Ferguson Township Awarded ARC Grant in Support of Economic Development, Growth, and Innovation Strategic Masterplan

Ferguson Township is delighted to announce its receipt of the prestigious Area Development Program grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). This substantial grant award, totaling $75,000 dollars, will serve as a cornerstone in supporting Ferguson Township's Economic Development, Growth, and Innovation Strategic Masterplan, propelling forward critical initiatives aimed at fostering economic prosperity, enhancing infrastructure, and elevating the quality of life for all residents.

As Township Manager Martin understands and stated in the ARC Executive Summary she wrote in the  section for Strategic Rationale section of the initial grant submission, "...the importance for managing sustainable growth and still evolving its economic development activities that integrate traditional activities focused on agriculture and business development that strengthen the business environment, workforce, housing, and infrastructure in response to the distinct needs of each of the three wards that characterize the Township.”

The ARC grant stands as a testament to Ferguson Township's dedication to innovative community development strategies and collaboration with regional partners. By aligning with the Township's comprehensive masterplan, the grant will catalyze transformative projects designed to address key challenges and leverage opportunities within the community.

“On behalf of the Board of Supervisors, I extend our appreciation to the ARC for this opportunity. This is a unique and exciting endeavor for the Township and one that will benefit residents for many years to come,” Chair Lisa Strickland said. “We also extend our sincere thanks to Betsy Lockwood, Director of Project Development and Grants at SEDA-Council of Governments for her assistance. This achievement would not have been realized but for the exceptional leadership of Township Manager Centrice Martin and dedication and hard work of Township staff,” said Strickland.

"We are tremendously honored to be selected as recipients of the ARC grant, which will be instrumental in realizing our vision for sustainable growth and prosperity through our Economic Development, Growth, and Innovation Strategic Masterplan," stated Centrice Martin, Township Manager of Ferguson Township. "This grant signifies a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to create an inclusive, vibrant community that thrives economically, socially, and environmentally,” Martin said.

The Township looks forward to partnering with community stakeholders to develop the first-ever Ferguson Township's Economic Development, Growth, and Innovation Strategy to create a community-driven plan to help guide future growth in the Township. This initiative aligns with Ferguson Township's Strategic Plan, Goal 2, Economic Growth and Sustainability. 

The ARC grant underscores the collaborative spirit between Ferguson Township, local stakeholders, and the Appalachian Regional Commission in advancing regional development goals. By leveraging this funding in alignment with the Economic Development, Growth, and Innovation Strategic Masterplan, Ferguson Township is poised to realize tangible and sustainable outcomes that benefit residents, businesses, and the broader community.

The Township intends to advance forward with step 1 in the coming weeks. The first action item will be to fill a part-time position which is funded by the ARC program to assist with advancing this project forward.

For further information regarding Ferguson Township's Economic Development, Growth, and Innovation Strategic Masterplan and the ARC grant, please visit twp.ferguson.pa.us.

About Ferguson Township

Ferguson Township is a vibrant and forward-thinking community situated in Centre County. Committed to innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth, the Township strives to enhance residents' quality of life through responsive and collaborative local governance.

About the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)

Established in 1965, the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is a federal-state partnership dedicated to promoting economic development and improving quality of life in the Appalachian region. Through strategic investments and collaborative initiatives, the ARC supports efforts to foster growth, opportunity, and prosperity in Appalachian communities.

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Media inquiries: Jaymes Progar, Assistant Township Manager, Ferguson Township, 814-238-4651