Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced new financial support aimed at strengthening Arkansas’ water and wastewater systems, with funding that state leaders say will help communities respond to urgent infrastructure needs while also preparing for long-term growth.
According to the governor’s office, $405,646 in financial assistance has been approved for water and wastewater projects benefiting three entities across Arkansas. Officials said the combined projects serve more than 1,398 Arkansans statewide, targeting repairs and upgrades that are needed now, not years down the road.
Sanders framed the investment as part of a broader push to keep Arkansas ready for expansion while making sure basic services like clean water and reliable wastewater treatment are not left behind.
“Last year, Arkansas saw unprecedented growth, highlighting the need to invest in our critical water infrastructure,” said Governor Sanders. “That’s why my administration is providing nearly half a million dollars in additional funding for water projects across the state, on top of the more than $2.7 billion we’ve already invested, equipping Arkansas for more growth ahead and providing safe, reliable water access for every Arkansan.”
Emergency repairs and upgrades funded in three Arkansas communities
State officials said the funding approved last week comes through the Water Development Fund and is designed to help address emergency needs in multiple parts of the state.
In Felsenthal in Union County, officials approved a $100,000 loan. The project serves a current customer base of 256, and the funds will be used for emergency water main repairs. Leaders said this type of work is crucial because damaged water mains can cause major service disruptions and create urgent public health concerns if not addressed quickly.
In Mansfield, which spans Scott and Sebastian counties, the state approved a $285,046 loan. This project serves a current customer base of 499, and the funds will be used for emergency wastewater treatment plant repairs. Officials emphasized that wastewater treatment systems are essential to keeping communities safe, since failures can lead to serious environmental and health problems.
In Ratcliff in Logan County, officials approved a $20,600 loan. The project serves a current customer base of 643, and the funds will be used for meter replacements. While meter upgrades may not sound dramatic, officials indicated they can help improve system accuracy, reduce loss, and support better long-term management of water resources.
Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward said water and wastewater systems are not just a convenience, but a foundation for both public health and economic stability.
“Reliable water and wastewater infrastructure is critical to protecting public health and supporting economic development across Arkansas,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “Governor Sanders’ leadership and continued commitment to water infrastructure investments help ensure communities have the capacity to operate, maintain, and improve essential systems that Arkansans rely on every day.”
Chris Colclasure, Director of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Division, also pointed to the importance of planning and steady investment, especially as many communities face aging systems.
“Strong water infrastructure depends on thoughtful planning and reliable funding,” said Chris Colclasure, Director of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Division. “Continued investments in water and wastewater infrastructure are helping communities address aging systems, make necessary improvements, and ensure safe, dependable services for Arkansans now and in the future.”
State leaders said the funding announced last week is part of a larger statewide effort. Since taking office, Sanders has prioritized water infrastructure in every region of Arkansas, with more than $2.7 billion in state and federal funds invested in water projects across all 75 counties.
Officials also pointed to ongoing work tied to Arkansas’ long-term water planning. In 2023, Sanders issued Executive Order 23-27, launching a full review and update of the Arkansas Water Plan, which guides how the state manages water resources, water supply, demand, and water quality. The first phase was completed by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in August 2024, and the second phase is currently underway, with completion expected in summer 2026.
