HARRISBURG — Sen. Judy Ward (R-30) announced the approval of more than $11 million for the Martinsburg Municipal Authority to improve drinking water infrastructure and strengthen the community’s water system.
The project received a $5.9 million low-interest loan and a $5.2 million grant.
“Access to clean, safe drinking water is essential for every Pennsylvanian,” Ward said. “This investment will help the Martinsburg Municipal Authority modernize aging infrastructure, improve reliability for residents and businesses and install critical treatment technology. I’m grateful PENNVEST recognized the importance of this project and its long-term benefits for Blair County.”
The project includes construction of a new 300,000-gallon water storage tank, rehabilitation of an existing storage tank, replacement of approximately 1,700 feet of aging cast iron water main with PVC pipe, installation of a granular activated carbon treatment system and expansion of the authority’s existing water treatment building. The upgrades will address aging infrastructure and improve system pressure and reliability.
According to PENNVEST, the grant portion of the funding will help keep the project affordable for customers. Without the grant, residential water rates would increase by an estimated 27%. Construction is expected to begin in January 2027 and be completed by May 2029.
The funding was awarded by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST). PENNVEST is a financing authority that provides low-cost financial assistance to address water, wastewater, stormwater and non-point source pollution problems that impact public health, safety, the environment, regulatory compliance and economic development.