House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

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House of Representatives
Session of 2015 - 2016 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	January 21, 2016 04:14 PM
From:	Representative Michael J. Driscoll
To:	All House members
Subject:	Waterfront Redevelopment Grant Program

In the near future, I will introduce legislation that would look to revitalize waterfronts across the Commonwealth through a state grant program geared toward boosting public and private investment, and economic development, in waterfront and coastal areas in Pennsylvania. The legislation would establish the Waterfront Redevelopment Act, a grant program administered by the state Department of Community and Economic Development to provide funding for projects that support remediation and economic development in areas where potentially contaminated, undeveloped or under-developed waterfront property exists. Such redevelopment and revitalization would also help to create new jobs and stimulate private investment, increase property values, and provide waterfront access and recreational opportunities for the public. Under this legislation, projects looking to receive grant funding would have to include a locally approved waterfront redevelopment plan, with descriptions of how the project would significantly contribute to the local economy and community redevelopment. In addition, all approved projects would have to secure a 25 percent match in funding. Grants would be available to municipal, county governments, or other political subdivisions, or industrial, economic development or redevelopment authorities. The Commonwealth has a compelling interest in protecting and redeveloping its coastal waters and waterfronts throughout the state. Through this legislation, we would have the opportunity to revitalize communities, boost economic development, spur job creation and increase access to waterfronts for the people of Pennsylvania. I hope you will join me in cosponsoring this legislation. Thank you in advance for your consideration.

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