Rep. Chad Reichard announced on Apr. 14 that the Mercersburg Water Authority has received a $150,000 grant to help cover material and operational costs following recent water supply issues affecting emergency services in Mercersburg.
The funding aims to address concerns after a fire revealed that the local water system could not meet high demand when firefighters used an authority-owned hydrant. The new grant is intended to ensure that the authority can bring in water from outside sources during major fires or other emergencies.
“Essentially, this funding will allow the authority to cover the cost to bring in water from outside sources should a major fire or other emergency occur,” Reichard said. “Public safety is of the utmost importance, and this grant reaffirms the commitment of House Republicans to keep the public safe, while protecting the ratepayers of Mercersburg.”
The money comes from the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Municipal Relief Fund. This fund supports public safety emergencies and situations posing danger where presidential disaster declarations do not apply or when state officials determine an emergency has occurred.
In addition to this grant, Reichard said that Mercersburg Water Authority was recently awarded a $3.8 million low-interest loan through Pennsylvania’s PennVest program for major upgrades needed by its system.
“I look forward to continuing to work with all parties in Mercersburg to ensure they have access to safe, affordable and dependable drinking water,” Reichard said. “The residents of Mercersburg deserve to have a reliable water system. I want to thank all those involved for making this grant a reality.”
