Grant Improves Safety in Hempfield, Nelson Says

February 24, 2025

HARRISBURG – Rep. Eric Nelson (R-Westmoreland) today announced more than $1 million in grant funding was awarded to Hempfield Township to better connect area residents with recreation opportunities and improve pedestrian safety.

“Hempfield sprawls more than 75 square miles and is home to more than 40,000 residents, many of whom want to use trails for exercise or to frequent local businesses,” said Nelson. “Hempfield leaders have been pursuing an ambitious plan to improve access and increase pedestrian safety and I am excited to support the project.”

Overall, the grant for $1.07 million will fund plans for new trails, as well as safety improvements at various locations, including:

• Connecting Broad Street to Five Star Trail - A new off-road, asphalt path will be constructed between Broad Street and the Five Star Trail and will include ADA-compliant ramps and signage.
• Broad Street - Pavement markings will promote safer interactions between bicyclists and motorists.
• Rugh Street, Broad Street, Spruce Street and Summit Drive - Pavement markings and signage for shared lanes, bike route signage, and replacing existing inlet grates with bicycle-safe grates will be installed. Some new bituminous pavement and concrete sidewalks will be installed.
• Gibraltar Way – Pavement markings and signage will help pedestrians and cyclists navigate the area as well as improve safety.

“By making this area safer for pedestrians and cyclists, those seeking to recreate or walk to nearby businesses will notice a huge improvement,” Nelson said. “These are the kinds of projects that make communities like Hempfield even more enjoyable for people to live and raise their families.”

Provided through the Department of Community and Economic Development, Multimodal Transportation Fund grants are eligible for projects that develop and enhance transportation assets in Pennsylvania’s communities, including efforts to improve streetscapes, lighting, pedestrian safety and connectivity.

Representative Eric Nelson
57th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Jordan Frei
724.875.8450
jfrei@pahousegop.com
RepNelson.com / Facebook.com/RepNelson