Two projects in Mercer County will receive a combined total of $2.6 million in state economic development assistance, state Sen. Robert D. Robbins of Salem Township, R-50th District, and state Rep. Michael C. Gruitza of Hermitage, D-7th District, announced Monday.

Under the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, the state will provide $2 million to Duferco in Farrell and $625,000 to Shenango Valley Community Library in Sharon.

Duferco will use the money to upgrade its pickling facility. Its current pickle line capabilities do not provide an acceptable solution to the long-term viability for cold rolling.

The library project includes structural repairs to the building and parking deck as well as modernization of elevators, windows and doors for providing accessibility for the handicapped and energy efficiency.

The library, built in 1978, provides resources for local students and residents.

Duferco bought the former Sharon Steel Corp. and Caparo Steel companies in 1998. It employs about 540 workers.