Freeman announces over $859K in state grants
Rep. Robert L. Freeman May 20, 2025
HARRISBURG, May 20 – State Rep. Robert Freeman said $859,190 in state grants were awarded today by the Commonwealth Financing Authority for community renovations, park and trail projects, sidewalk improvements and equipment upgrades in local municipalities.
“I am glad that I could help to secure this funding for worthy projects in the communities of my district,” said Freeman, D-Northampton. “This funding will lead to community enhancements and improvements in parks and trails that will be used by thousands of residents and visitors every year.”
Enhancements including benches, planters and lighting will be made to the Centre Square Plaza project in Easton thanks to a $180,000 grant awarded to the city.
The Easton Redevelopment Authority was awarded $31,000 toward the installation of ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps in the Easton Downtown Business District.
Freemansburg Borough will receive $175,000 toward construction costs associated with Phase 3 of the seating area at the outdoor amphitheater in Gerald C. Yob Community Park. Freeman also secured previous grants for earlier phases of the amphitheater project.
Hellertown Borough was granted:
- $100,684 for a pedestrian bridge and trail construction project spanning from the Saucon Rail Trail to the existing external trail at Tumminello Park.
- $87,506 to install a water slide at the Hellertown community pool.
- $24,000 for exterior renovations at the Saucon Valley Community Center.
Palmer Township received $106,000 on behalf of Suburban Emergency Medical Services to purchase a Ford Expedition truck and radio, which will allow advanced level EMS to handle the most acute medical and severe trauma calls.
The $55,000 grant awarded to West Easton Borough will be used toward the purchase of a new dump truck.
Wilson Borough will use its $100,000 grant toward the purchase of a new bucket truck for the Public Works Department.
Freeman said he worked with state Sen. Lisa Boscola to acquire the grants from the Local Share Account, which is made possible by revenue from the casinos in Northampton and Monroe counties. The funding may be used for economic and community development and other public interest projects within host and contiguous counties where casinos are located.
The CFA is an independent state agency that administers several economic stimulus packages across Pennsylvania.