State Funding Secured for Critical Local Projects, Say James, Hutchinson

January 22, 2026

HARRISBURG - Rep. Lee James (R-64) and Sen. Scott Hutchinson (R-21) announced they secured a $400,000 grant for The General Authority of the City of Franklin from the Pennsylvania Small Water and Sewer Program to upgrade two control valves at existing water storage tank sites within the City of Franklin.

"Any time there is an opportunity to improve the quality of life in our communities, it is crucial to act with urgency to obtain these critical dollars as quickly as possible," said James. "To achieve this mission, I teamed up with Sens. Michele Brooks and Scott Hutchinson to advocate for these projects. I am grateful to see much-needed assistance provided to Venango and Crawford counties."

"This grant will allow the City of Franklin to install advanced pressure district control valves, a critical step toward improving efficiency and service quality for its residents," said Hutchinson. "By maintaining consistent water pressure and preventing fluctuations, these valves help protect system integrity, reduce leaks, and minimize water loss, resulting in a reliable and sustainable water supply for the community."

Additionally, James announced Titusville City obtained $350,000 from the Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF) to assist with road repairs caused by a landslide along East Mount Vernon Street.

The Pennsylvania Small Water and Sewer Program awards grants to municipalities and municipal authorities for water, sewer, storm water and flood control projects with a cost of not less than $30,000 and not more than $500,000. Funds may be used toward construction, improvement, expansion or rehabilitation or repair of a water supply system, sanitary sewer system, storm sewer system or flood control projects.

The MTF provides grants to encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to the residents of the Commonwealth. Funds may be used for the development, rehabilitation and enhancement of transportation assets to existing communities, streetscape, lighting, sidewalk enhancement, pedestrian safety, connectivity of transportation assets and transit-oriented development.

Representative R. Lee James
64th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Nate Temple
717-260-6396
[email protected]