Transformation of Allegheny Shores, a 52-acre brownfield along the Allegheny River in Sharpsburg, got a robust bump of nearly $25 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Money will be funneled to construction of a multimodal transportation network to support the project. Work includes a bridge over the Conemaugh rail line, roads to link the community to the riverfront, multiuse trails and upgrades to multiple bus stops along Main Street. “This grant represents a monumental opportunity for our historic river town, with potential impacts that are truly unprecedented,” Manager Christine DeRunk said.

Groundbreaking for the Allegheny Shores development was in 2022, with The Mosites Co. — best known for its redevelopment of the East Liberty commercial corridor — behind the wheel. The project aims to develop commercial, housing and retail use, and as significantly, reconnect residents to the shorefront.

The 1.5-mile property, thick with slag, was abandoned long ago by the railroad and operated for decades as a scrapyard. Beneath it all were fields that grew cabbage and tomatoes that launched the H.

J. Heinz Company. DeRunk said the federal grant is invaluable to transforming the borough and improving quality of life for residents, along with spurring economic development.

U.S. Sen.

John Fetterman said in a release that the funding is a massive win for Sharpsburg. He advocated for the grant, along with help from Congressman Chris Deluzio and U.S.

Senator Bob Casey..