Pennsylvania DCED Announces $12 Million in Gaming Funds for 13 Luzerne County Projects

News provided by

Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development

May 06, 2011, 02:02 ET

HARRISBURG, Pa., May 6, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Commonwealth Financing Authority has approved $12 million in gaming fund revenues to be used for local infrastructure and community redevelopment projects in Luzerne County.

"These investments will help communities improve the quality of life throughout Luzerne County," Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary C. Alan Walker said. "The awarded funds will allow communities to resurface borough streets, demolish vacant buildings and improve overall public safety."

In total, 13 projects in Luzerne County were awarded $12 million by the authority, also known as the CFA. The investments come from the "local share assessment account," which was established by the Pennsylvania Horse Race and Gaming Development Act and requires the CFA to distribute the money. Funds in the account are generated by licensed gaming facilities operating in the state, including Mohegan Sun.

One of the grants awarded will assist in providing first responders with a safe, designated area to meet life flights in emergency situations and allow for quicker life flight transitions. The CFA awarded Forty Fort Borough a $100,000 grant toward the $255,866 project, which includes the construction of a helicopter parking pad at the Wyoming Valley Airport and installation of a security camera system to monitor the pad.

The CFA is an independent agency of the state and is responsible for administering Pennsylvania's economic stimulus programs.

For more information about the local share assessment account, the CFA or a complete list of the approved projects, visit www.newpa.com or call 1-866-466-3972.

Media contact: Theresa Elliott, 717-783-1132

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development