U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, D-Braddock, recently announced $289 million in “congressionally directed spending” included in the 11 appropriations bills signed into law supports 121 projects across Pennsylvania — including $2.7 million in Lycoming County.

According to a news release, the Lycoming County projects include enhancement of the Old Lycoming Township Volunteer Fire Co. regional emergency services hub, a Williamsport Municipal Water Authority transmission water main replacement and equipment for AIDS Resource Alliance’s mobile clinic.

The news release said $1,345,000 will allow Old Lycoming Township Volunteer Fire Co.’s volunteers, paid staff, and college live-in first responders the ability to live and train on-site, thereby enhancing recruitment and retention efforts and working to address a critical first responder shortage in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This request was also supported by Rep. GT Thompson, R-Howard.

Williamsport Municipal Water Authority will use $1 million to replace critical water distribution components in Williamsport. This request was also supported by U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Dallas.

AIDS Resource Alliance will get $375,000 for equipment for its mobile clinic. The mobile clinic will “improve healthcare delivery in North Central Pennsylvania by providing critical primary care services to underserved areas, with a particular focus on marginalized populations such as individuals living with HIV, the LGBTQ+ community, low-income individuals, and the uninsured,” the news release said.

“A mobile medical unit isn’t just transportation. For rural communities, this means preventive care, early diagnoses, and the reassurance that help can meet you where you are,” said Kirsten Burkhart, executive director of AIDS Resource Alliance, according to the news release. “This medical van will bring care, dignity, and peace of mind to LGBTQ and rural communities that have been left behind for too long. Senator John Fetterman’s leadership in shepherding this federal grant proposal to success is a powerful show of support for AIDS Resource and the LGBTQ & rural communities we serve. His advocacy was instrumental in securing critical resources that will strengthen care and support for those we serve, and we are so grateful for his partnership in advancing accessible, compassionate care.”