Altmire Presents Over $1 Million for Lawrence County Economic Development
(Washington, DC) – U.S. Congressman Jason Altmire (PA-4) presented Lawrence County today with checks of $500,000 for the Millennium Park economic development project and $750,000 for transportation safety upgrades at the Route 60/422 Interchange, which are required as part of the future I-376 project. Congressman Altmire secured this funding in the final budget passed by Congress in December.
“Millennium Park and the Future I-376 projects are critical to the creation of high-paying, quality jobs in Lawrence County,” said Congressman Altmire. “The County and its communities have done a great job in identifying these projects as priorities, and I am pleased to do my part in providing $1.25 million to advance both. Once complete, everyone will see that Lawrence County is an ideal location to start, grow or relocate one’s business.”
“The Commissioners and residents of Lawrence County appreciate Congressman Altmire’s efforts in realizing what the redesignation of Route 60 to Interstate I-376 and Millennium Park means to Lawrence County,” said Commissioner Richard DeBlasio. “Lawrence County is located right in the middle of the Cleveland-Pittsburgh metro area and the effort of Congressman Altmire in securing these funds will greatly enhance both projects.”
The Millennium Park project is critical to attracting new businesses and skilled jobs to Lawrence County. The location – along the future I-376 corridor, near Interstates 79 and 80, and accessible to both the Pittsburgh and Cleveland metro areas – makes it an ideal site for future business growth. As many as 2,000 high-quality jobs with an economic impact of over $65 million are expected to be created once the project is complete.
“Congressman Altmire’s contributions to these projects speak volumes of his commitment to Lawrence County and the region,” added Commissioner Steve Craig. “The redesignation of Route 60 to Interstate 376 is vitally important to the industrial future of Lawrence County.”
In order for Route 60 to be officially designated as I-376, an estimated $15 million is required to meet federal safety standards and install signage along the route in Lawrence County. After today’s presentation of the $750,000, the remaining portion needed for the project in Lawrence County will be $2.1 million. Once the designation is made, thousands of new jobs are expected to be created as businesses consider relocating or expanding to sites along the future I-376 corridor.
“The redesignation of Route 60 to Interstate 376 remains one of the Commissioners’ highest priorities,” said Commissioner Dan Vogler. “We appreciate Congressman Altmire’s support in working with us to bring about the redesignation from Allegheny County through Beaver and Lawrence Counties all the way to Interstate 80 in Mercer County.”
Today’s presentation builds on Congressman Altmire’s efforts to create local jobs and strengthen the economy of Lawrence County. Earlier this year, he provided Jameson Health System with $296,000 for the renovation of its emergency department and Lawrence Co. Social Services with $121,000 for its early childhood education program. In addition, he has led the effort to create the Pittsburgh-Cleveland Tech Belt to capitalize on the region’s shared resources and expertise to bring jobs and attract businesses to the area.
