State Sen. Tracy Pennycuick announced $100,000 in state grants for two Berks County organizations as part of a series of awards supporting libraries, nonprofits and cultural institutions in the 24th Senate District.
The Boyertown Community Library and General Carl Spaatz National USAAF Museum each received $50,000 grants secured through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
Pennycuick visited both Boyertown organizations on Tuesday, Aug. 11, while announcing the funding.
“I’m thrilled to provide state resources in support of these important community organizations, including the General Carl Spaatz National USAAF Museum and other cultural institutions,” Pennycuick said. “Our libraries are more than just sources of books and information—they are vibrant community spaces where families can come together to learn, participate in programs, and discover wonderful stories.”
The Boyertown Community Library will use its $50,000 grant for facility renovations and improvements designed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, including upgrades to its restrooms.
“The Boyertown Community Library would like to thank Senator Tracy Pennycuick and her staff for their support and assistance,” Library Director Sami Jo Trout said. “This grant funding will be used for our much-needed restroom ADA improvements. These renovations will ensure every community member can access and use the library facilities with ease.”
Trout said the project has been in the planning stages for several years and that the funding will allow the library to move forward with the renovations.
The General Carl Spaatz National USAAF Museum also received $50,000 for facility renovations.
Col. Keith Seiwell, CEO of the museum, said the funding will help the organization meet goals outlined in its five-year plan and support its long-term operations.
“This grant will enable us to meet the requirements set forth in our five-year plan and will be critical in terms of sustainment, longevity and allowing the General Spaatz Museum to accomplish its mission, which is telling the story, especially to our young people, about the contributions of local men and women to victory during WWII,” Seiwell said.
The Boyertown awards were among several grants Pennycuick announced during visits across the 24th Senate District on Aug. 11 and 12.
Other recipients included The Open Link in Pennsburg, which received $45,000 to support its Code Blue Shelter and food pantry; Perkiomen Valley Library, which received $50,000 for new equipment and furniture; and Upper Perkiomen Valley Library, which received $100,000 for facility renovations and ADA improvements.
The grants were provided through DCED, which administers programs supporting economic development, businesses and community initiatives across Pennsylvania.
