Lycoming County Commissioners on Tuesday approved a $1.5 million loan to the West Branch Regional Authority to fund extension of public sewage along the Route 15 corridor in Clinton Township.

County officials noted that the area near the U.S. Route 15 and Route 54 intersection represents a growth area of the county.

“We want to help existing business there,” Commissioner Rick Mirabito said. “And also to stimulate development there.”

It was noted that Sheetz, Inc. was recently approved by the Clinton Township Supervisors for a building permit to erect a store at the southwest corner of Routes 15 and 54.

Existing businesses in the immediate area include the Pike Drive-In, Subway restaurant, Surplus Outlet, and a Sunoco convenience store.

The White Deer Golf Course is just south of the intersection.

The project is set to be put out for construction bids next week.

Voting yes on the loan were Mirabito and Tony Mussare.

Jack McKernan was absent.

Commissioners are expected to act on other matters at their Thursday meeting.

A number of personnel are being considered for positions in Department of Public Safety, Resource Management Services, adult probation, and the county prison and Pre-Release Center.

Commissioners are expected to act on refinancing of a bond for the Lycoming County Water & Sewer Authority that provides funding for ongoing capital improvements.

Bids for bread and food products are also likely to be on the agenda for Thursday’s meeting as well as change orders connected to flood mitigation and demolition work along Upper Bodine Road and Pleasant Stream Road in McIntyre Township.