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Budget hearings underway in Harrisburg; East Coventry Township, Spring City Borough receive grants

(Feb 28, 2025)

As part of my work on the state House Appropriations Committee, I am in Harrisburg this month and next to hear testimony from the various state departments on the proposed 2025-26 state budget. Read more

 

Friel: Invest in Treatment Courts

(Feb 27, 2025)

Pa. state Rep. Paul Friel questions justices and judiciary officials on the funding and role of treatment courts in the commonwealth. Treatment courts are a valuable tool to get people living with mental health issues the help they need while staying out of prison. Read more

 

Friel: $450,000 secured for East Coventry Township, Spring City Borough transportation improvements

(Feb 24, 2025)

POTTSTOWN, Feb. 24 – New grant funding of $450,000 is coming to East Coventry Township and Spring City Borough for bridge and crosswalk improvements, state Rep. Paul Friel announced today. The grants – approved by the Common Financing Authority under the Multimodal Transportation Fund – include $350,000 to rehabilitate Ellis Woods Road Bridge in East Coventry Township and $100,000 to improve two crosswalk locations along Main Street in Spring City Borough. “The funding is outstanding news for East Coventry and Spring City, which will now save local funds thanks to state-level financing,” said Friel, D-Chester. “Funding for Ellis Woods Bridge has been highly anticipated, and the added protections at crosswalks in Spring City will ensure that people are safe walking downtown.” Friel said that his office is happy to help organizations and entities apply for state funding. There are many programs offered by the state to help drive tax dollars to the communities they serve. “From transportation projects to environmental improvements, there is a wealth of resources available from your state government,” Friel said. “If you are interested in helping locate and apply for grants or low-interest loans for a public project, my office can help you.” Pennsylvania offers grants for many uses. This funding supports growth and success across the state. Those interested can visit Read more

 

Friel introduces bill to reclaim cyber charter overpayments in Pennsylvania

(Feb 21, 2025)

HARRISBURG, Feb. 21 – State Rep. Paul Friel announced today the introduction of new legislation aimed at addressing the significant overpayment of taxpayer funds to Pennsylvania's cyber charter schools. This comes in response to Auditor General Timothy DeFoor's recent audit, which exposed critical flaws in the state's cyber charter funding formula. The audit of five Pennsylvania cyber charter schools revealed that these institutions have accumulated over $618 million in fund balances, with substantial taxpayer dollars being diverted from school districts, Friel said. Notably, the state's largest cyber school has used these funds for substantial real estate investments rather than direct educational purposes. "The findings confirm what many of us have known: Pennsylvania's cyber charter funding system is broken," said Friel, D-Chester. "Our public education dollars should be used to educate students, not to pad the coffers of cyber charter organizations. These excess funds could be reinvested to improve educational resources across the state or to ease the tax burden on property owners." Friel's bill complements existing cyber charter funding reform efforts and focuses on two objectives: Recovery of excess funds: Empower taxpayers and school districts to reclaim overpayments from cyber charter schools. Clarified financial guidelines: Establish clear definitions Read more

 

E-News: Shapiro Delivers PA Budget Address; Federal Action is Concerning

(Feb 14, 2025)

Last week, Gov. Josh Shapiro addressed a joint session of the General Assembly and proposed a budget that prioritizes opportunity, fairness, and long-term growth for our state. Read more

 

House begins moving bills; Elverson, East Vincent parks receive state funding

(Jan 30, 2025)

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives kicked off legislative action this week. Several important measures are already on the move from committees, and this session we hope to work with the state Senate to make real progress passing meaningful legislation. Read more

 

Friel announces state grant for Independence Park in E. Vincent Twp.

