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EPA awards $433,700 to upgrade Franklin sewer system

Release Date: 6/20/2005
Contact Information: Roy Seneca (215) 814-5567

Contact: Roy Seneca (215) 814-5567
PHILADELPHIA - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded a $433,700 grant to the City of Franklin, Venango County, Pa. to help upgrade its sewer system and reduce sewage overflows into Chubb Run.

“Old, inadequate sewer systems can be a major cause of water pollution in many communities. By supporting improvements to the Franklin sewer system, we can help protect local waterways and public health,” said Donald S. Welsh, regional administrator for EPA’s mid-Atlantic region.

The City’s sewer system, which is over 50 years old, has pipe leaks and blockages that cause the sewer lines to overflow and discharge raw sewage directly into nearby Chubb Run. Funding will support repairs and improvements to alleviate the overloading in the line and at the treatment plant, and eliminate discharge of untreated wastewater.

The EPA grant will pay for 55 percent of the $788,545 project costs. The balance will come from the city. Construction is set to begin in June 2005.