The Evolution of Stormwater Utilities in Pennsylvania

Stormwater utilities have been common in parts of the United States for more than a decade. The Western Kentucky University Stormwater Utility Surveys (2007 through 2018) have shown the number of stormwater utilities nationwide increasing from 923 in 2008 to 1,681 in 2018. Over this 10-year period, the number of stormwater utilities in Pennsylvania has grown from 1 to 19, with many more recently approved or under evaluation (see Figures 1 through 3). The drivers for growth of stormwater utilities in Pennsylvania are similar to drivers throughout the country are increasing regulatory requirements for pollutant reduction, drainage and flooding issues, aging infrastructure, and a reluctance to raise local taxes.