SCRANTON, PA − April 15, 2026 − State Senator Marty Flynn announced that the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) has approved $16,922,000 in funding for critical safety upgrades to Pennsylvania American Water Company’s Griffin Dam in Lackawanna County.
The funding will support a comprehensive rehabilitation project to address structural and safety concerns identified by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. The existing spillway system has been determined to be undersized for flood control, and the dam has experienced seepage issues and structural misalignment along its retaining walls and outlet.
“This is about addressing real safety concerns and making sure the surrounding community is protected,” Senator Flynn said. “Upgrading the Griffin Dam to meet modern standards is necessary to ensure the long-term reliability of this infrastructure.”
Senator Marty Flynn (D-22) and Representative Bridget Kosierowski (D-114) acknowledged the importance of the project and the investment being made to address long-standing safety concerns at the site.
“This investment is critical to ensuring the safety and reliability of the Griffin Dam and protecting families across Lackawanna County,” said Representative Bridget Kosierowski. “By addressing longstanding structural concerns and modernizing this infrastructure, we are taking an important step toward safeguarding our water system while keeping costs manageable for residents.”
The project will include upgrades to the outlet works, increased spillway capacity, seepage mitigation, and other structural improvements. Once complete, the dam will meet current safety and regulatory standards for a high-hazard drinking water facility.
The funding will be provided as a low-interest loan through PENNVEST and includes a $7,710,200 grant-equivalent value. Because the project serves a lower-income area, water rates are not expected to increase as a result of the improvements.