Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf, with state Sen. Lisa Boscola, D-18th, and the office of state Rep. Zach Mako, R-183rd, announced July 22 that North Catasauqua Borough received a $618,229 loan to install 5,010 feet of new storm sewer line and associated inlets.

The project, which involves the installation of 5,010 feet of storm sewers and 69 new inlets, will alleviate significant residential, business and traffic flooding conditions.

“I’m pleased funding was approved for this project,” Boscola said. “I will continue working with municipal leaders to help secure state support for local projects.”

According to Mako’s office, the 20-year loan will have an interest rate of 1 percent for the first five years and 1.743 percent for the remaining years.

Wolf noted the investment of $66 million for 11 drinking water, wastewater and stormwater projects across nine counties came through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST).

“Clean, reliable water systems serve as a vital link to the continued recovery and growth of our communities,” Wolf said. “Ensuring Pennsylvania’s citizens have access to safe and secure infrastructure is a fundamental responsibility of government, particularly as we continue to address the health and economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“This PENNVEST loan will enable North Catasauqua to expedite work on this important stormwater mitigation project,” Boscola said. “This is another example of the state partnering with a local government to assist with an important municipal project. It was a pleasure working with local officials to secure state dollars for this work.”

The funding for these projects originates from a combination of state funds approved by voters, Growing Greener, Marcellus Legacy funds, federal grants to PENNVEST from the Environmental Protection Agency and recycled loan repayments from previous PENNVEST funding awards.

Funds for these projects are disbursed after expenses for work are paid and receipts are submitted to PENNVEST for review.

“Local communities across the commonwealth continue to face tough choices every day as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Wolf said. “Investing in community infrastructure improvements like these projects demonstrates the strong commitment that we share to rebuild and grow our great commonwealth.”