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 $2.7 million low-interest state loan for the Lake Winola Municipal Authority to upgrade its wastewater treatment plant in Overfield Township, Wyoming County. The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) approved the funding this week.
“This loan will fund essential upgrades to the plant, ensuring it meets modern clean water standards and operates more efficiently,” said Pickett. She emphasized that improving this infrastructure will protect public health and the local environment, benefiting the Lake Winola community.
The loan will allow for rehabilitation of two existing lagoons at the plant, which was built in 1988 and is now outdated. The project includes installing new liners, cleaning the aeration system, replacing or repairing underdrain and leak detection equipment, and other environmental system upgrades to prevent inadequately treated sewage from discharging into the Susquehanna River.
"This wastewater improvement project is a serious investment in protecting the local quality of life," Baker stated. She noted that leaking lagoons can lead to degraded water quality, destroyed aquatic life, and disease spread during severe storms. Baker added that these upgrades would be burdensome for ratepayers without state assistance but will enhance community safety and environmental protection.
The project aims to bring the plant into compliance with a Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection consent order and agreement.
PENNVEST was established by Act 16 of 1988 as an independent agency providing financial assistance for drinking water, sewer, and stormwater projects across Pennsylvania.
Alerts Sign-up