ERIE, April 15 – State Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D - Erie, are pleased to announce that four Erie County organizations have received more than $1.54 million in grants from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. The funding will expand after - school and summer programming, provide mentoring and sports opportunities for hundreds of local youth, and support coordinated gun - violence reduction and domestic - violence response efforts across Erie County. “This funding supports prevention and enforcement — from mentoring and tutoring to data-driven efforts to reduce gun violence and improve domestic-violence response,” Harkins said. “These partnerships will strengthen supports for victims and create more opportunities for our youth.” Merski said, “These grants put proven prevention and intervention strategies into action across Erie County. Expanding safe, structured after-school opportunities and supporting coordinated public-safety efforts will help our young people succeed and make our neighborhoods safer.” The lawmakers said the awards include: YMCA of Greater Erie — $493,286: Expand after-school Teen Center programming for 250 middle and high school students with arts, health, recreation, tutoring, mentorship, job-readiness and a multi-year evaluation with Penn State Behrend. Erie Read more
ERIE, April 15 – State Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced today that the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority approved an $18 million financing package to protect Erie residents by replacing galvanized service lines and upgrading the water authority’s maintenance facility and distribution system. “We’re investing in durable solutions that stop threats to water quality at the source and safeguard our neighborhoods for decades to come,” Harkins said. “This funding prioritizes communities that need it most and ensures that families can trust the water coming from their taps.” “These projects modernize the backbone of Erie’s water system and strengthen the Authority’s ability to respond and maintain service,” Merski said. “By pairing targeted upgrades with affordable financing, we protect residents and lock in lasting value for taxpayers.” The Pennvest awards will fund two projects. Phase 5 of the Customer - Side Galvanized Service Line Replacement will replace about 1,250 private - side galvanized service connections that remain downstream of previously removed lead goosenecks and other lead components. Work includes private - side service line replacement, excavation, backfill and surface restoration, and prioritizes neighborhoods with household incomes at or below the state median. The West Read more
ERIE, April 13 – A new $300,000 state investment will help strengthen the region’s steel and manufacturing workforce, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski announced today. The lawmakers, both D-Erie, said the funding comes through the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry’s Industry Partnership program and will support the work of the Southwest Corner Workforce Development Board. “When employers and educators work side by side, everyone benefits,” Merski said. “This funding will help expand innovative training models, improve retention and ensure workers have the skills needed for today’s steel and manufacturing jobs. It’s an investment not just in industry, but in families and communities across our region.” “The steel industry has shaped our region for generations, and its future depends on a strong, well-trained workforce,” Harkins said. “This investment brings employers, labor leaders and training partners together to build a coordinated strategy that supports workers at every stage of their careers. “From upskilling current employees to helping young people explore manufacturing pathways, this funding will strengthen the talent pipeline our local economy relies on.” The Pennsylvania Steel Alliance — supported through this grant — will focus on upskilling and reskilling the existing workforce, expanding access to training, Read more
ERIE, March 18 – New funding of $40,000 will help Mercyhurst University bolster security and keep the campus safe from the threat of sexual violence, state Reps. Bob Merski and Pat Harkins announced today. The lawmakers, both D-Erie, said the funding comes from the It’s On Us PA Grant Program administered by the state Department of Education. “The college campus should be a place where students feel supported and secure as they learn and grow,” Merski said. “This funding will give Mercyhurst the resources and peace of mind students need—so they can focus on their studies, build confidence, and thrive on campus.” Harkins said, “No student should have to worry about their safety on campus, and no family should fear for a child’s well-being when they head off to college. The grant funding to Mercyhurst will help the school maintain a safe environment that encourages young adults to pursue their dreams.” It’s On Us PA is a statewide campaign that was launched in 2016. The program is designed to raise awareness about sexual assault; teach students that assault includes non-consensual sex; advise them on how to identify dangerous situations and empower them to intervene; and foster an environment of support for sexual assault survivors. More on the campaign is available at https://www.education.pa.gov/Postsecondary-Adult/ItsOnUs/Pages/default.aspx . Read more
