West Central PA News

HARRISBURG - The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) has granted a $2 million low-interest loan to support wastewater treatment improvements in Indiana County. The funding will be allocated to the Central Indiana County Joint Sanitary Authority for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Renovation project, benefiting over 2,200 residential customers in the area.

Sen. Joe Pittman and Rep. Jim Struzzi expressed their satisfaction with the approved loan, emphasizing the importance of water systems for community health. Sen. Pittman stated, "I'm pleased this substantial low-interest loan was approved by PENNVEST and will provide support for critical improvements. The funding will certainly be a central part of helping to safeguard our local water supplies and protect public health."

Rep. Struzzi, who is also a member of PENNVEST's board of directors, highlighted the positive impact of the improvements on water quality in Two Lick Creek. He said, "This is an example of the many benefits which are available to communities throughout Pennsylvania through PENNVEST. As a member of its board of directors, I am pleased to serve in this capacity and work with Sen. Pittman and local government groups to improve our infrastructure and environment. This is an example of government working to improve our overall quality of life in the Commonwealth."

The current wastewater treatment plant, located in Center Township, was originally constructed in 1997. However, the aging equipment is no longer capable of processing influent during high flow events. Several upgrades have been implemented since its construction, including the installation of an ultraviolet disinfection system in 2012. In response to exceeded discharge limits, the Authority entered into a Consent Order and Agreement with the PA Department of Environmental Protection in April 2022. The upcoming improvement project is expected to satisfy the terms of this order.

The renovation project is scheduled to commence in June 2024, with an estimated completion date of June 2025. The PENNVEST financing for this project is made possible through federal funding, prior bond issues by the state, and proceeds from the Marcellus Shale Impact Fee legislation, Act 13 of 2012.

This investment in improving Indiana County's wastewater treatment infrastructure will not only benefit the residents but also contribute to the protection of the local environment.