DEP offering funding for environmental cleanup, economic development projects at abandoned mine sites

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The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recently announced funding availability for environmental cleanup projects related to economic development or community revitalization at abandoned mine land (AML) sites across Pennsylvania.

“The funding provides opportunities to transform abandoned mine lands, creating economic opportunity, and transitioning our coal communities to a new and brighter future,” DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell said. “I strongly encourage anyone planning a project that includes developing or revitalizing abandoned mine land to consider applying for this program.”

The federal funding is provided through DEP’s Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Economic Development Pilot Program $25 million in grant funding is available.

Through the program, 42 projects have received $80 million in funding. Last year, DEP approved $25 million for seven projects.

DEP will accept applications until 4:00 PM on Jan. 31, 2020.