The Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO) has been awarded more than $3.1 million in state funding to advance development of a parcel in the Highridge Business Park in Foster Township.
The funding was announced as part of more than $14.5 million awarded to projects in Luzerne and Schuylkill counties through the Pennsylvania Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites Program (PA SITES).
SEDCO will receive more than $1.5 million in grant funding and more than $1.5 million in loan funding to improve a 26.4-acre parcel known as Lot 12 in Highridge Business Park. The investment will support a geotechnical study, clearing and grading of the site, utility extensions, stormwater management, paving and curbing.
According to SEDCO President Frank Zukas, the improvements will transform the parcel into a fully developed, pad-ready site designed to attract new employers.
“This investment represents a transformational step forward for Schuylkill County,” Zukas said. “By advancing critical improvements at Lot 12 in Highridge Business Park, we are converting a 26-acre parcel into a fully developed, pad-ready site capable of attracting quality employers and creating family-sustaining jobs. This strategic investment positions Foster Township — and our entire region — for long-term economic growth and competitiveness.”
Zukas also thanked the commonwealth and local lawmakers for their advocacy and support in securing the funding.
State Rep. JoAnne Stehr said investments in site readiness are key to economic growth.
“Ensuring sites are ready for development strengthens our local communities’ ability to attract new employers and the jobs that follow,” Stehr said. “By investing in site readiness, we are demonstrating that these communities are prepared to compete for business growth and long-term economic opportunity.”
State Sen. Dave Argall said preparing sites in advance sends a strong message to prospective businesses.
“These awards position both Luzerne and Schuylkill counties to attract new employers, support our existing businesses and create family-sustaining careers for residents,” Argall said. “By preparing these sites now, we are sending a clear message that northeastern Pennsylvania is open for business and ready to grow.”
The PA SITES program was created by the General Assembly and is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. The program provides grant and loan funding to help develop competitive sites for businesses looking to relocate or expand within the commonwealth.
In addition to the Highridge Business Park award, the Greater Hazleton Community-Area New Development Organization (CANDO) received more than $11.4 million to develop a 150-acre site in the Humboldt Industrial Park Northwest in Hazle Township — the largest PA SITES investment statewide during this funding cycle.
With the Highridge improvements now funded, Schuylkill County officials say the site will be better positioned to compete for new industrial and manufacturing projects, strengthening the region’s economic base for years to come.