More than $1 million in state grant funding has been awarded to projects across Berks County, with multiple state lawmakers announcing investments aimed at improving public safety, infrastructure and community resources.
The funding comes through Pennsylvania’s Local Share Account (LSA) programs, which distribute gaming revenue through the Commonwealth Financing Authority to support projects that benefit the public.
A significant portion of the funding — $150,000 — was repeatedly highlighted across announcements for the purchase and upfitting of a new countywide crime scene response vehicle. The vehicle will serve as the primary response unit for investigators and replace equipment that has exceeded its useful lifespan.
“I know that in times of crisis, such as responding to a crime scene, our first responders need the most up-to-date and functional equipment,” said state Rep. Manuel Guzman. “This funding will help first responders reach the scene quickly, safely, and ready to react to any situation.”
State Sen. Tracy Pennycuick also emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure and safety.
“Public safety and stormwater management are two components of healthy, thriving communities, but they come with hefty price tags,” Pennycuick said. “I’m very happy to help secure these funds for Berks County and Hereford and Washington Townships.”
In addition to the countywide vehicle, funding was awarded to a wide range of municipal and emergency service projects throughout Berks County.
State Sen. Judy Schwank announced a total of $762,773 in funding for 11 projects within her district, noting the long-term impact of the investments.
“We have a wide range of projects here that address real needs in public safety, emergency services and equipment,” Schwank said. “These are investments that will serve Berks County communities for years to come.”
Among the projects funded:
- Shillington Borough received $103,598 for a new dump truck and $20,164 for a mower to maintain parks and public spaces.
- Cumru Township was awarded $30,000 for a police vehicle equipped for a canine therapy unit.
- Sinking Spring Borough received $113,304 for a new wheel loader.
- Muhlenberg Township was awarded $85,000 for a utility truck for fire and rescue services.
- Mount Penn Borough received $28,300 for renovations to the Central Regional Police station.
- Mohnton Borough was awarded $23,313 for a police vehicle.
- Lyons Borough received $92,534 for park improvements and environmental restoration projects.
- The Greater Berks Development Fund received $94,894 to purchase a van for the Olivet Boys & Girls Club.
- Berks County also received $21,666 for audio and video upgrades at the Department of Emergency Services Fire Training Facility.
Additional funding announced by Sen. Chris Gebhard and Reps. Eric Weaknecht and Jamie Barton included:
- $81,898 for rescue tools for Union Fire Company No. 1 in Hamburg Borough.
- $9,635 for battery-operated tools for the Womelsdorf Volunteer Fire Company.
- $65,000 for a skid unit for the Bernville Community Fire Company in North Heidelberg Township.
- $63,806 for electrical upgrades at Shoemakersville Park.
- $24,769 for portable radios and equipment for South Heidelberg Township Police.
- $75,101 for water supply equipment upgrades in Womelsdorf Borough.
Gebhard highlighted the importance of supporting first responders through these investments.
“Our first responders put themselves on the line every day to protect our communities, and these important projects help ensure they have the support they need,” Gebhard said.
Infrastructure improvements were also included in the funding. Hereford Township received $92,000 to replace an undersized culvert and improve drainage, while Washington Township was awarded $26,165 to install surveillance cameras at municipal facilities to deter illegal activity.
Across the announcements, lawmakers noted that the Local Share Account funding — derived from gaming revenue, including from Hollywood Casino Morgantown — is intended to be reinvested into communities to enhance safety, infrastructure and overall quality of life.