Harkins, Merski: $6.5 million in funding secured for Erie City Water Authority
Will fund replacement of water service lines
Rep. Patrick J. Harkins January 22, 2025 | 11:47 AM
ERIE, Jan. 22 – A $3,233,574 low-interest loan and a $3,266,426 grant from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority will further efforts to improve water quality in Erie County, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced today.
"This initiative represents a vital step in our ongoing efforts to promote environmental justice and protect public health in Erie,” Harkins said. “It ensures that we can continue to provide safe and reliable water services to our residents without placing the financial burden on them.
“This is exactly the type of forward-thinking investment our commonwealth should be making.”
“Replacing these aging connections, some of which contain lead components, is crucial for the well-being of our community,” Merski said. “This investment allows us to address these issues head on and improve the quality of life for our residents.
“We are grateful for Pennvest's support and commitment to our community.”
The lawmakers said the project will involve the replacement of approximately 860 outdated service connections in the environmental justice areas of Erie city. These connections include galvanized pipes that were previously linked to water mains containing lead components, such as lead goosenecks. This proactive project builds on the authority's previous efforts to remove lead elements, ensuring that the city's water infrastructure remains robust and safe for years to come.
Pennvest specializes in funding sewer, storm water and drinking water projects across Pennsylvania. Pennvest’s low-cost financial assistance helps make the water that is consumed every day by thousands of Pennsylvanians safe to drink.