PENNVEST Awards $5 Million for Local Projects

Funding for new water lines, acid mine discharge cleanup

Two local projects were awarded a combined $5 million in state funding today, according to state Senator Don White and state Representatives Jeff Pyle and Donna Oberlander.

The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) approved a $3,211,117 low-interest loan for the Kittanning Suburban Joint Water Authority and a $1,870,671 grant for the Armstrong Conservation District, according to Senator White, a member of the PENNVEST Board.

The Kittanning Suburban Joint Water Authority plans to apply its low-interest loan toward its 2012 Water System Improvements project which includes the construction of a 300,000-gallon water storage tank and installation of 41,500 feet of waterlines in various areas of East Franklin and North Buffalo townships.

"This project will address serious water supply problems currently facing residents living in parts of the two townships," said Representative Pyle. "The Department of Environmental Protection has previously noted that some of those areas have reported water shortages in the past."

"Some residents in North Buffalo Township, particularly those living in the Glades Run area, have significant concerns about the quality of their water and the degradation of wells caused by past mining activities," said Senator White. "This project is a long time coming and will provide those residents with a safe, reliable water supply."

The Armstrong Conservation District will apply its grant toward the costs of a major acid mine cleanup project in the Middle Allegheny-Redbank Watershed in Madison Township, Clarion County. The proposed project involves construction of a passive treatment system for acid mine discharge, reclamation of nearly 11 acres of acid mine lands, elimination of approximately 700 feet of dangerous highwall and re-vegetation of eroding spoil piles.

"This is a rather unique project for PENNVEST funding," said Senator White. "Typically that funding goes for direct improvements or construction involving water or sewage systems. This project focuses on addressing serious contamination issues created by former mining operations. It’s unusual, but it will certainly have an impact and improve the quality of life and environment in our region."

"I am very pleased that PENNVEST supported this project," said Representative Oberlander. "This work will address the highly acidic water with high concentrations of iron and aluminum that is flowing out of this area and ultimately ending up in the Allegheny River."

Contact:

Joe Pittman
(724) 357-0151