Jim Thorpe Borough is making a second consecutive bid for a grant funded by state gaming revenue to purchase electronic message boards and speed alert signs.

The grant application period, part of the Local Share Account Monroe County program, is open from July 1 through Sept. 30.

“We’re looking to get two more electronic message boards like we already have and smaller electronic speed limit signs,” Police Chief Joe Schatz said during a council workshop Thursday night.

The electronic message boards have proved valuable, he said, in keeping the public informed during major events, ensuring smooth traffic flow and safety for all participants. Meanwhile, the electronic speed limit signs will be strategically placed at both ends of North Street, both ends of Center Avenue, and along Broadway.

Jim Thorpe’s application is aimed at securing $67,207.12 in funding for the public safety enhancements.

Funded by the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Act, the grant allocates 2% of gross terminal revenues from Mount Airy Casino Resort to support projects in Monroe and contiguous counties.

Applications for the grant will be assessed by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, with criteria including “economic impact, the economic conditions of the area, the level of private sector investment being leveraged, focus on brownfields or underutilized sites, local financial support, project readiness, strategic importance, and financial need.”

This grant application marks the second consecutive year that Jim Thorpe Borough is seeking funding for these enhancements. Last year, their initial application was unsuccessful. However, the borough did secure $142,255 in LSA Monroe funding to support the Asa Packer Mansion Museum’s planned renovations. These renovations include addressing issues such as roof leaks and water damage at the historical landmark.

Council plans to vote on the grant application Thursday.