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EPA Provides $363,900 Grant to Houtzdale to Replace Sewer and Drinking Water Lines

Release Date: 11/20/2001
Contact Information: Roy Seneca

Contact: Roy Seneca (215) 814-5567

PHILADELPHIA -- The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded a $363,900 grant for construction and replacement of sewer and drinking water lines in a four-block area of downtown Houtzdale, Clearfield County, Pa.

The water system improvements will help alleviate overloads at the Houtzdale sewage treatment plant that have been caused by a deteriorating water and sewer infrastructure. Much of the downtown collection system is experiencing excessive inflow and infiltration. Coal mining under the town has caused subsidence, and many of the utility lines are damaged. Construction is scheduled to begin in April 2002.

“We are pleased to help communities eliminate potential serious health hazards associated with an inadequate supply of drinking water and inadequate treatment of wastewater. This funding should also foster the revitalization of Houtzdale’s downtown area,” said Donald S. Welsh, regional administrator for EPA’s mid-Atlantic region.

The grant will reimburse the borough for 55 percent of the project’s costs. The balance of the project is being funded with state and local funds.