For Immediate Release
June 12, 2008
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H2O PA Plan Passes Senate Unanimously

The state Senate has unanimously approved a plan to provide $800 million in funding for critical water and sewer projects and other infrastructure needs.

The H2O PA plan, introduced by Senator Jane Earll (R-49), Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi (R-9) and Senator Mike Folmer (R-48), would also provide funding for storm water projects, flood control projects, and high-hazard dam repairs.

As amended in the Senate Appropriations Committee, the H2O PA bond issue would total $800 million. Funding will be available for projects throughout Pennsylvania, with priority being given to projects which are subject to a court order, agency order, or consent decree. Priority will also be given to projects involving consolidation and other regional projects. The bond would be paid with revenue from the Pennsylvania Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund.

To be eligible for funding, a project must be owned by a municipality or authority, and must include local matching funds. The Commonwealth Financing Authority will evaluate applications, with the Department of Environmental Protection and the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority providing technical review and assistance.

Senate Bill 2 now moves to the state House for consideration.

CONTACTS:

Erik Arneson (Sen. Pileggi)
earneson@pasen.gov
(717) 787-4712

Jason Brehouse (Sen. Earll)
jbrehouse@pasen.gov
(717) 787-8927

Joe Sterns (Sen. Folmer)
jsterns@pasen.gov
(717) 787-5708