Transformation of the Sharpsburg riverfront continues to chug along, with officials shoring up streetscape plans expected to improve safety and access to the site.
Councilman Roman Mason believes work near the 19th Street entrance of the proposed Allegheny Shores development will “be amazing.”
The project targets 19th to 21st streets as access points to the mixed-use development, which is eyed to bring housing and entertainment to a 1.5-mile stretch of the riverfront. Reclamation of a 52-acre brownfield site also could include commercial uses, with an overall priority to reconnect residents to the riverfront.
Total cost has not been determined, but the borough will get a boost from the state toward the work in the form of a $450,000 grant through the Multimodal Transportation Fund. Money will be used to help pay for the Riverfront District Connector Road and streetscape improvements along Main and 19th streets.
It brings the total in government funding to $33.9 million.
The borough previously received nearly $25 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation, $1.5 million from PennDOT and $4 million from the state, among other funding.
“Every little bit counts in a huge project like this,” Mason said. “(The grant) is another example of the community coming together and our legislative lawmakers in Harrisburg working hard for their communities.”
State Sen. Lindsey Williams said the project spotlights work to create transit infrastructure that centers on people, not just cars.
“Today’s multimodal grants will help support projects that improve road safety for everyone — drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and public transit riders alike,” Williams said. “By installing sidewalks and improving streetscapes, we can keep our neighborhoods safely connected to the schools, businesses and outdoor recreation that are so important to our daily lives.”
Plans call for lighting and public art, and possibly new bus stop shelters and seating, all in the name of safe access.
State Rep. Mandy Steele said the development will be transformative not only for Sharpsburg but the entire region.
“The community has tremendous potential if we continue to invest state money there,” she said.
Borough Manager Christine DeRunk said no definitive construction updates are available yet. Plans currently are focused on necessary utilities and streetscaping, she said.
“We continue to fundraise to build the public space and infrastructure,” DeRunk said.
“We are excited to have support for the riverfront development project as this is a once-in-a-lifetime project of great importance to the borough.”
The public will be notified when construction moves forward. Residents were invited last year to participate in a survey that will help determine what amenities are desired. They were asked to weigh in on trees, landscaping and public benches, all items that could be incorporated further along Main Street if the borough continues to receive funding.
Mayor Kayla Portis said officials are still working out the details.
“This is a very complex project. Any money that we receive helps us out,” Portis said. “I’m trying to clean up our area and make it beautiful and safe. Anything that enriches the lives of my residents I’m grateful for.”