ERIE, March 4 – The Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority approved a 15-year, $890,000 low-interest loan to Erie Cotton Products Inc., state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D - Erie, announced today. The loan, made through the Enterprise Development Center of Erie County, will enable Erie Cotton Products to purchase a 40,212-square-foot building at 1705 Raspberry St. in Erie, providing warehouse space, loading docks and administrative offices needed to meet growing demand for the company’s products. The total project cost is $2,225,000. “Supporting Erie manufacturers like Erie Cotton Products is an investment in our community’s future,” Harkins said. “This loan will help the company expand operations, meet growing demand and preserve good-paying jobs here at home. Strengthening local manufacturing keeps supply chains resilient and ensures economic opportunity for Erie families.” “Low-interest financing through PIDA is a practical tool for growing businesses and protecting jobs,” Merski said. “By enabling Erie Cotton Products to secure a larger facility with warehouse and shipping capacity, we’re helping a hometown company compete and grow while boosting the local economy.” PIDA loans provide low-interest financing for eligible businesses to acquire land and buildings, renovate facilities, purchase machinery and Read more
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. Read more
ERIE, Jan. 20 – $2.65 million in funding from the Commonwealth Financing Authority will support four critical infrastructure and utility projects across Erie County, state Reps. Bob Merski and Pat Harkins, both D-Erie, announced today. “Infrastructure investments are essential to public safety and economic vitality,” Merski said. “These awards will improve waterfront access, strengthen local roadways, and ensure reliable water and sewer service for our neighborhoods.” Harkins added: “When we invest in projects that connect people and protect essential services, we’re investing in stronger communities. I’m pleased to see these funds put to work for Erie County residents.” The approved funding includes: $1.4 million to the Erie Western PA Port Authority for upgrades and an extension of the East Bluffs shared-use path, enhancing pedestrian and bicycle connectivity along the Erie waterfront. $500,000 to Wesleyville Borough for Phase 2 reconstruction of Euclid Boulevard, including roadway, sidewalk, and bike-route improvements. $500,000 to the Summit Township Water Authority for replacement of water infrastructure along Hershey Road. $250,000 to the Harborcreek Township Sewer Authority for the Harborcreek Village project to advance local sewer and related improvements. The grants were awarded through the Multimodal Transportation Fund and the Small Water and Read more
ERIE, Jan. 13 – Two grants totaling $185,000 are being awarded to help Erie County’s dedicated public servants continue to provide high-quality service to their communities, announced state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie. The lawmakers said the grants from the state Department of Community and Economic Development will help offset the cost of replacing the city of Erie’s code enforcement vehicles, while also assisting Wesleyville Borough in purchasing a new police vehicle. "Investing in the tools and support our public servants need strengthens community safety and resilience," Harkins said. "This funding will make a tangible difference in our ongoing efforts to raise the quality of life for all residents." “From my time on city council, I know how limited municipal budgets can be,” Merski said. “These grants allow our municipalities to update their vehicles, without passing costs onto local taxpayers. I’m proud to partner with Representative Harkins and community leaders to secure these resources for Erie County.” Anyone with questions about these grant awards may contact Harkins’ office at 814-459-1949 or Merski’s office at 814-455-6319. Read more
ERIE, Dec. 30 – Safer, smarter traffic signals are coming to the city of Erie and Wesleyville Borough thanks to more than $1.1 million in Green Light-Go funding announced today by state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski. The lawmakers, both D-Erie, said the funding includes: $746,320 to reconstruct the traffic signal at West 12th Street and Pittsburgh Avenue in the city of Erie. $449,079 to reconstruct the intersection of Buffalo Road and Station Road in Wesleyville Borough. “These investments will modernize critical intersections and help keep people moving safely,” Harkins said. “Upgrading signal equipment reduces congestion, improves real-time traffic response, and protects motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists across our community.” “Reliable, up-to-date traffic signal technology is essential for public safety and efficient travel,” Merski said. “I’m glad these grants will help our neighborhoods experience smoother traffic flow and safer streets for everyone.” The funding is part of a statewide grant package awarded through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s Green Light-Go program. Green Light-Go grants are provided on a reimbursement basis to municipalities for improvements that enhance the efficiency and operation of existing traffic signals. The projects will be funded through the fiscal year 2025–26 Read more
ERIE, Dec. 23 – State Reps. Bob Merski and Pat Harkins, both D-Erie, today announced that Erie County will receive more than $1.1 million from the state’s Multimodal Transportation Fund to replace the Bell Street Bridge, which spans Wesleyville Borough and Lawrence Park Township. The funding will support the replacement of a critical transportation corridor, improving safety for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists, while strengthening a key local connection that supports neighborhood access and economic activity. “Safe, reliable bridges are essential to everyday life,” Merski said. “This funding will eliminate a safety hazard, improve mobility for residents, and support local businesses that depend on dependable transportation links.” “Replacing the Bell Street Bridge is an investment in both our neighborhoods and our economy,” Harkins added. “These improvements will make travel safer, create local jobs during construction, and ensure this corridor serves our community for decades to come.” The Bell Street Bridge project is among 54 projects statewide that received funding through the Multimodal Transportation Fund. For more information about the program, visit https://www.pa.gov/agencies/penndot/programs-and-doing-business/multimodal-transportation . The Multimodal Transportation Fund provides grant funding to municipalities, councils of governments, Read more
