Blawnox officials are taking steps to ensure that borough infrastructure is built to last.

A “soft dig” project will kick off this spring to test water line composition throughout the borough.

“The project will allow the borough to dig down to certain water lines and identify exactly what material the pipes are and inspect them,” Manager Cory Dennison said. “The soft digs allow for the least intrusive means to identify pipe material and inspection.”

Work is critical to maintain regulatory compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency and the state Department of Environmental Protection.

The cost of the project is about $235,300, most of which will be paid by a state grant.

Blawnox is among several municipalities awarded money through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Small Water and Sewer Program.

The borough will get $200,000 toward the work, with the balance coming from borough coffers.

State Sen. Lindsey Williams said the projects funded through the state program help to ensure safe drinking water and also help pollutants stay out of natural waterways.

“This ensures that residents have continued access to pure water both at home and out in nature,” Williams said.

LSSE Civil Engineers and Surveyors of Coraopolis will be in charge of the project.

Dennison said work will occur throughout the year with the hopes of being complete by September.

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