Two Armstrong County projects were awarded low-interest loans by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) today, according to state Senator Don White and state Representative Jeff Pyle.
PENNVEST awarded a $216,125 loan for the Kittanning-Plumcreek Water Authority and a $2.1 million loan for the Worthington-West Franklin Joint Municipal Authority, according to Senator White, a member of the PENNVEST Board.
The funding awarded to the Kittanning-Plumcreek Water Authority will cover a portion of the costs to relocate 4,600 feet of water lines as part of the Route 422 realignment project in Plumcreek Township.
“This is part of the ongoing efforts to increase safety and improve traffic flow on Route 422 in our region, especially in Armstrong County,” said Senator White. “Route 422 is a major east-west highway that cuts through the heart of Armstrong, Butler and Indiana counties and as such is a key factor in our economic vitality now and for the future. It services an ever increasing load of commuter and commercial traffic and it is vital that we enhance the safety of this roadway.”
Worthington-West Franklin will use the funding to install 14,000 feet of water lines to provide service to 62 homes in the Craigsville area of West Franklin Township.
“This project will provide water service to residents who now use private wells that in many cases have poor water quality due to mining activities,” said Representative Pyle. “This PENNVEST loan will ease the financial burden on ratepayers while allowing the Authority to move forward with a much needed project that will provide these residents with a safe and reliable water supply.”
PENNVEST is not supported by the state’s General Fund budget, which covers the daily operations and services of the Commonwealth. PENNVEST financing is provided through the use of federal funding and prior bond issues by the state as well as proceeds from the Marcellus Shale Impact Fee legislation, Act 13 of 2012.