HARRISBURG, Dec. 19 – In a decisive move to protect and expand Erie County’s outdoor spaces and natural resources, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, today announced more than $1.57 million in Commonwealth Financing Authority grants for projects across the region. The funding will support trail development, park improvements, sediment and stormwater management, invasive species control, and land conservation -- preserving green spaces for residents and future generations. “Investing in our parks and waterways benefits public health and recreation,” Harkins said. “These grants will help move projects from planning to progress and make our outdoor spaces safer and more accessible for everyone.” “These grants are an investment in Erie’s future -- improving outdoor recreation now while protecting our waterways and green spaces for generations to come,” Merski added. Funding highlights include: $212,570 — Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, GreenWood Resources conservation easement acquisition. $200,000 — City of Erie, Garrison Run sediment reduction. $200,000 — City of Erie, Cemetery Run watershed restoration. $190,000 — City of Erie, McClelland Park trail improvements. $180,000 — The Pennsylvania State University, Wintergreen Gorge trail implementation. Read more
HARRISBURG, Dec. 18 – More than $2.9 million in funding from the Commonwealth Financing Authority will help enhance local infrastructure and public services, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced today. This significant investment will support various projects designed to improve the quality of life for all residents and ensure the Erie area’s continued growth and development. “This investment reflects our commitment to making targeted improvements that benefit residents across Erie,” Harkins said. “From safer roads and modern community venues to expanded water service and accessible recreation, these projects will deliver tangible results for our neighborhoods for years to come.” Merski said, “This grant funding is a major step forward in addressing long-standing needs and building capacity for local governments and institutions. I’m proud to partner with our municipal leaders to secure funding that improves safety, accessibility and quality of life for our constituents.” The funding includes: $1,000,000 to the Erie County Redevelopment Authority/Gannon University for a 3,000-square-foot CLIA-certified medical laboratory in the iHACK building. $400,000 to Erie City Water Authority for the Greene & Millcreek Water System Expansion (Phase 2) to extend water service and support regional growth. Read more
More than $4.5 million is on the way to Erie County to benefit 30 projects that will help low-income individuals and improve distressed areas in the community, Reps. Ryan Bizzarro, Pat Harkins, and Bob Merski announced Monday. Read more
HARRISBURG, Dec. 9 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry has awarded $200,000 to the German American Chamber of Commerce Inc. -- Pittsburgh Chapter to expand its mechatronics technician apprenticeship program, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced today. The funding will support expanded mechatronics training, preparing workers for advanced manufacturing careers across a broad, multi-county region in western and central Pennsylvania. The lawmakers said the investment will help employers access a skilled workforce while providing residents with pathways to family-sustaining, in-demand careers. “This grant is a major boost for workforce development in the Erie region,” Harkins said. “Expanding mechatronics training connects more people to careers that are essential to our regional economy and helps local businesses find the talent they need to grow.” Merski added, “Investments like this create real opportunities for our neighbors to earn industry-recognized credentials and secure stable careers. We appreciate the Department of Labor and Industry’s commitment to strengthening apprenticeship programs that benefit both workers and employers across the Commonwealth.” The legislators thanked the Department of Labor and Industry for its support and pledged to work with the German American Chamber of Commerce, local training partners, and employers to ensure Read more
ERIE, Oct. 16 – A $10 million Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority financing package — including $9.63 million in grant-equivalent assistance and a $370,884 low-interest loan — will fund Phase 4 of the Erie City Water Authority’s Customer-Side Galvanized Service Line Replacement, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski announced Thursday. “We have taken important next steps to eliminate remaining sources of corrosion and lead risk in Erie’s service lines,” Harkins said. “This investment protects public health and keeps water affordable for families across our communities.” “With Pennvest’s financing, Erie can finish critical work on private-side connections without forcing an untenable rate spike on residents,” Merski said. “This project strengthens reliability and restores confidence in every tap.” The Pennvest award will finance the replacement of about 1,000 private-side galvanized service connections that remain downstream of previously removed lead goosenecks and lead components. The work includes excavation, backfill and surface restoration, and targets neighborhoods with household incomes below the state median, prioritizing environmental justice and low-income areas. The authority’s system serves 58,062 households in the city of Erie; the boroughs of Wesleyville and McKean; and the townships of Greene, Read more
