HARRISBURG — State Senator Dan Laughlin (R-49) today announced the approval of $10 million in funding through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) to support the Erie City Water Authority’s second phase of its galvanized service line replacement initiative.
The project, backed by a combination of loan and non-repayment funding from PENNVEST, will replace approximately 1,250 deteriorating galvanized water service lines in environmental justice communities within the City of Erie. These service lines were formerly connected downstream of lead goosenecks and other lead components, posing a potential health risk due to corrosion and contamination.
“This funding represents a significant investment in Erie’s future, ensuring our residents—particularly those in disadvantaged communities—have access to clean, safe drinking water,” said Sen. Laughlin. “I commend the Erie City Water Authority for its continued commitment to modernizing our water infrastructure and protecting public health.”
The Erie City Water Authority serves more than 31,000 households in Erie and neighboring municipalities. By replacing these outdated service lines, the project is expected to improve water quality, enhance system reliability, and reduce the risk of lead exposure for thousands of residents.
The $10 million package includes approximately $9.6 million in non-repayment funding and $414,900 in low-interest loans. Without this support, residents in the impacted areas could have faced nearly a 92% increase in water rates. The funding effectively reduces the financial burden on ratepayers while delivering long-term public health and infrastructure benefits.
Construction is scheduled to begin in January 2026 and be completed by November 2028.
For more state-related news and information, constituents can visit www.senatorlaughlin.com or follow Senator Laughlin on Facebook and Twitter @senatorlaughlin.
CONTACT
Chris Carroll
Phone: 814-453-2515
Email: ccarroll@pasen.gov