Dublin Diner Renovation Project Awarded $1M Grant

DUBLIN BOROUGH, PA — The state has awarded a $1 million grant for the complete renovation of the Dublin Diner, a local landmark on North Main Street in Dublin Borough that has been closed since 2020.

State Rep. Shelby Labs (R-143) on Thursday announced the grant through the state's Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP).

The Dublin Diner Redevelopment project calls for the complete renovation of the existing building. Planned improvements include demolition and site preparation, structural upgrades, new utilities, exterior renovations, and other improvements to prepare the property for future use.

The property is owned by the Nehemiah Development Company, the real estate developer behind the Dublin Town Center project.

Dublin Borough Mayor Chris Hayes called the grant announcement "exciting news for our borough.

"For generations, the diner has been more than just a building—it has been a place where neighbors gathered, stories were shared, and memories were made," the mayor posted on Facebook. "While it has sat vacant in recent years, today's investment represents a new opportunity to restore an important part of Dublin's history and breathe new life into our Main Street."

He added, "As we continue working to strengthen our community, we remain committed to moving forward with respect for the past. Preserving the character and heritage that make Dublin special while embracing thoughtful revitalization is how we build a stronger future for everyone."

The mayor expressed his appreciation to the town's state partners, State Representative Shelby Labs, and everyone "whose vision and commitment helped make this investment possible. I look forward to seeing this iconic landmark restored and once again serving as a source of pride for Dublin Borough."

Rep. Labs also announced two other grants - $500,000 for DiaVac BioTech in Plumstead Township in support of its second-phase expansion project, and $750,000 for Doylestown Waste Recycling in New Britain Township.

“Each of these projects will impact our community in significant and meaningful ways,” said Labs. “I am proud to support this funding and look forward to seeing the impact these investments will have across our community.”

DiaVac Biotech will use the funding for architectural and engineering services, cleanroom and laboratory buildouts, specialized equipment, mechanical and electrical systems and other improvements to expand the facility.

The Doylestown Waste Recycling Facility will use the funds to enable the facility to allow recycled materials to be sorted from non-recycled materials, and a grinder to reduce the volume of such materials. It will also feature an underground stormwater collection basin.

The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget that supports the design, acquisition and construction of projects with regional economic, civic, cultural, recreational or historical significance. RACP projects must demonstrate regional impact and require local investment.