Erie County Times

Senator Dan Laughlin has announced the approval of nearly $11 million in funding for two significant water infrastructure projects in Erie County. The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) is backing these initiatives, which aim to enhance water system reliability and public health in the area.

“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.”

The Erie City Water Authority will receive a $6.5 million low-interest loan and grant package to replace around 860 galvanized service lines in the City of Erie. This work involves excavation, backfill, and site restoration to address health risks linked with lead exposure.

Having already removed lead components from the public side of service lines, this phase will focus on private-side replacements. It aims to reduce health risks associated with lead contamination and ensure 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 has been approved for a $4.5 million low-interest loan to upgrade aging infrastructure in North East Borough and North East Township. This project includes replacing 2,000 feet of cast iron distribution lines along Hutchinson Drive with ductile iron piping, adding valves, fire hydrants, and improving overall service reliability.

Additional improvements include installing emergency generators at key pump stations for uninterrupted water supply during power outages, replacing raw water pumps for 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 better 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 providing financial assistance for sewer, stormwater, and drinking water projects across Pennsylvania.