Catasauqua redevelopment lands $3.7M federal boost
Congressman Ryan Mackenzie secured $3.7 million from the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations package to finance infrastructure work for the Crane Iron Company redevelopment on Catasauqua’s Front Street.
A redevelopment project in Catasauqua is getting a major boost through federal funding.
Congressman Ryan Mackenzie, PA-07, announced that he was able to help secure $3.7 million in funding from the recently passed Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations package for work at the historic Crane Iron Company site.
The project focuses on vacant riverfront land on Catasauqua’s Front Street.
The land, which was purchased by the Borough in 2013, has been at the center of longstanding plans to revitalize Catasauqua’s main street. Once completed, the $75 million project calls for over 300 apartments, several dozen townhomes, and retail and commercial space. Federal funding for the project will be used to support the critical infrastructure needs of the project, including road widening, sewer line replacement, and the construction of a retaining wall.
“On behalf of the entire team at VM Development Group, I’d like to sincerely thank Congressman Mackenzie for his support and in the award of this important grant,” said Gretchen Rice, partner at the VM Development Group. “The Ironworks project represents a significant opportunity for economic revitalization in the Borough. This grant allows us to move forward with infrastructure improvements and site preparation for phase 1 that will unlock private investment and support long-term growth.”
“This federal funding is going to be a gamechanger here in Catasauqua — creating a brand-new community that will be vibrant for many years to come,” said Catasauqua Borough Manager Glenn Eckhart. “This project will provide over $1.5 million to the school district, borough, and county annually in the years to come.”