Rep. JoAnne Stehr (R-107) and Sen. Dave Argall (R-29) announced that the Pine Grove Joint Treatment Authority has been awarded a low-interest loan of more than $1.6 million from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) to modernize its wastewater treatment facility and collection system.
The funding will support major infrastructure improvements, including upgrades to 10 of the authority’s 13 pump stations with new pumps and controls. Additionally, the project will replace the gravity sewer main along Orchard Street in Pine Grove Borough, along with two manholes, 330 feet of gravity sewer line, and existing laterals, which will now include cleanouts at the right-of-way line.
Officials said the upgrades are critical to improving the system’s reliability and will prevent the discharge of untreated sewage into the Swatara Creek.
“This investment will strengthen Pine Grove’s wastewater infrastructure, protect public health and support long-term environmental sustainability,” Stehr said. “Upgrading aging pump stations and sewer lines is essential to maintaining reliable service for local residents while safeguarding the Swatara Creek from potential contamination.”
Sen. Argall echoed the importance of the funding, noting the high costs communities face with infrastructure projects. “This highly competitive funding will protect public health,” he said. “Projects like this one, while critical to building a healthy community, can be very expensive. I’m grateful PENNVEST recognizes how important supporting this project is.”
PENNVEST provides financing for sewer, stormwater, and drinking water projects across Pennsylvania. The program is funded through a mix of federal contributions, state bond issues, and revenue from the Marcellus Shale Impact Fee established under Act 13 of 2012.