Pennsylvania American Water Secures Over $25 Million for Critical Infrastructure Upgrades
In a vital development for Pennsylvania's water supply and safety, Pennsylvania American Water has been awarded a substantial sum of
$25,872,000 in grants and low-interest loans by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority, commonly known as
PENNVEST. This funding is crucial for advancing infrastructure improvement projects specifically targeted at
Lackawanna and
Lawrence Counties.
The announcement was made by the
Shapiro administration as part of a broader commitment to enhancing public health and modernizing vital drinking water systems throughout the Commonwealth. Governor
Josh Shapiro emphasized the administration’s commitment, noting, "Every Pennsylvanian has a constitutional right to pure water... We're investing in projects that protect public health and modernize drinking water infrastructure."
Infrastructure Projects Breakdown
Lackawanna County: Griffin Dam Rehabilitation
A portion of the PENNVEST funding is allocated to the
Griffin Dam rehabilitation project in Lackawanna County, which will receive
$16,922,000 to ensure compliance with current dam safety practices. This significant upgrade aims to enhance the dam’s stability during maximum flood conditions and improve functionality by modifying the spillway exit channel and outlet works, alongside reinforcing the seepage collection system. The loan offered for this project features an extremely low interest rate of
1% for the first five years, transitioning to
1.743% for the remaining term of twenty years. This financial structure supports Pennsylvania American Water's commitment to maintaining affordable rates for its customers while implementing necessary improvements.
Lawrence County: Lead Pipe Replacement
Moreover, in
Lawrence County, a comprehensive project is set to replace
approximately 603 lead and galvanized lead-impacted water service lines. This initiative is being financed through a combination of a
$3,769,099 grant and a
$5,180,901 loan from PENNVEST. The removal of these outdated and hazardous materials not only improves water quality for the residents but also aligns with the state's regulatory requirements aimed at eliminating lead-containing infrastructure. The terms of the loan are favorable, with a
1.00% interest rate spanning the full
29-year repayment period.
Tony Nokovich, Vice President of Engineering at Pennsylvania American Water, expressed gratitude towards PENNVEST, stating, "These projects will positively impact our service delivery, allowing us to enhance water and wastewater infrastructure across Pennsylvania." This statement reflects the broader mission of Pennsylvania American Water to uphold high-quality standards in water delivery while adhering to environmental regulations.
Looking Ahead
These infrastructure projects represent a significant advancement in Pennsylvania’s efforts to safeguard public health while enhancing the quality of water services across the state. As funding continues to support such essential initiatives, the residents of Lackawanna and Lawrence Counties can anticipate improvements that not only comply with modern safety standards but also promote long-term sustainability in their water service operations.
Moreover, with a rich history going back to 1886,
American Water—the parent company of Pennsylvania American Water—remains steadfast in its dedication to customer care, providing safe and reliable water services to approximately
14 million people across
14 states and
18 military installations. The organization continues to invest in initiatives that reflect its commitment to quality and innovation in water utility management. With dedicated professionals working tirelessly to deliver results, Pennsylvania American Water is poised to uphold its legacy as a trustworthy provider of essential water services.
For more information about this water quality project and the company’s ongoing efforts, you can visit
American Water's official page or follow them on social media channels.