ST. MARYS, Pa., (PRNewswire) – Governor Edward G. Rendell today said the commonwealth is investing $4 million to help complete an essential component of the ‘Impact St. Marys Revitalization Project,’ a multi-faceted plan that will breathe new life into this Elk County community.
“We continue to make investments in communities like St. Marys to bolster economic growth and to improve the quality of life of our residents,” Governor Rendell said. “This comprehensive ‘Impact St. Marys’ plan will not only include housing, but also enhancements to parks, trailways and transportation facilities.”
Governor Rendell presented Mayor Sally Geyer with a check for $4 million to help the city complete construction on a three-level, 625-space parking garage on the site of an old industrial building and surface parking lot. Local developers hope the garage will serve as a transportation hub for other regional destinations.
‘Impact St. Marys’ is an ambitious plan being undertaken by the city, the local parking and redevelopment authorities, and Impact Pennsylvania. Total investments in the project could potentially reach $35 million.
The project will help transform downtown St. Marys. It includes plans for a 24-unit apartment complex that will offer affordable housing for older adults. A proposed Pennsylvania Housing Finance Authority Homeownership Choice project will also help the downtown area by attracting new residents and sparking additional business development.
The plan also includes green space. Planners expect to transform a tract of land near the garage into Elk Creek Park, creating the only green space area downtown through which Elk Creek will flow. Once completed, visitors will also find a pavilion, trails and restroom facilities.
The investment announced by Governor Rendell was made through the state’s Redevelopment Capital Assistance Program and the Growing Greener II initiative. With today’s announcement, the commonwealth has invested nearly $76 million in Elk County since 2003.