HARRISBURG, PA-Under the state's Business in Our Sites program, the Commonwealth Financing Authority approved five construction grants and 10 planning grants aggregating more than $20.8 million. BOS projects create shovel-ready sites for businesses through land acquisition, construction and feasibility studies.

Among the construction grants are a $2-million loan and $2-million grant to Philadelphia's Redevelopment Authority for development of a 36,000-sf House of Blues in the Packard Building at 15th and Chestnut streets. The BOS funds will be used to improve mechanical, electrical and sewer systems prior to creation of a 240-seat restaurant and 600-seat music hall.

Lawrence County received $7.5 million in grants and loans to begin excavation, grading and infrastructure improvements for the development of Millennium Technology Park in Neshannock Twp. Plans call for a high-tech industrial park to attract alternative fuel and semiconductor companies along with pharmaceuticals and food processors.

Allegheny County obtained approximately $4.5 million in an even split of loans and grants to redevelop the former J. Allan Steel site in Pittsburgh. The Pierpoint Professional Center with up to 100,000 sf of riverfront office and flex space is planned for the 3.9-acre site.

"Having sites that are ready to accommodate economic investment is the key to creating jobs for Pennsylvanians," said Gov. Ed Rendell in announcing the most recent BOS funding. More than $156.8 million in BOS funds have been approved for 64 projects since the funding guidelines were approved in fall 2004.