Borough applies for TASA grant to replace school flashing lights and add pedestrian improvements
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Summary
Council authorized the borough manager to apply for the state Transportation Alternatives (TASA) program to replace school‑zone flashing lights and add ADA pedestrian improvements near two schools; construction would be 100% grant‑funded if accepted, borough would budget engineering fees.
The borough council authorized staff to apply for the state Transportation Alternatives Set‑Aside (TASA) program on Aug. 21 to replace flashing school‑zone lights and add pedestrian/ADA improvements near two elementary schools.
Staff said TASA (federally funded, state‑administered) applicants that are selected receive construction reimbursement; staff described construction costs as 100% funded under the program, with the borough responsible only for engineering and application costs.
Why it matters: Replacing aging school‑zone flashers and adding curb ramps and crosswalk upgrades would improve student and pedestrian safety near school arrival routes. Staff emphasized that the borough must confirm that proposed improvements fall on borough right‑of‑way or otherwise coordinate multi‑jurisdictional work with the neighboring school district.
What the council approved: The council authorized the borough manager and the engineering firm to submit a preliminary TASA application with a detailed final application to follow; the application deadline had an early due date and staff said engineering work would be budgeted next year if the project is selected. The council voted unanimously.
Technical details: Staff proposed adding flashing school signs, curb ramps and crosswalk improvements at intersections around Saint Margaret’s School and Marion Elementary. The preliminary application will be filed in early September with final materials due in October; selection decisions will determine whether construction moves forward in subsequent years.
Next steps: Staff will confirm right‑of‑way lines and solicit letters of support from the school district and will prepare final engineering costs for the 2026 budget if the borough is shortlisted. Council members asked staff to coordinate with the neighboring school district as needed.