Sen. Tracy Pennycuick announced on Mar. 18 that three grants have been secured for projects in Berks County through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Local Share Account Category 4 Program.
The program uses revenue from casinos to fund projects aimed at improving quality of life for the public. The grants will support public safety and stormwater management initiatives in Berks County, Hereford Township, and Washington Township.
“Public safety and stormwater management are two components of healthy, thriving communities, but they come with hefty price tags,” Pennycuick said. “I’m very happy to help secure these funds for Berks County and Hereford and Washington Townships. These grants will allow our communities to invest in the projects and equipment they need most.”
Berks County is set to receive $150,000 for a new crime scene response vehicle, replacing an older model that has exceeded its expected lifespan and requires frequent repairs. The new vehicle is intended to improve investigators’ ability to respond across the region.
Hereford Township will receive $92,000 to replace an undersized culvert under Camp Mensch Mill Road near Conrad Road, along with related drainage improvements. This project aims to prevent flooding, protect the stream channel, and support a downstream streambank stabilization effort.
Pennycuick has engaged in public service through her military career and roles on veteran boards, contributing to community support for veterans and law enforcement according to the official website. She served 26 years in the U.S. Army—including active duty and reserves—and retired as a lieutenant colonel after assignments such as Desert Shield/Desert Storm according to the official website. Pennycuick began her military career as a combat medic before earning a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1987 according to the official website.
She won election to the Pennsylvania Senate in 2022 after serving in the General Assembly according to the official website. Pennycuick lives in Harleysville with her husband—a fellow U.S. Army veteran—their four grown children, and two grandchildren according to the official website.
