West Central PA News

The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) has approved $17,451,741 in low-interest loans for wastewater treatment improvements across Armstrong and Westmoreland counties. The funding aims to enhance public health and infrastructure in the region, as announced by Sen. Joe Pittman, Rep. Abby Major, Rep. Jill Cooper, and Rep. Donna Oberlander.

Senator Joe Pittman expressed pride in advocating for state-level resources to support local communities. "This PENNVEST funding for projects in Westmoreland and Armstrong counties will help protect public health and support infrastructure advancements for communities throughout our region," he stated.

In Westmoreland County, the Municipal Authority of the City of Lower Burrell will receive $9,550,000 for the Chartiers Pump Station Project. This includes replacing a deteriorating pump station with a new one-million-gallon equalization tank and rehabilitating an associated force main. The project serves 4,450 residential customers with a population of 11,700.

Additionally, $2,851,000 has been allocated to improve three pump stations operated by the Municipal Authority of Allegheny Township. These upgrades aim to streamline operations and maintenance costs while serving 2,446 residential customers with a population of 6,116.

Rep. Abby Major emphasized the significance of these projects: "The Lower Burrell work will help prevent raw and partially treated sewage from entering the area’s waterways during heavy rains."

In New Kensington, also in Westmoreland County, $3,856,741 is allocated for waterline replacements and filter media replacement at a water treatment plant serving 14,240 residential customers.

Rep. Jill Cooper noted that these investments would minimize financial burdens on ratepayers while providing quality services: "Overall this is a huge benefit to families and local businesses who have been dealing with inflated costs."

Armstrong County's Eastern Armstrong County Municipal Authority will receive $1,194,000 for its Water Treatment Plant and Storage Tank Rehabilitation Project. This involves replacing aged pressure filters and installing emergency generators at Plumcreek Township's water treatment plant.

Rep. Donna Oberlander highlighted the importance of these upgrades: "These critical upgrades to the Eastern Armstrong Municipal Authority’s water infrastructure will enhance the reliability and safety of our community’s water supply."

PENNVEST financing utilizes federal funding alongside state bond issues and proceeds from Act 13 of 2012 related to Marcellus Shale Impact Fee legislation.