HARRISBURG – Sen. Dave Argall (R-29), and Reps. Jamie Barton (R-124), JoAnne Stehr (R-107), Tim Twardzik (R-123) and Dane Watro (R-116) announced $7.35 million in state funding has been awarded for economic development projects throughout Schuylkill County. Each of the state grants must be matched with at least 50% funding by the grant recipient.
“I’m grateful these critical public safety projects are receiving state support,” Barton said. “This investment will strengthen emergency response capabilities, enhance training for first responders and ensure our facilities meet the needs of our communities. I appreciate this commitment to improving safety, resilience and preparedness for residents throughout the region.”
“Keystone Potato Products has been an important part of our community, and I am pleased that this funding will help the company continue to grow and expand its operations,” Stehr said. “The improvements planned at the facility will support advanced manufacturing and help position this local employer for continued success in Schuylkill County. It is encouraging to see continued investment in projects that support jobs, economic growth and the future of our communities.”
“The new Schuylkill County Emergency Operations Facility will provide a central location for emergency management, training and coordination, strengthening our ability to prepare for and respond to emergencies,” Twardzik said. “This investment will ensure our first responders have the tools and resources they need to better serve and protect our communities. God bless our volunteer firefighters and emergency teams. Their selfless sacrifices help keep our families safe. In addition, I congratulate Kowalonek’s on this investment, which will help support the continued growth and success of this longtime local business.”
Watro was thrilled about the $1.85 million for an expansion of Kowalonek’s Kielbasy in Shenandoah Borough. “Kowalonek’s has been in business since 1911, and this funding should position them to keep serving up handcrafted kielbasy and other tasty specialties for generations to come,” Watro said.
“By funding these important projects, we’re helping to create new opportunities for local businesses to expand their operations while also strengthening public safety on a countywide scale for our residents,” Argall said.
Keystone Potato Products was awarded $3 million for critical infrastructure improvements to expand advanced food manufacturing operations in western Schuylkill County.
Kowalonek’s Kielbasy Shop LLC was awarded $1.85 million to renovate a vacant building in downtown Shenandoah into a new food production location that will expand its production capabilities. The space will also include a new retail store.
The Schuylkill County Industrial Development Authority was awarded $1.5 million to support the construction of a regional emergency operations facility located in Frackville that will house emergency management offices, an operation center and a training center for fire companies.
The Orwigsburg Fire Department was awarded $1 million to support the demolition and construction of a new fire station.
Funding was awarded through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, which awards grants to economic development projects with a regional impact.
BARTON CONTACT: Jake Gillespie
STEHR/TWARDZIK CONTACT: Will Jones
WATRO CONTACT: Chris Comisac
ARGALL CONTACT: Brad Hurley