Covington Township
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WELCOME TO
​Covington Township

Located in Tioga County Pennsylvania.

​
​Regular Office Hours: Monday - Thursday  8:00A - 4:00P
Covington Township
Tioga County, PA
Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Zoning Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
​(570) 659-5439
Physical Address:
114 East Hill Road
Covington, PA 16917
Mailing Address:
PO Box 253
Covington, PA 16917
Important Notices & Announcements
  • ​Regular township meetings are held the 2nd Monday of the month, with the exception of our January Organizational meeting being held the 1st Monday.​
  • UTRRA Water Authority Meetings (Public) are currently being held the 2nd Thursday of the month, at the Covington Township building.
  • Road notices, weather-related updates, and emergency announcements will be posted here when applicable.
  • Residents are encouraged to review permitting information before submitting an application/payment.​

Notices / Announcement
🌼 Spring Clean-Up & Community BBQ
Covington Township & Putnam Township will hold its Spring Clean-Up and Community BBQ on:
📅 Saturday, May 2, 2026
⏰ 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Residents are encouraged to participate in the clean-up and stay to enjoy the community barbecue.
➡️ [View Accepted & Not Accepted Items]
Please review the accepted materials list prior to attending.
​Proof of residency may be required.
​

UPPER TIOGA RIVER REGIONAL AUTHORITY (UTRRA)
COMMUNITY INFORMATION HANDOUT

Providing Safe, Reliable Water for Our Communities
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):
  • Why are we only hearing about the project now?
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.
  • Do I have to connect to the new water system?
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.
  • My well water is fine—why should I connect?
Even if your current well appears clean, groundwater quality can change quickly. Hooking up to the public system guarantees:
  1. Continuous access to safe water.
  2. No maintenance costs for pumps or filters.
  3. Added property value for resale.
  • What will it cost to connect?
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.
  • Can I install the connection myself?
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.
  • What will my monthly bill be?
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.

New Zoning Ordinance Adopted – Data Centers and Similar Uses

​The Covington Township Board of Supervisors recently adopted an amendment to Chapter 27 (Zoning) of the Township Code to address the potential development of data centers, server farms, and cryptocurrency mining facilities.
This amendment was adopted proactively to ensure that if such a use is ever proposed within the Township, it will be subject to comprehensive review and strict standards.
Key provisions of the ordinance include:
  • These uses are permitted only as a Conditional Use within the Light Industrial (LI) District
  • Significant setback requirements from residential areas and sensitive uses
  • Building height limitations
  • Noise restrictions and generator controls
  • Requirements related to electrical demand and infrastructure impacts
  • Limits on maximum electrical capacity
  • Requirements for closed-loop cooling systems and water use disclosure
  • Emergency services coordination and fire protection planning
  • Landscaping and buffering standards
  • Restrictions on expansion without additional approval
  • Decommissioning requirements, including financial security to ensure site restoration
  • Compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations
This ordinance does not indicate that any such facility is currently proposed. Its purpose is to ensure the Township is prepared and able to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the community if such a proposal is submitted in the future.
A copy of the ordinance is available for public inspection at the Township Building during regular business hours.
For additional information, please contact the Township office.
🚧 Job Opening: Part-Time Road Employee
Covington Township is currently accepting applications for a Part-Time Road Employee, with the potential for full-time hours during the spring, summer and fall months.

Position Summary
The Road Employee performs manual labor and assists the Road Master with a variety of tasks related to township maintenance and operations. Work is performed under close supervision, except for routine duties.

This position is manual labor intensive and requires working outdoors in various weather conditions.

Responsibilities Include:
  • Assisting with road construction and maintenance projects
  • Mowing, weed eating, and general grounds maintenance
  • Cleaning culverts and drainage ditches
  • Filling washouts and assisting with road repairs
  • Assisting with operation and maintenance of power and heavy equipment
  • Supporting building maintenance (including basic plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and concrete work)
  • Tree trimming, landscaping, and general township upkeep
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Valid driver’s license required
  • CDL not required, but considered a plus
  • Heavy equipment experience not required (training can be provided)
  • Ability to perform physical, manual labor-intensive work
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Supervision
This position works under the direction of the Road Master. Any concerns should be communicated to the Road Master, who will report to the Board of Supervisors as necessary.

