Pennsylvania receives $274 million in state and federal funding to improve water quality
On April 24, 2024 Governor of Pennsylvania Josh Shapiro announced the state would receive $274 million in funding for 30 drinking water, wastewater, stormwater and non-point source projects across 22 counties. The funding is through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST).
Projects include replacing lead or other corrosive pipes, rehabilitating aging systems, upgrading service capabilities, extending service to more communities and reducing environmental contaminants through compliance with current regulatory requirements and agricultural Best Management Practices (BMPs).
Two counties receive funding for stormwater projects
Clarion County
Clarion County’s Clarion Borough Stormwater Authority received $510,450 to replace deteriorated stormwater infrastructure along the Grand Avenue Extension.
The project includes the excavation and removal of deteriorated corrugated metal piping, concrete inlets, inflow and outflow headwalls and construction and installation of a new concrete inflow and outflow structure.
The final part of the project includes the restoration of multiple roadways and driveways made out of things from pavement to gravel to unpaved roads.
The replacement of corroded metal stormwater piping is expected to prevent sinkholes from forming in the project area as well as prevent firt-floor flodding issues frequently experienced at the Eagle Park Apartment complex.
Dauphin County
Dauphin County’s Hershey Lumberyard, LLC., received nearly $2.9 million to construct a new storm sewer system in the former industrial lumber operation site that now sits vacant and is being planned for redevelopment.
The project includes new construction of a storm conveyance system consisting of installing 2,510 linear feet of stormwater pipe, 34 inlets, and manholes.
The project will also feature the construction of underground pipe and a stone storage stormwater detention facility with 20,000 cubic-feet of total storage volume.
Landscaping is expected to add 81 trees and 28 shrubs to the project site to manage infiltration.
The project should alleviate ongoing flooding issues adjacent to the project site and downstream of the site, reduce the risk of sinkhole formation and make the property more desirable for potential development.
“My Administration is focused on protecting public health and the environment across the Commonwealth – and these investments will help to uphold Pennsylvanians’ constitutional right to clean air and pure water,” said Governor Josh Shapiro in a press release.
