Pottsville has been awarded a $1 million state grant for new sidewalks, curbs, and lighting in areas of the downtown which see tens of thousands of visitors annually.
The state Multimodal Transportation Program grant is awarded through the state’s Dept. of Community and Economic Development and was approved this week by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
The grant money will be used toward what’s being called the Yuengling Tourism Revitalization Route.
It’s essentially a streetscape project that calls for new sidewalks, curbs, and lighting on several blocks leading to and from the Yuengling Brewery.
Sidewalks and curbs will be replaced on the 200 block of Mahantongo St., all on the north side of the street, the 300 block of Mahantongo St. (entirely on the south side and half on the north) and on the 400 block (a portion on the north side and about half – right in front of the brewery – on the south side).
A future City-funded portion of this project calls for new sidewalks and curbs on 5th St., from Garfield Square up to the Yuengling gift shop, and on the south side of the 300 block of W. Market St.
Pottsville plans to seek grant funding for the second phase of the streetscape project.
City Mayor Tom Smith tells The Canary that more than 70,000 people visit Pottsville every year with plans to visit the brewery. He said this project will hopefully give them more reason to stick around and check out downtown.
“When they’re leaving Yuengling, this will entice them to walk downtown and visit the great restaurants and stores downtown,” Smith said.
The Mayor expressed his appreciation to State Sen. Dave Argall, Rep. Tim Twardzik and their teams for all their effort in securing the grant funding.
Photo: Coal Region Canary
Subscribe to Coal Region Canary
Get email updates from Coal Region Canary by becoming a subscriber today. Just enter your email address below to get started!Support Coal Region Canary
Like our reporting and want to support truly local news in Schuylkill County? Your small donations help. For as little as $5, your contribution will allow us to cover more news that directly affects you. Consider donating today by hitting the big yellow button below ...