SENATOR BOSCOLA ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL $500,000
GRANT FOR HISTORIC BETHLEHEM PARTNERSHIP
Funds will be used to restore and preserve historic sites in Bethlehem

     BETHLEHEM (JUNE 19) – Historic Bethlehem Partnership’s plans for renovating its historic properties has received a big boost from State Senator Lisa Boscola. 

Boscola announced today that Historic Bethlehem Partnership will receive and additional $500,000 in funding she secured for the Partnership from the Commonwealth’s Capital Budget.

           “The contributions made by Historic Bethlehem Partnership to preserve and enrich our great heritage will be further enhanced by additional state funding,” Boscola said.  “The further preservation of its properties will have positive impacts on not only our community’s quality of life, but that of our region and our Commonwealth.” 

            Boscola successfully secured the additional funding, which is part of the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), in the Commonwealth’s Capital Budget Project Itemization Act of 2006 (Act 83 of 2006).

            Boscola stated the additional $500,000 brings a total state commitment to the Partnership’s project to $3 million.  Governor Rendell had previously authorized the release of $2.5 million, she said. 

           “Protecting, enhancing and preserving the great history of the founders of our great City will provide educational for generations to come,” Boscola said.  “These historical treasures will also benefit our region by providing another destination for tourism from visitors from across the country.” 

           There are numerous Historic Bethlehem Partnership properties that are slated for restoration and preservation that will benefit from this funding.  The projects include, but are not limited to, the Welcome Center and Gundy House upgrades, a proposed addition to the Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts, various buildings in the Industrial Quarter, restoration at Burnside Plantation and the acquisition of a collections research facility to provide protection for all collections.   

             For additional information on RACP funds or any other state-related matter, please feel free to contact Senator Boscola’s Bethlehem Office at (610) 868-8667. 

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