PHILADELPHIA — Governor Tom Wolf today presented a series of proposed 2020-21 budget items totaling more than $1.1 billion to support reducing the risks to Pennsylvanians of lead and asbestos and remediating existing toxins in schools, childcare centers, homes, and public water systems. Mayor Kenney issued the following statement in support of the Governor’s plan:

“I commend Governor Wolf for his bold proposal to invest in infrastructure and other remediation initiatives to protect Pennsylvanians from exposure to lead and asbestos, especially in our schools and childcare facilities.

“After decades of inadequate state funding which necessitated substantial deferred maintenance, Philadelphia and other school districts across the Commonwealth have school buildings requiring billions of dollars in renovations, remediation, and repairs. These investments can no longer wait, and I sincerely appreciate Governor Wolf’s leadership on this critical issue. He’s clearly heard and responded to our urgent call for more state support.

“Most notably, the proposed expansion of the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) to schools will go a long way in ensuring our schools are free of harmful toxins. This unprecedented use of RACP funding in upwards of a billion dollars is among the most ambitious plans I’ve seen.

“I look forward to working with the Governor, the legislature, and other stakeholders as we continue to develop new, creative solutions to ensure all of our kids have the safe, high-quality learning environments they deserve.”