Westmoreland Review

Rep. Eric Nelson has announced a significant grant allocation for Hempfield Township, aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety and recreational access. The township will receive over $1 million in funding to develop new trails and implement safety measures.

"Hempfield sprawls more than 75 square miles and is home to more than 40,000 residents, many of whom want to use trails for exercise or to frequent local businesses," stated Nelson. He emphasized the township's ongoing efforts to improve accessibility and pedestrian safety, expressing his support for the project.

The grant of $1.07 million will facilitate various developments:

- A new off-road asphalt path will connect Broad Street to the Five Star Trail, featuring ADA-compliant ramps and signage.

- Pavement markings on Broad Street will enhance interactions between bicyclists and motorists.

- Rugh Street, Broad Street, Spruce Street, and Summit Drive will see shared lane markings, bike route signage, bicycle-safe grates replacing existing ones, along with new pavement and sidewalks.

- Gibraltar Way will benefit from improved signage and markings for safer navigation by pedestrians and cyclists.

"By making this area safer for pedestrians and cyclists, those seeking to recreate or walk to nearby businesses will notice a huge improvement," Nelson remarked. He highlighted the positive impact such projects have on community livability.

These funds are provided through the Department of Community and Economic Development's Multimodal Transportation Fund grants. These grants support projects that aim to develop transportation assets within Pennsylvania communities by improving streetscapes, lighting, pedestrian safety, and connectivity.