Shenango Dam Project Receives $1.5 Million Loan

PENNVEST funding will correct hazard that contributed to 2 drownings

Aqua Pennsylvania Inc. will receive a $1,506,569 million low-interest loan from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) to pay for renovations to the Shenango Intake Dam in Sharon, according to Senator Bob Robbins (R-50).

PENNVEST awarded the loan at its board meeting today. PENNVEST financing is provided through the use of federal funding and prior bond issues by the state. It is not supported by the state's General Fund budget, which covers the daily operations and services of the Commonwealth.

Aqua Pennsylvania will apply the funding toward several structural and safety improvements at the dam, which was constructed in 1927 to create a pool for Aqua Pennsylvania's filtration plant. The dam is causing serious hydraulic turbulence issues on the Shenango River and recent inspections found severe undermining at its toe.

"The turbulence at and around the dam is extremely dangerous and has caused numerous serious problems and contributed to at least two drowning incidents," Senator Robbins said. "I applaud PENNVEST for stepping in to assist Aqua Pennsylvania in its efforts to take corrective measures.

"The undermining of the dam could result in serious problems if it is not corrected," said Senator Robbins. "Under the worst case scenario, the dam would fail completely and that could result in 55,000 people in the area being left without water for an extended period of time."

The project also includes the installation of a fish ladder at the dam and will improve the quality of life for consumers.

Contact:

Michael Hengst
(717) 787-1322