Longwood Gardens has been awarded $550,000 in state grant funding to help complete a comprehensive wastewater treatment plant expansion project.

“Longwood is not only part of the fabric of Chester County, but recognized worldwide for its research, sustainability, educational outreach, and economic development,” said State Rep. Christina Sappey. “It’s important for the commonwealth to partner with forward-thinking organizations, so I’m very pleased they have received this funding.”

Longwood Gardens owns and operates its own private wastewater treatment plant. The plant currently handles 100,000 gallons per day. The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program funding will not only improve water quality, but also help the facility expand to increase its capacity by more than 50 percent.

The project will install test wells to evaluate and monitor groundwater quality at the designated drip irrigation site, excavate soil testing pits at the drip irrigation site, and start the clarifier skimmer install.

This project is part of a larger multi-year capital improvement plan for the entire facility. It is aimed at expanding current educational offerings, horticultural research, career development, and preservation capabilities while also enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) projects are authorized in the Redevelopment Assistance section of a Capital Budget Itemization Act, have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact, and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenue, or other measures of economic activity.