(Jan 28, 2025)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 28 – State Rep. Paul Friel is proud to announce that Independence Park in East Vincent Township was approved today for $100,000 in state grant funding under the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program, which is administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority. East Vincent Township is proposing development of Independence Park to provide the community with new recreational opportunities, including at the adjacent Southeastern Veteran's Center. The proposed project will include adding bocce ball courts, shuffleboard courts, benches, and shade trees. “Independence Park is a great community resource,” Friel said. “When public entities work together to improve our quality of life, it’s meaningful projects like this that get recognized for their value. Thank you to East Vincent Township for its work securing funding and creating something truly special.” Additionally, the project will construct a 10-foot-wide path extending along all seven courts and a 5-foot-wide, ADA-compliant concrete path from the northeast entrance at Dunlap Road to the new courts. This path from Dunlap Road will provide a secondary entrance to the park for pedestrians and create a framework for future park connection to the Southeastern Veteran's Center. These grant dollars will assist the township in funding the construction and engineering costs for this project. Natural gas drilling fees under Read more

 

Friel announces state funding for Elverson skatepark, pump track

(Jan 28, 2025)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 28 – State Rep. Paul Friel said he is proud to announce that the future Elverson skatepark was approved today for $70,209 in state grant funding under the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program. Under the financing, Action-Impact Inc., a local nonprofit, will use the money to build a 4,758-square-foot skatepark and a pump track in an unused portion of land at Livingood Park for recreational use in the community. “The community is really looking forward to this new amenity because of the excitement that pump tracks and skateparks create for riders and skaters of all ages,” Friel said. “Any time we can steer funding toward our communities, the taxpayer and, in this case, park enthusiasts, win big. “Thank you to Action-Impact for their advocacy and commitment to making Elverson more fun, safe and appealing all at the same time.” The total project cost is $82,740. Other funds include $12,531 in a cash match from Action-Impact. Natural gas drilling fees under the Marcellus Legacy Fund supply the CFA funding for planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks and beautification projects. Friel said any business, organization or public entity seeking funding from a state program is encouraged to contact his office for help applying. Read more

 

State lawmakers launch bipartisan Competitiveness Caucus

(Jan 14, 2025)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 14 – Today, Pennsylvania state Sens. Kristin Phillips-Hill, R-York; and Lisa Boscola, D-Northampton; along with state Reps. Paul Friel, D-Chester; and Josh Kail, R-Beaver; announced the formation of a new bipartisan, bicameral group within the state General Assembly: the Pennsylvania Competitiveness Caucus. The legislators said the new caucus aims to unify efforts across the Capitol and party lines to strengthen the state’s economic competitiveness and ensure a robust, dynamic economy today and into the future. The formation of the Pennsylvania Competitiveness Caucus comes at a crucial time for the commonwealth. As the state faces challenges in retaining businesses, attracting new investment, and reversing stagnant population growth, the caucus will serve as a dedicated platform for lawmakers to collaborate on policies that drive economic growth and make Pennsylvania an attractive place to live and work. “Although we sit on opposite sides of the aisle, we are united in our belief that making Pennsylvania more economically competitive through the advancement of pro-growth policies will benefit working-class families, reverse our stagnant population growth, and ensure our commonwealth is an attractive place to live, work, and raise a family for generations to come,” Phillips-Hill said. “I am thrilled to be joining this bipartisan group of my colleagues to elevate this vital conversation and focus on Read more

 

E-News: New Year, New Resolve for Pennsylvania House of Representatives

(Jan 10, 2025)

This new year will bring a lot of change but also a fresh start and a renewed commitment to building a brighter future for all of our communities in Pennsylvania. For my part, I am incredibly grateful to serve as state representative for a second term and remain committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance policies that build healthy communities and promote economic opportunity for all in Chester County and Pennsylvania. Read more

 

