West Central PA News

Reps. Marci Mustello and Abby Major, along with Sens. Joe Pittman and Scott Hutchinson, have announced that the Municipal Authority of Buffalo Township will receive a low-interest loan of nearly $2.82 million from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST). The loan is intended to support two water-line projects within the township's service area.

The funding will be used to provide new drinking water services to 76 residences along State Route 228 in Buffalo Township. Many existing private wells in this area are contaminated with high levels of manganese, iron, and arsenic, leading to poor water quality. "This is an important issue for local families and also a key step forward in developing and modernizing our water infrastructure," said Rep. Mustello.

Additionally, part of the loan will address deteriorated drinking water distribution lines along Market, Fourth, and Buffalo streets in Freeport Borough. This includes installing new gate valves and fire hydrants alongside a lead service line replacement project funded by a previous PENNVEST grant.

Sen. Hutchinson emphasized the importance of these projects for community health: “Clean, affordable, and reliable drinking water is among the most fundamental needs of any community.” Rep. Major added that these initiatives are crucial for public health: “No one should be without clean, potable water in their homes.”

Sen. Pittman highlighted the challenges faced by aging waterlines across Pennsylvania: “Aging waterlines are problems for communities throughout Pennsylvania, as they are expensive to maintain.” He expressed satisfaction with PENNVEST's substantial funding support for these critical improvements.

The Municipal Authority of Buffalo Township serves over 3,000 households in Butler County's Buffalo Township and Armstrong County's Freeport Borough. PENNVEST provides financial assistance for sewer, stormwater, and drinking water projects through loans and grants across Pennsylvania.