Rob McGraw

Slippery Rock University and the borough will be working together to improve walkability and public safety using $1.1 million in state funding.

According to a new release from state Rep. Tim Bonner, R-17th, the two entities received $1.1 million for the Community and Campus Connections Project on Wednesday, Jan. 21. The funds were distributed through the state Department of Community and Economic Development’s Multimodal Transportation Fund.

“Improvements include replacing aging sidewalks, adding new curbs and ramps for ADA compliance and filling gaps along key streets,” the release stated.

The plan will also aim to replace 51 light poles and 74 lights, refurbish 34 benches and purchase 25 new dual trash and recycling receptacles, according to the university.

“This project represents a meaningful investment in accessibility and connectivity for our students and the greater Slippery Rock community,” Karen Riley, university president, said.

According to the university, the project is estimated to cost $1.84 million. The two entities requested $1.57 million through the grant. The borough and university provided $272,000 in matching funds.

Mayor Jondavid Longo said Wednesday the project will represent a major upgrade to public safety for pedestrians and drivers throughout the area.

He said the university is one of the best in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education and the borough it calls home should reflect that.

“(The project) creates better, safer ease of access and a more welcoming environment,” Longo said.

He said the project also highlights the strong collaborative relationship between the borough and university.

Riley thanked Longo, borough manager Christian Laskey and Community Development Corporation of Butler County executive director Joe Saeler for their collaboration and shared vision on the project. She also thanked Bonner and state Sen. Scott Hutchinson, R-21st, for their support.

“These forward-thinking efforts strengthen the university’s relationship with the community and help ensure that our campus is more welcoming and accessible for all,” Riley said.

While news of the grant award was just announced, Longo said the borough was prepared and is hoping to start the work soon.

“We always try to be proactive and prepared for news like this, so we’ve already had conversations. Our hope is that work starts in the late spring or early summer and is finished by the time the students are returning in the fall,” he explained.

The university noted the entities are waiting on more information from the state to hire an engineering firm for the sidewalk designs.