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LEWISBURG -- SEDA-Council of Governments has been awarded a $1.5 million grant that will be used to provide environmental assessments throughout its 11-county region in central Pennsylvania, including Mifflin County.
This grant is part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's investing in America agenda, which is providing over $300 million in grants to help states, Tribal Nations, local governments, and non-profit organizations assess and clean up polluted brownfield sites across the country.
The grant aims to provide thorough environmental assessments and reuse plans for brownfield properties, which are defined as properties that may have complications due to the presence or potential presence of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants.
The funds will become available on Oct. 1. At that time, a Qualified Environmental Professional will be selected, with projects expected to begin in early 2025. Priority projects, identified in the grant application, are located in the coalition lead counties of Clinton, Mifflin, and Northumberland.
"This grant is a major step forward in revitalizing our region," said Betsy Kramer, community revitalization program manager of SEDA-COG. "By addressing and mitigating environmental concerns on brownfield sites, we can pave the way for new developments, improve public health, and enhance the overall quality of life in our communities."
The successful application and award of this grant highlight the collaborative efforts of the planning directors and commissioners of the lead counties, whose assistance was crucial in securing this funding. This achievement marks the third highly competitive EPA Brownfield Grant secured by the SEDA-COG Community Revitalization team since 2021, bringing the total EPA funds received to $2.8 million.
What This Grant Means for Our Region:
Revitalization and Economic Growth: This funding will enable the transformation of previously unusable land into valuable community assets, fostering economic growth and environmental sustainability. New developments such as diversifying downtown businesses and creating new affordable housing opportunities are key anticipated outcomes.
Public Health and Quality of Life: By addressing environmental concerns, we can improve public health and enhance the overall quality of life for our residents.
Infrastructure Connectivity: The project will capitalize on and connect with existing infrastructure such as biking and pedestrian trails, parks, and downtown revitalization initiatives.
"We extend our deepest gratitude to the planning directors and commissioners of Mifflin, Clinton, and Northumberland counties for their unwavering support and collaboration in this endeavor," added Frankie Cabradilla Hockenbrocht, community capacity coordinator of SEDA-COG. "Their efforts have been instrumental in securing this transformative funding for our region. We also thank the talented and intelligent team at SEDA-COG, who are doing inspiring work in our communities every day."