HARRISBURG — State officials announced guidelines Wednesday for distributing $800 million in funding to upgrade Pennsylvania's public water and sewer systems, improve flood control and make hazardous dams safer.

The Commonwealth Financing Authority said 50 percent matching funds will be available to buy, build, fix, improve or expand water, sewer and storm water systems. Consolidation or regionalization initiatives will also be eligible.

The authority will also fund up to 75 percent of the cost to remove, repair or secure hazardous dams.

Applicants for flood control projects must have obtained easements and be willing to maintain the finished project.

Officials said the state's municipalities and municipal authorities have about 900 water systems and 1,100 wastewater systems that may qualify.

The state will use slots gambling proceeds to repay the borrowed money.