In a boost for infrastructure and community development, various projects across Northeast and Northcentral Pennsylvania have secured substantial funding. A total of $16.6 million has been allocated to thirteen different communities, organizations, and municipalities, thanks to the state Department of Transportation’s 2025 Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside (TASA) program. This initiative, funded by the Federal Highway Administration’s Surface Block Grant Program, is part of a larger $74 million package awarded to 72 projects across 38 counties.
Trail Enhancements in Susquehanna County
The Rail-Trail Council of NEPA is set to improve a four-mile stretch of the D&H Trail in Susquehanna County with a $1.5 million grant. This section, spanning from Main Street in Thompson to Sartell Road in Ararat Township, is currently a gravelly path that once served as a railroad bed. Enhancements will include making the switchbacks ADA-accessible and smoothing out the gravel, while also addressing drainage issues.
A new trailhead in Starrucca will provide parking and information for trail users. The Council’s goal is to complete the upgrades so that only one remaining mile will need further work. Lynn Conrad, the executive director, highlighted the scenic nature of the trail and its unique features, stating, “That area is very scenic… it’s not just a straight, old flat railbed, it’s a little more interesting.”
Connecting North Scranton
In North Scranton, a historic mining bridge will be revitalized with a $1.35 million grant received by the Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority (LHVA). This project aims to convert the 317-foot Marvine steel truss bridge into a pedestrian pathway linking North Scranton with the 70-mile Heritage Trail. Owen Worozbyt, LHVA’s Director of Operations, emphasized the broader vision, saying, “This would be the impetus of creating the additional spur trails… so that you’ll be able to access more and more neighborhoods, and more people will have access to recreational opportunities.”
Revitalizing Pittston’s Junction Section
Pittston city plans to use its $1.7 million grant to enhance the Junction Section, a neighborhood with historical significance. Improvements will include better sidewalks, period lighting, and enhanced accessibility for people with disabilities. Mayor Mike Lombardo noted the area’s potential for economic rejuvenation, saying, “Back in the day it was very productive. There were restaurants, there were bars, there were a couple antique places, you know, when the railroad industry was popping.” The city also aims to collaborate with PennDOT to address infrastructure concerns on Main Street, hoping to extend these benefits to neighboring areas like Duryea.
Additional 2025 TASA Grants
NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY
- Shamokin: $1.5 million for phase 3 of the Independence Street Streetscape, enhancing safety and accessibility with ADA-compliant sidewalks, ramps, crosswalks, and lighting.
LACKAWANNA COUNTY
- Old Forge School District: $1 million to improve pedestrian safety with ADA-compliant sidewalks, curb ramps, and lighting at the Old Forge K-12 campus.
LUZERNE COUNTY
- White Haven Borough: $650,000 to bridge existing trail gaps and support local businesses with pavement improvements and lighting upgrades.
LYCOMING COUNTY
- Lycoming County: $1.5 million for a 1.7-mile extension of the Susquehanna River Walk, featuring a pedestrian bridge and ADA ramps.
SCHUYLKILL COUNTY
- Schuylkill County: $1.38 million to construct a trail bridge and trailhead parking area as part of the Schuylkill River Trail expansion.
SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY
- Lanesboro Borough: $1.5 million for new ADA-compliant sidewalks along Route 171 to enhance safe pedestrian access.
TIOGA COUNTY
- Westfield Borough: $1.08 million for new sidewalks, curbing, and crosswalk access along Main Street.
UNION COUNTY
- East Buffalo Twp.: $1.09 million for new curbs and sidewalks on West Market Street.
- Union County Trail Authority: $1.78 million for a signalized crossing at Buffalo Valley Rail Trail.
WAYNE COUNTY
- Honesdale: $600,079 for reconstructing concrete stairways in the borough’s hillside network.
