HARRISBURG, PA. Grants to help communities with pollution

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- State Rep. Frank LaGrotta of Ellwood City, D-10th, said the state Department of Environmental Protection is now accepting applications for the state's new Pennsylvania Environmental and Energy Challenge grant program.
LaGrotta said PEEC grants provide funding to communities throughout the commonwealth to help them combat air and water pollution. The grants also encourage communities to undertake new energy-efficiency projects.
"We've known for years that our pollution prevention efforts need to start on the grass-roots level," LaGrotta said. "We need to provide our local municipalities with the tools they need to ensure the freshest air and the cleanest water for local residents."
LaGrotta said DEP plans to invest more than $1.5 million during the program's first year for a variety of projects, including toxic reduction in the environment, climate change mitigation and sustainable use of natural resources.
LaGrotta said counties, municipalities, county conservation districts, nonprofit organizations, businesses, colleges and universities, and school districts are invited to apply for the grants. Applications for PEEC grants must be completed by July 3.
To obtain an application for the grant program, visit DEP's Web site at www.dep.state.pa.us, directLINK "2002 PEEC Grant."