Issue Position: Redeveloping Communities
Issue Position
During his tenure in the state Senate, Senator Fontana has secured and supported over $17 million in funding for economic development projects across the district that continue to revitalize communities.
Senator Fontana has consistently served as a champion for all the neighborhoods he represents and has worked with all levels of government, stakeholders, and community members to secure necessary funds that help reinvent communities. One by one these projects spur job creation, increase the local tax base, and lead to further reinvestment and development. Together, these projects rebuild communities. Just a few of these projects include:
A new grocery store, the IGA Market on Broadway, in Beechview that serves as the centerpiece of the ongoing redevelopment of the neighborhood's business district.
Renovation and construction of the renowned Father Ryan Arts Center in McKees Rocks.
Redevelopment of downtown Pittsburgh's Market Square, which serves as a premier destination venue for the region.
Creation and development of a housing community in Pittsburgh's Manchester neighborhood that transformed a vacant industrial brownfield into a community of homes.
Refurbishing the Allegheny West Community Center on Pittsburgh's North Side.
Transforming the decaying South Hills High School into the South Hills Retirement Residence on Mt. Washington, creating a 106-unit living facility for the area's senior citizens.
Streetscape improvements along main corridors in Carnegie, Green Tree and Scott Township.
Upgrading and restoring Brentwood Park, increasing amenities and access for public use.
Senator Fontana has also co-sponsored and supported legislative action that supports economic development initiatives:
Supported legislation, that became law, that funded economic development projects using 5% of casino revenues.
Co-sponsored a bill, that became law, that extended the First Industries Fund, a loan, loan guarantee and grant program that strengthens the agriculture and tourism industries.
Co-sponsored legislation, that became law, that extended tax breaks available in Keystone Opportunity Zones.
Co-sponsored the Downtown Location Law that requires more coordination between state and local community development groups.
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