Pittsburgh Water Secures $13.6 Million PENNVEST Investment to Advance Major Stormwater Modernization Efforts

October 27, 2026

PITTSBURGH, PA - Pittsburgh Water has been awarded $13.6 million in financing from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) to replace approximately 600 aging catch basins throughout Pittsburgh, advancing the utility's ongoing efforts to modernize critical infrastructure and improve the reliability of its stormwater collection system.

Pittsburgh Water maintains approximately 23,000 catch basins citywide, many of which are more than 100 years old and have exceeded their expected service life. Unlike underground sewer pipes, catch basins are exposed to significant surface loading, traffic, and everyday wear and tear, making replacement essential as these structures deteriorate.

"Modernizing Pittsburgh's water infrastructure is one of our highest priorities, and investments like this are essential to building a stronger, more reliable system for the future," said Will Pickering, CEO of Pittsburgh Water. "From drinking water to wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, we are making strategic improvements that will serve our customers for generations to come. We are grateful to PENNVEST for its continued partnership in making these critical investments possible."

The approximately 600 catch basins included in this project were identified through field assessments and a prioritization process that considers both the cost and the likelihood of infrastructure failure. Replacements will take place throughout the city, with construction expected to begin in April 2027 and continue through October 2027.

With an estimated construction cost of $18,000 per catch basin, the project underscores the significant resources required to maintain and modernize Pittsburgh's aging stormwater infrastructure.

Community Partnership is Essential to Stormwater Management

Catch basins serve an important role in collecting stormwater runoff from streets and directing it into the drainage system. When catch basins become blocked by litter, leaves or other debris, their ability to collect stormwater can be reduced, potentially contributing to localized flooding.

While Pittsburgh Water continues investing in infrastructure replacement and maintenance, residents can also play an important role in helping keep the stormwater system functioning effectively.

Residents are encouraged to avoid littering or covering catch basin grates with debris and to report blocked or damaged catch basins through 311, Pittsburgh Water's Dispatch at (412) 255-2423, or online non-emergency issue reporting portal.

"We are grateful to PENNVEST for its continued partnership and investment in Pittsburgh's water infrastructure," said Ed Barca, Pittsburgh Water's Director of Finance, "This funding allows us to make critical improvements to aging infrastructure while keeping affordability at the forefront for our customers. Partnerships like this are essential to building a stronger, more reliable system that will serve Pittsburgh residents for generations to come."

The PENNVEST investment reflects Pittsburgh Water's continued commitment to responsible infrastructure stewardship, proactive maintenance and long-term system reliability.