A Plan in Motion
Over the past few years, the Borough of Tarentum has been guided by a community-driven vision—our Comprehensive Plan. Created with input from residents, businesses, and local leaders, this plan laid out a roadmap for Tarentum’s future. Now, we’re putting that vision into action. While we still have work to do, we’ve made meaningful progress on many of the plan’s priorities. From infrastructure upgrades to improved communication and long-term planning, these efforts are helping to strengthen our Borough for today and the generations ahead.
We would like to take a moment to update our residents and business owners on the major projects currently underway. Thank you for your input, ideas, and patience as we tackle some of the biggest challenges in decades.
Key Projects and Initiatives
- Communications & Public Engagement
The Borough is expanding its efforts to keep the public informed through regular web articles, such as this one, alerts via Savvy Citizen, updates on social media, live-streamed Council meetings, and articles in the local newspaper, as appropriate. These tools help ensure that residents and businesses stay connected to local government decisions and opportunities for input. - EMS Authority Creation
Tarentum and several other communities are working to establish a regional Emergency Medical Services (EMS) authority. This project aims to stabilize funding and ensure the long-term sustainability of EMS across multiple municipalities. - Riverfront and Park Planning
A comprehensive update to our parks and riverfront is in motion. This project has the potential to transform public spaces, boost tourism, and improve quality of life. A public input session will be scheduled soon—we want to hear your ideas. - Electric Pricing and System Reliability
We are actively working to manage electricity costs over the next five years, ensuring stable and predictable pricing with only minor increases, if necessary. Additionally, we have secured a partnership with American Municipal Power (AMP) to enhance the operation of our electric system. This includes a lineman exchange program to provide mutual aid and system support during emergencies, helping to keep our electric grid safe and reliable. - Water Line Replacement
Some of our underground water infrastructure is over a century old. Replacing these lines is critical, and the Borough is developing a funding plan that includes grant opportunities but doesn’t rely solely on them. - Water Plant Upgrades
The Borough is undertaking much-needed improvements at the water treatment plant to modernize systems, enhance safety, and meet regulatory standards. - Blight Removal
We’ve demolished over 65 blighted structures since 2019, making Tarentum one of the most aggressive municipalities in the region when it comes to tackling vacancy and unsafe buildings. - Credit Rating and Fiscal Health
Through careful budgeting and financial management, the Borough has improved its credit position and is working toward long-term fiscal stability. - Long-Term Capital Planning
We are building a 10-year capital improvement plan to ensure smart, sustainable investments in infrastructure and public assets. - Comprehensive Zoning Update
The Borough is revising its zoning code to reflect contemporary development needs and community objectives. This will help guide growth, redevelopment, and land use for years to come.
Rooted in Community Vision
Many of these initiatives were first outlined in the Borough’s Comprehensive Plan, which was developed by the community for the community. That plan helped identify key priorities for Tarentum’s future, and we remain committed to making progress on those community-driven goals alongside staff-identified needs that improve daily operations and long-term resilience.
Realistic but Ambitious
We recognize that, with limited resources and a small staff, we cannot address everything we would like to, especially not all at once or within ideal timeframes. However, we are ambitious and making steady and meaningful progress. Project by project, we are checking items off the list and building momentum for future success.
These Projects Are Not Easy-But They're Necessary
Several of these initiatives have been decades overdue. We recognize that change is never easy, and we understand the magnitude of the work that lies ahead. These efforts are critical to securing Tarentum’s long-term health, safety, and quality of life.
We also know that successful planning means working together. Your input has already helped shape many of these projects, and more opportunities for engagement are forthcoming, especially for initiatives like park planning, where public feedback will play a crucial role.
Looking Ahead
We are committed to building a stronger Tarentum, not just today but for future generations. Thank you to our residents, businesses, and community partners who have offered ideas, raised concerns, and supported the work being done. None of these efforts are possible without your continued engagement.
Stay tuned for updates, input sessions, and opportunities to contribute to shaping our shared future.
