Senator Marty Flynn and State Representatives Announce Over $3.99 Million in Public School Facility Improvement Grants for Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties

Senator Marty Flynn and State Representatives Announce Over $3.99 Million in Public School Facility Improvement Grants for Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties

Scranton, PA − October 22, 2024 – Senator Marty Flynn, alongside State Representatives Bridget Kosierowski, Kyle Mullins, Jim Haddock, and Kyle Donahue, are excited to announce the approval of more than $3.99 million in Public School Facility Improvement Grant (PSFIG) funding to support critical upgrades in school facilities across Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties. These grants will fund projects addressing energy efficiency, safety improvements, and infrastructure upgrades, ensuring a healthier and safer environment for students and staff.

“This funding is a big win for our local schools, and it’s going to make a huge difference in the day-to-day learning environment for our kids,” said Senator Flynn. “From improving air quality and energy efficiency to addressing safety concerns, these upgrades will ensure our students and educators have the best possible facilities. I’m proud to work with my colleagues to help bring these resources to our communities.”

Funded Projects in Lackawanna County:

  1. Abington Heights School District – South Abington Elementary School Upgrades
    • Grant Award: $775,000
    • State Representative: Bridget Kosierowski (H114)
    • Project: Modernization of the HVAC system, plumbing, and lighting at South Abington Elementary School to improve energy efficiency and create a healthier learning environment.
  2. Lakeland School District – Ceiling and Lighting Improvements
    • Grant Award: $450,000
    • State Representatives: Kyle Mullins (H112), Bridget Kosierowski (H114)
    • Project: Health and safety improvements at Mayfield Elementary and Lakeland Elementary-Scott Campus, including new ceilings and energy-efficient LED lighting to improve air quality and reduce asbestos risks.
  3. Mid Valley School District – Sanitary Sewer Improvements at Mid Valley High School
    • Grant Award: $300,000
    • State Representative: Kyle Mullins (H112)
    • Project: Replacement of aging cast iron sanitary piping and the installation of a new gravity sewer system to address frequent system failures at Mid Valley High School.
  4. Riverside School District – HVAC Replacement at Riverside Elementary West
    • Grant Award: $496,250
    • State Representative: Jim Haddock (H118)
    • Project: Complete replacement of the HVAC system at Riverside Elementary West, upgrading 22 unit ventilators, mini split units, ductwork, and refrigerant to improve energy efficiency and reduce maintenance costs.
  5. Scranton School District – Safety Upgrades at West Scranton High School and South Scranton Intermediate School
    • Grant Award: $1,000,000
    • State Representative: Kyle Donahue (H113)
    • Project: Replacement of fire alarm systems at both West Scranton High School and South Scranton Intermediate School, including the installation of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide detectors, emergency lighting, and centralized reporting systems.

Funded Project in Luzerne County:

  1. Pittston Area School District – Safety Upgrades at Matteii Complex
    • Grant Award: $969,875
    • State Representative: Jim Haddock (H118)
    • Project: Replacement of 25-year-old carpeting at the Intermediate Center and Middle School at the Matteii Complex. The new materials will improve fire resistance, air quality, and reduce trip hazards, creating a safer environment for students and staff.

Contact Information:

For more information, please contact Senator Flynn’s office at (570) 207-2881 or visit Senator Flynn’s official website.

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PA Broadband Development Authority Approves Grant for CEDAR Center Project

PA Broadband Development Authority Approves Grant for CEDAR Center Project

October 11, 2024 − We’re happy to announce that the PA Broadband Development Authority has approved grants from the Multipurpose Community Facilities Program during their recent meeting. This program provided $45 million in competitive grants to support community anchor institutions and local government units for projects aimed at improving public facilities that enhance education, job training, health monitoring, and more.

In our district, the following grant was awarded:

United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA – CEDAR Center
$1,242,251 Grant

The approved funding will redevelop a historic commercial building into the Community Education Development and Revitalization (CEDAR) Center—a regional hub offering expanded services in education, job readiness, workforce development, community health, and immigrant integration. This initiative will be a transformative asset for our community!

We are excited to celebrate this investment in our district’s future!

Senator Flynn Urges Luzerne County to Follow Attorney General’s Guidance and Reinstate Ballot Drop Boxes

Senator Flynn Urges Luzerne County to Follow Attorney General’s Guidance and Reinstate Ballot Drop Boxes

Luzerne County, PAOctober 4, 2024 − Senator Flynn has called for the immediate reinstatement of mail ballot drop boxes in Luzerne County following a response from the Attorney General’s office. In the letter, the Attorney General clearly stated that only the Luzerne County Board of Elections has the legal authority to make decisions about ballot drop boxes, not county officials acting alone.

“This response from the Attorney General is clear: only the Luzerne County Board of Elections has the authority to make decisions about the election,” said Senator Flynn. “The Attorney General emphasized that going around this process not only threatens fair voting access but could also lead to legal consequences. This confirms that the County Manager’s decision to remove the drop boxes went beyond her legal power.”

The Attorney General’s letter outlined that if the County Manager doesn’t comply with the Board of Elections’ lawful orders, there could be civil or criminal consequences. This message highlights the importance of following election laws to ensure fair voting access.

