$1.19M Grant To Fund Improvement Projects In Doylestown And Solebury

DOYLESTOWN, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development has awarded $1.193 million in grant funding to community improvement projects based in Doylestown and Solebury townships.

The grants, including $1 million for Bucks County and $193,959 in Solebury Township, were announced by State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and State Representative Tim Brennan (D-29).

The funds for Bucks County will be used for the construction and engineering costs involved with the demolition of the former Neshaminy Manor structure and hazardous materials abatement at the site.

Since closing its doors in 1999, Neshaminy Manor has been left vacant due to the level of deterioration and presence of hazardous building materials within the structure.

“The economic potential for this property has been stalled for more than 20 years now,” said Senator Santarsiero. “Finally, because of these funds, the county will be able to move forward and welcome new growth on this valuable property.”

"This is such a critically important grant and I speak for all three commissioners with gratitude,” said Diane Ellis-Marseglia, Vice-Chair of the Bucks County Board of Commissioners. “This building has become an eyesore, cannot be restored, and it blocks any economic development or

improvements in that area. The County would not have been able to tackle this project without help from Senators Santarsiero and Representative Brennan."

The former Neshaminy Manor. (photo by Jeff Werner)

The funds for Solebury Township will go toward improving traffic conditions and safety at the intersection of Route 202 and Lower Mountain Road, adjacent to Aquetong Spring Park. The upgrades include widening Route 202 to three lanes and creating a left-turn median lane.

“These funds will provide safer access to Aquetong Spring Park, reduce traffic delays, and improve connectivity in the area. I fully supported Solebury Township’s application for this grant and I am happy to announce these funds have been awarded," said Santarsiero. "These improvements will help Solebury continue to be a thriving community for all those who live and work there.”

The Solebury Township Municipal Building. (photo by Jeff Werner)

Mark Baum Baicker, Chair of Solebury Township Board of Supervisors expressed his appreciation for the funding saying, “This grant for intersection improvement will go a long way toward helping Solebury Township accomplish our goal of increased pedestrian and motorist safety in the
area around Aquetong Spring Park. We are grateful to Senator Santarsiero and Representative Brennan for their efforts in obtaining these needed funds.”

“Improvements to roads, buildings, and recreational opportunities are investments in our future,” said Rep. Brennan. “These state grants will make it possible to complete long-needed projects that will enhance safety, quality of life, and recreational opportunities in our district. I am excited for the work to begin.”

The funds come from the distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority. They support a variety of community projects and can be used for any project that serves the public interest and improves the quality of life for members of the community.

For more information on the Local Share Account Statewide Program, visit the DCED website.