Harkins, Merski: $18M awarded to remove lead risk lines and modernize West 12th facility
Rep. Robert Merski April 15, 2026 | 11:35 AM
ERIE, April 15 – State Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced today that the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority approved an $18 million financing package to protect Erie residents by replacing galvanized service lines and upgrading the water authority’s maintenance facility and distribution system.
“We’re investing in durable solutions that stop threats to water quality at the source and safeguard our neighborhoods for decades to come,” Harkins said. “This funding prioritizes communities that need it most and ensures that families can trust the water coming from their taps.”
“These projects modernize the backbone of Erie’s water system and strengthen the Authority’s ability to respond and maintain service,” Merski said. “By pairing targeted upgrades with affordable financing, we protect residents and lock in lasting value for taxpayers.”
The Pennvest awards will fund two projects. Phase 5 of the Customer-Side Galvanized Service Line Replacement will replace about 1,250 private-side galvanized service connections that remain downstream of previously removed lead goosenecks and other lead components. Work includes private-side service line replacement, excavation, backfill and surface restoration, and prioritizes neighborhoods with household incomes at or below the state median.
The West 12th Street Maintenance Facility Renovation and Distribution System project will renovate the Authority’s primary maintenance facility at 240 West 12th Street and fund targeted distribution system work. The initial phase covers selective demolition, asbestos abatement, structural and general trades, installation of a building-wide fire suppression and alarm system, new plumbing and HVAC, and electrical and security upgrades. Later phases will include pipe lining for select transmission lines and targeted water main replacements, including a full replacement along Bird Drive between East 27th and East 32nd streets.
The Authority’s system serves approximately 56,798 households in the City of Erie; the boroughs of McKean and Wesleyville; and the townships of Greene, Harborcreek, Lawrence Park, McKean, Millcreek and Summit, with bulk service to Fairview and Summit township water authorities.
Pennvest funds sewer, stormwater and drinking water projects across Pennsylvania. Its low-cost financial assistance helps make the water consumed every day by thousands of Pennsylvanians safe to drink.