BRYN MAWR, PA — Aqua Pennsylvania has been awarded $17.35 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) to address pressing water quality concerns in its service areas. The funding includes a combination of grants and low-interest loans, helping to finance critical infrastructure projects aimed at removing PFAS contamination from drinking water and replacing customer-owned lead service lines. This initiative highlights Aqua Pennsylvania’s commitment to delivering safe, reliable water to its customers while reducing financial impacts through state-backed assistance.
PFAS Treatment Projects Target Community Well Sites
A substantial portion of the funding, totaling $15.05 million, will support the installation of six advanced PFAS treatment systems at groundwater well sites across Bucks, Chester, and Luzerne Counties. Once operational, these systems will directly benefit more than 5,800 customers in the following communities:
- Bucks County: New Britain Borough
- Chester County: East Marlborough Township, Franklin Township, West Brandywine Township, and West Whiteland Township
- Luzerne County: White Haven Borough
Construction on these treatment facilities is scheduled to be completed by the summer or fall of 2026. The initiative aligns with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) April 2024 establishment of maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for six PFAS chemicals in drinking water. By leveraging PENNVEST funding, Aqua Pennsylvania aims to meet these stringent federal guidelines well before the EPA’s compliance deadline of 2029.
“Delivery of safe, reliable drinking water to its customers is Aqua Pennsylvania’s commitment,” said Marc Lucca, President of Aqua Pennsylvania. “Our commitment includes pursuit of PENNVEST funding which will help mitigate impacts to our customers.”
Lead Service Line Replacement Efforts
An additional $2.3 million in PENNVEST funding is allocated for the replacement of over 200 customer-owned lead and galvanized service lines in Bristol Borough, Bucks County. These service lines, which run from curbside to residential and commercial properties, are being replaced to further reduce the risk of lead contamination.
Although Aqua Pennsylvania treats drinking water to prevent lead from leaching into the supply, the replacement of aging pipes provides an added safeguard for the community. The lead service line replacement project is set to begin in June 2025, with completion anticipated by early 2026. Importantly, these replacements are conducted at no direct cost to customers, and a warranty is provided on all completed work.
A Landmark Investment for Public Health and Infrastructure
The $17.35 million investment represents a significant advancement in Aqua Pennsylvania’s efforts to modernize water infrastructure and safeguard public health. By addressing PFAS contamination and replacing outdated lead service lines, the funding directly tackles long-standing environmental health concerns while ensuring compliance with evolving regulatory standards.
These projects exemplify Aqua Pennsylvania’s proactive approach, driven by state and federal collaborations, to ensure cleaner drinking water for its customers. With construction timelines already established, the initiative signals a promising trajectory for strengthening water quality and reliability across impacted communities.
This funding not only supports immediate water quality improvements but also lays the groundwork for enduring public health benefits and sustainable infrastructure development. Through these efforts, Aqua Pennsylvania demonstrates its ongoing commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its customers while fostering long-term environmental stewardship.
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