Pennsylvania Town Tackles Forever Chemicals in Water

Buckingham Township is winning the fight against invisible threats in its drinking water, securing over $5 million in state funding to remove PFAS before these "forever chemicals" can harm residents.

Township supervisors approved two new resolutions last week that move the community closer to cleaner water. The actions authorize reimbursement for treatment projects already underway and open the door for additional funding to protect the Cold Spring Water System.

The township has already locked in nearly $2.44 million through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority to install PFAS treatment at its Furlong Water System. That followed an earlier award of more than $2.6 million for the Cold Spring system's Hearthstone Facility.

What makes Buckingham's approach remarkable is timing. Township officials chose to install treatment systems even though current PFAS levels fall below state action limits. They're planning ahead as federal and state drinking water standards continue to tighten.

PFAS, dubbed "forever chemicals" because they don't break down naturally, have been used for decades in firefighting foam and consumer products. Scientific studies link these compounds to certain cancers, thyroid disease, and immune system problems.

The Ripple Effect

Buckingham's proactive stance offers a blueprint for communities across America grappling with PFAS contamination. Rather than waiting for a crisis, local leaders are using available grants and low-interest loans to protect public health now.

The new treatment systems will do more than just remove PFAS. They'll also reduce taste and odor compounds and filter out other organic contaminants, delivering cleaner water overall to families and businesses.

The township expects to finalize its participation in the nationwide PFAS litigation settlement this summer, potentially bringing additional resources to fund future improvements. Across Bucks County, dozens of wells have gone offline over the past decade as utilities invested millions to meet stricter standards.

Communities nationwide face similar challenges, but Buckingham shows that local action combined with smart use of state resources can turn the tide on forever chemicals.