State Sen. Nick Miller, D-14th, announced Dec. 19, 2025, $7,053,563 in funding across the Lehigh Valley through the Local Share Account Statewide program and the Act 13 Programs.

The LSA grant program awards funding to eligible applicants that improve the quality of life of citizens in the community.

The Act 13 programs fund initiatives include sewage treatment, greenways, trails, and recreation and watershed restoration, among others.

“These awards represent a powerful investment in the future of our urban and rural communities,” Miller said. “From planning a new cultural landmark at the Allentown Art Museum to expanding the MLK Trail with a 1.2-mile ADA-accessible extension that will connect neighborhoods and park systems, these projects reflect our commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and community well-being. Whether it’s improving public safety in our boroughs or enhancing recreational access in the city, these initiatives will strengthen the fabric of Lehigh and Northampton counties for generations to come.”

“On behalf of the Allentown Art Museum, I am deeply grateful to state Sen. Nick Miller, D-14th, and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for this impactful LSA grant,” Max Weintraub, president and CEO of Allentown Art Museum said. “This investment in the museum’s future affirms the essential role that cultural institutions play in strengthening communities, expanding access to the arts and driving economic vitality in our region. We are honored by Sen. Miller’s and the commonwealth’s support and look forward to putting these funds to work in ways that will benefit Allentown and the Lehigh Valley for generations to come.”

The investments are as follows advocated by Miller:

Allentown Art Museum Planning

•$775,000 allocated to plan a new museum facility focused on preserving collections and expanding educational programming. This initiative aims to boost tourism, attract new visitors and strengthen the region’s cultural and educational offerings.

Lehigh and Union Street Improvements

•$36,158 allocated to upgrade the intersection with widening, new sidewalks, enhanced crosswalks and modern signalization. This investment will improve mobility across the city, reduce traffic accidents and strengthen connectivity between Downtown and Southside Allentown.

Jewish Community Center Renovation

•$400,000 to improve security and upgrade all main floor restrooms at the JCC in Allentown for full ADA compliance. Enhancements will support accessibility for seniors, caregivers, families, and individuals of all gender identities.

MLK Trail Phase 1

•$800,000 to construct a 1.2-mile, ADA-compliant extension of the MLK Trail. The paved path will connect the MLK Trail to the Little Lehigh Parkway Network, with new segments along the creek and a link from South 10th Street to Fountain Park.

Acquire Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicle at Lehigh Northampton Airport Authority (ABE)

•$1,000,000 to replace the 28-year-old aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle.

Walnutport Borough Town Hall Furnace Upgrade

•$500,000 to replace a nonfunctioning furnace in the municipal building housing borough hall and police station.

This announcement follows Miller’s $1 million investment in community projects via the Neighborhood Assistance Program and 2025-2026 School Safety, Mental Health, Violence Intervention and Prevention and Boost Grant Opportunities.

For more information about the Local Share Account Statewide program, visit their website at dced.pa.gov/programs/local-share-account-lsa-statewide/.