Luzerne Times

Downtown Shenandoah Inc. (DSI) has been granted over $1.76 million by the state to support the second phase of a significant redevelopment project in Shenandoah's business district. This funding was announced by Rep. Dane Watro and Sen. Dave Argall, who collaborated to secure it.

The grant will be used for completing the second floor of the Center for Education, Business and the Arts (CEBA) located on North Main Street. The project's Phase II involves developing a health clinic, an event center, and co-working spaces. Construction began this summer on a previously vacant lot.

Rep. Watro expressed his enthusiasm about the ongoing project, stating, "The excitement is building in Shenandoah now that the project is underway." He emphasized CEBA's importance beyond its physical structure, highlighting its role in fostering community development.

Sen. Argall acknowledged DSI's longstanding efforts to revitalize downtown Shenandoah: "The dedicated volunteers at DSI have worked for many years to breathe new life into their downtown and CEBA is the key to their plans." He noted that this competitive funding would help construct essential facilities on a site that was once blighted.

This initiative has received previous state funding assistance through Rep. Tim Twardzik and former Rep. Neal Goodman.

Karen Kenderdine, DSI president and treasurer, described CEBA as "transformational," emphasizing its potential to create jobs and equip individuals with necessary skills for community advancement.

Susan Williams, DSI executive director, remarked on CEBA's positive impact: "New businesses are opening, blighted buildings are being removed and an increasing positive energy is happening."

The grant was awarded through the Pennsylvania Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program managed by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority. This program provides grants for projects aimed at constructing or improving public facilities to enhance work, education, and health monitoring opportunities.