News Summary
Aqua Pennsylvania has received $17.3 million in funding from PENNVEST to enhance drinking water quality by removing PFAS and replacing lead service lines. The funds will enable advanced PFAS treatment at six well sites and the replacement of over 200 lead lines in Bristol Borough. This proactive initiative aims to safeguard public health and comply with upcoming EPA regulations.
Pennsylvania has taken a significant step toward enhancing drinking water quality as Aqua Pennsylvania has been awarded $17.3 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST). This funding will primarily address the removal of harmful Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and the replacement of aging lead service lines across various communities.
A substantial portion of the funding, specifically $15.05 million, is earmarked for the development of advanced PFAS treatment systems at six community well sites located in Bucks, Chester, and Luzerne Counties. This initiative aims to serve over 5,800 customers in municipalities such as New Britain Borough, East Marlborough Township, Franklin Township, West Brandywine Township, West Whiteland Township, and White Haven Borough. The construction of these treatment facilities is anticipated to be completed by the summer or fall of 2026.
This funding initiative aligns with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recent announcement in April 2024, which established maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for six PFAS chemicals in drinking water. By investing in these improvements, Aqua Pennsylvania is positioning itself to comply with federal guidelines well ahead of the 2029 compliance deadline set by the EPA.
PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are synthetic substances that resist breaking down in the environment and within the human body. They have been extensively used in various industrial applications; hence their presence in drinking water poses health concerns. The proactive measures taken by Aqua Pennsylvania indicate a strong commitment to public health and safety.
In addition to PFAS treatment, Aqua Pennsylvania has also secured an additional $2.3 million in grants and loans from PENNVEST to facilitate the replacement of lead service lines. This program will specifically target over 200 customer-owned lead and galvanized service lines in Bristol Borough, Bucks County. The replacement project is scheduled to commence in June 2025 and is expected to conclude by early 2026.
For residents, this replacement initiative comes at no direct cost, showcasing Aqua Pennsylvania’s dedication to its communities. Furthermore, a warranty will be provided upon completion of the work, ensuring the quality and reliability of the newly installed service lines. This initiative is crucial for reducing health risks associated with lead exposure, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women.
Aqua Pennsylvania operates as a vital utility, providing essential water and wastewater services to approximately 1.5 million people across 32 counties within Pennsylvania. The recent funding from PENNVEST marks an important investment in the state’s infrastructure, with long-term benefits for public health and environmental safety.
As communities work towards better water quality and infrastructure, Aqua Pennsylvania’s initiatives represent a critical response to emerging water safety challenges. The advancements brought about by the funding will not only improve the quality of drinking water but also ensure that essential resources are available to future generations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Chemanalyst
- Wikipedia: PFAS
- Business Wire
- Google Search: PFAS drinking water
- GuruFocus
- Google Scholar: PFAS health effects
- Standard Speaker
- Encyclopedia Britannica: lead service lines
