The Local Share Account (LSA) Fayette County grant program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) under the authority of the PA Race Horse Development and Gaming Act (Act 2004-71). The program is designed to distribute a portion of gaming revenues from licensed facilities to enhance the economic and community development of Fayette County. The funds are managed locally by the Redevelopment Authority of the County of Fayette (RACF), which collaborates with a county LSA Steering Committee to oversee application review and funding recommendations.
The program supports three primary types of projects: economic development projects that stimulate local economic activity and create or retain jobs; community improvement projects that develop civic, cultural, or recreational assets; and public interest projects that improve quality of life. Notably, administrative costs directly related to the implementation of awarded projects are eligible but capped at 5% of the total award. Ineligible uses include any project that begins prior to DCED approval, as well as those intended to refinance or reduce existing debts.
Applications must be submitted by RACF using the state’s Electronic Single Application (ESA) platform at grants.pa.gov. Each submission requires a completed Project Summary Form and all required supplemental documentation. The process includes local review and evaluation by RACF in conjunction with the Fayette County LSA Steering Committee. Final funding decisions are made by DCED based on RACF recommendations, with submissions due by November 30 annually.
Projects are evaluated based on several criteria including economic impact, the economic condition of the region, leveraged private investment, reuse of underutilized sites, financial need, readiness, and strategic importance. Funds will only be disbursed after a grant agreement is executed. RACF can request quarterly advance payments, but detailed documentation of expenditures must be maintained. Any substantial change to an approved project must be pre-approved by DCED in writing.
Grant recipients are subject to standard compliance requirements such as prevailing wage rules for construction over $25,000, anti-discrimination clauses, bidding procedures, and annual audits and reports. All funds must be held in separate project accounts to ensure traceability. In addition, municipalities and counties must submit annual reports detailing the use of received funds through DCED’s online portal.
The program operates on an annual cycle. The next application deadline is November 30, 2025, and awards are anticipated thereafter. Given its recurring nature, applicants who miss the current cycle may prepare for the following year. For inquiries, applicants should contact the DCED Center for Community Enhancement at 717-787-6245.
