HARRISBURG – The Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation was awarded a highly competitive state grant of more than $830,000 to extend natural gas service to the Keystone Potato Products and Espoma facilities located in Foster and Frailey Townships, according to Sen. Dave Argall (R-29) and Rep. JoAnne Stehr (R-107).
“Since 1952, the Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO) has been dedicated to stimulating and influencing economic development in Schuylkill County,” said Ken Huebner, Chairman of the Board of Directors of SEDCO. “This project exemplifies our ongoing commitment to that mission. I would like to express my gratitude to Governor Shapiro, Senator Argall, Representative Stehr, our colleagues at the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), and the entire Schuylkill County legislative delegation for their steadfast support and investment in our community.
“I also want to extend thanks to UGI Utilities for their collaboration and partnership on this critical infrastructure project, which will retain over 100 full-time, high-quality, family-sustaining jobs in our area.
“The extension of a natural gas line to the Interstate 81 and State Route 25 interchange is of significant importance for several reasons. Firstly, access to natural gas offers a more affordable and reliable energy source compared to alternatives, thereby reducing operational costs. Furthermore, the availability of natural gas can catalyze further economic development and attract new businesses to our region. With this essential utility in place, the Interstate 81 and State Route 25 interchange becomes an attractive destination for industries heavily reliant on natural gas, such as manufacturing, agriculture, food processing, and technology.”
“SEDCO has been a tireless partner in bringing new careers and opportunities to Schuylkill County for decades,” said Argall. “Securing this highly competitive funding is just the latest of many successful efforts to further develop our local economy.”
“Enhancing access to natural gas services will drive economic growth and secure a brighter, more sustainable future for our community,” said Stehr. “This investment is a much-needed upgrade to our local infrastructure and will help boost business expansion and job growth in Schuylkill County.”
This state grant was awarded through the Pipeline Investment Program, which provides grants to extend natural gas distribution lines to existing employers. Funding was approved today during a public meeting of the Commonwealth Financing Authority, an independent agency that administers state programs and investments in Pennsylvania’s economic growth.
CONTACT: Jim Brugger (Argall)
Will Jones (Stehr)