Delaware Valley University
Delaware Valley University has been awarded $2.025M for construction of a Poultry Science Center and Doylestown Township just got $500,000 for its Community Recreation Center project.
Delaware Valley University has been awarded $2.025 million for construction of a Poultry Science Center and Doylestown Township just got $500,000 for its Community Recreation Center as part of $7.44 million in state funding for eight projects in Bucks County.
State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), Rep. Tim Brennan (D-29), Rep. Tina Davis (D-141), and Rep. Perry Warren (D-31) announced the $7,449,800 in state funds awarded through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP).
In addition to two above-mentioned projects, Bucks County Biotechnology Center in Buckingham Township will receive $500,000 for its incubator expansion, and the Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theatre Education Center for Highland Farm will get $500,000 for its renovation and preservation project in Doylestown.
“I’d like to thank Governor Shapiro for prioritizing projects that will grow our local economy here in the 10th District,” said Santarsiero. “I am proud to have advocated for these diverse projects that will directly benefit our residents and boost our local economy.”
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.
Santarsiero said, “I am especially proud of the growing biotech corridor we have right here in Bucks County. 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.”
“Governor Shapiro is the first governor in decades with a business plan,” said Brennan. “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,” said Brennan. “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.”
Delaware Valley University will also be expanding, constructing 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,” Santarsiero said. “The new Poultry Science Center will provide students with hands-on educational experience to successfully join this growing work force, while providing continuing education to local processors and industry professionals.”
Brennan said, “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.”
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 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.”
Brennan added, “When you look at populations across Pennsylvania, the 29th District is unique by being in the top 10% 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 Supervisor to continue to provide some of the best park spaces in the state for our community.”
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 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.”
“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 attract both residents and visitors,” said 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.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
