HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) awarded $4 million to Lewis Township in Union County to upgrade its wastewater system.
“PENNVEST’s commitment to this project will deliver much-needed repairs and expansion to the township’s sewer and curb future rate increases,” Yaw said.
The existing system dates back to the 1990s and serves 125 households in the township. The upgrades will boost capacity from 33,500 gallons per day to 44,000 gallons, expanding service to an additional 16 properties.
Local officials anticipated raising rates by 250% to cover the modernization, however, the PENNVEST funding will limit future increases to approximately 63%.
“In addition to eliminating public health concerns from malfunctioning equipment, the project adheres to best practices for land use and farmland preservation,” Yaw said.
PENNVEST is not supported by the state’s General Fund budget, which covers the daily operations and services of the Commonwealth. Financing is provided through the use of federal funding and prior bond issues by the state as well as proceeds from the Marcellus Shale Impact Fee legislation, Act 13 of 2012.
CONTACT: Nick Troutman