Shenango Valley News

On Thursday, April 4, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) visited the Cranberry Township Brush Creek Water Pollution Control Facility and announced a significant development. Rep. Kelly presented a $5 million Community Project Funding grant to township officials for a crucial project.

"Projects like these here in Cranberry Township are a great return on investment for Pennsylvania taxpayers," emphasized Rep. Kelly during the presentation. He highlighted the importance of the initiative by stating, "Cranberry Township is a rapidly growing community that is giving people a reason to move to the area, work, and raise a family. This project ensures the township can meet the needs of its residents for decades to come."

The $5 million grant, secured by Rep. Kelly, is part of the FY2023 federal budget. The funding aims to enhance solids handling and the dewatering process at the facility. By improving hydraulic processes, the project seeks to protect the Brush Creek Watershed and maintain high environmental standards for effluent water treatment. Additionally, it will enhance in-plant flow management to better handle peak weather flows and enhance the quality of discharged effluent.

The Treatment Plant, situated along Brush Creek, plays a vital role in providing wastewater treatment services not only to Cranberry Township but also to portions of Pine, Marshall, and New Sewickley townships. Through physical, chemical, and biological processes, the plant effectively removes pollution from wastewater collected from various sources. Treated water is then released into Brush Creek, contributing to environmental restoration for the ecosystem.

This grant allocation underscores the commitment to environmental preservation and community development in Cranberry Township, ensuring sustainable water management practices for current and future residents.