Rep. Jamie Barton, Sen. Dave Argall, and Sen. Chris Gebhard announced on Jan. 20 that more than $1.2 million in state grants have been awarded to support infrastructure projects in southern Schuylkill and northern Berks counties through the Small Water and Sewer Program.
The funding aims to address urgent water and sewer needs across several municipalities in the region. Barton said, “Water and sewer upgrades are some of the most urgent and important projects done at the municipal level. This work is immensely important to the safety and security of our communities. I’m proud to have worked with Sen. Argall and Sen. Gebhard to bring back this funding and make sure our area’s infrastructure doesn’t fall behind.”
Grants were distributed as follows: Maxatawny Township Municipal Authority received $389,160 for repairs to a water storage tank; Orwigsburg Borough was awarded $207,369 for replacing an influent screen at its wastewater treatment plant; Plum Creek Municipal Authority received $317,000 for developing a new drinking water supply well serving South Manheim and Wayne Townships; Tilden Township was granted $150,000 for rehabilitating a water storage tank; Windsor Township obtained $150,000 to control stormwater runoff around Mountain Road.
Argall said, “Improved water infrastructure is very much needed in so many of our communities,” adding that these funds are highly competitive. Gebhard said, “Water and sewer projects often carry significant costs, and this funding will help offset expenses tied to these necessary improvements,” noting the importance of advocating so local municipalities do not bear all costs.
All funded projects are administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority—an independent agency within Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development responsible for economic development programs.
Barton represents parts of Berks and Schuylkill counties in the 124th Legislative District according to his official website. He maintains offices in Tamaqua, Hamburg, and Harrisburg according to his official website. Barton engages in community service as a lay pastor at St. Johns UCC in Orwigsburg as well as volunteering with organizations such as the Orwigsburg Lions Club according to his official website. His legislative priorities include economic stimulation efforts like supporting small businesses, reducing energy costs, investing in education initiatives, improving infrastructure such as these recent grants support, along with community safety measures according to his official website.
