Kanjorski Announces $18.6 Million for Wilkes-Barre, Nanticoke and Pittston
Wilkes-Barre gets $9.8 million; Nanticoke gets $7.2 million; Pittston gets $1.6 million

WASHINGTON - Congressman Paul E. Kanjorski (PA-11) today announced that the Highway and Transportation bill passed by Congress Friday includes $18.6 million in federal funds for projects in Wilkes-Barre, Nanticoke and Pittston. In addition to $3.8 million for revitalization projects in downtown Wilkes-Barre, the bill also includes $6 million for the Wilkes-Barre Intermodal Center. The City of Nanticoke will receive $7.2 million and the City of Pittston will receive $1.6 million.

The federal funds announced today can provide up to 80 percent of the total cost of projects initiated by the three cities. It is anticipated that the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will provide the majority of the remaining 20 percent, bringing the total infrastructure investment to $23.25 million.

"This funding is a tremendous asset to the overall revitalization of these three cities and I am pleased to finally see passage of this important bill so that projects will begin coming to fruition. The language of the bill is flexible enough that it allows the cities to utilize it for revitalization projects such as paving and road construction and enhancement. The money allows the City of Wilkes-Barre to replace the street lights that it so desperately needs," Congressman Kanjorski said.

"I appreciate Congressman Kanjorski's hard work and efforts to include the City of Wilkes-Barre in the bill. This is another example of the cooperation between my administration and Washington," commented Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton.

Nanticoke Mayor John Toole said he is thankful for Congressman Kanjorski's work in securing the funding. "This is great news for the long-awaited projects in Nanticoke that will bring jobs here, increase our tax base and serve as a big boost to our business district," he said.

Pittston Mayor Michael Lombardo said the money would enable the city to complete its streetscaping plan.

"This is continued demonstration of Congressman Kanjorski's commitment not only to Northeastern Pennsylvania, but in this case, Pittston specifically. These are federal dollars that will have a practical day-to-day impact but also will support the economic development plan we have going on in our downtown," Mayor Lombardo said.

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