Metzgar, Stefano Secure Over $570,000 in State Funding

March 18, 2026

Funding will provide more reliable source of heat in Rockwood
HARRISBURG – Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar (R-69) and Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32) announced they secured a grant totaling more than $570,000 for Rockwood Area School District from the Pipeline Investment Program (PIPE) for the extension of natural gas service through Rockwood Borough to the school district's facilities.

The project will install around 15,100 feet of natural gas pipeline to bring reliable gas service to the area. Currently, the school district’s heat and hot water come from a 39-year-old coal-fired boiler that is well past its useful life and requires daily maintenance to keep running. Since it burns coal and produces ash, the system also requires expensive environmental permits and ongoing regulatory fees.

By switching to natural gas, Metzgar and Stefano indicate the project will provide a more reliable source of heat for the school. It will also make natural gas available to nearby homes and businesses that are not currently connected, including ASSA ABLOY, a security door manufacturer, as well as Rockwood Casualty Insurance, the local fire department and seven other businesses.

“Reliable heat is not a luxury. It is a necessity for our schools and community,” said Metzgar. “This is a massive win for Rockwood as this funding will obtain a more dependable heating source that lowers long-term costs and ensures students and staff can learn and work in a safe, comfortable environment.”

“I know that for Rockwood, this investment feels like a weight being lifted. The school district will be relieved of the constant worry that came with keeping the old system running,” Stefano said. “I’m proud to see that with this funding, the school and the families and the businesses that surround it can look toward a future with dependable, modern energy service. It’s a win for the classroom, as well as the entire community.”

PIPE provides grants to construct the last few miles of natural gas distribution lines to business parks, existing manufacturing and industrial enterprises, which will result in the creation of new economic base jobs in the Commonwealth while providing access to natural gas for residents. Funds may be used for acquisition, construction and site preparation costs associated with extending natural gas pipelines to serve eligible applicants.

Representative Carl Walker?Metzgar
69th?District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact:??Nate Temple
717.260.6396
ntemple@pahousegop.com
RepMetzgar.com/?Facebook.com/RepMetzgar