Kanjorski Announces $2.5 million for Lights, Street Repairs in Wilkes-Barre

WASHINGTON - 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 Wilkes-Barre.

Congressman Kanjorski sought the funds to pay for new street lights in the downtown area to replace the existing fixtures that were erected in the 1970s. Willkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton estimates the new lights will cost $1.5 million. The remaining $1 million would be available for additional repaving and other street improvements.

Nearly four years ago, many of the lights began toppling or had to be removed because of the danger they imposed. Others simply stopped working correctly. Mayor Leighton indicated to the Congressman that fixing the lights is a top priority for him.

"The funding would be a tremendous asset to the overall revitalization of Wilkes-Barre. It will allow the city to replace the lighting that is so desperately needed to make the downtown area safer for our citizens and a more viable shopping destination. I was very pleased to be able to include it in the House version of the transportation bill," Congressman Kanjorski said.

Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton expressed his gratitude to Congressman Kanjorski.

"I'm very thankful to the Congressman for his efforts in helping the administration and City Council in moving the city forward," Mayor Leighton said. "The Congressman recognizes our needs and has been very helpful. I look forward to working with him on all of these projects."

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 the more efficient movement of people and products. Efficient transportation improves the economy, and I expect Congress and the President will finalize this legislation over the next several weeks," Congressman Kanjorski said.

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