UPPER TIOGA RIVER REGIONAL AUTHORITY (UTRRA)
Providing Safe, Reliable Water for Our Communities
This post was copied from the Covington Township, Tioga County PA Facebook page and edited for formatting.
Project Overview
The Upper Tioga River Regional Authority (UTRRA) was formed by Covington, Putnam, and Richmond Townships, in partnership with Blossburg Borough, to bring safe, dependable, potable water to area residents and businesses.
While many residents currently rely on private wells, testing has shown that a majority of local wells contain bacterial or mineral contamination. In addition, the area currently lacks fire hydrants, leaving fire departments dependent on tanker trucks or river water.
The new system will:
Provide clean, reliable drinking water to residents and businesses.
Support fire protection through new fire hydrants.
Encourage future business growth along the Business Route 15 corridor.
Project Details
Total Pipeline Length: Approximately 10.23 miles
Water Source: Blossburg Water Company, which maintains multiple wells, a surface source, two 1-million-gallon tanks, and backup generators.
Storage: A new 400,000-gallon water tank will be built on East Hill Road in Covington Township to ensure steady pressure and reserve supply.
Water Distribution Building: To be constructed near the Blossburg VFW on N. Williamson Road.
Construction Period: Begins October 2025, with an estimated completion by January 2027.
Contractors:
Greenland Construction – Water storage tank
C&R Construction – Pipeline and distribution building
Engineer: Larson Design Group
Community Benefits
Reliable Potable Water: Clean, safe drinking water for homes and businesses.
Fire Safety: Installation of fire hydrants for improved emergency response.
Public Health: Elimination of contaminants such as nitrates, bacteria, iron, manganese, and sulfur found in private wells.
Sustainability: Continuous water supply, even during power outages, supported by backup generators.
Economic Growth: Improved infrastructure will attract new businesses and support expansion along Route 15.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Since 2016, UTRRA and Blossburg Borough have been working with state and federal agencies to secure funding. Delays due to federal review backlogs and the COVID-19 pandemic slowed progress. In 2024, full funding was secured, allowing construction to begin in 2025.
Yes. Township ordinances require all residences within 150 feet of the water line to connect to the system. This ensures consistent water quality and fire protection for the community.
Even if your current well appears clean, groundwater quality can change quickly. Hooking up to the public system guarantees:
– Continuous access to safe water.
– No maintenance costs for pumps or filters.
– Added property value for resale.
Connection costs will range between $1,500 and $3,000, depending on distance from your home to the curb box.
Good News: Tap fees are waived for properties within 150 feet of the line.
Yes, property owners may install their own water line if they are confident in their ability. However, all installations must pass inspection before water service is activated. A list of qualified local contractors is available from UTRRA.
The estimated average monthly cost will be $65–$70, based on current projections and pending no change orders during construction.
Funding and Support
USDA Rural Utilities Service:
Loan: $6 million (40 years @ 1.375%)
Grants: $4.2 million + $862,000 (total project cost ≈ $13.1 million)
Tioga County Commissioners: $1 million initial loan (forgiven)
Local Contributions: Blossburg Borough and the three participating Townships
Construction Timeline
Milestone Estimated Date
- Construction Start October 2025
- Distribution Building Completion Winter 2025–26
- Water Tank Construction (East Hill) Spring 2026
- Pipeline Installation Fall 2025–Winter 2026
- Project Completion January 2027
- Homeowner Connections Begin Early 2027
Stay Informed
Public meetings are held on the Second Thursday of every month at 6:00 PM
Covington Township Building
Community members are welcome to attend to learn more, ask questions, or share concerns.
Contact Information
Upper Tioga River Regional Authority (UTRRA)
c/o Blossburg Borough
241 Main Street, Blossburg, PA 16912
(570) 638-2452
In Summary
The Upper Tioga River Regional Authority Water System Project is a once-in-a-generation investment in public health, safety, and community growth.
It will ensure that our residents have clean water, better fire protection, and reliable service for decades to come.