The Sewage Facilities Program (SFP) is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development and funded through the Commonwealth Financing Authority under Act 13 of 2012. This program is designed to support statewide initiatives for compliance with the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act of 1966. The funding provided through the SFP is aimed at assisting municipalities and eligible organizations with planning, research, and implementation efforts related to sewage facility management and infrastructure improvements.

Eligible applicants for the SFP include municipalities (such as counties, cities, boroughs, and townships), councils of governments, authorized organizations with tax-exempt status, institutions of higher education, watershed organizations, and for-profit businesses excluding natural gas producers. The funds awarded under this program can be used for costs associated with sewage facility planning, administrative costs related to the grant, and other necessary expenditures. However, certain expenses such as public relations, outreach, lobbying, and litigation fees are ineligible.

To apply for funding, applicants must submit an electronic application through the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development’s Single Application for Assistance portal. Applications are accepted annually between February 1st and May 31st. The program requires a matching funds contribution of at least 50% of the total project cost from the applicant. Additionally, a $100 non-refundable application fee must be paid at the time of submission.

The maximum grant amount awarded under the SFP for planning projects is $100,000. Projects must comply with all state and local bidding requirements, nondiscrimination policies, and the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act where applicable. All expenses must be properly documented, and recipients are required to maintain detailed project records. The program evaluation process considers cost, strategic importance, and project impact in the selection of awardees.

Once approved, applicants receive a grant agreement and commitment letter outlining the terms and conditions of funding. Funds are released at 30-day intervals upon verification of eligible expenses. If the grant agreement is not signed and returned within 45 days, the award may be withdrawn. Program inquiries can be directed to the PA Department of Community & Economic Development, Office of Business Finance and Workforce Development - CFA Programs Division in Harrisburg, PA. The primary contact information includes a telephone number (717) 787-6245 and an email address at ra-dcedsitedvpt@pa.gov.