Pittsburgh approves water, wastewater infrastructure construction projects
The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) announced that its Board of Directors has approved seven construction projects to improve wastewater and drinking water infrastructure.
These projects, ranging from sewer rehabilitation to the removal of lead service lines, total more than $140 million and are part of PWSA’s $1.8 billion Capital Improvement Program.
“The projects approved this month continue PWSA’s recent commitment to improving our essential water and sewer system,” said PWSA CEO Will Pickering. “From lead remediation to stormwater improvements, and emergency response for unexpected water and sewer repairs, these investments will protect public health and improve the quality of service across Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods.”
PENVEST-funded projects
PWSA often pursues Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) funding for capital improvement projects. Low-interest loan and grant packages from PENNVEST save PWSA ratepayers over the life of the loan, compared to traditional financing.
PENNVEST-funded projects awarded at this board meeting include the 2023-2025 Sewer Rehabilitation Project and the 2023 Neighborhood Lead Service Line Replacement Project.
The $59.1 million funding package for sewer rehabilitation will be used to evaluate and rehabilitate approximately 56 miles of aging sewer mains throughout Pittsburgh.
The 2023 Neighborhood Lead Service Line Replacement Project is a continuation of the 2022 program funded by the American Recovery Plan Act of 2021, which has replaced over 750 lead service lines to date. The 2023 project, a $13.1 million investment, will continue this effort, identifying the highest priority locations around the water service area and replacing any lead lines found at no direct cost to the customer.
Other approved projects:
Queenston Sewer Improvements Project - $2.78 million
This project will address flooding issues in the Overbrook neighborhood of the City of Pittsburgh. PWSA will separate combined sewers on Queenston and surrounding streets to improve stormwater management. Construction is anticipated to begin this summer.
2022 Small Diameter Water Main Replacement - $59.38 million (two contracts)
PWSA awarded two contracts to continue its annual water main replacement program. Work will take place in Marshall-Shadeland, Central Northside, Spring Garden, Millvale, Stanton Heights, Elliott, and Point Breeze. When crews encounter lead service lines as part of replacement work, they will replace them at no cost to the customer.
2023 Urgent Water Repair - $4.96 million
The Urgent Water contract is reissued yearly and is utilized as a stand-by contract to respond quickly and efficiently to any large, complex water main repairs that are needed throughout the year.
2023 Valve Replacement Project - $2.88 million
This contract will replace aging or inoperable valves throughout PWSA’s water service area. Maintenance and replacement of water valves are crucial, as they allow operators to easily shut water service, isolate leaks, and complete repairs or investigations on our water mains.