Abney: $32 million+ secured to remove lead in Pittsburgh’s drinking water, enhance water conservation
Rep. Aerion Andrew Abney January 25, 2024 | 5:01 PM
PITTSBURGH, Jan. 25 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, announced that a total of $32,058,100 was secured by the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority for lead remediation and water conservation measures across multiple Pittsburgh neighborhoods.
The state funds, facilitated by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority, will be used to replace approximately 1,375 public and 1,260 private lead service lines in the areas of Millvale Borough, Mount Washington, South Side Slopes, Garfield, Upper Lawrenceville, Central Northside, Manchester, Perry North, Perry South and Spring Hill. Many of these communities are at a disproportionately higher risk for lead contamination.
Consumers will also be able to save water, as they are currently required to flush their systems each morning prior to use.
Abney, whose legislative district includes four of the localities in the service area, said, “Ensuring the health of the neighbors I represent and preserving the local environment are paramount. These efforts will also help keep more dollars in the pockets of individuals and families who need them the most.”
“Safe drinking water is a basic necessity that must be available to everyone,” state Rep. Lindsay Powell, D-Allegheny, said. “Investing monies in these critical infrastructural improvements is an investment in the health and safety of citizens and the environment.” Powell represents the citizens of Millvale, Upper Lawrenceville and Spring Hill.
State Rep. La’Tasha D. Mayes, D-Allegheny and representative to the citizens of Garfield, said, “With these funds, we have the opportunity to assist economically disadvantaged communities that have historically been underserved and eliminate high lead exposure levels in our water system. Regardless of their economic status, people deserve access to clean drinking water.”
The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority funds water projects throughout PA that safeguard public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and increase job opportunities.
A list of the PENNVEST funding awarded statewide is available here: https://www.media.pa.gov/Pages/Pennvest-Details.aspx?newsid=81.