Shenango Valley News

Senator Michele Brooks has announced over $14.5 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) for water treatment improvements in Crawford County. The funding will benefit Saegertown Borough and the City of Titusville, addressing critical issues in their water systems.

Saegertown Borough will receive more than $12.6 million to implement a polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) treatment system. Since 2020, elevated PFAS levels were detected in two wells, leading to their closure. In response, the borough plans to redirect all wells to a centralized PFAS treatment facility to provide safer drinking water. The PENNVEST funds will facilitate the construction of a filtration building with advanced systems to remove PFAS, benefiting over 300 households and several local facilities.

"Having worked closely with Saegertown Borough since the PFAS problem was discovered, everyone involved knows how important this PENNVEST funding is," stated Senator Brooks. She highlighted that this investment would prevent significant rate increases for residents and businesses.

The City of Titusville has secured a $2 million low-interest loan to develop new test and production wells. This initiative aims to gather data necessary for constructing a modern water treatment plant adjacent to an outdated facility from 1902. Approximately 2,000 households will benefit from improved water quality through this project.

"This vital funding for the City of Titusville will significantly enhance water quality," said Brooks, noting its importance for local employment and economic stability.

PENNVEST is an independent state agency providing financial aid for sewer, stormwater, and drinking water projects across Pennsylvania communities.