Cooper, Pittman: $10 Million to Benefit County Infrastructure

October 23, 2026

HARRISBURG – Rep. Jill Cooper (R-Westmoreland) and Sen. Joe Pittman (R-Armstrong/Indiana/Jefferson/Westmoreland) today announced a combination of $10 million in grant funding and low-interest loans from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) was awarded to the Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County to improve water lines in several areas. 
 
“The urgency to repair, replace and expand our infrastructure is something we must continue to invest in, because they are so closely related to our communities’ safety and economic development,” said Cooper. “This announcement is another important step in this effort, and I am grateful to have worked with Sen. Pittman to make it happen.”

The municipal authority received $5.39 million in grant funding and a $4.6 million low-interest loan to replace 1,000 residential lead service lines in Avonmore and Oklahoma boroughs, and Bell, Unity, Hempfield, Loyalhanna and Salem townships. The approval of funding for this project will save the affected households from an expected 112% user fee increase.

“Aging waterlines are problems for communities throughout Pennsylvania, as they are expensive to maintain,” Pittman said. “I am pleased the substantial funding approved by PENNVEST will provide support for critical work to improve water quality and ensure the continued health and safety of local residents.”
   
PENNVEST financing is provided through the use of federal funding and bond issues by the state as well as proceeds from the Marcellus Shale Impact Fee legislation, Act 13 of 2012.