Flynn, Baker, Brown Secure More than $23 Million to Improve High-Speed Internet Access in Northeastern Pennsylvania

Flynn, Baker, Brown Secure More than $23 Million to Improve High-Speed Internet Access in Northeastern Pennsylvania

HARRISBURG – April 18, 2024 – The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) announced today that northeastern Pennsylvania is being awarded more than $23 million to increase access to reliable, high-speed internet, according to Sens. Lisa Baker (R-20), Rosemary Brown (R-40) and Marty Flynn (D-22).

“Money for expanded and enhanced internet access is a key component of every economic development strategy, benefiting all communities. It is especially crucial in helping rural areas remain competitive for jobs. This helps businesses, institutions, educators, workers and at-home entrepreneurs. Wherever I go across the region, this funding has been a prominent request from officials and residents,” Baker said. “Even this down payment on meeting a range of needs will have a tangible impact. We are relying on the companies to utilize the funding in ways that will provide the greatest benefit for the entire customer base.”

The approved grants include separate projects being performed by Adams Cable TV, Comcast Cable and Verizon:

  • $9,059,471 to Comcast Cable for a project totaling $22,029,647 in Lackawanna County.
  • $3,811,319 to Verizon for a project totaling $9,295,901 in Lackawanna County.
  • $4,348,419 to Comcast Cable for a project totaling $9,976,419 in Luzerne County.
  • $2,988,566 to Verizon Cable for a project totaling $5,953,318 in Monroe, Pike and Wayne counties.
  • $387,969 to Adams Cable TV for a project totaling $517,292 in Wayne County.
  • $2,790,914 to Comcast Cable for a project totaling $4,018,651 in Wyoming County.

Made possible through the federally funded Broadband Infrastructure Program, $200 million in competitive grants have been allocated for projects across the state aimed at areas without access to 25/3 Mbps internet service.

“High-speed internet isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity for residents, especially in regions like northeastern Pennsylvania. It’s the key to unlocking economic opportunity, educational advancement and community connectivity. Without it, we risk leaving entire communities behind in the digital age,” Brown said. “I commend the PBDA for their proactive approach in ensuring the success of this initiative. Together, we will propel northeastern Pennsylvania into a future where reliable internet access is a reality for all.”

To ensure transparency and efficiency, the PBDA mandates quarterly and annual progress reports from grantees, accompanied by comprehensive guidance on state and federal requirements and technical support. All funds must be utilized by Dec. 31, 2026. Grantees will be held accountable for the prudent expenditure of awarded funds. The PBDA can claw back any unused or misused funds.

“This investment is a critical step toward bridging the digital divide,” Flynn said. “Access to high-speed internet is essential for education, healthcare, business and everyday life. These funds will empower our constituents and strengthen our local economy.”

This inaugural round of grants represents a significant milestone in the PBDA’s broader initiative to close the digital divide since the General Assembly established the PBDA in 2021.

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Senator Flynn and State Representatives Secure Significant Grants for Commonwealth Finance Authority’s Multimodal Transportation Fund

Senator Flynn and State Representatives Secure Significant Grants for Commonwealth Finance Authority’s Multimodal Transportation Fund

Scranton, March 26, 2024 – Today, Senator Marty Flynn alongside State Representatives Kyle Donahue, Bridget Kosierowski, Eddie Day Pashinski, and Jim Haddock proudly announced the approval of several grants under the Multimodal Transportation Infrastructure Plan. These grants signify a substantial investment in enhancing the transportation network across the district, ensuring safer roads and improved connectivity for residents.

Here are the projects and the respective grants approved:

Amount: $333,955 
Lackawanna County
Senator Flynn 
Representative: Bridget Kosierowski, Kyle Donahue
City Of Scranton – Street Signage Initiative

Amount: $400,000
Lackawanna County
Senator Flynn 
Representative: Bridget Kosierowski
Dickson City Borough – Main St and Viewmont Drive Improvements

Amount: $250,000
Lackawanna County
Senator Flynn 
Representative: Bridget Kosierowski
Dickson City Borough – Streetscape Project Main Ave Phase IV

Amount: $135,067
Lackawanna County
Senator Flynn 
Representative: Bridget Kosierowski
Fellowship House Foundation – Sanderson Ave/Green Ridge Streetscape

Amount: $287,609
Lackawanna County
Senator Flynn 
Representative: Bridget Kosierowski
South Abington Township – South Abington Twp White Birch Road CMP Culvert Replacement Project

Amount: $239,003
Lackawanna County
Senator Flynn 
Representative: Jim Haddock
Glenburn Township – Pine Tree Drive Project

Amount: $437,498
Lackawanna County
Senator Flynn 
Representative: Jim Haddock
Moosic Borough – Greenwood Hose Company Access Improvements
 