“Ensuring public confidence in voting is essential. I’m urging Luzerne County officials to work directly with the Board of Elections to bring back these drop boxes so that our election remains accessible and fair,” said Senator Flynn. “The people of Luzerne County deserve easy and legal access to vote.”

Senator Flynn will be closely watching this issue to make sure that Luzerne County officials follow the Attorney General’s directive, supporting accessible and fair voting for all.

For more information, please contact Senator Flynn’s office at 570-207-2881.

Senator Flynn Hosts Joint Senior Expo with State Legislators and Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging

Senator Flynn Hosts Joint Senior Expo with State Legislators and Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging

Scranton – September 10, 2024 – Senator Flynn is proud to announce a joint Senior Expo in collaboration with the State Legislators and the Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging. The event will take place this Friday, September 13, at The Mall at Steamtown in Scranton from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

This significant community event will feature over 70 vendors, all dedicated to providing invaluable support and resources for seniors in our area. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of services, products, and information designed to enhance their quality of life.

Senator Flynn will be joined by distinguished colleagues including Senator Rosemary Brown (40th Senatorial District), Representative Kyle Mullins (112th Legislative District), Representative Kyle Donahue (113th Legislative District), Representative Bridget Kosierowski (114th Legislative District), and Representative Jim Haddock (118th Legislative District). Additionally, Lackawanna County Commissioners Bill Gaughan, Matt McGloin, and Chris Chermak will be present to engage with attendees and share important updates.

“This Senior Expo is a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together and support our seniors,” said Senator Flynn. “We are thrilled to collaborate with our legislative partners and the Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging to provide valuable resources and information.”

Free parking will be available for all attendees, making it easier for everyone to join in this important event.

For additional information, please contact Senator Flynn’s office at 570-207-2881

Senator Flynn Announces Significant Funding for Local Transportation Projects through PennDOT Multimodal Transportation Fund

Senator Flynn Announces Significant Funding for Local Transportation Projects through PennDOT Multimodal Transportation Fund

Scranton, PA – Senator Flynn is pleased to announce the allocation of crucial funding through this year’s PennDOT Multimodal Transportation Fund, aimed at enhancing transportation infrastructure across Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties. This initiative is designed to provide financial assistance to a wide range of entities, including municipalities, councils of governments, businesses, economic development organizations, public transportation agencies, and ports and rail freight entities.

The PennDOT Multimodal Transportation Fund is instrumental in improving transportation assets, which in turn boosts community development, enhances pedestrian safety, and supports transit revitalization. This year’s funding underscores the Commonwealth’s commitment to fostering economic growth through strategic infrastructure investments.

“Infrastructure is the backbone of our communities and our economy,” said Senator Flynn. “The funding provided through the PennDOT Multimodal Transportation Fund not only addresses critical transportation needs but also plays a vital role in driving economic development and improving the quality of life for our residents. By investing in these projects, we are building a safer, more connected, and more prosperous future for everyone in our region.”

Awardees from Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties:

Lackawanna County: 

City of Scranton – Awarded $2,516,945 for critical repairs to the Hollow Avenue Bridge. This project received the largest amount of funding in the state this year, highlighting its importance to the region’s infrastructure.

Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority – Awarded $292,914 to connect an existing section of the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail to another section currently under development by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

Luzerne County:

City of Pittston – Awarded $1,514,000 for the acquisition of land adjacent to a dangerous “dog leg” curve on Main Street in Pittston City. The project will include environmental remediation, streetscaping, and filling in a streetscape gap to reduce the frequency and severity of accidents.

City of Wilkes-Barre – Awarded $360,000 for pedestrian safety and ADA accessibility improvements on South Main Street.

Jenkins Township – Awarded $300,915 for roadway repairs to CenterPoint Blvd in the CenterPoint Commerce and Trade Park.

These investments are part of a broader effort by the Commonwealth to enhance transportation infrastructure, create jobs, and support economic development across Pennsylvania.

Senator Marty Flynn and IACOS Proud to Announce Free Clinic Hosted by Remote Area Medical Volunteer Corps

Senator Marty Flynn and IACOS Proud to Announce Free Clinic Hosted by Remote Area Medical Volunteer Corps

Scranton, PA − August 1, 2024 −  Senator Marty Flynn and IACOS are proud to announce a free clinic, hosted by the Remote Area Medical Volunteer Corps, which will take place on August 3 and 4 at Scranton High School, located at 63 Munchak Way, Scranton.

The clinic will offer a variety of essential services including dental care (cleanings, fillings, extractions, x-rays), vision care (exams and prescription eyeglasses made on site), and medical services (physical exams, prescription consultations, women’s health, and more).

Free Clinic - August 2024This event operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and no ID is required to receive care. Over 25 area doctors will be in attendance, ready to provide treatment to hundreds of individuals in need.

Senator Flynn emphasizes the importance of accessible healthcare and expresses his gratitude to all the medical professionals who are donating their time for this critical event. “This free clinic is a fantastic opportunity for those in need to receive quality medical care without the barrier of cost or identification requirements,” said Senator Flynn. “I am honored to support such a vital initiative and deeply grateful to the dedicated medical professionals making this possible.”

Senator Flynn will be available to speak with the press on Saturday during the event at 1 PM.

For more information about the clinic, please contact Senator Flynn’s office at 570-207-2881