The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) today (October 20) awarded nearly $2 million in financing to Armstrong County, according to Senator Joe Pittman (R-41) and state Representative Abby Major (R-60).
Ford City was awarded a $1,560,500 grant and the Armstrong Conservation District received a $192,700 grant and a $192,700 low-interest loan, said Senator Pittman, a member of the PENNVEST Board.
Ford City intends to install 3,700 feet of plastic water mains, new lead-free service connections and fittings, and four fire hydrants along 3rd and 4th Avenues and 11th Street in Ford City Borough. This existing system serves 1,326 residential customers with a population of 2,991. Current user fees are not expected to increase as a result of the funding package.
“The existing system contains segments of cast iron main with lead joints, lead service connections, and lead fittings, with the main at its end of useful life and experiencing frequent breaks and leaks,” said Senator Pittman of the Ford City project. “The removal of lead components and other contaminants from the water system will reduce health concerns, while the new segments will improve water reliability for customers and reduce operation and maintenance expenses for the borough.”
The Armstrong Conservation District seeks to reduce stormwater runoff into a local tributary of the Cowanshannock Creek by replacing existing concrete sidewalks with roughly 2,850 square feet of pervious pavers; constructing 5 rain gardens, 560 feet of a vegetative swale, and up to 1,000 feet of multi-function riparian buffer to promote infiltration; installing 16 rain barrels to collect roof runoff water; planting 20 trees and up to 1.5 acres of native vegetative plantings; and removing a 3-inch abandoned gas line.
“Uncontrolled stormwater from the Armstrong Conservation District’s 14.8-acre property contributes to increased levels of sediment and nutrients being discharged into a local stream that feeds into the Allegheny River,” said Pittman. “The project will reduce the sediment and nutrients discharged into the stream, providing improved water quality at a low cost.”
“We are fortunate to have the Allegheny River in our backyard, but it comes with responsibility.” Representative Major added. “The Armstrong Conservation District project will help slow the flow of stormwater that ends up in the river, while also improving its quality. I’m also pleased to see that Ford City is receiving funding to help reduce lead in the system’s pipes that bring water to borough residents’ homes. Both of these projects will benefit Armstrong County residents for years to come.”
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: Jeremy Dias jdias@pasen.gov