Stout & White Announce Grants for Washington County Sewer Plans

HARRISBURG, April 1, 2009 –State Sen. J. Barry Stout and Rep. Jesse White announced today that two state grants will help Washington County prepare sewage plans.

“We have taken steps in Pennsylvania to repair our drinking water and sewer systems, which is essential for the safety of our communities and the opportunity for economic development,” Stout (D-Washington) said.  “Being prepared and planning ahead is the best way to preserve the environment and boost our economy.”

The grants, each worth more than $11,000, are awarded to Canton and Chartiers Townships and will be used to reimburse half of the costs of preparing the official sewage plan and revisions to official plans as required under Act 537.

“Teamwork like this at the state and local levels, particularly between municipalities, helps us move along these projects that provide much –needed infrastructure maintenance and improvements that are essential to public health and safety," White (D-Washington) said.

Act 537, the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act, was enacted to correct existing sewage disposal problems and prevent future problems.  To meet these objectives, the Act requires proper planning of all types of sewage facilities.  The grants are administered through the state Department of Environmental Protection.

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