The Borough of Shenandoah announced Tuesday that it has been identified as a proposed recipient of approximately $2 million in federal earmark funding to support a large-scale blight removal and demolition initiative throughout the borough.
According to borough manager Mike Cadau, the proposed funding would be used to demolish and remove approximately 200 blighted residential structures in Shenandoah as part of a broader effort to improve neighborhoods, public safety, infrastructure, and future redevelopment opportunities.
An earmark is funding specifically designated within a federal appropriations bill for a particular project, community, or governmental purpose. Information regarding the proposed funding was publicly listed on the official website of U.S. Senator Dave McCormick.
The funding remains subject to final approval as part of the Federal Fiscal Year 2027 Budget, which is expected to be considered on or around October 1, 2026.
Borough officials said they are optimistic about the potential impact the project could have on the community.
“This proposed investment would represent one of the most significant blight remediation efforts in the history of Shenandoah Borough,” said Borough Manager Mike Cadau. “For decades, abandoned and unsafe structures have impacted property values, public safety, emergency response operations, and neighborhood quality of life. This initiative would allow the Borough to continue to aggressively address long-standing blight issues while helping position Shenandoah for future redevelopment and growth.”
Cadau said the initiative could also help address aging infrastructure concerns connected to many of the deteriorated properties and surrounding neighborhoods.
“Removing unsafe and deteriorated structures creates opportunities for future redevelopment, improved utilities, safer streets, and long-term community investment,” he added.
Council President Joe Boris said the funding could provide a major turning point for the borough.
“Blight has impacted Shenandoah for generations, and this proposed funding would give the Borough a real opportunity to change the future of our community,” Boris said. “Removing approximately 200 unsafe and abandoned structures would not only improve public safety and neighborhood appearance, but would also help us address long-standing infrastructure issues and create opportunities for redevelopment and investment throughout the Borough. This is about improving quality of life for our residents and moving Shenandoah forward.”
If approved, borough officials said the initiative would focus on:
- Demolition of unsafe and abandoned residential structures
- Elimination of hazardous and condemned properties
- Improvement of neighborhood safety and appearance
- Reduction of fire and structural collapse risks
- Opportunities to correct and improve aging infrastructure
- Creation of opportunities for redevelopment and future investment
- Strengthening property values and community revitalization efforts
Officials said the borough will continue monitoring the federal budget process and provide updates to residents as more information becomes available.
The Borough of Shenandoah also expressed appreciation to federal, state, county, and local partners assisting with efforts to address long-standing housing, infrastructure, and blight-related challenges within the community.
Residents with questions regarding the proposed initiative are encouraged to contact Borough Hall during normal business hours.