during a special meeting tonight in council chambers. “We want to get everything in line so we can approve it through a resolution during our council meeting on Tuesday,” said Councilwoman Judy Keller.
During a work session held several weeks ago, five projects were earmarked for funding through the 2003 state Community Development Block Grant program including public safety entities, cultural projects and community buildings.
According to Ralph Wombacker, executive director of the city redevelopment authority, the city is expected to receive approximately $420,000 in state funding with $360,000 available for projects.
Although certain projects were selected, Wombacker said that council could revise the list.
“The council has the discretion to maintain the initial project list or suggest other projects for the funding,” he said. “However, the final package that will be listed in the application requires the approval of a majority of the members.”
The current listing includes $30,000 for the Carnegie Free Library. Trustees have requested that the city set aside the amount for the library to install a power source to operate an elevator the board plans to install.
The community center has been tentatively earmarked to receive $42,000 to begin upgrading the auditorium while the third and final phase of a storm sewerage project along Church Place is slated to receive $105,000 for its completion.
New Haven Hose Volunteer Fire Company, meanwhile, has requested its annual financial installment that will be used to purchase a combination aerial and pumper truck. The tentative allocation is set at $75,000.
The city fire department is also earmarked to receive $70,000 for the future purchase of new equipment.
The remaining funds, estimated to total $30,000, will be used to repair the stone wall at Cameron Court.
Mayor Judy Reed said although she supports the projects she may offer a few suggestions to be considered by the panel before it makes a final decision.
“I think some consideration should be given to replacing the sanitary lines at Crawford Avenue while PennDOT is making its improvements,” she said. “I think if we want to be in the running to get businesses in the area, it would be very positive to show we are upgrading our systems to meet any future needs.”
The state transportation department is scheduled to upgrade the roadway, traffic signals and signing at the Crawford Avenue and Route 119 north and southbound intersections in July.
The 8 p.m. meeting is open to the public.