Amount: $350,000
Luzerne County
Senator Flynn 
Representative: Jim Haddock
City of Pittston – Pittston Area High School Multimodal

Amount: $449,085
Luzerne County
Senator Flynn 
Representative: Jim Haddock
Jenkins Township – Centerpoint Boulevard (T-792) Roadway Improvement Project

Amount: $628,170
Luzerne County
Senator Flynn 
Representative: Jim Haddock
Pittston Township – Armstrong Road Infrastructure Enhancement Project

Amount: $500,000
Luzerne County
Senator Flynn 
Representative: Eddie Day Pashinski
City of Wilkes-Barre – South Main Street Streetscape Improvements

These grants totaling $4,010,387.00 underscore the commitment of Senator Flynn and the State Representatives to prioritize the improvement of transportation infrastructure, ensuring the safety and convenience of all residents. The projects cover a wide range of initiatives, including streetscape improvements, roadway enhancements, and access improvements, addressing the diverse needs of communities within the district.

Senator Flynn expressed his gratitude for the collaborative efforts with the State Representatives, emphasizing the importance of investing in transportation infrastructure to foster economic growth and enhance the quality of life for constituents.

For more information, please contact Senator Flynn’s District Office in Scranton at 570-207-2881

Senator Marty Flynn Secures Over $900,000 in Grants for CFA Act 13 Greenways, Trails, Recreation, and Watershed Restoration Projects

Senator Marty Flynn Secures Over $900,000 in Grants for CFA Act 13 Greenways, Trails, Recreation, and Watershed Restoration Projects

Scranton, PA – January 16, 2024 − Senator Marty Flynn alongside State Representatives Bridget Kosierowski, Jim Haddock, Kyle Donahue, and Eddie Day Pashinski are thrilled to announce the approval of grants totaling over $900,000 for the CFA Act 13 Greenways, Trails, Recreation, and Watershed Restoration Projects. These grants will play a pivotal role in enhancing the natural and recreational landscapes of Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties.

The breakdown of the grants is as follows:

Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Grants:

Dalton Borough – Dalton Streamside Park Revitalization Project, Lackawanna County – $125,000
Lackawanna Valley Conservancy – Depot Street Trail Head, Lackawanna County – $50,000
City of Scranton – Davis Trail Revitalization, Lackawanna County – $50,000
Taylor Borough – Pedestrian Access in Taylor Borough, Lackawanna County – $104,000
The Borough of Dickson City – Dickson City Riverfront Park Development Project – Final Phase, Lackawanna County – $175,000
City of Pittston – Pittston City BMX Park, Luzerne County – $150,000
Pittston Township – Tony Attardo Memorial Park Rehabilitation Project Phase II, Luzerne County – $105,000

Watershed Restoration Grants:

City of Scranton – Leggett’s Creek Greenway Eco-Restoration, Lackawanna County – $100,000
Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority – Plains Township Mill Creek Streambank Restoration Project, Luzerne County – $50,000

Senator Flynn congratulates all the grant recipients, emphasizing the positive impact these funds will have on community development, recreational facilities, and environmental restoration. The projects aim to contribute significantly to the aesthetic appeal and overall well-being of Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties.

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Senator Marty Flynn and State Reps Secure Over $9 Million in Grants for H2O Program and Small Water & Sewer Program

Senator Marty Flynn and State Reps Secure Over $9 Million in Grants for H2O Program and Small Water & Sewer Program

Scranton − December 19, 2023 − In an announcement today, Senator Marty Flynn, alongside State Representatives Bridget Kosierowski, Kyle Donahue, Eddie Day Pashinski, and Jim Haddock proudly unveiled a significant achievement for the 22nd district with the acquisition of over $9 million in grants for the H2O Program and Small Water & Sewer Program.

This substantial funding injection will play a crucial role in addressing vital improvements related to H2O and Stormwater concerns in Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties. 

Regions heavily affected by recent severe flooding, including Keyser Valley, North Scranton, and the Abington’s, are among the areas included in the grants. 

Senator Flynn expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “These grants mark a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to the welfare of our communities. The funding secured will not only address immediate concerns but also contribute to the long-term sustainability and resilience of our infrastructure.”

The grants come at a pivotal time, responding to the urgent need for enhanced stormwater management and infrastructure development following recent challenges faced by these districts. State Representatives Kosierowski and Donahue echoed Senator Flynn’s sentiments, emphasizing the collaborative effort to secure these funds and their dedication to the well-being of their respective Districts and the Senator’s 22nd district.

These funds will be allocated strategically to ensure the most effective and efficient utilization, with a focus on key improvements that directly impact the safety and well-being of the residents in these affected areas.

