Northhampton News

Rep. Joe Emrick of Northampton has announced the allocation of over $2.2 million in state grant funding aimed at enhancing safety and infrastructure within the 137th Legislative District. This funding will support several key projects, including $500,000 for the Upper Nazareth Fire Department to acquire a pumper tanker truck, $521,029 for the Colonial Regional Police Department to upgrade cardiac monitors and police radios, and $350,000 for Nazareth Borough to purchase a 39-acre tract known as Black Rock Woods for land preservation.

These grants are intended to improve the capabilities of local first responders by providing essential tools and equipment. The new pumper tanker truck is expected to enhance the Upper Nazareth Fire Department's response capabilities, while upgraded equipment will allow the Colonial Regional Police Department to integrate with Northampton County 911’s communication systems.

“Ensuring our first responders are well-equipped is essential to the safety and security of our communities,” stated Emrick. “These grants will help provide the necessary resources to support our firefighters and police officers as they continue to protect and serve our residents.”

Additional projects receiving funding include:

- Bethlehem Township: $85,000 for purchasing police vehicles.

- Hanover Township: $570,467 for constructing a multipurpose field house at First Responders Park.

- Lower Nazareth Township: $40,000 for a new cardiac monitor; $75,000 on behalf of Hecktown Volunteer Fire Company for training equipment; $50,000 for a power stretcher and loading system.

- Nazareth Borough: $50,000 on behalf of Nazareth Regional Ambulance Corps for an electronic sign installation at ambulance headquarters.

The Commonwealth Financing Authority approved these grants this week. The authority operates as an independent agency responsible for overseeing program funding and investments contributing to Pennsylvania’s economic growth.