HARRISBURG — Sen. Michele Brooks (R-50) announced the release of state funding for a series of important projects in Mercer County, assisting municipalities and supporting several organizations which provide vital services to the community.
“I always appreciate working with local municipalities to secure funding that helps provide the ability to spur growth and expand opportunities to improve the quality of life for local families and visitors alike, as well as attracting more people to the area and help keep our next generation close to home,” said Brooks. “This funding covers a wide range of county priorities, spanning from workforce and education enhancements to critical infrastructure investments that will create new opportunities for housing development.”
The City of Hermitage will receive a $300,000 grant for road infrastructure to support several types of housing development adjacent to the LindenPointe Innovative Business Campus.
“This infrastructure investment will spur the development of new housing in Hermitage to meet consumer demand, which has been frustrated by the rising cost of development,” said Mark Longietti, director of Business and Community Development for the City of Hermitage. “New homes and a growing population mean not just a broader tax base for Hermitage but replenishment of the labor force and increased consumer spending to support local businesses across the Shenango Valley.”
The Stey-Nevant Public Library in the City of Farrell will receive a $35,000 grant to allow the library to provide improvement, expand book collections and upgrade essential technology so it can continue serving as a vital educational hub for residents of all ages.
“These improvements for the Stey-Nevant Public Library will create measurable, obtainable outcomes including community jobs retained, potential job created through expanded programming capacity, residents served with new technology access, learners trained in digital literacy and workforce skills, and a fully refurbished public space that supports tutoring, youth programs and community meetings,” said Shawn Anderson, city manager of Farrell. “Updated materials and equipment will increase patron usage, improve educational outcomes, and ensure the library remains a safe, functional, and welcoming hub for Farrell families.”
On behalf of Mercer County, the Agricultural Education Building at Munnell Run Farm will receive a $100,000 grant — in addition to previous funding secured by Brooks — to rehabilitate a county-owned building and transform it into an agriculture education center that serves as a valuable community resource and will work in partnership with the County Extension Office.
“These funds will help support essential renovations and improvements necessary to create a safe, functional, and welcoming space for educational programming, hands-on learning, and agricultural outreach. The center will provide opportunities for students, farmers, and community members to learn about agriculture, sustainable practices, food production, and the vital role agriculture plays in our local economy,” said Mercer County Commissioner Ann Coleman. “This investment will help bring the project closer to completion while creating a lasting educational asset that strengthens agricultural awareness, supports future generations, and benefits the broader community for years to come.”
Other projects include:
- Shenango Valley Animal Shelter will receive $50,000 for construction and purchasing equipment.
- Schoolhouse Commons in Greenville will receive $75,000 for programs, classes such as sewing and cooking, and other items to support residents.
- Jamestown Community Center will receive $25,000 for equipment.
- Prince of Peace will receive $30,000 to expand their mentoring program, which supports local male youth in grades seven through 12.
