Monday, February 24, 2020

Over $1 Million in FEMA Grant Funds Awarded to Pottsville

Last week, Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09), nnounced a federal grant award to Pottsville roads and culvert repairs made by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

This $1,066,608.62 federal investment will enable needed repairs and alleviate what has become a major safety issue since historic flooding from Norwegian Creek severely damaged Progress Avenue in 2018.

“This announcement is welcome news for Pottsville and Schuylkill County,” said Meuser. “For too long, Progress Avenue has been closed to traffic, creating a safety concern for motorists and pedestrians in the area. Since coming to Congress, I have worked to encourage revitalization in the 9th District. I am grateful to the Trump Administration for recognizing the importance of this grant and for the President’s leadership in prioritizing investment in our nation’s aging infrastructure.”

“From an economic development standpoint, transportation within the city is integral for the success of our local business climate,” said Savas Logothetides, Executive Director of the Pottsville Area Development Corporation. “Overcoming a natural disaster like what has transpired on Progress Avenue comes with a significant process with regard to resources needed to fix the problem. The local business community sincerely appreciates the City and Congressman Meuser’s commitment to ensure this unforeseen issue is being resolved and especially so that it will not come at a cost to the community.”

Robert Carl, President and CEO of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce said, “Repairing Progress Avenue has been a priority for the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, the Pottsville Business Association, a Chamber affiliate organization, and the City of Pottsville for some time. This is a busy thoroughfare that connects the business district with critical government offices. The closed roadway has caused serious safety concerns for nearby businesses and residents as traffic has been diverted through a busy shopping center. We are grateful for Congressman Meuser’s leadership and influence in attaining funding to solve this issue. Without his intervention, it would not have gotten done.”