HARRISBURG –– Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20) announced the approval of more than $9 million in financial assistance for a drinking water infrastructure project in Luzerne County.
Aqua Pennsylvania Inc. was awarded a $4.5 million grant and a low-interest loan for a nearly $4.7 million project to construct a new per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) treatment facility for the Oak Hill water system in Lehman Township. The project will install ion exchange treatment units and related infrastructure to remove PFAS, helping the system comply with current and future federal drinking water standards while continuing to provide safe drinking water to approximately 158 residential customers.
“The approved financial assistance represents an important commitment to protecting public health and ensuring our communities have dependable, high-quality drinking water,” Baker said. “Whether removing emerging contaminants like PFAS or replacing aging treatment facilities, this projects will strengthen critical infrastructure and help meet the needs of residents for decades to come.”
The funding was awarded by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST). PENNVEST is a financing authority that provides low-cost financial assistance to address water, wastewater, stormwater and non-point source pollution problems that impact public health, safety, the environment, regulatory compliance and economic development.