State Rep. Tina Pickett | Pennsylvania 110th Legislative District
State Rep. Tina Pickett | Pennsylvania 110th Legislative District
Rep. Tina Pickett and Sen. Lisa Baker have announced a significant financial boost for Lake Winola Municipal Authority's wastewater treatment plant in Overfield Township, Wyoming County. A $2.7 million low-interest state loan has been approved by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) to fund necessary upgrades at the facility.
"This loan will fund essential upgrades to the plant, ensuring it meets modern clean water standards and operates more efficiently," stated Pickett. She emphasized that the project aims to protect public health and the environment, benefiting the local community in the long term.
The funding will be directed towards rehabilitating two lagoons at the plant, originally built in 1988 and now considered outdated. The planned improvements include installing new liners, cleaning aeration systems, repairing underdrain and leak detection equipment, among other enhancements. These measures aim to prevent untreated sewage from entering the Susquehanna River.
Senator Baker highlighted the importance of these improvements: "This wastewater improvement project is a serious investment in protecting the local quality of life." She noted that without state assistance, such upgrades would impose a heavy financial burden on ratepayers.
The initiative seeks to address compliance issues outlined by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's consent order and agreement with Lake Winola Municipal Authority.
PENNVEST, an independent agency formed under Act 16 of 1988, provides financial support for infrastructure projects related to drinking water, sewer systems, and stormwater management across Pennsylvania.