Image courtesy of Stromberg, Garrigan & Associates. Preliminary rendering of Independence Street between 8th Street and Liberty Street, illustrating the proposed Phase 2 streetscape improvements.
Lewisburg, PA — With assistance from SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG), the City of Shamokin has been awarded $250,000 through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s (CFA) Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF) to further advance the Independence Street Streetscape Project, a major downtown revitalization and pedestrian safety initiative.
The grant award was announced Jan. 21 as part of a $279 million investment by Pennsylvania to improve infrastructure and strengthen communities across the Commonwealth. The funding will build on previously secured federal investments and help continue work on a streetscape plan for the entire corridor.
During Phase 1, engineering and design were completed for the full Independence Street corridor, from Market Street to Shamokin Street. The work was completed by Stromberg Garrigan & Associates using $2.675 million in federal funding, which also supports construction of Phase 1.
The CFA MTF funding will support Phase 2 improvements along Independence Street between 8th Street and Liberty Street.
SEDA‑COG prepared and submitted the application on behalf of the city and will provide ongoing technical assistance and grant administration for the project.
The effort received support from local and state officials.
“This investment will help Shamokin keep moving forward with a project that improves daily life for residents and strengthens the downtown,” said Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver. Culver continued, “Independence Street is an important corridor, and these updates will make it safer and easier for people to walk, shop, and access local businesses. I appreciate the work the City has put into planning and leveraging other funding so this grant can have the greatest impact.”
“This funding will help address real, everyday needs in Shamokin—safer sidewalks, improved crossings, and better accessibility for residents of all ages and abilities. Investments like this strengthen downtowns and make our communities more livable,” said Representative Joanne Stehr.
This investment represents another important step forward in Shamokin’s long-term effort to rebuild its downtown, improve walkability, and create a safer, more accessible community for residents, businesses, and visitors.
About SEDA-COG
SEDA-COG is a community and economic development agency in Lewisburg and is one of seven Local Development Districts in Pennsylvania. SEDA-COG enhances the quality of life and economic advantage for residents and businesses in the 11 central Pennsylvania counties through its vital partnerships and initiatives.