Reichard: Needed Funding Secured for Mercersburg Water Authority

April 14, 2026

HARRISBURG – In the wake of water supply issues for emergency services in Mercersburg, Rep. Chad Reichard (R-Franklin) announced that the Mercersburg Water Authority received a $150,000 grant to help cover material and operational costs.

“Essentially, this funding will allow the authority to cover the cost to bring in water from outside sources should a major fire or other emergency occur,” Reichard said. “Public safety is of the utmost importance, and this grant reaffirms the commitment of House Republicans to keep the public safe, while protecting the ratepayers of Mercersburg.”

The funding is through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Municipal Relief Fund, which can be used for a variety of reasons, including public safety emergencies and other situations that pose a public safety danger. Grants can be made available for reimbursement in a disaster emergency area only when a presidential disaster declaration does not cover the area or when the department determines that a public safety emergency has occurred.

Previously, issues arose during a fire in which firefighters hooked up to an authority-owned hydrant. Following the incident, it was determined that the system could not handle the demand from the fire. The system is due for major upgrades and Mercersburg Water Authority was recently awarded a $3.8 million low-interest loan through the state’s PennVest program for the work.

“I look forward to continuing to work with all parties in Mercersburg to ensure they have access to safe, affordable and dependable drinking water,” Reichard said. “The residents of Mercersburg deserve to have a reliable water system. I want to thank all those involved for making this grant a reality.”

Representative Chad Reichard
90th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Greg Gross
717.260.6374
ggross@pahousegop.com
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