Ground was broken yesterday for the Lehighton Water Department’s new filtration plant, a $6 million project designed to improve the quality and safety of water in the community.

Participating in the ceremonial groundbreaking were Dr. Paul Marchetti, executive director of the PENNVEST financial agency; Richard Barclay, chairman of the water authority; George Bibighaus, secretary; Ronald Solt, chairman of the Franklin Township supervisors; Marvin Barry, chairman of the township’s planners; John Hanosek, borough manager; Dean D.W. DeLong, commissioner; and James Garis, Lehighton councilman.