Congressman Meuser Secures $3.2 Million for Susquehanna Avenue Stormwater Project in Sunbury
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) issued the below statement after securing $3,200,000 in federal funding for the City of Sunbury to renovate the water, sewer, and stormwater systems beneath Susquehanna Avenue. The funding was included in FY24 Appropriations legislation recently signed into law.
Susquehanna Avenue’s undersized and deteriorated utilities, narrow width, and lack of pedestrian facilities pose a risk to the health and safety of city residents. This Community Funding Project aims to address these issues by alleviating flooding and eliminating untreated sewage backups.
Currently, the existing infrastructure becomes overwhelmed during heavy rain events, leading to a combination of water and untreated sewage backing up into storm drains and sewer laterals. Consequently, raw sewage is discharged onto streets and residential properties. Such contamination is concerning, as raw sewage in floodwaters serves as a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. The water, sewer, and stormwater systems beneath the street are in poor condition due to age and material deterioration. Thousands of feet of decayed clay sewer piping contribute to infiltration into the sewage collection system, exacerbating the problem. This federal funding will be critical in addressing the issue.
Congressman Meuser said, “I recognize the urgent need for renovations on Susquehanna Avenue in Sunbury to address flooding and eliminate untreated sewage backups. That's why I'm happy to secure $3.2 million for renovating the water, sewer, and stormwater systems beneath Susquehanna Avenue in Northumberland County. The deteriorated utilities currently in place are causing flooding, posing significant risks to the community's health and safety. This Community Funding Project will play a vital role in ensuring that the infrastructure in Sunbury is upgraded to mitigate negative impacts on local residents and the community.”
The Sunbury City Council said, "On behalf of Sunbury City Council and its citizens we want to express our deepest gratitude and thanks to Congressman Meuser for securing funding for the Susquehanna Avenue project. The infrastructure upgrades and economic benefits of this project are vital to Sunbury and its future. Congressman Meuser has been to Sunbury quite often and we appreciate him supporting our city and its citizens."
Photo Caption: Congressman Meuser visits Sunbury to discuss the Susquehanna Avenue Project.
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