Pennsylvania American Water Secures $6.1 Million for Infrastructure Upgrades in Berks and Cumberland Counties

Pennsylvania American Water Secures $6.1 Million for Infrastructure Improvements

Recently, the Pennsylvania American Water Company received a significant boost for its efforts to enhance water and wastewater services through a financial package exceeding $6 million. This funding, awarded by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST), aims to support critical infrastructure improvement projects specifically in Berks and Cumberland counties.

In a public announcement made by the Shapiro administration, the total awarded funding amounts to $6,183,799, combining both grants and affordable loans. The details of these projects highlight Pennsylvania American Water's commitment to delivering high-quality services while adhering to environmental standards and state regulations. Tony Nokovich, the Vice President of Engineering at Pennsylvania American Water, expressed gratitude for the financial support from PENNVEST, emphasizing its potential to bolster service quality for local customers.

Funding Breakdown

The funding package includes a grant of $122,263 and a low-interest loan of $3,627,737 allocated for the replacement of approximately 384 lead service lines in the New Cumberland Borough of Cumberland County. Eliminating lead components is pivotal, as it will directly improve water quality for households and aligns with the broader initiative to remove lead-containing lines from public supply systems. The terms for this loan are notably favorable, featuring a fixed interest rate of just 1% over 248 months.

Simultaneously, a significant loan amounting to $2,433,799 is dedicated to the Exeter Wastewater Corrective Action Plan in Berks County. This extensive project encompasses sliplining more than 14,200 feet of various diameter mains and replacing around 1,200 feet of eight-inch main, all designed to curb inflow and infiltration issues within the wastewater collection system. Similar to the previous loan, this funding is structured with a competitive interest rate of 1% for the first five years, followed by an adjusted rate of 1.743% for the subsequent 20 years.

A Commitment to Clean Water

The governor highlighted the constitutional right of every Pennsylvanian to access clean drinking water, reinforcing the administration's dedication to ensuring this right is upheld across the state. The historical investment in clean water infrastructure aims to assist local communities by not only replacing aging lead service lines but also improving water treatment facilities to eliminate contaminants and enhance overall public health. These initiatives are crafted to meet pressing challenges in communities, assuring residents of safe and reliable drinking water.

About American Water

American Water, listed on the NYSE as AWK, holds the title of the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, with a proud legacy beginning in 1886. Their mission is evident in the provision of safe, clean, and sustainable drinking water and wastewater services to over 14 million individuals across 14 states, along with various military installations. Supported by a workforce of 6,700 skilled professionals, American Water remains committed to excellence in service and community engagement, ensuring responsiveness to customers' needs.

For further details and updates, interested individuals can visit American Water's official website and follow their social media profiles on platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram.

Pennsylvania American Water, as the prominent subsidiary of American Water, plays a crucial role in maintaining service for approximately 2.4 million residents in Pennsylvania. With a team of dedicated employees, their focus remains firmly on delivering safe, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater services.