HARRISBURG – Senator Tracy Pennycuick (R-24) announced today that the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) has awarded grants and low-interest loans to assist communities in Montgomery County with drinking water infrastructure improvements to address PFAS, PFOA, and PFOS chemicals in water supplies.
PENNVEST has awarded $9,493,000 for the Aqua Pennsylvania Superior Main Water Treatment Facility. Of this amount, $7,842,004 was awarded as a grant, while $1,650,996 was provided as a loan. Carbon filters will be installed at three well treatment sites in New Hanover and Douglass Townships to mitigate polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. The project also includes the replacement of well pumps and the installation of treatment vessels. These systems serve approximately 5,000 residential customers.
Additionally, PENNVEST has awarded $1,989,000 for the Aqua Pennsylvania Perkiomen Township project. This funding will support the installation of ion exchange units to absorb perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) chemicals in water sourced from existing wells.
“Ensuring clean, healthy drinking water is essential. Funding for these critical infrastructure improvements will help improve water quality for residents throughout the region,” said Pennycuick. “In addition, these projects ensure utility rates do not increase substantially to address this important public health issue.”
PENNVEST funding invests in sewer, stormwater, and drinking water. projects. PENNVEST 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: Lidia Di Fiore (215) 541-2388