Aqua Pennsylvania Receives More than $12 Million in Funding to Construct PFAS Treatment Facilities in Northeast Pennsylvania
Projects in Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties are part of Aqua Pennsylvania’s commitment to remove “forever chemicals” in drinking water; funding reduces associated costs for customers
Aqua Pennsylvania announced today it secured funding totaling $12.4 million through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) to support its continuing commitment to remove PFAS from drinking water. The combination of principal forgiveness loans and low-interest loans support 5 projects to install PFAS treatment systems at 6 community well sites in Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties.
“For years, Aqua Pennsylvania has led the way in removing ‘forever chemicals’ from drinking water,” said Aqua Pennsylvania President Marc Lucca. “The PENNVEST process requires well-planned projects from the start. We are committed to working within the PENNVEST guidelines to obtain funding opportunities that allow us to cost-effectively deliver high-quality drinking water.”
Construction on the PFAS treatment facilities is scheduled to begin in late June in the following communities:
LACKAWANNA COUNTY
- Jefferson Heights Wells 1 & 2, Jefferson Township
- Jefferson Heights Well 3, Jefferson Township
LUZERNE COUNTY
- Applewood Manor Well, Dallas Township
- Penn Lake Park Well, Penn Lake Borough
- White Haven Well, White Haven Borough
The five treatment facilities are expected to be completed in 2026. The new facilities will positively impact 860 customers. Leaders in Northeast Pennsylvania applaud the ongoing work to remove PFAS from residents’ drinking water.
“We are grateful for Aqua Pennsylvania’s investment in Dallas Township and proud to support infrastructure that promotes the health and well-being of our residents,” said William J. Grant, Dallas Township Supervisor Chairman. “This project not only ensures a cleaner, safer, and more consistent water supply, but it also supports responsible growth in the Back Mountain. We look forward to continued collaboration that enhances the quality of life in our community.”
Since 2021, Aqua Pennsylvania has secured more than $160 million in PENNVEST loans and principal forgiveness loans. More than $59 million in funding has been awarded for PFAS treatment projects. This support has helped Aqua Pennsylvania to add PFAS treatment to 25 wells at 20 sites across the Commonwealth.
Aqua Pennsylvania is in full compliance with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) PFAS drinking water standards and on track to meet federal standards as well.
Find out more about Aqua Pennsylvania’s commitment to our customers in the Commonwealth.
About Aqua Pennsylvania
Aqua Pennsylvania provides water and wastewater service to approximately 1.5 million people in 32 counties throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Visit AquaWater.com for more information or follow @MyAquaWater on Facebook and @MyAquaWater on X.
About Essential
Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE:WTRG) delivers safe, clean, reliable services that improve quality of life for individuals, families, and entire communities. With a focus on water, wastewater and natural gas, Essential is committed to sustainable growth, operational excellence, a superior customer experience, and premier employer status. We are advocates for the communities we serve and are dedicated stewards of natural lands, protecting more than 7,600 acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint.
Operating as the Aqua and Peoples brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across nine states. Essential is one of the most significant publicly traded water, wastewater service and natural gas providers in the U.S. Learn more at www.essential.co.
Forward-Looking Statements
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