Pennsylvania to invest in water and wastewater projects

The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) has announced an investment of $87m in 18 drinking water and wastewater projects in the state of Pennsylvania, US.

Of the funding, $77m is offered in form of loans and the remaining $10m as grants.

Chesapeake Bay is the biggest beneficiary of the investment, receiving $17.7m as a loan and grant combination for a project in Lycoming County to eliminate waste discharge from on-lot septic systems.

Other major beneficiaries include West Hills Area Water Pollution Control Authority, Johnstown City, Tiadaghton Valley Municipal Authority, and Burnham Borough Authority each receiving in funds in excess of $10m for a variety of water and wastewater projects.

The Johnstown Redevelopment Authority, Southwestern Pennsylvania Water Authority and Hazelton City Authority will receive funds ranging from $5m to 9$m.

The smallest grant provided was $131,000 to a project in Lancaster County, to eliminate nutrient discharges from a stream.

Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett said that the projects will bring environmental improvements as well as creating employment in the state.

"This funding is an investment in the future health of our citizens and our economy, both of which are of critical importance to me and my administration," said Corbett.

The investment is being sourced from state sponsored funds, federal grants and recycled loan repayments.