State to Fund Pennypack Creek Dredging, Bank Repairs

A dredging and stream bank stabilization project planned for Hatboro could get underway in the first half of 2014. 

Hatboro received a $195,001 Commonwealth Financing Authority grant to cover 85 percent of the Pennypack Creek channel modification project, which is aimed at helping to prevent flooding and erosion, according to a press release issued by State Sen. Stewart J. Greenleaf.

The borough would be responsible for covering the remaining 15 percent of the cost to dredge the creek, stabilize its banks, install riprap and plant live stakes to establish a root system and help prevent erosion.

Hatboro Borough Council President John Zygmont said the improvements–which are being mandated by the Army Corps of Engineers–would maintain the section of the Pennypack Creek along Miller Meadow and back to the area around the Old Mill. 

"I have not seen the particulars of the funding provided and when the funds will become available, that will determine when we will proceed," Zygmont said. "In the meantime, we will look into the permitting process and get the engineering underway to the extent allowable under the grant."

Zygmont said he hopes to be able to start the project work in the first half of 2014. 

The council had applied for the grant in July.

Greenleaf, in the release, said the project was "highly beneficial to the community" and said the Commonwealth Financing Authority offers grants for various purposes that "help local governments improve quality of life for residents.”