The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency this week awarded $42.4 million to Pennsylvania to improve water quality.

Over the past 20 years, Pennsylvania has received over $1 billion from EPA for water and wastewater projects.

“EPA is committed to helping communities get safe, clean water. These grants are important in maintaining public health, protecting and restoring water quality by combating water pollution and focusing our efforts to protect the water we drink, swim and play in”, said Donald S. Welsh, regional administrator for EPA’s mid-Atlantic region.

The funding has been awarded to Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority to further capitalize its Clean Water State Revolving Fund, which provides low interest loans for the construction of water treatment facilities, nonpoint source and estuary projects and other water quality management activities.

Projects supported by this fund protect and improve water quality in the Commonwealth’s rivers, lakes and streams for drinking, recreation and natural habitat. Eligible projects include upgrades to wastewater treatment facilities and collection systems.

Projects for wastewater treatment facilities include planning, design and construction of new facilities and improvements to existing treatment plants, sewers and collection lines. Nonpoint source and estuary projects include construction of structures to prevent and control erosion, ponds to control storm water runoff, equipment and structures used for animal waste and agricultural best management practices.

For more information, visit the Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund webpage.

5/23/2008