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For Immediate Release
November 14, 2011
Contact: Jon
Hopcraft
(717) 787-2637
(570) 773-0891
Argall Announces $500,000 in State Investment for Jobs in
Berks County
READING – Senator David G. Argall (R-29) today announced a $500,000 grant
award through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) for the Berks
County Industrial Development Authority (BCIDA) for the creation of an
industrial park in Bern Township.
Argall made the announcement at the authority's board meeting this morning
with Senator Judy Schwank (D-11), Ken Saidel, Chairman of the BCIDA, Thomas
McKeon, Executive Director of the BCIDA, and County Commissioners Mark C. Scott,
Christian Y. Leinbach and Kevin S. Barnhardt.
The $500,000 state grant is matched by local fundraising efforts, which will
assist the BCIDA to acquire and redevelop 155 acres owned by the Reading
Regional Airport Authority.
"I can assure you that these funds are not easily obtained, especially in
these tough economic times," said Argall. "The Berks County delegation
understands that projects involving money must equate to more jobs for our
region. I know these funds will go a long way in working to create and maintain
local jobs in the county and I'm pleased to play a role in furthering the
economic viability of Berks County."
The project is expected to create approximately 750 – 1,000 new jobs.
"This is a tremendous shot in the arm. "It is encouraging to have the
State's support for what the BCIDA is trying to accomplish. We are very
grateful to have the State as our partner," noted Saidel.
"Job creation depends on mastering the fundamentals of economic development,"
said McKeon. "Site availability is one we need to do better. It's not easy.
Help like this is much needed and appreciated."
"For years I've been an advocate for this project. It's been our number one
economic development priority by both the County Commissioners and BEP," said
Scott. "It's gratifying to see the recognition the State has now given it."
Commissioner Leinbach continued, "Every expert we know has told us that well
located, ready to go sites are essential for Berks County's economic growth.
This is a big step toward getting us there."
"It's been great to see the bi-partisan efforts of the Commissioners and our
Senate delegation that has led to the Governor's release of funds for this
project," said Barnhardt. "There is still a long way to go but this is very
good news."
RACP is administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and
construction of regional, economic, cultural, civic and historical improvement
projects. | 