Senate Bill 1102 would create programs within the Department of Community and Economic Development and under the management of the Commonwealth Financing Authority to provide financial assistance for projects that construct, expand or improve water and wastewater infrastructure related to economic development.

The bill would provide up to $125 million in grants to municipalities and investor owned utilities and $125 million in low-interest loans to municipalities, municipal authorities, industrial development corporations and investor-owned water or wastewater enterprises.

“This legislation is crucial to providing funding that communities need to replace aging systems, improve water quality and aid in economic development projects that will bring new jobs to our state,” Gordner said.

He noted that businesses use water and sewer infrastructure as an important factor when deciding to relocate or expand into our communities, and this additional investment would help to spur job growth and further promote Pennsylvania’s business-friendly atmosphere.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the total need for basic sewer and water upgrades is more than $13 billion, including more than $5.2 billion for drinking water infrastructure and almost $7.9 billion for wastewater infrastructure.

“Projects that provide our citizens with clean, safe drinking water are important in protecting public health and safety and are critical for economic growth and opportunity,” Gordner said.