Senator Frank Farry and Representatives Kristin Marcell and Joe Hogan have announced that the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) has approved a grant of $13 million for the Northampton Bucks County Municipal Authority. This grant aims to extend public water services to numerous residents in Northampton Township, who have been impacted by contaminated wells.
Senator Farry expressed his pride in working with Representatives Marcell and Hogan on this project. “I am proud to have partnered with Rep. Marcell and Rep. Hogan in supporting the funding for this important project, so these residents have safe, clean drinking water,” stated Farry. He also acknowledged the efforts of Northampton Township Chairman Selisker in securing this significant funding.
The contamination issues arise from the Naval Air Warfare Center Warminster facility near Northampton Township, leading to significant groundwater pollution due to perfluorinated compounds, including PFOS and PFOA. The Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed maximum contaminant levels for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were exceeded in many private well tests.
Representative Marcell highlighted the importance of the funding, affirming, “I, along with Sen. Farry and Rep. Hogan, strongly supported this funding because it directly helps families in Northampton Township who have dealt with the impact of PFAS contamination.” She emphasized the investment’s role in providing clean water access and a safe supply for more homes, marking a meaningful progress for the community’s health.
The grant will be utilized to extend public water services to 334 homes in the Churchville Manor and Hillside Manor subdivisions. The project encompasses constructing an 8-inch water main, creating water service connections, and installing fire hydrants and flushing stations. Additionally, there will be trench restorations and treatment upgrades to all public wells in the system.
Representative Hogan expressed gratitude for the funding, stating, “I am thankful we were able to secure this critical funding. Now hundreds of homeowners in Northampton will know that they have clean and safe drinking water every time they turn their tap.”
