Bizzarro announces more than $18.5 million in state funding
Water projects, Erie County DA and United Way earn approval
Rep. Ryan Bizzarro April 15, 2026 | 3:56 PM
HARRISBURG, April 15 – Local projects earned vital state funding approval Wednesday, according to state Rep. Ryan Bizzarro. The region will receive more than $18,549,696 to improve water service across the region as well as needed funds to continue violence prevention programs and launch an after-school program for children.
“Securing more than $18.5 million in state funding is a major win for Erie County and all the people who call this region their home,” said Bizzarro, who represents portions of Fairview and Millcreek townships. “These investments will ensure safe water and efficient service. At the same time, the state continues to invest in what keeps our communities strong. We’re supporting violence prevention efforts and new opportunities for kids to learn, grow and stay active.”
The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority approved $18 million in funding for Erie Water Works. The funding includes:
- $10 million for the replacement of 1,250 service connections and removal of lead components.
- $8 million low-interest loan to renovate its engineering, maintenance and distribution service center facility.
The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency School Safety and Security Committee also approved multiple projects in Erie County, including:
- $499,700 for Erie County District Attorney’s Office to strengthen two established violence reduction initiatives; and
- $49,996 for United Way of Erie to launch an after-school recreation program to serve 280 elementary school students. The Intro to Sports program will serve children in grades first through fifth grades across 10 public schools in Erie.
“This is exactly what good state government can do for our local communities,” Bizzarro said. “It delivers real results in the form of funding that improves public safety, protects public health, protects law enforcement officers and invests in our future.”
Erie Water Works, also known as Erie City Water Authority, provides service to the city of Erie, Millcreek Township, Lawrence Park Township, Wesleyville, portions of Harborcreek Township, and McKean Township and borough.
Funding for the District Attorney’s Office will support the Gun Control Working Group and the countywide Lethality Assessment Program, which improves responses to domestic violence. Together these initiatives use strategies to keep people safe by reducing gun violence and preventing shootings.
Bizzarro has continued his career-long track record of pursuing needed funding for local projects through state investments. This legislative session, Bizzarro has helped secure more than $50.1 million in state funding this legislative session for projects and services that help people in the Erie region.