State Representative Jim Struzzi yesterday announced the award of tax credits for two redevelopment projects, one to tear down a building and the other to renovate one.
The Friends of Blairsville Communities will receive a $56,250 tax credit to apply to the demolishing of the crumbling G.C. Murphy building at the corner of Market and Stewart streets, which has been vacant for decades. The lot will then be used as a community space and park.
The cost of the demolition is estimated at about $375,000. Struzzi says knocking down the decaying building “will eliminate a massive public safety issue, thereby increasing property values while providing an attractive community area for residents and investors.”
The second tax credit is worth $37,500, for renovations to the Chevy Chase Community Center in White Township. The wide-ranging project includes the replacement of the roof, windows, entryway, HVAC system and sidewalk/entry walk, and new security doors and flooring. Struzzi says the project will provide a safe, secure, ADA-accessible facility and will increase the energy efficiency of the building.
The awards are from the Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit Program, facilitated through the state Department of Community and Economic Development.
