What is next for PA Grants?

By Joe Hoffman - Grant Specialist, Barry Isett & Associates

The Pennsylvania Legislature passed, and Gov. Tom Corbett signed, the state budget for 2011-12.  Despite worries that a new Administration, coupled with state budget woes, might signal a curtailment or even discontinuance of grant programs, valuable Pennsylvania grant programs remain and a few have even increased funding levels.  Competition for these grants will be difficult; but opportunities remain for obtaining important startup or continuing funds for projects.

The following grant programs appear likely to be contained in next year’s funding.

SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation - PennDOT

This program is designed to improve transportation capability to create safe and walk-able pathways across key intersections connecting important pedestrian corridors to educational centers within their communities.  EXPECT A FALL START FOR THIS FUNDING.

SMART TRANSPORTATION FUNDING INITIATIVES

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation - PennDOT

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

AUTOMATED RED LIGHT ENHANCEMENTS

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation - PennDOT

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.  IT IS DUE MOST QUICKLY; WITH A JULY 29 DEADLINE.

HISTORIC PRESERVATION

Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission - PHMC

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.  PROBABLY AVAILABLE LATER THIS FALL.

CONSERVATION AND ENVIRONMENT

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection – DEP

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources - DCNR

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.  THE DEP PORTION OF THESE FUNDS WILL BE DUE AUGUST 20.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY GRANTS

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection – DEP

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development - DCED

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.  THE INITIAL SMALL BUSINESS ENERGY EFFICIENCY GRANTS ARE DUE AUGUST 29.

KEYSTONE FUND

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources - DCNR

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.  LIKELY TO SURFACE IN APRIL 2012.

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.