Kanjorski Announces $2.5 Million for Street Improvements in Scranton

SCRANTON, Pa. - Congressman Paul E. Kanjorski (PA-11) today announced that the highway and transportation bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives includes $2.5 million for the City of Scranton.

Congressman Kanjorski sought funding for the city because he believes in the direction in which the city is headed and is sure that the money will be well-spent. The city's use of the funding is flexible, but the city has identified streetscaping projects on Lackawanna Avenue as a potential expenditure.

"The vision that Mayor Doherty and the City Council have expressed for revitalizing Scranton is evident in the city's plan for Lackawanna Avenue. The street will have an entirely new appearance over the next few years with the construction of a new parking garage, several corporate offices and the transformation of abandoned stores into a historically renovated block. The quality of Scranton's infrastructure is directly tied to the success of this economic development plan," Congressman Kanjorski said. 

Scranton Mayor Chris Doherty was grateful for Congressman Kanjorski's support.

"I want to thank Congressman Kanjorski for his faith in our community. He is an untiring advocate for us in Washington, a true partner in our campaign to make Scranton the best city in Pennsylvania," Mayor Doherty said. "This money will allow us to enhance the development you see up and down Lackawanna Avenue with safe sidewalks, an improved roadway, better lighting and traffic signals, and an attractive streetscape."

Along with Congressman Kanjorski and Mayor Doherty were members of Scranton City Council, other elected officials, developer Don Rinaldi and Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce President Austin Burke.

The 357-to-65 House vote on April 2 approved a six-year program that includes $284 billion for highway and other transportation projects around the country. The Senate has already passed a $318 billion version of the bill, and the two houses must iron out an agreement before the final bill goes to the White House.

"Investing in our transportation infrastructure is essential for our nation's economy. Building and improving roads not only creates immediate construction jobs, but also promotes more efficient thoroughfares for our citizens. Effective transportation improves the economy, and I expect Congress and the President will finalize this legislation by the end of the summer," Congressman Kanjorski said.

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