Upgrades ensure reliable, efficient wastewater treatment for customers in Luzerne and Wyoming Counties
Aqua Pennsylvania announced the completion of two major wastewater treatment projects in Northeastern Pennsylvania totaling nearly $17 million. The completed upgrades at Aqua’s Laurel Lakes Wastewater Treatment Plant in Rice Township, Luzerne County, and Rivercrest Wastewater Treatment Plant in Tunkhannock Township, Wyoming County enhance system efficiency and ensure long-term service reliability.
Improvements to the wastewater treatment plants include:
- Installation of new treatment tanks and renovation of existing tanks
- Construction of new buildings at both sites to house critical equipment and improve operations
- Significant electrical upgrades, including the installation of emergency power generators
These improvements mean continued reliable wastewater service for customers, enhanced environmental protection, and infrastructure designed to meet today’s demands while supporting long-term community needs. By replacing aging equipment and adding modern treatment and disinfection technologies, the projects reduce the risk of service interruptions, strengthen performance during periods of heavy rain and snow, and help ensure consistent, high-quality wastewater treatment for years to come.
The Laurel Lakes and Rivercrest plants serve a combined 430 customers.
To help fund these key infrastructure improvements, Aqua Pennsylvania secured low-interest loans through PENNVEST (Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority). The nearly $9.5 million loan for Laurel Lakes Wastewater Treatment Plant and the nearly $7.5 million loan for Rivercrest Wastewater Treatment Plant help minimize the financial impact on customers.
“A crucial part of our service is investing in long-term infrastructure improvements that directly impact our customers’ quality of life,” said Aqua Pennsylvania President Marc Lucca. “We are keenly aware that these investments, while critical, can be expensive. That’s why we aggressively seek out alternate funding sources to help balance affordability for customers.”
“Upgrading critical wastewater infrastructure is important for protecting public health and ensuring long-term reliability,” said State Representative Alec Ryncavage. “Just as important is making sure these investments are done responsibly, with affordability and accountability for ratepayers at the forefront. It’s encouraging to see an effort to approach these improvements with cost impacts in mind.”
“Investments in wastewater infrastructure are important for protecting public health, supporting environmental stewardship, and making sure communities have reliable service for years to come,” said State Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver. “I commend and appreciate Aqua on their focus to complete these improvements with both long-term needs and ratepayer affordability in mind.”
Both projects reflect Aqua Pennsylvania’s ongoing commitment to delivering dependable service, protecting public health, and supporting a healthier environment for current and future generations. Aqua Pennsylvania’s continued investment in its infrastructure underscores the company’s dedication to our customers across the Commonwealth.
Learn more about Aqua’s ongoing work to protect public health and deliver high-quality services here.