CHESTER, PA — The City of Chester is set to receive a significant economic boost thanks to a grant announced this week by U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and John Fetterman, along with Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA). The $400,000 strategy development grant will enable the city to identify and plan for overcoming locally-specific barriers to employment for prime-age workers. These obstacles often include access to child care, transportation, and educational opportunities.
The funding comes from the Distressed Area Recompete Pilot Program, established by the CHIPS and Science Act. The program targets communities grappling with high prime-age employment gaps, reflecting a growing federal commitment to stimulate economic development in areas that have long been overlooked.
Senator Casey said the award would help connect residents of Chester to the tools and support they need to secure good jobs, such as childcare, transportation, and skills training. He emphasized that equipping people with the necessary resources and skills to compete for good-paying jobs would enhance their ability to provide for their families, access quality health care, and improve their quality of life.
Echoing Casey’s sentiments, Senator Fetterman expressed pride in fighting for the funding alongside the delegation. He underlined the importance of ensuring no town or place is left behind, highlighting that the investment in Chester’s workforce would help local residents find jobs and stimulate economic development.
Congresswoman Scanlon noted that her efforts to pass the CHIPS and Science Act were aimed at delivering the investments needed to revitalize the economic health of PA-05 communities that have suffered decades of disinvestment. She stated that Chester is at a crucial turning point, and the program will be a vital catalyst for creating quality jobs in the city and connecting residents with those opportunities.
Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger expressed gratitude to the Economic Development Administration and Department of Commerce teams, as well as Pennsylvania’s Congressional delegation, for their support in securing the award. He highlighted that the grant would be used to help individuals overcome barriers to employment and to make critical investments in industrial site preparedness and small business support services.
After voting to establish the Recompete program in the CHIPS and Science Act, Senator Casey advocated to ensure that Chester would be included in the program. His efforts included writing a letter of support to Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo in October, backing Chester’s application to the program.
This grant is a significant step towards bridging the employment gap in Chester, reflecting a broader federal commitment to revitalizing economically distressed communities and paving the way for sustainable growth.
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