County: Lackawanna Grants

H2O Program

City of Scranton
Project: Stormwater Improvements
Description: Located in Scranton City, Lackawanna County.
$2,200,000
House: Kyle Donahue (D) / Bridget M. Kosierowski (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Dalton Sewer Authority
Project: Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements
Description: Upgrade located in LaPlume Township, Lackawanna County.
$500,000
House: Jim Haddock (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Small Water & Sewer

Clarks Green Borough
Project: Clarks Green Storm Sewer Infrastructure Rehabilitation ProjectDescription: Stormwater Infrastructure Rehabilitation project in Clarks Green Borough, Lackawanna County.
$304,200
House: Bridget M. Kosierowski (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Scranton
Project: Storm Sewer along Lemon St, Augusta Ave, and Greenbush St
Description: Stormwater infrastructure improvements located in Scranton City, Lackawanna County.
$424,046
House: Kyle Donahue (D) / Bridget M. Kosierowski (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Abington Regional Wastewater Authority
Project: UV System Replacement
Description: Replace wastewater disinfection system located in South Abington Township, Lackawanna County.
$500,000
House: Bridget M. Kosierowski (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Scott Township Sewer and Water Authority
Project: Pump Station Replacement
Description: Pump station replacement project located in Scott Township, Lackawanna County.
$250,000
House: Bridget M. Kosierowski (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Taylor Borough
Project: Storm Water Project
Description: Storm sewer replacement located in Taylor Borough, Lackawanna County.
$162,885
House: Jim Haddock (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

County: Luzerne Grants

H2O Program

West Pittston Borough
Project: Sanitary and Storm Sewer Separation Project
Description: Rehabilitate and separate storm and sewer line located in West Pittston Borough, Luzerne County.
$2,600,000
House: Jim Haddock (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Plains Township
Project: Delaware Street and Hudson Garden Stormwater Improvements Project
Description: Stormwater improvements along Delaware Street and Hudson Garden located in Plains Township, Luzerne County.
$481,812
House: Eddie Day Pashinski (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Small Water & Sewer

Laflin Borough
Project: Stormwater Repairs
Description: Replacement of cross culverts on a busy intersection in Laflin Borough, Luzerne County.
$230,945
House: Jim Haddock (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Pittston Township Sewer Authority
Project: Upgrades to the Sanitary Sewer System
Description: Sanitary sewer conveyance system upgrades in Pittston Township, Luzerne County.
$140,100
House: Jim Haddock (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority
Project: Wyoming Valley Mall MS4 Stormwater Basin Retrofit Project
Description: Retrofit a stormwater basin near the Wyoming Valley Mall located in Wilkes-Barre Township, Luzerne County.
$340,000
House: Eddie Day Pashinski (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Pittston City
Project: Willow Lane Upgrades
Description: Installation of a new sanitary sewer on Willow Lane in Pittston City, Luzerne County.
$299,150
House: Jim Haddock (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Wyoming Borough
Project: Monument Avenue Sewer Enhancement Project
Description: Replace sewer lines along Monument Avenue located in Wyoming Borough, Luzerne County.
$418,477
House: Aaron D. Kaufer (R)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Pittston Township
Project: Parnell St. Stormwater Improvement Project
Description: Improvements to their stormwater system located on Parnell Street in Pittston Township, Luzerne County.
$384,336
House: Jim Haddock (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Wilkes-Barre Township
Project: Stormwater Repair and Improvement Project
Description: Addition of two stormwater inlets and the replacement of storm pipe in three affected locations in Wilkes-Barre Township, Luzerne County.
 $208,207
House: Eddie Day Pashinski (D)
Senate: Marty Flynn (D)

Senator Marty Flynn Announces Over $7M in Grants for Community Projects and Infrastructure Development in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties

Senator Marty Flynn Announces Over $7M in Grants for Community Projects and Infrastructure Development in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties

Scranton, PA – May 16, 2023 – Today, Senator Marty Flynn (D-Lackawanna/Luzerne) announced a total of $7,074,726 in grants awarded to 52 projects in the 22nd Senatorial District.

“I’m thrilled to support the many projects receiving funding in Luzerne and Lackawanna County,” said Senator Flynn. “I’m proud to see these important projects receive the funding we fought so hard for. This funding will not only increase public safety through investments in local law enforcement and emergency services, but it will also help create and sustain thriving communities for the residents of the 22nd District by infusing funds directly into where we live, work and play.”

The Local Share Account was developed from PA Race Horse Development and Gaming Act funds, which are distributed by the Commonwealth Financing Authority for the purpose of providing support for projects in the public interest.

