Oct. 19, 2022
HARRISBURG – An application requesting funds for a new pump station along the Connoquenessing Creek in Ellwood City Borough was approved today by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST), according to Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Beaver/Butler/Lawrence)
To eliminate environmental and public health risks, the $6 million PENNVEST funding will be used to construct a new pump station with a sewage grinder approximately 2,300 feet of 18-inch gravity sewer line to the new pump station, as well as an addition 5,200 feet of 18-inch force main to the borough’s existing primary lift station, and a screening unit replacement at the primary lift station.
“Without this PENNVEST grant, user rates would increase by approximately 21%,” said Bernstine. “The new infrastructure and decommissioning of the existing interceptor will significantly reduce the risk of raw sewage contaminating the Connoquenessing Creek. Access to clean, safe water is a fundamental element of improved quality of life. It is also a crucial function of government to provide the proper core infrastructure systems to encourage new economic development.”
PENNVEST provides grants and low-interest loans to communities across the Commonwealth for sewer, stormwater and water projects. The projects contribute to improving Pennsylvania’s environment and the health of its people, while also providing opportunities for economic growth and jobs for Pennsylvania workers.
PENNVEST funding comes from a combination of state funds approved by voters, federal grants to PENNVEST from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and recycled loan repayments from previous PENNVEST funding awards. Funds for the projects are disbursed after bills for work are paid and receipts are submitted to PENNVEST.
Representative Aaron Bernstine
10th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Rick Leiner
717.260.6437 (office), 717.497.8478 (cell)
Rleiner@pahousegop.com