Kanjorski Announces $400,000 for Arena and Nearby Rt. 115 to I-81 Connector Road Projects

Wilkes-Barre Township, Pa. - Congressman Paul E. Kanjorski (PA-11) today  announced that the Wachovia Arena will get $200,000 in federal funding to complete asphalt paving on the remainder of the facility's surface parking lot.

At the same time, Congressman Kanjorski announced that an additional $200,000 has been allocated for the connector road project that will link the northbound lanes of Route 115 with the southbound lanes of Interstate Route 81.

The funds for both projects are contained in a $286.4 billion highway and mass transit bill that was approved by both the House and the Senate. The federal funds can provide up to 80 percent of the total cost of the projects. It is anticipated that the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will provide the majority of the remaining 20 percent, bringing the total funding up to $250,000 for each project, or a total of $500,000.

"It gives me great satisfaction to be able to announce these two projects because the Arena has become an extremely important economic development generator and, as such, deserves to be maintained in optimal condition. Paving the remainder of the earthen parking lot will help make the facility even more attractive to patrons," Congressman Kanjorski commented.

He added that the $200,000 for the connector road project between I-81 and state Route 115 is also a step in the right direction because it contributes to an important improvement in the regional transportation system.

Kanjorski recalled how motorists using Rt. 115 northbound were denied direct access to I-81 southbound because many accidents occurred at that juncture that was located off Route 115 across from the East Mountain Inn. The state eliminated that access point to I-81 several years ago, forcing northbound Rt. 115 motorists to travel some distance out of their way to be able to access the southbound lanes of I-81.

State Rep. Kevin Blaum (D-121) and chairman of the Arena's board of directors, said he was "elated" about the federal funding coming to the entertainment venue. "I am grateful to Congressman Kanjorski for his hard work in securing these funds that will nearly complete the remaining unpaved section of our parking lot. This will add to the convenience and safety of our patrons," he said.

Blaum also noted that the funding for the Rt. 115 / I-81 connector road is good news for the future improvement of the area's transportation system.

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