The following grants, totaling $4,972,629, were awarded in Luzerne County:

  • $440,781 awarded to Avoca Borough for an emergency rescue truck
  • $45,825 awarded to Dupont Borough for Dupont Community Park Restoration
  • $100,000 awarded to Dupont Borough for a maintenance garage
  • $30,000 awarded to Dupont Borough for assorted computer upgrades
  • $15,000 awarded to Dupont Borough for a Veteran Monument
  • $114,045 awarded to Duryea Borough for the Germania Remodel Project
  • $116,200 awarded to Hughestown Borough for the 2022 Salt Shed Project
  • $123,704 awarded to Hughestown Borough for an equipment purchase project
  • $103,140 awarded to Jenkins Township for the purchase of two police vehicles
  • $67,910 awarded to Jenkins Township for firefighter turnout gear
  • $365,000 awarded to Jenkins Township for the Street Paving Project
  • $77,103 awarded to Laflin Borough for the purchase of a work truck
  • $225,340 awarded to Laflin Borough for stormwater improvements
  • $17,435 awarded to Laflin Borough for Storz Fire Hydrant Adapters
  • $94,157 awarded to Laurel Run Borough for the purchase of public safety equipment
  • $100,000 awarded to Luzerne County Redevelopment Authority for the Pittston YMCA childcare expansion and facility modernization
  • $500,000 awarded to Pittston City for the construction of an 80,000 square foot development project
  • $295,000 awarded to Pittston Township for the Emergency Services Upgrade Project
  • $265,385 awarded to Plains Township for the East Mountain Boulevard Roadway Improvements & Paving Project
  • $162,275 awarded to Plains Township for the Plains Township COSTAR New DPW Garbage Packer Project
  • $115,000 awarded to West Pittston Borough for the West Pittston Borough 2022 Municipal Building Renovations Project
  • $250,000 awarded to West Pittston Borough for the Wyoming Area Regional Police Force Building Renovation Project
  • $215,000 awarded to Wilkes-Barre Township for HVAC Replacement & Upgrades
  • $157,075 awarded to Wilkes-Barre City for the Bucket Truck Project
  • $78,561 awarded to Wilkes-Barre City for the Department of Public Works Skid Steer
  • $264,000 awarded to Wilkes-Barre City for the Luzerne County Flood Protection Authority (LCFPA) Flood Protection Equipment Project
  • $250,000 awarded to Wilkes-Barre City for Volunteers of America Pennsylvania (VOAPA) Housing – Phase II
  • $250,000 awarded to Wilkes-Barre City for the Wilkes-Barre Family YMCA Multi-Purpose Room Transformation Project
  • $134,684 awarded to Yatesville Borough for the 2022 Yatesville Borough Basketball Court Improvement Project

The following grants, totaling $2,102,106, were awarded in Lackawanna County:

  • $35,410 awarded to Dalton Borough for a RAM 2500 Public Works Truck
  • $64,400 awarded to Dunmore Borough for parking meters
  • $120,000 awarded to Dunmore Borough for VFW roof replacement/kitchen repairs
  • $130,000 awarded to Glenburn Township for Glenburn Township DPW Building Phase I
  • $62,842 awarded to Lackawanna County for roof repair and replacement at the 20th Ward Social Club
  • $17,224 awarded to Lackawanna County for Connell Park Little League Field and Concession Equipment
  • $90,000 awarded to Lackawanna County for the Dunmore Missy League Field Lighting Project
  • $121,542 awarded to Lackawanna County for Eagle McClure Fire Dept. HVAC Replacement Facility Improvements
  • $140,000 awarded to Lackawanna County for the Friendship House Building Renovation Project
  • $70,000 awarded to Lackawanna County for Hillside Park Boundless Playground Resurfacing
  • $100,000 awarded to Lackawanna County for the Old Forge Lions Little League – Renovation Project
  • $27,500 awarded to Lackawanna County for Scranton Veterans Memorial Stadium Fund
  • $57,000 awarded to Lackawanna County for the Tripp Park Miss-E League Improvement Project
  • $190,537 awarded to Lackawanna County for the West Scranton Alumni Wrestling Association
  • $35,139 awarded to Moosic Borough for Moosic Youth Center – Roof Replacement
  • $100,000 awarded to Scranton City for Billy Barrett Park Rehabilitation
  • $11,000 awarded to Scranton City for Farmers Market – Security & Facilities Upgrades
  • $100,000 awarded to Scranton City for the NeighborWorks – Clover Field Park Improvement Plan
  • $100,000 awarded to Scranton City for Playground Makeover with ADA Complaint Pathways
  • $117,431 awarded to Scranton City for a SAF Century Club Upgrade
  • $100,400 awarded to Scranton City for Scranton Workforce Housing
  • $261,681 awarded to Scranton City for Streetscape and Historic Improvements
  • $50,000 awarded to Taylor Borough for Taylor DPW Maintenance Garage Upgrades

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