Four projects receive $1.35 million in grants
Four transportation and recreation projects in Berks County have received a combined total of more than $1.35 million in state grants.
The funding was announced Friday, Nov. 19.
The following received grants:
Gov. Mifflin School District
The Gov. Mifflin School District was awarded a $620,000 Multimodal Transportation Fund grant to improve transportation at the district’s secondary school campus.
The money will be used to make improvements to South Waverly Street, the main access to the district’s middle and high school. The improvements will include updating crosswalks and sidewalks, implementing traffic-calming measures and constructing a new entrance.
The work is part of the district’s plan to construct a new community center on the campus.
“This is just one piece of a much larger project Gov. Mifflin has taken on,” state Sen. Judy Schwank said. “When I met with school district administrators about the plans for a new facility and what it would mean not only for students, but the entire community, it was clear to me this project was worthy of support.
“The safety improvements to Waverly Street will ensure an already busy street is capable of accommodating the increased traffic it will see when the facility is constructed and help keep students and faculty safe.”
State Rep. Mark Gillen lauded the plan the district submitted when applying for the grant.
“Competition for Multimodal Transportation Program grants is always very strong,” he said. “I commend Gov. Mifflin School District officials for developing a successful grant proposal, which included input from the community, and which will greatly improve safety through the school complex.
“These state grant funds will complement the significant investment the district is making in its school campus construction project, which will pay dividends for the Gov. Mifflin community for many decades to come.”
Reading
Reading was awarded a $600,000 grant for the ongoing 18th Ward BicyclePedestrian Trail project.
The money will be used to improve and connect bicycle trails and is part of the 18th Wonder Revitalization Association’s plans to make improvements to the area that were first announced in 2017 and broke ground this year.
“Trails and spaces residents can use for outdoor recreational activities make our community healthier and give us all an opportunity to enjoy the scenery of Berks County,” Schwank said of the project. “The ongoing improvements taking place in the 18th Ward ensure that the needs of residents are met. I’m grateful the commonwealth sees the value in this project.”
State Rep. Mark Rozzi said the project will have a major impact on the local community.
“We set a vision for the area and I am thrilled to see it coming to fruition,” he said. “This is a huge addition for residents and visitors of the area.”
State Rep. Manny Guzman said the 18th Ward project will enhance the overall quality of life in Reading.
“I am extremely grateful for this much-needed investment that seeks to make our roadways in the city of Reading safer for everyone who utilizes them,” he said. “Oftentimes when we think of enhancing our roadways, we think strictly in terms of vehicular traffic. However, this grant award will be utilized to seamlessly integrate vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian traffic.”
Reading Mayor Eddie Moran likewise said the project is a major boon to the area.
“Connectivity and accessibility for all is a priority for me,” he said. “Upon completing this project, we will have new ADA ramps, a pedestrian and bike trail, better signage and other enhancements, ensuring the 18th Ward and Oakbrook communities can safely perform their daily tasks with the option to use alternative transportation. Our goal continues to be to make Reading a better place to live, learn, work and play.”
Fleetwood
Fleetwood received $132,687 in Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program grant funding.
The money will be used to build a new bandshell, covering for a seating area and pathways at Fleetwood Park. It will also aid in improving landscaping at the park.
“When Fleetwood officials realized the existing bandshell was structurally compromised, they quickly acted to and moved forward with a plan to replace it,” Schwank said. “The bandshell has been a central feature in the Fleetwood community for years and has been home to countless events that bring people together. The new and improved bandshell will be structurally sound, safe and provide expanded coverage so events don’t have to be canceled due to rain.”
Topton
Topton was awarded a $168,594 Multimodal Transportation Fund grant to implement street calming and pedestrian safety measures on Callowhill Street.
The project will include the installation of two speed bumps between West Weis and Franklin streets, as well as the construction of sidewalk ramps and crosswalks.
“Topton residents have their local borough officials to thank for getting this project started,” Schwank said. “They’ve put forward multiple projects in recent years in improve safety for commuters, pedestrians and students at nearby Brandywine Heights School District. I applaud them for making this a priority and was happy to help them support this project financially.”
State Rep. Ryan Mackenzie said the project will be a big benefit for students.
“I was glad to assist Topton Borough in securing this funding to install traffic calming and pedestrian improvements,” he said. “Keeping our residents safe while moving around the borough is a priority and this funding will help to accomplish our mutual goal.”