State Awards $3.5M To Central Bucks County Capital Projects

DOYLESTOWN, PA — Four Doylestown area capital projects have been awarded $3.5 million in state grants.

The funding will go toward the expansion of a biotech incubator, the construction of a community recreation center, renovations and expansion of a historically significant property, and for the construction of a poultry science center.

The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grants, announced by State Senator Steve Santarsiero and State Rep. Tim Brennan, include:

• $500,000 to the Bucks County Biotechnology Center for incubator expansion
• $2,025,000 to Delaware Valley University for the construction of a Poultry Science Center
• $500,000 to Doylestown Township for its Community Recreation Center
• $500,000 to the Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theatre Education Center for the renovation and preservation of Highland Farm.

“I’d like to thank Governor Shapiro for prioritizing projects that will grow our local economy here in the 10th District,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I am proud to have advocated for these diverse projects that will directly benefit our residents and boost our local economy.”

PA Biotech Center

In Buckingham Township, the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center will continue its expansion with the renovation of an existing warehouse building to construct new research and teaching labs, offices, and meeting spaces.

“I am especially proud of the growing biotech corridor we have right here in Bucks County," said Santarsiero. "The need for more labs and incubator space both in Buckingham and in partnerships like the one with Holy Family University in Newtown prove we are becoming a destination for cutting edge research with the support necessary to bring that research to market.”

The Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center in Buckingham Township. (Jeff Werner/Patch)

“Governor Shapiro is the first governor in decades with a business plan,” added State Rep. Tim Brennan (D-29). “A huge part of that plan is prioritizing investment in the life sciences. That is great news for Bucks County because we have become a leader in the field and this funding will help maintain that status. Investing in these industries strengthens our local economy and helps provide residents with opportunities to secure good jobs that make a positive impact on our lives.”

Poultry Science Center At DelVal

Delaware Valley University will expand and construct a new Poultry Science Center on the main campus. The facility will include space for classes and trainings in addition to on-site processing, chicken housing and research spaces.

“Delaware Valley University, as a leader in agricultural science education, is uniquely positioned to meet the growing need for higher education programs focused on poultry science,” Senator Santarsiero said. “The new Poultry Science Center will provide students with hands-on educational experience to successfully join this growing workforce, while providing continuing education to local processors and industry professionals.”

Delaware Valley University is expanding and constructing a new Poultry Science Center on the main campus. (Shutterstock)

Rep. Brennan added, “In my first term, I worked to preserve agriculture space, advancing a bill to save more farms - a huge challenge in the 21st century. Projects like this make sure we are doing the most we can with that preserved space. Delaware Valley University (DelVal) has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence in agricultural sciences, and the Poultry Science Center is a testament to the institution's dedication to innovation and progress. This project is important to Bucks County, not only in terms of education and research, but also in promoting economic growth and sustainability."

Community Recreation Center in Doylestown

Doylestown Township will receive funding for the ongoing construction of the township’s new community recreation center, including the addition of tennis and bocce courts, additional parking and stormwater management systems.

“The new community recreation center will provide a place for residents and community groups to meet and will offer a variety of programs to keep people of all ages physically fit and active,” said Senator Santarsiero. “The construction on this project is underway and I look forward to seeing its completion as a gathering place for Doylestown residents and the broader central Bucks community.”

A rendering showing the new Community Recreation Center now under construction in Doylestown Township. (Doylestown Township)

Rep. Brennan added, “When you look at populations across Pennsylvania, the 29th District is unique by being in the top 10 percent for two types of households; families with young children and senior citizens. This project offers something for people of all ages to enjoy. This is especially welcome news in light of Doylestown Township celebrating the 30th anniversary of Central Park. I am so proud to work with Senator Santarsiero and the Doylestown Township Supervisors to continue to provide some of the best park spaces in the state for our community.”

Oscar Hammerstein Museum

The Oscar Hammerstein Museum & Education Center project entails renovating and preserving Highland Farm as a museum and education center dedicated to the life and work of Oscar Hammerstein.

“We are so fortunate to have Highland Farm, where Oscar Hammerstein was inspired to write some of the most classic American musicals, right here in our community,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I’ve enthusiastically supported this project to protect and preserve this property, and I look forward to the museum and education center coming to fruition so future
generations can appreciate the value of Hammerstein’s contributions to theater and our local history.”

Oscar Hammerstein Museum & Education Center in Doylestown.

"As a former board member, I could not be more proud of the work this organization is doing or more confident in the value of this project to our entire region. Museums and cultural centers are essential to a vibrant community that attracts both residents and visitors,” said Rep. Brennan. “Institutions like this help us lead lives of purpose and meaning, they enrich our lives and provide opportunities for lifelong learning for folks of all ages. There is not better gift that we can give to our children and investing in this organization is an investment in our future.”

RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate
substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.