West Central PA News

Sen. Joe Pittman (R-41) and Reps. Jill Cooper (R-55) and Leslie Rossi (R-59) have announced that over $2.6 million in public infrastructure grants have been awarded to Westmoreland County communities for eight local projects. These grants were approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) on December 19, 2023, in Harrisburg.

Among the grants awarded are those through the COVID-19 ARPA H2O PA (H2O PA) program. Pittman expressed his satisfaction with the state support being invested locally, stating, "Water and sewer projects are an essential part of maintaining the health and safety of our communities, but often come with a high cost. I'm pleased to have worked to ensure this state support will be invested locally and can help to assist with necessary improvements. This is a great day, as these projects will improve services to numerous Westmoreland County municipalities and local residents."

The Municipal Authority of Washington Township received a $40,630 grant through the COVID-19 ARPA PA Small Water and Sewer Program (SWS) for a manhole rehabilitation project. Additionally, the Derry Township Municipal Authority received $208,522 in SWS funds for improvements to a sanitary sewage system located in Derry Township.

Cooper highlighted the responsible handling of taxpayer funds by local officials and the importance of investments like these by the CFA, stating, "Local officials work hard to handle taxpayer funds responsibly while still prioritizing infrastructure projects that improve the lives of area residents."

Rossi emphasized the value of these grants in the community, stating, "These grants represent valuable investments in our community. Upgraded water systems are very important because it can prevent the spread of disease and protect the environment. I am very happy we secured these grant dollars for the communities' benefit, but it ultimately helps the taxpayers with no additional tax increases."

In addition to the infrastructure grants, the Fort Ligonier Association was awarded a $34,418 COVID-19 ARPA PA Arts and Culture Recovery Program (PACR) grant. This grant will fund operating costs for the Ligonier Borough historical nonprofit organization. The PACR was created to provide grants to Pennsylvania nonprofit arts and culture organizations, local arts and culture districts, and arts and culture professionals to ensure the stability and recovery of the commonwealth's arts and culture sector from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The H2O PA program, established in 2008, provides grants for the construction of drinking water, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer projects, as well as the construction or renovation of flood control projects, and the repair or rehabilitation of high-hazard unsafe dams. The SWS Program provides grants for small water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure projects. Municipalities and municipal authorities that own and maintain a public water supply, sanitary sewer, or stormwater systems are eligible to apply as long as their projects exceed a total cost of $30,000.

This significant investment in Westmoreland County's public infrastructure will ensure the improvement of water systems, sewage systems, and other critical infrastructure. By securing these grants, local officials and organizations are working together to enhance the quality of life for residents while being mindful of taxpayer funds.

To learn more, click on this link: https://senatorpittman.com/2023/12/19/over-2-6-million-awarded-for-westmoreland-county-public-infrastructure-projects/