If you build it, they will come. Developers know that where there is no infrastructure, there is no project. The Township of Lower Heidelberg knows this, too. For years, their ~1.3 miles of US-422 has sat undeveloped despite being zoned and designated for future growth. This is due to the fact that although it is the Township’s largest transit corridor, there is no public water. That is about to change.
In 2024 the Township closed on acquisition of a new water source and, in partnership with Western Berks Water Authority and Wernersville Water Authority, are working to supply water along this main growth corridor. Funds will be used to support planning and design, water plant construction, and pipeline installation along the 422 corridor between Pheobe Berks and Calvary Bible Fellowship Church.
In early 2025, Lower Heidelberg reached out to BerksIDA and Berks County to apply for support through the new Infrastructure Loan Program. The ILP will lend the Township $1M on very attractive terms – it is a loan rather than a grant to allow the fund
to support the Berks County economy into perpetuity, but interest rates barely exceed inflation. This is seen as an investment in Berks County’s future. Helping Lower Heidelberg achieve its vision strengthens the County economy and supports a more
robust tax base.
Reach out to BerksIDA today if you have a project that could benefit from the Infrastructure Loan Program.