Berks County News

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) has successfully secured $2,750,000 in federal funding for the Schuylkill County Municipal Authority’s (SCMA) Mt. Laurel Interconnect Project. The funding, included in the FY24 Appropriations legislation recently signed into law, will support the construction of an interconnect with the Mahanoy Township Authority (MTA) to address essential needs for supplemental drinking water and fire protection.

"I'm happy to have advocated on behalf of the Schuylkill County Municipal Authority to secure $2.75 million for the Mt. Laurel Interconnect Project," stated Congressman Dan Meuser. "This crucial initiative will not only offer supplemental drinking water for the township but also enhance fire protection for neighboring communities in Schuylkill County. Ensuring access to a reliable water source for the residents of Mahanoy Township is paramount, and this federal funding will make certain the water needs of the community are met."

State Senator David Argall (PA-29th) expressed gratitude for the project, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships. He stated, "Once this expansion is complete, it will improve water service and quality of life for residents AND help bring new employers to the Highridge Business Park and Mahanoy Business Park. I’m thankful these highly competitive funds are supporting this important work."

State Representative Dane Watro (PA-116th) emphasized the significance of a reliable water system for community and economic growth. "This project is going to ensure residential customers have clean and ample water for their households and for fire protection. It will also service the growing industrial park and lead to the creation of hundreds of jobs."

Executive Director of the Schuylkill County Municipal Authority, Patrick M. Caulfield, expressed gratitude for the support received. "The project will provide a supplemental source of drinking water and fire protection to the I-81 corridor, which continues to expand with large-scale development projects that create significant job opportunities for our county residents. As we celebrate our 190th anniversary this year, we are proud to successfully execute another project that will provide sustainability well into the future."