Friel begins second term, will focus on building strong communities

(Jan 07, 2025)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Paul Friel was sworn in to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives today, beginning his second term serving the 26 th Legislative District. Friel said that he will fight to increase opportunities for farms, businesses, schools and families to thrive. “I am incredibly grateful to serve as state representative for a second term. I remain committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance policies that build healthy communities and promote economic opportunity for all in Chester County and Pennsylvania,” said Friel, D-Chester. “Together we will continue to find ways to strengthen our public schools, support our farms and farmers, and attract businesses that provide good, family-sustaining jobs.” In his first term, Friel advanced bipartisan legislation to allow employer contributions to PA 529 College and Career Savings Program accounts, accelerated reform to the state’s net operating loss tax deduction to strengthen Pennsylvania’s economic competitiveness and passed in the House his proposal to safeguard and improve how Pennsylvania uses food processing residue to fertilize farm fields. The Pennsylvania General Assembly is currently in its 209th consecutive legislative session, which began on Jan. 1, 2025, and will run through Nov. 30, 2026. The Oath of Office was administered by Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Debra Read more

 

Happy Holidays from State Rep. Paul Friel! My office is here to help you!

(Dec 23, 2024)

The holidays are here, and I hope they find you sharing time with friends, family and loved ones. My office will be closed Tuesday, Dec. 24, and Wednesday, Dec. 25, for the Christmas holiday and then for New Year’s next Tuesday, Dec. 31 and Wednesday, Jan. 1. Read more

 

E-News: Taking a Moment to Share a Few Ways My Office Can Assist You!

(Dec 12, 2024)

My constituent service office is here to help you with state government services. My staff is prepared to assist with PennDOT work, senior SEPTA passes, Pennsylvania’s Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program, Unemployment Compensation and much more. Read more

 

Chester County lawmakers laud grant funding to clean up rivers and streams in Chesapeake Bay Watershed

(Dec 12, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Dec. 12 – Members of the Chester County state legislative delegation are pleased to report a state and federal investment in keeping the Chesapeake Bay Watershed clean from its tributaries in Chester County. The Chester County Conservation District was awarded more than $67,000 in funding directed by the Department of Environmental Protection. "Investing in cleaning the waterways that flow into the Chesapeake Bay is more than an environmental effort – it's a commitment to safeguarding a vital ecosystem, supporting local economies and preserving a legacy of natural beauty and abundance for generations to come," said state Rep. Danielle Friel Otten, D-Chester. The DEP awarded grants through the 2025 Countywide Action Plan (CAP) Implementation Grants to county teams across Pennsylvania’s share of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. “Stormwater runoff and agricultural runoff remain leading sources of water quality impairment in Chester County and Pennsylvania,” said state Sen. Carolyn Comitta, minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. “These investments will help prevent pollution and restore and protect the local watersheds that are crucial to environmental health, public health, and the strong quality of life in our communities.” Pennsylvania has made historic progress in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Earlier this year, the Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Dec 04, 2024)

Broadband Development Authority: Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program Who May Apply: Cooperative organizations, non-profit organizations, public-private partnerships, private companies, public or private utility companies, public utility districts, municipalities or units of local government, internet service providers registered through the FCC Use: Deploying and/or upgrading broadband network facilities, data collection, broadband mapping and broadband planning Funds: $1,161,778,242 in federal funding pursuant to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 is available. Application Deadline: January 21, 2025 More information: PBDA Website Department of Community and Economic Development: Local Share Account Philadelphia Who May Apply: Community Development Corporations, economic development organizations and redevelopment authorities, business improvement districts/neighborhood improvement districts, non-profit organizations with a 501(c) designation, the City of Philadelphia, the School District of Philadelphia. Any eligible organization must be located in Philadelphia. Use: Economic development projects, neighborhood revitalization projects, community improvement projects, projects in the public interest. Any eligible project must be located in Philadelphia. Funds: Grant amounts will vary based on the specific project requirements but are limited to a minimum request/award of $10,000 and a maximum Read more

 

Happy Thanksgiving; Deer Season in the Commonwealth is Around the Corner!

