Altoona Times

Part of Old Route 126 in Union Township, affected by a landslide, will undergo repairs thanks to a $350,000 state grant. This announcement was made by Rep. Jesse Topper and Sen. Judy Ward.

“Work funded through this grant is poised to allow officials to re-open Old Route 126, alleviating long detours for residents and extended emergency response times,” stated Topper. He added that the news would be welcomed by the local community.

The road has been closed for several years due to instability caused by a landslide. The repair work will involve excavation, backfilling with aggregate, installation of a roadway subbase and pavement, cross pipes installation, and rock placement on the downhill slope for stabilization. The funding is provided through the Local Share Account grant program managed by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.

“This most recent grant award for Union Township is much-needed since damage from a landslide has made the road unusable, causing substantial detours for residents and emergency responders. With this road fixed, residents will be able to travel more efficiently and enjoy a closer, safer, more connected community,” commented Ward.

Projects eligible for funding from the Local Share Account must benefit public interest and aim to enhance citizens' quality of life within the community.

Additionally, Forbes Road School District received $398,475 in Public School Facility Improvement Grant funds to upgrade its 69-year-old HVAC system at Forbes Road Elementary School. The project includes installing an energy-efficient ventilation system with air purification technologies and smart controls to improve air quality while managing costs effectively.