Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas communities are set to receive a major boost in development and safety efforts after Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, alongside the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC), announced more than $11.9 million in grants through state and federal programs. The funding will support vital projects ranging from wastewater treatment improvements to new fire equipment and community center upgrades, marking another step in strengthening both urban and rural areas of the Natural State.
The announcement, made in partnership with AEDC leaders, detailed 65 grant awards totaling $11,917,562.70. Funding was allocated through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the State Rural Community Grant programs.
“From Norfork to McGehee to Horatio, Arkansans across the state deserve to live in safe, vibrant communities, and that’s why these grants are so important,” said Governor Sanders. “Not only will this funding go towards critical infrastructure projects throughout the Natural State, but it will also fund community parks, walking trails, youth centers, and more – projects that will improve residents’ quality of life and ensure our towns and cities are great places to call home.”
Investing in Infrastructure and Community Safety
The funding is spread across three programs that target different areas of need. The CDBG program focuses on infrastructure and public facilities, the Rural Services Block Grant program assists with larger rural projects like fire stations and multi-purpose buildings, and the Rural Community Grant program provides smaller but essential funding for fire protection, parks, and community spaces.
Jean Noble, Director of the Grants Division at AEDC, emphasized the importance of the CDBG awards. “This latest round of CDBG awards from the General Assistance set-aside support vital public facility and infrastructure projects aimed at building stronger and more economically resilient communities,” she said. “These funds represent the State’s commitment to addressing critical needs while empowering our local partners to prioritize and enhance their own capacity.”
Among the General Assistance Block Grants, some of the largest projects included $1 million for a water line extension in Benton County, $499,950 for water system improvements in Piggott, and $500,000 for sewer main improvements in Cave City. Other projects will address wastewater treatment plants, storm sirens, drainage systems, and senior center renovations.
Strengthening Rural Communities
AEDC leaders also highlighted the importance of rural-focused funding. “In Arkansas, our rural communities are crucial to the state’s economy and our team works to ensure that rural communities have the resources they need to succeed,” said Becca Caldwell, Director of Rural Services at AEDC. She noted that 29 communities received Rural Community Grants, while 16 communities received Rural Services Block Grants.
These grants are designed to address pressing local needs such as fire protection, emergency response, and community safety. For example, the Town of Viola in Fulton County received $100,000 for a new brush truck, while the City of Bearden in Ouachita County received $100,000 for fire station construction. Smaller awards included $15,000 for Hardy Volunteer Fire Department to purchase new breathing apparatuses and $9,000 for the City of Antoine to upgrade the electrical system in its community center.
Clint O’Neal, executive director of AEDC, stressed the broader significance: “In Arkansas, strong communities are the foundation of our success. Grants awarded through AEDC’s Division of Rural Services and the Grants Division help communities provide needed resources, equipment, and services that keep our communities strong and healthy.”
Impact Across the Natural State
These investments reach nearly every corner of Arkansas, touching towns both large and small. Whether it is renovating wastewater facilities in Salem, installing new storm sirens in Paragould and DeValls Bluff, or providing lifesaving rescue equipment to fire departments across multiple counties, the grants ensure that local leaders have the tools they need to protect residents and foster growth.
Governor Sanders praised the programs for empowering local leaders: “This funding strengthens communities at every level. It ensures that even the smallest towns in Arkansas can thrive and provide opportunities for their residents.”
With nearly $12 million in grants directed toward infrastructure, public safety, and community life, the July 2025 awards represent a significant step in building stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities across Arkansas. These projects, while diverse in scope, share a common goal—supporting Arkansans and making their hometowns better places to live, work, and raise families.
