Lumber Museum to Get $5.4 Million

Rep. Martin Causer and Sen. Joe Scarnati have announced the release of $5.4 million in state funds to support the expansion of The Pennsylvania Lumber Museum in Potter County. The lawmakers, who have been advocating for the funding for three years, were notified Wednesday afternoon by the governor's office that the money would finally be released. "This is absolutely outstanding news, not only for Potter County but for the entire region," Causer said. "The lumber industry is not only an important part of our history - it also has a vital role to play in our future." Scarnati agreed. "Given the growing interest in our region as a tourist attraction, this investment in the Lumber Museum could not have come at a better time. Just as the lumber industry continues to be an important contributor to our local economy, the tourism industry is increasingly generating jobs and investment in our region." Causer and Scarnati praised the work of county government and tourism leaders who have long supported the museum and especially commended the Lumber Museum Associates, who have been a driving force for this project. "This is just one more example of what can be accomplished when we all work together toward a common goal," Causer said. "I look forward to visiting the new and improved museum in the near future," Scarnati added. The money will go toward the expansion of the museum's exhibits and its visitor center to supplement existing attractions, such as the 1912 Shay-geared logging locomotive, Barnhart Log Loader, Brookville locomotive and restored CCC Cabin. The museum reopens for the season April 1. For more information about the museum and its hours, visit the lumber museum web site