Plumstead Awarded $3.89M To Improve Water Distribution System

PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA — Plumstead Township has been awarded a $3.89 million grant through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) to fund improvements to the township's public water distribution system.

The funding was announced jointly by State Rep. Shelby Labs and State Senator Steve Santarsiero.

The funding will support the township's Water Distribution Interconnect PFAS Project, which will connect and consolidate two public water systems to improve water pressure, reliability and overall system performance. The project will also address identified contamination involving per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as forever chemicals.

“Investing in our water infrastructure is essential to protecting our communities and ensuring residents have access to reliable, high-quality drinking water with adequate water pressure,” said Santarsiero. “I’m proud to support this funding for Plumstead Township to consolidate its water distribution systems, improve water pressure and consistency for thousands of residents, reduce energy consumption, and resolve the PFAS contamination concern. Low water pressure is not only inconvenient for residents – it can make it harder for our firefighters to do their job. This investment will help better meet the water needs of our community for years to come.”

The project includes the installation of approximately 5,400 feet of 12-inch water main, 336 feet of pipe installed through horizontal directional drilling, 22 gate valves and 10 fire hydrants.

“Water infrastructure projects are expensive, and our communities need resources to address these issues without placing the financial burden on local residents,” said Labs. “I'm pleased this grant will help the township make necessary improvements and address concerns that affect the people who depend on this system every day.”

Connecting the two systems will help reduce low-pressure conditions that can affect water service and firefighting capabilities. The improvements will also address operational challenges associated with maintaining separate water systems.

PENNVEST provides funding for drinking water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure projects throughout Pennsylvania.