Hanley Library awarded $2 million from state
Money will be used to construct new entrance
Pitt-Bradford has been awarded $2 million in state funding to create a new entrance on the east side of Hanley Library.
The funding will be used for demolition and construction, including replacing and adding doors, renovating the foyer, creating a new stairwell, and installing sidewalks to enable easy passage from the newly constructed engineering building to the library and to create another public entrance for patrons. Construction will include foundation and general construction, HVAC modifications to accommodate the new design, electrical changes, and other updates including energy-efficient lighting and necessary plumbing retrofits.
“We are fortunate to have such a great educational institution right here in McKean County to serve not only our students but also students from around the country and around the world,” Rep. Martin Causer said. “I am pleased to support the university in its efforts to continue to improve and expand to meet the needs of our students, including through the renovation of the library.”
Sen. Chris Dush said, “Receiving this highly competitive funding demonstrates that the impact and value of Hanley Library extends far beyond the physical boundaries of the Pitt-Bradford academic community,”
Funding for the project was authorized by lawmakers in the Capital Budget Project Itemization Act and awarded through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program.
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational and historical improvement projects. These projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are funded by the state and cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs
Pitt-Bradford President Rick Esch said, “We’re grateful for the support we received from Rep. Marty Causer and Sen. Cris Dush in helping to secure this funding, which will enable us to enhance and expand student support services in Hanley Library.”
Hanley Library holds 124,000 volumes, a computer lab, private study rooms, an archive and electronic services with the University of Pittsburgh Library System.
It is also home to offices and academic support programs as well as original art.