Argall, Watro Announce Economic Development Grants for Luzerne, Schuylkill County Projects

HARRISBURG - Economic development projects in the Hazleton area and northern Schuylkill County are now reality thanks to $6.85 million in state grants. Sen. Dave Argall (R-29) and Rep. Dane Watro (R-116) worked with local leaders to secure this funding.

"Each of these projects represents an important commitment to Hazleton's future," Watro said. "These funds will help revitalize a key downtown property, expand educational and workforce opportunities through LCCC and create a more indoor recreational opportunities for young people and families. I was proud to advocate for these worthy projects and help secure this funding. The local leaders and organizations whose vision and hard work made these awards possible deserve an immense amount of credit. I look forward to seeing the lasting benefits these projects will bring to our community."

Watro also 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 them 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 education, recreation and economic development, continuing the historic economic resurgence of the entire region," Argall said.

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 Paul and Lisa DeAngelo Family Foundation was awarded $3 million to construct an indoor youth sports facility in Hazleton.

The City of Hazleton and Luzerne County Community College were awarded $1 million to expand the college's nursing program and its additional educational programming in downtown Hazleton.

Greater Hazleton Community-Area New Development Organization Inc. was awarded $1 million for interior construction and equipment purchases for an economic development project at 21-23 West Broad Street.

Funding was awarded through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, which awards grants to economic development projects with a regional impact.