Abney and Costa: Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority receives $77.7 million in state funds for upgrades to water systems
Rep. Aerion Andrew Abney October 15, 2025 | 2:46 PM
HARRISBURG, Oct. 15 — State Rep. Aerion Abney, D-Allegheny, and state Sen. Jay Costa, D-Allegheny, announced today that the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority has been awarded $77.7 million in state funds to upgrade local drinking water systems.
The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority approved funding for two city projects. The largest project will receive a $70.3 million low-interest loan to upgrade aging and undersized city water mains. The loan is part of an $86.1 million project and is expected to significantly reduce the financial burden on local ratepayers.
The authority will also receive a $7.27 million grant, plus a $111,901 low-interest loan, for a project to replace lead service lines.
“I’m grateful to Pennvest for this investment in our infrastructure,” Abney, who chairs the Allegheny County House Democratic Delegation, said. “Customers will see enhanced water service with less risk of water main breaks, without a big hike in their bills.”
“It’s a joy and an honor to have played a small part in ensuring that all Allegheny County residents have access to safe, drinkable water,” Costa said. “Replacing these old and risky water lines will support our kids, families and seniors every time they reach for the faucet. I’m grateful to everyone who worked together to bring these dollars home to the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority, and I look forward to seeing these plans come to fruition.”
Pennvest is an independent agency of the commonwealth that provides financial assistance for the construction of drinking water, sewer and stormwater projects across Pennsylvania. It is not supported by the state’s General Fund, which covers the commonwealth’s daily operations and services.