Governor Edward G. Rendell has championed an aggressive agenda for Pennsylvania’s future that is based on a belief that the commonwealth can achieve tremendous economic growth and a cleaner environment through strategic investments that preserve our natural resources, production farms and open spaces, revitalize our communities, and improve our quality of life.

On May 17, 2005, the state’s voters went to the polls and spoke overwhelmingly in favor of that vision.

Through Growing Greener II (Act 45 of 2005), Pennsylvania is investing $625 million to address some of the state’s most pressing environmental problems, spark new growth in core communities, and create new opportunities for citizens.

Over five years, Growing Greener II will direct:

• $230 million to the Department of Environmental Protection to clean up rivers and streams, take on serious environmental problems at abandoned mines and contaminated industrial sites, and finance the development and deployment of advanced energy projects.
• $217.5 million to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to preserve natural areas and open spaces, improve state parks, and enhance local recreational needs.
• $80 million to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture to protect working farms.
• $50 million to the Department of Community and Economic Development to revitalize communities through investments in housing and mixed-use redevelopment projects.
• $27.5 million to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission to repair fish hatcheries and aging dams.
• $20 million to the Pennsylvania Game Commission for habitat-related facility upgrades and repairs.

This historic package also targets new resources to Pennsylvania’s 67 counties to help address local priorities. Through the County Environmental Initiative Program counties can designate up to $90 million over the life of the bond program to target specific needs.

For more information on specific agency programs and to identify funding opportunities through Growing Greener II, click on How Do I Apply?