Indiana County Project Receives Nearly $600,000 in State Funding

ABC School Equipment Expects to Create 62 Jobs

State funding totaling nearly $600,000 will spark the redevelopment of an abandoned Homer City property while creating 62 new jobs, according to State Senator Don White.

The Indiana County Development Corporation (ICDC) will receive a $278,663 loan from the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority to assist ABC School Equipment, Inc, a California-based company, set up manufacturing operations at the former 84 Lumber site along Lucerne Road.

The project will also receive $184,500 from the state's Machinery and Equipment Loan fund, a $62,000 Opportunity Grant and $62,000 in Job Creation Tax Credits.

"This is excellent news for the community," said Senator White. "In addition to the creation of 62 new jobs, ABC School Equipment will be occupying a former business site located in Indiana County."

Senator White lauded Byron Stauffer, executive director of the ICDC, and Dana Henry, president of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, for their efforts in encouraging ABC School Equipment to set up shop in the area, as well as the Indiana County Commissioners for their approval of a $75,000 loan through the Indiana County Revolving Loan Fund.

State Representative Dave Reed said ABC School Equipment, which makes visual display products, is another in the growing list of local economic development success stories. "It's always a coup when we can draw in a company from outside the state," Representative Reed said. "We have many amenities that are attractive to business, such as our location and our local workforce."

Senator White agreed that on-going infrastructure improvements are making Indiana County more appealing to business. "This is a good example of how we benefit from projects such as the improvements to Route 119," Senator White said.

"This is great news for the people of Indiana County," said Indiana County Commissioner Rodney Ruddock. "New jobs and new business are essential to maintain our economy and our communities."

Contact:

Joe Pittman (724) 357-0151
Byron Stauffer, Jr. (724) 465-3870