KENNETT SQUARE, PA — Eight Chester County projects will receive more than $1.2 million in state gaming revenue for public safety, infrastructure and emergency services, including $400,000 for security upgrades at Longwood Gardens and $252,761 for countywide flood-safety equipment.
The grants come through Pennsylvania’s Local Share Account program, which uses gaming proceeds to support economic development, public infrastructure and community projects. The Commonwealth Financing Authority administers the program.
Seven awards totaling $976,343 will support projects in the 158th Legislative District represented by state Rep. Christina Sappey, while the Chester County Water Authority will receive the countywide grant.
The largest district award is $400,000 for security upgrades at the Longwood Gardens Visitors Center.
Longwood Fire Company in Kennett Square Borough will receive $245,063 to purchase cardiac monitors, defibrillators, and automated external defibrillators.
Southern Chester County Emergency Medical Services in New Garden Township will receive $77,387 toward a paramedic responder vehicle, while the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department will receive $60,000 to purchase and equip a new patrol vehicle.
Kennett Township will receive $100,000 to expand its police station.
East Fallowfield Township will receive $30,000 to purchase and install an emergency generator, and Pocopson Township will receive $63,893 for a compact excavator.
The Chester County Water Authority’s $252,761 award will fund flood-safety equipment, sensors and signs throughout the county.
Sappey said the grants allow municipalities and emergency responders to replace equipment and adapt as public-safety needs and technology change.
“AED batteries expire every 10 years for example,” Sappey said. “Technology changes and the way we respond to community needs shifts. This grant funding helps meet the needs.”
State Sen. John I. Kane pointed to the Longwood Gardens security project and emergency medical equipment in Kennett Square as examples of the grants’ public-safety impact.
“These investments strengthen the everyday fabric of our communities,” Kane said, adding that the funding supports “safer neighborhoods, more reliable services” and shared infrastructure.
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