Burns: $900,000 in state funding approved for local drinking water projects
Pennvest grants will help offset costs, keep rates low
Northwest Delegation April 21, 2021 | 11:42 AM
EBENSBURG, April 21 – As a state representative laser-focused on getting things done for the people he represents, state Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, today announced two local drinking water projects have been selected to receive $900,000 in state grants.
Financing approved Wednesday by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority included:
- $300,000 Carrolltown Borough Municipal Authority, to replace service meters.
- $600,000 Patton Municipal Authority, to replace existing water lines.
“Several years ago after residents came to me seeking help with the poor water quality in Patton, I attended a municipal authority meeting and encouraged the board to apply for state funds to improve the situation. The board took my advice and is now receiving this funding to help both Patton and Carrolltown finance their critical drinking water projects by offsetting costs that otherwise would have been carried by local ratepayers,” Burns said. “There’s no avoiding these kinds of projects, but I’m dedicated to helping find state assistance whenever possible.”
The funding for Pennvest comes from a combination of state funds approved by voters, federal grants from the Environmental Protection Agency and recycled loan repayments from previous Pennvest funding awards. Funds for the projects are disbursed after bills for work are paid and receipts are submitted to Pennvest.
Since Burns took office, Pennvest has authorized more than $150 million in financing for local water, sewer and other critical infrastructure projects in his legislative district. As a fiscal conservative Burns has always lobbied for smart investments that will pay long-term dividends – and keep the costs of government off the back of local tax and rate payers.