Funding sought for Eastern Market Plaza Improvements, Park Avenue Apartments Project

At its February 12th meeting, the Lancaster City Council is expected to approve an application to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) on behalf of Tabor Community Services in partnership with the East King Street Improvement District for renovations to Lancaster City's "Eastern Market Plaza."

The resolution under consideration would approve the submission of an application to DCED in the amount of $245,000.

$145,000 would be used for eastern market plaza and the remainder would be used for renovations to the market building, according to Tabor President Robert Thomas.
The project involves construction of an urban plaza at the intersections of King, Shippen, & Church Streets. Improvements will include "new streetscape, brickwork, artwork, planting trees and possibly even a waterwork."

Proposed improvements at the Eastern Market House would include, "expansion of the facility, installation of new windows and doors, drywall, and painting of the walls," according to Tabor's application.

Lancaster City Council is also expected to approve an application to DCED for $300,000 on behalf of Community Basics, Inc. for their "Park Avenue Apartments Project," which will involve the installation of 23 1-bedroom apartments for seniors and individuals with disabilities at 255 Park Avenue according to Tom Eisemann of Community Basics.

The facility is in close proximity to Lancaster General Hospital and the County Departments of Aging and Mental Health and Mental Retardation will also provide on-site services for residents.

Councilman Nelson Nelson Polite also reminded those in attendance at Monday's Lancaster City Council Committee Meetings that February is Black History Month and that City Council will pass a symbolic resolution in recognition thereof.

Lancaster City holds its next bi-monthly public meeting on Tuesday, February 12th at 7:30 pm in the Southern Market Center on the corners of South Queen & Vine Streets.