Lycoming News

State Senator Gene Yaw and State Representative Jamie Flick have announced a $500,000 investment in the Borough of South Williamsport in Lycoming County. The funding, awarded through the Commonwealth Financing Authority's Flood Mitigation Program, will be used to rehabilitate and recertify the levee in the borough.

Sen. Yaw emphasized the importance of taking preventative measures to avoid future flood damage and ensuring that local governments receive the necessary funding for infrastructure repairs and improvements. He expressed his satisfaction in collaborating with Rep. Flick and local officials to secure these funds.

Rep. Flick, a lifelong resident of Lycoming County, expressed gratitude towards the Commonwealth Financing Authority for recognizing the severity of the issue facing the Borough of South Williamsport and awarding the grant funds needed for critical improvements to the levee system. She highlighted the significance of the project, stating that it will protect the physical life and property of residents, including 644 structures and nearly 60% of the borough's land area.

Sen. Yaw and Rep. Flick explained that the repairs are part of a larger rehabilitation project aimed at bringing the levee into compliance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Without FEMA certification and compliance, residents and businesses protected by the levee would face significantly higher flood insurance costs.

The funding for the Flood Mitigation Program is sourced from the Marcellus Legacy Fund, established by Act 13 of 2012. This fund ensures that a portion of the natural gas impact fees collected supports local environmental enhancement and conservation programs.

For more information and updates on state-related news, constituents can visit Senator Yaw's website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or follow him on Facebook and Twitter @SenatorGeneYaw.

Contact Information:

- Elizabeth Weitzel (Sen. Yaw): 717-787-3280

- Huntre Keip (Rep. Flick): 717-772-9837