(Nov 26, 2024)

As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to you and our entire community. This season reminds us of the importance of connection, compassion and the shared commitment to making our neighborhoods, towns, state and nation a better place for all. Read more

 

E-News: Spring City Borough Receives $350K State Grant for Boat Launch Park

(Nov 15, 2024)

This week, I also had the privilege to congratulate Spring City Borough on its $350,000 Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Grant for development at Spring City Boat Launch Park. Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Nov 14, 2024)

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Aging: Senior Community Center Grant Program Who May Apply: Senior community centers with an existing, contractual relationship with an Area Agency on Aging. Use: Funding opportunities are intended for enhancements to increase participation and programming, attract a new generation of older adults, and enable Senior Community Centers to provide a safe and healthy environment for their participants. Funds: $2 million in competitive grant funding is available. Application Deadline: December 13, 2024 More information: PA Grants website Commission on Crime and Delinquency: STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program Who May Apply: County governments and non-profit agencies. Use: To support communities in their efforts to develop and strengthen effective responses to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence through multidisciplinary collaboration. Funds: A total of $870,000 over the three-year project period in federal STOP Formula Grant funds is being announced to support this initiative. PCCD expects to fund two grants with budgets not to exceed $145,000 per 12-month project period. Application Deadline: December 2, 2024 More information: PCCD Website Military and Veterans Affairs: Veterans’ Trust Fund Who May Apply: Non-profits serving veterans, veterans’ service organizations, Read more

 

Friel announces $350K state grant for Spring City Boat Launch Park

(Nov 12, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Nov. 12 – State Rep. Paul Friel today congratulated Spring City Borough for receiving a $350,000 Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Grant for development of Spring City Boat Launch Park. The Community Conservation Partnership Program grant will go toward streambank restoration, construction of a pavilion, picnic area, pedestrian walkways and parking area. It will also support the installation of lights and security cameras, ADA access, landscaping, project signage and other site improvements. "Grant funding is the key that allows us to upgrade our public boat launch, ensuring safe access, cleaner facilities and sustainable preservation for everyone who loves our waterways,” said Friel, D-Chester. “With these investments, we enhance the community's connection to nature while protecting it for generations to come." DCNR’s C2P2 offers a wide range of grant and technical assistance programs to help Pennsylvania communities, land conservancies and non-profit organizations plan, acquire and develop natural resources in the state. In addition to the funding awarded in Friel’s district, more than $8.2 million was awarded to 24 organizations that fund community conservation projects statewide. Read more

 

E-News: Saint Peters Road Project Information is available

(Oct 31, 2024)

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Thursday's Elverson Open House. Our little office is in the Historic Elverson Train Station and many of the neighbors who stopped by enjoyed taking in the history of the building. Read more

 

Budget hearings underway in Harrisburg; East Coventry Township, Spring City Borough receive grants
Feb 28, 2025

Friel: Invest in Treatment Courts
Feb 27, 2025

Friel: $450,000 secured for East Coventry Township, Spring City Borough transportation improvements
Feb 24, 2025

Friel introduces bill to reclaim cyber charter overpayments in Pennsylvania
Feb 21, 2025

E-News: Shapiro Delivers PA Budget Address; Federal Action is Concerning
Feb 14, 2025

House begins moving bills; Elverson, East Vincent parks receive state funding
Jan 30, 2025

Friel announces state grant for Independence Park in E. Vincent Twp.
Jan 28, 2025

Friel announces state funding for Elverson skatepark, pump track
Jan 28, 2025

State lawmakers launch bipartisan Competitiveness Caucus
Jan 14, 2025

E-News: New Year, New Resolve for Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Jan 10, 2025

Friel begins second term, will focus on building strong communities
Jan 07, 2025

Happy Holidays from State Rep. Paul Friel! My office is here to help you!
Dec 23, 2024

E-News: Taking a Moment to Share a Few Ways My Office Can Assist You!
Dec 12, 2024

Chester County lawmakers laud grant funding to clean up rivers and streams in Chesapeake Bay Watershed
Dec 12, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Dec 04, 2024

Happy Thanksgiving; Deer Season in the Commonwealth is Around the Corner!
Nov 26, 2024

E-News: Spring City Borough Receives $350K State Grant for Boat Launch Park
Nov 15, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Nov 14, 2024

Friel announces $350K state grant for Spring City Boat Launch Park
Nov 12, 2024

E-News: Saint Peters Road Project Information is available
Oct 31, 2024