Current sidewalk conditions along Independence Street between 8th and 9th streets, looking toward the intersection at 8th Street
Shamokin, PA — The City of Shamokin, with support from SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG), has been awarded $1.5 million through the 2025 Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside (TASA) of the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Surface Block Grant Program, to support continued improvements along Independence Street.
The award will support Phase 2 of the ongoing Independence Street Streetscape Project, focusing on the block between 9th Street and 8th Street. Planned upgrades include safer crosswalks, improved sidewalks, and other enhancements to make the street more accessible, welcoming, and easier to navigate.
This investment builds on previously secured funding for the project, including a $2.675 million federal congressional appropriation and $250,000 from the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Multimodal Transportation Fund.
A ceremonial groundbreaking for Phase 1, which includes improvements from 9th Street to the railroad crossing, was held April 20, 2026. Construction on that phase is expected to begin soon.
The project will be completed in four phases and is designed to strengthen connections and support ongoing revitalization efforts in downtown Shamokin. It aligns with recommendations from the GoShamokin! Plan and other local transportation and safety initiatives.
The TASA award is part of more than $74 million announced by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to fund 72 projects in 38 counties aimed at improving community access and transportation options across the commonwealth. These investments support projects that enhance pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, improve access to public transportation, create safe routes to school, and increase safety for vulnerable travelers.
“This award is incredibly exciting for the city of Shamokin and the continued momentum of this effort,” said Mayor Mike McLaughlin.
McLaughlin added, “A well-planned downtown infrastructure project does more than improve roads and utilities, it creates the foundation for long-term economic growth, safer and more walkable neighborhoods, stronger local businesses, and renewed community pride. When cities invest in modern infrastructure, they invest in the people, connections, and opportunities that make downtown a place where residents and visitors want to spend time.”
“This project demonstrates how strategic partnerships and phased investments can help transform communities,” said Betsy Kramer, director of Community Revitalization at SEDA-COG. “We are grateful for the ongoing support and collaboration from the SEDA-COG MPO and PennDOT District 3 throughout the TASA application process.”
Kramer added that improvements along Independence Street will have lasting benefits for residents, businesses, and visitors.
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.