HARRISBURG – Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49) announced the approval of funding for two critical water infrastructure projects in Erie County. The projects, supported by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST), will significantly improve water system reliability, public health and community well-being in the region.
“These investments are essential for Erie County’s future,” said Laughlin. “I’m grateful to PENNVEST for recognizing the importance of these projects and ensuring our communities receive the resources they need to thrive.”
Erie City Water Authority was approved for $6.5 million in a low-interest loan and grant package to replace approximately 860 galvanized service lines in the City of Erie. The work includes excavation, backfill and site restoration to eliminate health risks associated with lead exposure.
The Erie City Water Authority has already removed lead components on the public side of the service lines. This phase will focus on private-side replacements, reducing the health risks of lead contamination and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
“Access to safe drinking water is a fundamental need, and this project directly addresses the potential risks posed by aging service lines,” said Laughlin.
The North East Borough Water Authority was approved for a $4.5 million low-interest loan to address aging infrastructure in North East Borough and North East Township. The project involves replacing 2,000 feet of cast iron distribution lines along Hutchinson Drive with ductile iron piping, as well as adding valves, fire hydrants and improving overall service reliability.
Additional upgrades include installing emergency generators at key pump stations to ensure an uninterrupted water supply during power outages, replacing raw water pumps to maintain operational efficiency, adding covers to sedimentation tanks at the water treatment plant to prevent debris interference and expanding the supervisory control and data acquisition system for enhanced monitoring and chemical feed adjustments.
“By addressing deteriorating infrastructure and ensuring consistent water availability, this project underscores our commitment to safe, reliable water for North East Borough and surrounding areas,” said Laughlin.
PENNVEST is an independent state agency that provides financial assistance for sewer, storm water and drinking water projects in communities across the commonwealth.
CONTACT: David Kozak