HARRISBURG – Sen. Michele Brooks (R-50) announced today more than $1.5 million in funding for the Mercer County Agricultural and Conservation Community Learning Center Project in Coolspring Township.
This project will create an innovative hub of education and community engagement by transforming two structures at the Munnell Run Farm into a dynamic space for all Mercer County residents. The facility will feature a hands-on library and resource center equipped with computers for public access, ensuring reliable broadband connectivity. The Learning Center will also house a year-round indoor aquaponics farm, a community farm open for adoption during the growing season, and a series of informational seminars and workshops.
“I’m very pleased to be able to announce the funding for this innovative community project, and I want to thank the Mercer County commissioners for their partnership on this endeavor,” said Brooks. “Enhancing the existing programming provided at Munnell Run Farm and the Mercer County Career Center, along with the close proximity of the Extension Office, this project will help create a new agricultural hub-like environment offering public access to reliable networks while also providing valuable educational opportunities for residents of all ages.”
“On behalf of my fellow commissioners, Bill Finley and Tim McGonigle, we thank Sen. Michele Brooks and Rep. Tim Bonner for their leadership in securing this critical funding,” added Mercer County Commissioner Ann Coleman. “Their steadfast commitment to our shared countywide constituents will allow us to take a giant step toward enriching lives through sustainable agriculture, education, employment skills development, and health initiatives through high-quality broadband access. The state-of-the-art center will make a transformational impact across our county by providing residents of all ages with the resources they need to thrive in today’s world.”
The grant, funded through the federally backed Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program and administered at the state level, is part of a $45 million competitively awarded initiative to support projects that bolster high-speed broadband access for essential services, including work, education, and health monitoring, using community anchor institutions.
CONTACT: Adam Gingrich, 717-787-1322