Luzerne Times

Dec. 19, 2023 - Rep. Dane Watro (R-Luzerne/Schuylkill) has announced the allocation of more than $4.6 million in state funding for water and sewer system improvement projects in Luzerne and Schuylkill counties. This funding will help address critical infrastructure needs and ensure a safe and reliable water system for the communities in these counties.

Watro emphasized the importance of state funding in completing infrastructure improvements, stating, "Construction costs are on the rise for municipalities across the Commonwealth. That's why it's so important state funding like this is available to help complete infrastructure improvements and ensure a safe, reliable water system for the communities I represent in Luzerne and Schuylkill counties."

The funding includes grants totaling over $3.47 million for the Hazleton City Authority, which will be used for upgrades to its water treatment plant, a pump station, and distribution system. Watro highlighted the significance of these upgrades, stating, "Experts anticipate the I-81/I-80 corridor will create 300 million square feet of additional industrial space and 20,000 new jobs over the next decade, underscoring the importance of having the infrastructure in place to support future development in the greater Hazleton region."

In addition to the grants awarded to the Hazleton City Authority, several other municipalities will also receive funding for their water and sewer system projects. The Greater Hazleton Joint Sewer Authority will receive $370,000 to replace old sewer lines in Hazleton, the Kline Township Municipal Authority will receive $421,312 to replace a clean water line in McAdoo Borough, and the Ringtown Sewer Authority will receive $341,770 to fund improvements to its wastewater treatment plant.

These grants were approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) through its Small Water and Sewer Program (SWS) and Water Supply, Sanitary Sewer, and Storm Water Projects Program (H2O PA). The CFA, an independent agency of the Commonwealth, is responsible for funding programs and investments in Pennsylvania's economic growth.

With this funding, the Luzerne and Schuylkill counties will be able to improve their water and sewer systems, ensuring the communities have access to safe and reliable water resources. Rep. Dane Watro's advocacy and collaboration with local leaders have been instrumental in securing these grants and addressing the infrastructure needs of the counties he represents.

Contact:

Andy Briggs

Media Contact for Rep. Dane Watro

Phone: 717-260-6474

Email: abriggs@pahousegop.com

Website: RepWatro.com / Facebook.com/RepWatro

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.repwatro.com/News/33313/Press-Releases/Watro-Announces-$46-Million-in-State-Funding-for-Water,-Sewer-System-Upgrades-in-Luzerne,-Schuylkill-Counties-