How to Apply
Applications can be obtained here or at the Township Office.
Completed applications (and optional resumes) can be submitted to Covington Township: By mail (PO Box 253, Covington PA 16917), Drop off (114 East Hill Rd, Covington PA 16917) or Email ([email protected])

Covington Township is an equal opportunity employer and does not descriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable law.

♻️ Recycling Program Reminder
Covington Township provides 24/7 recycling dumpsters for residents.
Important reminders:
  • Dumpsters are for RECYCLING ONLY
  • No household trash is permitted
  • Each dumpster is clearly marked with accepted materials
  • The recycling area is monitored by 24/7 video surveillance
Improper use or abuse of the recycling program may result in the removal of this service.
Dumpsters are scheduled to be emptied on Wednesdays.
If dumpsters are full and the Township Office is open, please notify office staff.

Thank you for helping keep this program available for the community.
​

⚠️ Stream & Flooding Concerns in Covington Township & Tioga County
Flooding from rivers, creeks, and streams continues to cause serious damage across Covington Township and Tioga County, including loss of farmland and private property. This issue has persisted for years, and our communities need action.
Local farmers have taken significant steps to reduce runoff. What is still needed is the ability to clear debris from streams to reduce flooding and prevent further damage.
If you or someone you know has experienced property loss due to flooding, please consider contacting Greg Vitali, Chairman of the House Environmental and Natural Resource Protection Committee, at 717-787-7647 and respectfully encourage him to advance Senate Bill 403 and House Bill 327.
Additional background is available in an op-ed by Gene Yaw:
https://tinyurl.com/3jvredm3

Covington Township – UCC Code Enforcement & Floodplain Administration Update
​

Covington Township has appointed an additional certified third-party agency to administer and enforce the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC) within the Township.
Effective immediately, residents and contractors may choose between ERB Inspections and Code Assessment Professionals for UCC-related services, including plan review, building permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy for projects not located within designated flood hazard areas.
For projects located within identified floodplain areas, all floodplain administration and UCC enforcement must be conducted by Code Assessment Professionals, the Township’s designated floodplain administrator.
All applicants are reminded that required Township approvals—including zoning permits, sewage approvals, and any other applicable local permits—must be obtained prior to the issuance of a building permit by any third-party agency.
For assistance in determining which agency to contact or to verify whether a property is located within a floodplain, please contact the Township office.

🌲 Fun & Interesting Facts About Covington Township
Covington Township is a scenic, rural community located in Tioga County, Pennsylvania. It was first settled in 1801 and officially incorporated in 1815, making it one of the longstanding townships in the region.
🧭 Geography & Community
  • The township covers a land area of about 36.4 square miles, the vast majority of which is forested or rural land.
  • Much of the south-central township lies within the Tioga State Forest, offering residents and visitors opportunities for hiking, hunting, and outdoor recreation.
  • Small villages and communities within the township, like Cherry Flats, add to its small-town charm.
👥 Population Snapshot
As of the 2020 U.S. Census, the township had a population of 1,031 residents, reflecting its peaceful and close-knit community character.
🏛️ Notable People
  • John Patton, who served as a U.S. Congressman, is one notable individual associated with the township.
🌿 Outdoor Lifestyle
Because of its wide open spaces and proximity to Pennsylvania’s forests and trails, Covington Township is a favorite for nature lovers, hunters, and anyone who enjoys rural living with easy access to outdoor activities. 

Community Photo Slideshow
Our homepage slideshow features photos from Covington Township’s past and present, celebrating the people, places, and history that make our community special.
If you have photos you would like to see featured on the Township website, please email them to the Township Secretary at
📧 [email protected]
Submitted photos may include historical images, community events, or scenic views within Covington Township.

⚠️ Call Before You Dig
State law requires that anyone planning to dig or excavate must contact the 
Pennsylvania One Call System before beginning any work.
📞 Call 811 or
🌐 Visit www.paonecall.org
Calling 811 helps prevent damage to underground utilities and protects public safety.
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