The Shapiro administration recently announced that Pennsylvania American Water has secured low-interest financing from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) for two water main extension projects in Washington County, totaling $15.5 million. These loans will enable the company to provide safe, reliable public water service and enhanced fire protection to nearly 60 homes, a public school district, and a fire department.
“We’re grateful to PENNVEST for approving our loan request. This financing will allow us to extend water mains to residents who currently lack adequate public water service,” said Bruce Aiton, Vice President of Engineering at Pennsylvania American Water. “Our goal is to deliver high-quality, reliable water service, and these PENNVEST-supported projects will help us achieve that in new communities.”
The first PENNVEST loan of $10.4 million will fund the installation of approximately 6.5 miles of new water main along Avella Road (SR50), extending service to Cross Creek, Independence, and Mount Pleasant townships, as well as the Avella Area School District. This project will create around 35 new customer connections and improve water pressure to enhance fire protection for the Avella Fire Department.
The second loan, totaling $5.1 million, will support the installation of about three miles of new water main along Old Steubenville Pike and Campbell Road, extending service to Robinson and Smith townships. This project will offer around 23 new customer connections currently reliant on private wells, improving water quality and pressure.
“The Shapiro Administration is committed to ensuring every Pennsylvanian has access to clean water. Reliable water infrastructure is essential for community health,” said PENNVEST Chairman Dr. Brian Regli. “With federal funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, we have a unique opportunity to enhance water infrastructure across Pennsylvania.”
