Kennett Sq., Coatesville, So. Coatesville among grantees
WEST CHESTER — The Chester County Commissioners approved $2.9 million in Community Revitalization Program (CRP) grants, Tuesday.
“Over the years, CRP grants have helped to improve communities across Chester County, focusing on urban areas,” said Commissioners’ Chair Ryan Costello. “In addition to improving the public health and safety of our community, these funds have encouraged more commercial and residential growth, and have spurred significant increases in taxable assessments in the urban centers.”
The Borough of Kennett Square is receiving $280,000 for West Cypress Street water mains, Honey Brook Borough has been awarded more than $200,000 for its business district streetscape improvements, and Phoenixville is receiving nearly $400,000 in CRP funds for its water treatment plant flood wall improvements. More than $620,000 goes to the Borough of Avondale for water system improvements, South Coatesville Borough is receiving $700,000 for sanitary sewer line extensions and storm water improvements, and the city of Coatesville has been awarded $700,000 for Lincoln Highway and 1st Avenue intersection improvements.
“These projects support the goals of our strategic plan and are in line with Landscapes2, the County’s land use plan that bridges growth with preservation,” said Commissioner Kathi Cozzone. “CRP grants have contributed greatly to the success of community revitalization in Chester County, helping to focus economic development along our main streets. This year’s list of grants is no exception.”
Commissioner Terence Farrell added, “The CRP grants are structured to help our 16 urban centers undertake infrastructure improvements through direct funds that have, over the years, leveraged millions more in investment. The program encourages a review of the needs of the community, with plans developed to make the changes happen. Often they are less than glamorous changes, but very important upgrades that benefit businesses and residents.”
Since the Community Revitalization Program began in 2002, the County has awarded more than $54.4 million in Community Revitalization program and Community Development Block Grant program grants to the sixteen urban centers (City of Coatesville and the 15 Boroughs) for infrastructure improvements, according to Pat Bokovitz, director of Chester County Department of Community Development.
