PENNSYLVANIA LIKELY TO OFFER SIGNIFICANT GRANT PROGRAMS AGAIN IN 2011-2012

By Joe Hoffman - Grant Specialist, Barry Isett & Associates  

Despite worries that a new Administration, coupled with state budget woes, might signal a curtailment or even discontinuance of grant programs, details are becoming clearer that valuable Pennsylvania grant programs will remain and in some cases may even be enhanced for the upcoming fiscal year beginning July 1.  This appears likely regardless of the outcome of the Marcellus Shale Impact Fee deliberations currently taking place in Harrisburg.

When the budget is signed, possibly as early as Friday, June 24 or next Monday, June 27, the following grant programs appear likely to be contained in next year’s funding.

SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL

This program is designed to improve transportation capability to create safe and walk-able pathways across key intersections connecting important pedestrian corridors within communities.

SMART TRANSPORTATION FUNDING INITIATIVES

Two types of these initiatives exist.  One involves the creation of transportation plans along important roadway corridors.  The other involves funding for approved streetscape projects within these corridors.

AUTOMATED RED LIGHT ENHANCEMENTS

This opportunity is designed to assist in the placement or repair of lights in key transportation areas and may be expanded to include bridge guardrails, signage, and retro-reflective markers as well.

HISTORIC PRESERVATION

After at least two years of essentially zero funding, funding appears to be restored to the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission for rehabilitation, renovation and preservation of historic items of state and local significance.  This will include tax credits.

CONSERVATION AND ENVIRONMENT

While the results of the Marcellus Shale debate could surely expand these resources; there should be grant resources available in any case.  The most likely candidates are brown-fields, land acquisition, and energy.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY GRANTS

It is fairly certain that alternative energy grants and loans (solar, wind. geothermal, biofuels, etc.) will remain in the picture for at least another year.  Traditional energy initiatives and energy audits are less certain but still possible.

KEYSTONE FUND

This program was the original park and recreation project fund before Growing Greener and dates back to 1993.  In addition to funding traditional park and recreation projects, it is one of the few programs that offer state funding for opportunities as disparate as libraries and zoos.

We will keep a close eye on the passage of the state budget and advise you of the outcomes. As the old saying goes, “it’s not over until it’s over”, which is particularly true when it comes to the Pennsylvania legislature passing the state budget. However indicators give me confidence that many state-funded grant programs will be included in the 2011-2012 budget.

Please also keep in mind that there will still be grants available through other mechanisms; including Federal programs, (after October 1), county, regional, and local programs; and private funds from banks, corporate sponsors, foundations, and angel and private investors. 

Barry Isett and Associates is always willing to discuss your grant ideas or project suggestions at any time by calling 610-398-0904 or emailing Joe Hoffman at jhoffman@barryisett.com.