Erie Delegation announces $460K+ grant funding for environmental sustainability programs
Projects will help manage stormwater runoff and environmental impact of local vineyards
Rep. Ryan Bizzarro January 26, 2026 | 11:10 AM
ERIE, Jan. 26– More than $460,000 in grant funding is heading to Erie County to support environmental sustainability programs across the region, Reps. Ryan Bizzarro, Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, all D-Erie, announced Monday.
“By encouraging our marinas and vineyards to use effective stormwater and sediment runoff management practices, we are helping protect our water and environment, which directly supports public health,” said Bizzarro, who represents Millcreek and Fairview Townships. “This is a strong example of tax dollars being reinvested to improve the sustainability and well-being of our community.”
The funding is being awarded through the state’s Growing Greener grant program, which targets critical environmental challenges by restoring streams, improving watersheds, and reducing water pollution. Two local projects were selected to receive funding:
• Regional Science Consortium at Presque Isle Center – $310,855 for the implementation of stormwater BMPs at boat marinas along Presque Isle Bay’s shoreline. These best management practices are proven methods for managing stormwater runoff and protecting water quality.
• Erie County Conservation District – $150,000 for the Pennsylvania Vested in Environmental Sustainability (PA VinES) program. This initiative aims to reduce the environmental impact of the region’s 10,000 acres of vineyards by limiting excess sediment and nutrient runoff into local waterways.
“Protecting our watershed and investing in shoreline resilience is essential for Erie County,” Harkins said. “These projects will reduce runoff, improve water quality in Presque Isle Bay, and support community efforts to steward our natural resources for generations to come. Forward-thinking investments like these strengthen public health, recreation, and the local economy.”
“Addressing stormwater runoff at our marinas and supporting sustainability programs is a smart, preventative approach,” Merski said. “By reducing pollution and improving how we manage runoff, we lower the risk of costly damage from flooding and protect the places our residents and visitors rely on.”
The Growing Greener grant program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, which awarded more than $17.3 million to 89 projects statewide to restore streams, improve fish and wildlife habitat, and reclaim mine lands.