HARRISBURG (Jan. 30, 2019) –Sen. Michele Brooks announced that the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PennVEST) has just approved a $3 million loan for Meadville Area Water Authority in Crawford County.
“In order for our area to grow, as well as to retain current businesses, we need to ensure that our infrastructure can handle additional growth,” Brooks said.
This project will help improve the Bessemer Street business corridor.
The soil conditions from the former railroad yard along Bessemer Street are causing the water lines to deteriorate, resulting in numerous breaks and service interruptions. To remedy this situation, the Authority is proposing to replace the existing water line with new ductile iron water line wrapped in polywrap, which will assist in preventing corrosion.
The project is critical for the 12 businesses, who together employ approximately 100 workers, on the waterline and provides for future expansion and development, including the evolving French Creek Heritage initiative.
“Without this project, new growth in the region could be hampered,” Sen. Brooks said. “These low-interest loans help make it possible for our communities to address large infrastructure projects. I appreciate the support of the PennVEST Board, our local authorities, and our other local officials for helping to bring these projects to fruition,” she added.
“The financing options offered by PennVEST help to enhance economic development opportunities that seek to benefit the entire region.”
Contact: Diane McNaughton (717) 787-1322 dmmcnaughton@pasen.gov