The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) announced that it received a $37.3 million funding package from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) for upcoming Small Diameter Water Main Replacement projects.
The funding will replace approximately 4 miles of water main in two Pittsburgh neighborhoods. The projects will improve water reliability and safety through the replacement of aging or undersized water mains.
“With continued support from the PENNVEST Board, Governor Shapiro, state leaders and the City of Pittsburgh, PWSA can effectively extend the useful life of our water distribution system while minimizing the impact to ratepayers,” said PWSA Director of Finance, Ed Barca. “Our partnership with PENNVEST is vitally important for strengthening the water system that every Pittsburgh resident and business relies on.”
The funding package is split between $2.5 million in grants, which do not need to be repaid, and $34.8 million in low-interest loans. As a public water utility, PWSA is eligible for these more cost-effective grants and loans, which are invested directly back into the system without profit motive.
Construction will take place in Brighton Heights and Squirrel Hill South beginning in the spring of 2024 and will continue through mid-2025. Under this contract, PWSA will replace any lead service lines found at the 621 locations it will touch as part of the water main replacement efforts.
