HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) has awarded a $2 million low-interest loan to make needed wastewater treatment improvements in Indiana County, according to Sen. Joe Pittman (R-41) and Rep. Jim Struzzi (R-62).
“Water systems are extremely vital to the health of a community, but very expensive to build and maintain,” Pittman said. “I’m pleased this substantial low-interest loan was approved by PENNVEST and will provide support for critical improvements. The funding will certainly be a central part of helping to safeguard our local water supplies and protect public health.”
Central Indiana County Joint Sanitary Authority is being awarded the $2 million low-interest loan for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Renovation project. The system currently serves approximately 2,225 residential customers within the Borough of Homer City and Center Township.
“These upgrades to the authority’s wastewater treatment plant will help the more than 2,200 customers it serves, as well as improve water quality in Two Lick Creek,” Struzzi said. “This is an example of the many benefits which are available to communities throughout Pennsylvania through PENNVEST. As a member of its board of directors, I am pleased to serve in this capacity and work with Sen. Pittman and local government groups to improve our infrastructure and environment. This is an example of government working to improve our overall quality of life in the Commonwealth.”
The current wastewater treatment plant, located in Center Township, was first constructed in 1997. Equipment at the existing wastewater treatment plant is aged and unable to process influent during high flow events. Numerous upgrades have been performed since initial construction to include an ultraviolet disinfection system in 2012. In April 2022 the Authority entered into a Consent Order and Agreement with the PA Department of Environmental Protection in response to exceeded discharge limits. This project will satisfy the terms of the order.
The proposed start date for the improvement project is June of 2024 with completion likely by June of 2025.
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. The next round of PENNVEST applications ends Feb. 7.
Media Contacts:
Kate Eckhart Flessner (Sen. Pittman)
Scott Little (Rep. Struzzi)