State Senator David G. Argall | Pennsylvania 29th District
State Senator David G. Argall | Pennsylvania 29th District
HARRISBURG – The Tamaqua Borough Authority has been granted $20 million from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) to carry out substantial upgrades to the borough’s wastewater treatment plant. The funding, announced today, includes both a grant and a low-interest loan, with the majority allocated as a grant.
Brian Connely, the Tamaqua Borough Council President, expressed gratitude for the funding, stating, "We are extremely pleased with this grant funding from PENNVEST." He emphasized the significance of the grant in reducing the financial burden on taxpayers and modernizing operations.
Sen. Dave Argall highlighted the broader impact of the investment, noting that "This massive investment in Tamaqua’s infrastructure is not just a win for the thousands of residents who are served by the Tamaqua Borough Authority." Rep. Jamie Barton also underscored the importance of the funding in enabling the completion of necessary improvements without excessive costs, stating, "The improvements to the wastewater treatment plant are needed and necessary, but they aren’t cheap."
The planned upgrades aim to enhance the efficiency of the wastewater treatment plant and prevent pollution of the Little Schuylkill River. Specific improvements include the construction of a new headworks building, rehabilitation of clarifiers and aeration tanks, conversion of aeration tanks, installation of new systems, and replacement of equipment.
In a joint effort, Sen. Argall, Rep. Barton, borough officials, and engineers collaborated to secure the funding, recognizing the collective effort required for the successful realization of the project. The funding is seen as a crucial step in advancing local infrastructure and environmental conservation efforts.
The modernization project is poised to bring significant benefits to the Tamaqua community, signaling a commitment to sustainable water management and infrastructure development.
For further information, interested parties can contact Jim Brugger (Argall) or Jake Gillespie (Barton).