The Western Berks Water Authority will receive more than $41 million in funding for facility upgrades, according to an announcement from State Representative Eric Weaknecht and State Senator Chris Gebhard. The funding includes a low-interest loan of over $39 million and a grant exceeding $1.5 million.
The planned improvements involve installing a new sulfuric acid chemical feed system with pumps, storage tanks, and related equipment. Four new dual-media rapid rate gravity filters will replace the current filters. The project also calls for the construction of a 400,000-gallon clearwell with four new high-service pumps, a 54,000-gallon backwash receiving tank, new sludge mixers and pumps, and a 3,000-square-foot sludge drying area. Electrical, instrumentation, and process control systems will also be upgraded.
“This loan marks a significant investment in our community,” stated Weaknecht. “I am glad to share this funding announcement with the 5th Legislative District and look forward to the completion of this project, which will serve our community well.”
“Given the age of the current treatment plant and the increasing presence of harmful algal blooms in Blue Marsh Lake, funding this project is very important,” Gebhard said. “Ensuring local infrastructure is operational is a key function of government, and I’m pleased this funding is dedicated to that purpose.”
The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST), which operates under the Department of Community and Economic Development, is distributing the loan and grant. PENNVEST supports projects that improve public health, environmental protection, economic development, and water quality across communities.
