HARRISBURG – Three business development projects in Washington County will receive state grants through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, according to Senator Camera Bartolotta (R-46).
A $500,000 grant will fund the Greater Washington Area Business Incubator, a project created by Washington and Jefferson College to support the creation of new businesses in the community. The funding will be used to redevelop the former circulation and printing buildings of the Observer-Reporter Publishing Company in the City of Washington into office and meeting spaces and other shared services for local businesses and non-profits.
A feasibility study completed by Washington and Jefferson College shows that at least 18 new start-up businesses will become tenants and 55 existing businesses will be able to take advantage of the services offered by the new facility in the next five years.
A $1.5 million grant will support development and infrastructure work for Starpointe Business Park in Hanover Township. The project will include 1.5 million cubic yards of earthwork and the installation of electric and phone conduits, gas lines, water lines, streets, sidewalks, curbs and other necessary components of the park.
When completed, the project will offer lots ranging from six to 40 acres, which will be optimal for the needs of manufacturing businesses that are planning to relocate or expand.
A $1 million grant was also awarded to support the development of Chapman Southport Business Park in South Strabane Township. The mixed-use development plan will include 350,000 square feet of office space, 225,000 square feet of light manufacturing, and 100,000 square feet of retail and hospitality space.
“One of my highest goals has always been to create an economic environment in which local businesses can grow and expand to provide jobs to hardworking community residents,” Bartolotta said. “All three of these grants will help create new business and employment opportunities throughout the region.”
CONTACT: Katrina Anderson (717) 787-1463