A major water system project in Erie was awarded $32 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) today (October 16), according to Senator Dan Laughlin.
The Erie City Water Authority was awarded the low-interest loan toward a major four-phase water system project to correct deficiencies including inadequate pumping capacity and lack of water storage facilities.
The overall project includes: replacement of all eight pumps and installation of a sodium hypochlorite feed system and emergency power back up at the Cherry Street Pump Station; numerous upgrades to the Wasielewski Water Treatment Plant; upgrades to the Asbury Pump Station; and, construction of a new 1 million gallon storage tank at the South Booster Tank site.
“The project will replace deteriorating water lines and upgrade equipment to ensure that customers have access to a continuous flow of safe water,” Senator Laughlin said. “This PENNVEST funding will help the Authority to address water flow issues and meet state regulation, while easing the financial burden that otherwise would have fallen on ratepayers.”
PENNVEST financing is provided through the use of federal funding and prior bond issues by the state. It is not supported by the state’s General Fund budget, which covers the daily operations and services of the Commonwealth.
