Millions in state funds sought for proposed development in Sharpsburg

Sharpsburg is seeking $3 million in state funds to develop infrastructure and create access for a proposed riverfront development.

The Mosites Co., best known for its redevelopment of the East Liberty commercial corridor, wants to create housing, commercial and retail space along the Allegheny River from Sharpsburg to O’Hara.

Sharpsburg Council voted in July to apply to the Commonwealth Financing Authority for a $3 million grant through its Multimodal Transportation Fund Program.

“The requested grant will be used to create public infrastructure needed to reestablish access to the Allegheny River on the waterfront through construction of the Riverfront District Connector Road after the 19th Street underpass exit and Norfolk Southern Conemaugh Line,” borough Manager Christine DeRunk said via email Aug. 15.

Funds would be administered by the state Department of Community and Economic Development.

“The grant request will cover construction costs associated with the Riverfront District Connector Road, including excavation, grading, erosion and sedimental controls, utilities, stormwater infrastructure, paving, sidewalks, curbs, and roadway finishes.”

DeRunk said the state grant does not require the borough to provide matching funds. Borough officials hope to hear back from the state sometime next summer.

Mosites Chief Executive Steve Mosites, along with state, county and borough leaders, broke ground in late October on the 1.5-mile site formerly dubbed R47 and now called Allegheny Shores.

Mosites has yet to submit specific development plans to the borough, Borough Manager Christine DeRunk said via email Aug. 15. Mosites officials did not respond to multiple messages seeking comment.

Mosites in October was awarded a $5 million state grant for site work, demolition, utility installation and road construction. The money will help dismantle three old tunnels at the entrance to the property and taper the land to open access to the riverfront.

“I support the whole project if it does not negatively affect the borough and the taxpayers, or at least minimally,” Councilman Jonathan Jaso said. “Some short term pain that will lead to longer term gains as far as housing and businesses for employment and green space. The development, I can only hope, will be a crown jewel to the area.”