HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has announced the approval of over $6.1 million in targeted funding to advance 16 key initiatives in Philadelphia as part of the Local Share Account (LSA) – Philadelphia program. These initiatives aim to enhance community improvement, stimulate economic development, revamp neighborhoods, and bolster public interest projects across the city.
The LSA – Philadelphia program, a critical funding mechanism for the area, is designed to foster meaningful change in the city by supporting projects that directly impact residents’ daily lives. This latest round of funding reflects a commitment to strengthening neighborhoods, expanding resources, and addressing the diverse needs of Philadelphia communities.
DCED Secretary Rick Siger emphasized the significance of these investments. “This funding will support many critical projects and help create safer and healthier communities for Philadelphia residents and visitors,” said Siger. “Since day one, the Shapiro Administration has been doubling down on projects like these to strengthen our communities and help grow Pennsylvania’s economy.”
Strategic Focus Areas
The funding is divided across four main categories — community involvement, economic development, neighborhood revitalization, and public interest — with each project targeting longstanding needs in the city.
Community improvement efforts have received significant attention. Among notable allocations is $475,000 awarded to the Center City District (CCD) for the redevelopment of the former Reading Railroad viaduct, which connects Vine Street to Fairmount Avenue. This area will be transformed into a revitalized public space, offering lasting value to the community.
First Stop Recovery will use $455,399 to acquire and improve a lot adjacent to its healing garden on Kensington Avenue. Similarly, the Southeast Asian Mutual Assistance Association Coalition, Inc. secured $500,000 to renovate its Snyder Avenue facility, while Work to Ride, a unique equestrian program, was granted $500,000 to overhaul its Chamounix Equestrian Center and stables, ensuring the program’s long-term sustainability.
Economic development projects center on broadening resources for the city’s underserved populations. The Urban League of Philadelphia will receive $500,000 to construct a new social services center in West Philadelphia, while AHARI (A Home is a Right) was allocated $500,000 to build Veterans Village, a mixed-use complex aimed at addressing the needs of military veterans. Alongside these projects, Face to Face will get $33,413 to upgrade its Germantown office to better serve its clients.
Neighborhood revitalization stands as another pillar of this funding round, with an emphasis on safety and aesthetic upgrades. Historic Fair Hill received $200,000 to construct a new community center, while $304,000 was allocated to the Northern Liberties Business Improvement District for vital lighting improvements on North Second Street. West Philadelphia Corridor Collaborative will also implement a $272,589 security camera project to enhance public safety.
Other revitalization efforts include funds for HopePHL to improve safety measures at a homeless shelter and foster care housing facility in West Philadelphia, and $500,000 to Rock Ministries of Philadelphia for a housing and retail construction project at Kensington Avenue.
Public interest projects round out the funding with several commitments to renovating vital community spaces. Philly House, operated by Sunday Breakfast Association, was granted $500,000 to modernize its headquarters on North 13th Street. Beech Community Services will use its $500,000 award to refurbish a vacant property in Lower North Philadelphia, bringing it back to productive use. Covenant House Pennsylvania will apply $353,054 towards renovations of its Crisis Shelter in Germantown.
Finally, the New Kensington Community Development Corporation will receive $500,000 to secure and repurpose the Stella Street Warehouse into a food resource hub for the neighborhood, further addressing food insecurity in the area.
Creating Lasting Impact
The diverse range of approved projects is a testament to the breadth and depth of the challenges Philadelphia faces, as well as the state’s targeted approach to addressing them. The Shapiro Administration’s focus on collaboration and funding efficiency is evident in the selection and distribution of these resources, which are aimed at delivering measurable change and long-term improvements for the community.
“These projects are more than just investments; they represent our commitment to reshaping Philadelphia’s future,” said Secretary Siger. “Whether it’s helping veterans, building safer neighborhoods, or supporting local businesses, each project brings us closer to a more vibrant and prosperous city for all.”
By channeling funds into initiatives that marry practicality with innovation, the LSA – Philadelphia program not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for sustained growth and development. From fostering economic independence for underserved groups to preserving public spaces, these efforts paint a picture of a city on the rise — with its foundations bolstered by strategic investments and a clear vision for progress.
With these 16 projects poised for implementation, Philadelphia residents can expect tangible improvements in infrastructure, resources, and overall community quality of life, as the Shapiro Administration drives forward its mission to create a stronger and more resilient Pennsylvania.
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