The loan will allow for several improvements, including raising the dam crest, installation of upstream closure and repairs of the embankment drainage and concrete. The improvements will protect borough residents from dam flooding from overtopping.
The Ashland Dam provides 450,000 gallons of drinking water to 4,600 residents and is listed as one of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s high-hazard dams throughout the state.
“The safety of local residents is paramount, and I’m pleased to see the state provide this loan to the borough to make these needed improvements to the dam,” Argall said. “With flooding ravaging our county over the past few years, we cannot risk a disaster. These repairs will be welcome news to local residents.”
“I’m pleased that the state is providing support for this project that will preserve the drinking water supply for 4,600 residents while protecting the community,” Goodman said. “I thank Ashland officials for all the hard work and planning they have done, and look forward to the start of construction now that funding is in place.”
The borough does not anticipate any increase in current user rates.
Information received from Senator Argall's office