On Monday, U.S. Congressman Jason Altmire (PA-04) presented Ellwood City Revitalization with $200,000 he secured as part of the Fiscal Year 2010 federal appropriations process to boost economic development downtown.

As a result of Congressman Altmire’s success in securing this federal funding, Ellwood City Revitalization has officially exceeded its initial fundraising goal and can now move foward with plans to begin constructing a new community plaza and infrastructure for the Ellwood City Farmers Market in 2011.

“This new community plaza and improved farmers market will change the landscape of downtown Ellwood City and make it an even more attractive area for local families and small businesses,” Congresman Altmire said.

“I fought hard to secure federal funding for this project, because I believe that by revitalizing downtown Ellwood City, we can help local small businesses and create new opportunitites for economic development. I want to thank all of the citizens who are working so hard to make this vision for Ellwood City a reality.”

The funding Congressman Altmire presented to Ellwood City Revitalization today will help to create the Ellwood City Community Plaza, which will run from Lawrence AVenue to Beaver Avenue and feature wireless internet and 40-foot performance stage.

It will also help Ellwood City Revitalization build a storage area, restrooms, and an information kiosk to support the ongoing growth of the Ellwood City Farmers Market, which has been drawing between 500 and 600 people downtwon on Saturday mornings.

“Congressman Altmire has supported our vision for a revitalized downtown Ellwood City from the very beginning,” Lenore Bazzichi, President of Ellwood City Revitalization, said.

“This is the first major downtwon improvement project Ellwood City has undertaken in more than 50 years , and it has already created a renewed sense of hope for our city’s future. I want to thank Congressman Altmire for providing a much needed boost to our efforts to improve our downtown and strengthen our community.”