ERIE, Sept. 11 – State Reps. Bob Merski and Pat Harkins, both D-Erie, will co-host a senior fair from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, Sept. 18 at the Harborcreek Social Hall, 7275 Buffalo Road in Harborcreek. The senior fair will include assistance with applying for state programs, such as the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program and PACE/PACENET, Pennsylvania’s prescription assistance programs. Additionally, there will be door prizes, light refreshments, free senior bus passes and help with securing disability placards. Health screenings and flu shots administered by LECOM also will be offered. Seniors should bring their insurance card if they would like a flu shot. “I’m delighted to invite our senior neighbors to a day brimming with practical help and friendly faces,” Merski said. “We’ve pulled together everything—from health checks to benefit guidance—so you can access what you need in one spot. “We want every attendee to leave feeling empowered and connected. Bring your questions, meet the experts, and discover services tailored just for you.” Harkins added, “This fair is our way of honoring the wisdom and vitality of our older residents. It’s a chance to explore new programs, enjoy lighthearted moments and strengthen community bonds. We look forward to sharing the day with you.” In addition to the array of state-related Read more
ERIE, July 16 – A combined $18.5 million low-interest loan from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority, including approximately $5.643 million in grant-equivalent assistance, is set to propel two major water infrastructure initiatives for the Erie City Water Authority, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski announced today. Read more
ERIE, July 14 – In a major step toward modernizing municipal operations and advancing Pennsylvania’s clean-energy goals, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, today announced the awarding of a $33,537 Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant to the Erie City Water Authority, including $22,500 for purchasing three electric passenger vehicles for the Authority’s Engineering Services Department and $11,037 for installing three Level 2 charging stations. “We are delighted to see this significant investment in cleaner transportation right here in Erie,” Harkins said. “This grant not only helps the Water Authority reduce emissions and lower operating costs but also underscores Pennsylvania’s commitment to protecting our environment and public health for future generations.” “Upgrading to electric vehicles is a win for our economy and our community’s well-being,” Merski said. “This funding reflects our steadfast dedication to sustainable innovation and positions Erie as a leader in the transition to greener municipal services.” The Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant Program, established under Act 166 of 1992 and administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Energy Programs Office, plays a vital role in supporting clean, alternative-fuel projects across the Commonwealth. By providing critical funding for Read more
HARRISBURG, July 7 – State Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, are celebrating a major win for Pennsylvania’s construction workforce and small - business equipment renters with PA House passage of H.B. 1319 , landmark legislation that would modernize the Mechanics’ Lien Law by expanding the definition of “materials” to explicitly include rented machinery and specialized equipment. Under current law, suppliers of rental backhoes, cranes, scaffolding and other essential machinery have faced uncertainty over their lien rights when project owners default on payment. House Bill 1319 would amend the Mechanics’ Lien Law of 1963 to define “materials” as building materials, supplies, fixtures, machinery and equipment --including rented equipment -- that is reasonably necessary for construction or incorporated into an improvement. “This reform levels the playing field for every small business that puts rented equipment to work on job sites across Pennsylvania,” Harkins said. “By ensuring rented machinery qualifies for a lien, we protect local companies from losing out when contractors fall behind on payments -- and that’s critical for our region’s economy.” Merski added, “Too many Erie businesses have been left in limbo because the law treated rented heavy equipment like an afterthought. With H.B. 1319, we close that loophole, Read more
HARRISBURG, July 2 -- State Rep. Pat Harkins, D-Erie, today urged SNAP recipients across the Commonwealth to take simple but vital steps -- locking their EBT cards and changing their PINs -- to guard against the rising threat of benefit skimming and theft. “Our office remains committed to ensuring that the benefits our hardworking families rely on end up where they belong -- in their wallets, not in the hands of criminals,” said Harkins. “By locking your EBT card and updating your PIN just before your benefit is loaded each month, you reduce the risk of thieves striking when balances are highest.” The reminder comes as the PA Department of Human Services and the Office of State Inspector General continue to investigate reports of card - skimming devices at checkouts that siphon SNAP benefits after payment deposits. Thieves often wait until monthly distributions occur to maximize what they can steal. The following recommendations are steps SNAP beneficiaries can take now to safeguard their funds: How to Lock Your EBT Card Recipients of SNAP or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families can lock or unlock their EBT cards instantly via Conduent’s ConnectEBT app (Apple/Google Play) or at www.ConnectEBT.com . “Lock My Card Everywhere” blocks all purchases, online and in - store. “Lock My Card Outside PA” blocks purchases outside Pennsylvania but Read more
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460 E. 26th St.Erie, PA 16504-2860
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