West Central PA News

The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) has approved over $22.1 million in grants and low-interest loans for three wastewater treatment improvement projects in Armstrong and Westmoreland Counties. The announcement came from Sen. Joe Pittman (R-41) and Rep. Abby Major (R-60).

Sen. Pittman commended the local leaders for their dedication to these projects, stating, "Water systems are extremely vital to the health of a community, but very expensive to build and maintain. I'm pleased these substantial grants and low-interest loans were 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. Major also expressed her support for the projects, particularly those in Ford City Borough. She said, "Clean, safe, lead-free water should be an expectation when someone turns on the tap. Water is a basic necessity for life. In addition, proper treatment of wastewater helps protect the environment and prevents disease. I look forward to the completion of these three projects."

One of the major beneficiaries of the funding is Ford City Borough in Armstrong County, which will receive nearly $20 million for two waterline improvement projects. The funding includes a grant of $9,554,500 and a low-interest loan of $4,770,500. The investment will allow Ford City Borough to replace its existing distribution lines, which consist mainly of cast iron with lead joints, with plastic water mains. This upgrade will eliminate public health hazards from lead and rust, as well as reduce leaks and breaks in the system.

Another project in Ford City Borough will receive a grant of $2,407,081 and a low-interest loan of $3,192,919. This funding will be used to remove and replace approximately 1,245 existing lead service lines with plastic piping. The project will also involve excavation, backfill, and restoration work. This improvement will benefit both residential and commercial customers.

The Kiski Valley Water Pollution Control Authority, serving Armstrong and Westmoreland Counties, will receive a low-interest loan of $2,205,000 for the Sludge Digester Expansion Enhancement project. The authority plans to convert two existing concrete holding tanks into digesters, install a mixing system in all current and new digestion tanks, and replace the existing belt filter press. This upgrade will improve efficiency and benefit over 11,000 residential customers.

The total cost of the Sludge Digester Expansion Enhancement project is $5,215,590, with an additional $3,010,590 secured through local financing.

PENNVEST financing is made possible through federal funding, prior bond issues by the state, and proceeds from the Marcellus Shale Impact Fee legislation.

These improvements in Armstrong and Westmoreland Counties will ensure the provision of clean and safe water to the communities while protecting public health and the environment.