State Representative Dane Watro (R-Luzerne/Schuylkill) and Senator Dave Argall (R-29) have announced that $500,000 in grants from the Pennsylvania Small Water and Sewer Program will be allocated to several municipalities in Schuylkill County. The funding was awarded by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
Watro emphasized the broader impact of these investments: “Investing in our water and wastewater infrastructure isn’t just about pipes and pumps. It’s about public health, economic vitality and long-term sustainability for our communities,” said Watro. “These grants will modernize critical systems, ensuring cleaner water, safer wastewater treatment and stronger foundations for future growth. Upgrading local infrastructure supports both everyday quality of life and opens the door for new development in our region.”
The distribution of funds is as follows: The Municipal Authority of the Borough of Ringtown will receive $212,416 to upgrade its wastewater treatment plant. Mahanoy Township Authority has been granted $89,250 to replace aging controllers at its existing water treatment facility. The Mahanoy City Sewer Authority will obtain $198,334 for a project involving the replacement of five aeration blowers and improvements to other equipment at its wastewater treatment plant.
Argall noted the significance of these resources: “Improved water infrastructure is very much needed in so many of our communities,” said Argall. “These highly competitive state funds are very important.”
The PA Small Water and Sewer Program allows grants between $30,000 and $500,000 for projects related to municipal water supply systems, sanitary sewer systems, storm sewers, or flood control efforts. Funding may be used for construction, improvement, expansion, rehabilitation or repair.
The Commonwealth Financing Authority was created in 2004 as an independent agency within Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development to oversee economic stimulus initiatives.
