Thank you for visiting the ECGRA newsroom! If you are a looking for an event image, check here. If you're looking for data about how ECGRA Grant Money Works in Erie County, check here or learn more in our annual report. If you are a member of the media and would like to discuss a story or can't find a news release, please contact Kate Philips philips@parkerphilips.com or at 215-850-4647. If you have a general question, call 814-897-2690. 

ECGRA Invests in Infrastructure Across Erie County

Posted on March 10th, 2026 at 11:00 AM
ECGRA Invests in Infrastructure Across Erie County

Today the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority (ECGRA) announced the awarding of a $45,000 Multi-Municipal Collaboration grant to the North East Community Marina Authority (NECMA).  The investment will go towards the development of a master plan that will allow NECMA a path forward to fix immediate infrastructure concerns and provide long-term stability.

"ECGRA is proud to present a well-deserved Multi-Municipal Collaboration grant of $45,000 to NECMA to help build up this fantastic asset and support our community across the county.  This investment helps maintain and preserve Erie's waterfront and by extension, it's quality of place," said Perry Wood, ECGRA Executive Director.

"NECMA is grateful for the investment from the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority and matching support from Erie County Council, which will allow us to develop a comprehensive master plan for the North East Community Marina," said NECMA Vice Chairman Dr. Amy Burniston.  "This effort reflects strong collaboration with North East Borough and North East Township and the support of our legislative partners, Jake Banta and Dan Laughlin, to strengthen a waterfront asset that serves all of Erie County."

"A comprehensive master plan is critical to successfully guiding the marina through this transition, strengthening operations, and ensuring its long-term sustainability," Burniston added.  "The process will begin with a detailed evaluation of the marina's infrastructure and operations by a qualified consultant team with marine engineering expertise.  From there, the plan will prioritize key improvements such as seawall repair and shoreline stabilization, restoring dock electrical systems, and developing effective sand management strategies.  This work will lay the groundwork for a resilient, community-centered destination that supports recreation, tourism, and economic growth for years to come," said Burniston.

At the press conference in support of this event were Senator Dan Laughlin (49th District), State Representative Jake Banta (4th District), County Executive Christina Vogel, and County Councilman Chris Drexel.

"North East is a beautiful stretch of Erie County and deserves the investment we're seeing here today from ECGRA and the continued support of Erie County," said Erie County Council District 5 Representative Chris Drexel.

 

An impact investing organization, ECGRA's mission is to empower the nonprofit sector, municipal governments, and economic development agencies to revitalize Erie County.  ECGRA is endowed with local share gaming revenue from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania via the Horse Race Gaming Act.  Local share gaming revenue is an assessment of the licensed gambling industry in Pennsylvania.