HARRISBURG (May 25, 2021) – The Borough of Greenville and the City of Sharon have been awarded state grants to fight blight, Sen. Michele Brooks and Rep. Mark Longietti announced today after a meeting of the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA).
In the Greenville project, the borough will receive $212,000 to support the demolition and rehabilitation of seven structures along Main and Shenango streets.
To advance the Sharon project, $150,000 was awarded to help with the strategic demolition of 38 fire-damaged properties and the preparation of these sites for redevelopment.
“Funding for these two projects will help to increase the value and appeal of properties in the community, and can be a catalyst for new jobs, economic growth and a larger community resurgence,” Brooks said. “These grant funds will build on the community’s investment in these critical areas of our hometowns.”
Longietti said, “Greenville has been making strides as it works to exit its status as a distressed community, and several downtown property owners have already committed resources for renovation. Blight is still an obstacle to additional redevelopment, however. The grant awarded today will fund blight remediation for seven downtown buildings and properties, helping the borough continue redefining and revitalizing itself.
“Likewise, Sharon has been working to attack blight through a coordinated plan that identifies demolition of blighted and abandoned properties, including many that are burned and pose safety hazards. The city has already secured tax credit funding to support the Lots to Love Program, which will repurpose properties where the city has cleared blighted structures. Securing this funding is going to help the city clear the way faster, so those vacant spaces can become vibrant downtown areas.”
Brooks added, “I always look forward to working with residents to meet the needs of our local communities. Please do not hesitate to contact my office to see how we can partner together to enhance our hometowns.”
CONTACT: Liane Leshne CONTACT: Diane McNaughton
House Democratic Communications Office State Sen. Michele Brooks
Cell: 978-549-1868 Phone: (717) 787-1322
Email: lleshne@pahouse.net Email: dmmcnaughton@pasen.gov