Trending
McCLURE -- Decatur Township has been awarded a $250,000 state grant to purchase a new backhoe loader and related equipment for road maintenance and infrastructure projects.
State Rep. David Rowe, R-85, announced the funding through Pennsylvania’s Economic Development and Community Development Initiatives Program.
The grant will be used to purchase a John Deere 410P backhoe loader and attachments to assist township crews with road and shoulder maintenance, culvert replacement, drainage improvements, excavation, grading and stormwater management.
Township officials said the equipment will allow employees to complete more projects without relying on rented machinery or outside contractors, potentially reducing maintenance costs and project delays.
"This grant represents a significant investment in Decatur Township and will provide local officials with the equipment needed to maintain infrastructure more efficiently and cost-effectively," Rowe said.
The equipment also will be available for emergency response operations following severe weather, allowing township crews to address damaged roads, drainage problems and other infrastructure concerns.
Decatur Township Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeremy Bell thanked Rowe for his assistance in securing the funding.
"This investment will have a lasting impact on our community by improving our ability to maintain roads, address drainage issues, respond to emergencies, and complete important infrastructure projects," Bell said.
"Acquiring this equipment will help us stretch local tax dollars further while providing better service to our residents."
Township officials said owning the equipment will provide greater flexibility in scheduling maintenance projects and allow crews to address infrastructure problems before they require more extensive repairs.
The purchase is expected to reduce the township’s reliance on equipment rentals and contractors while expanding its ability to complete public works projects using township employees.