Little Rock, Arkansas – On Wednesday, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced the approval of $83,443,495 in financial assistance for nine water and wastewater projects across Arkansas. This funding, approved by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission on September 18, 2024, aims to improve water systems that serve more than 271,786 Arkansans.
Enhancing Water Infrastructure Across the State
“My administration is working hard to improve Arkansas’ water systems, and the additional $80 million in funding we’re announcing today will help communities around the state,” said Governor Sanders. “It is critical Arkansans have access to safe drinking water.”
Adequate water and wastewater infrastructure is essential for the quality of life and sustainability of communities, said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “Since day one of her administration, water has been a top priority for Governor Sanders, and we are thankful for her continued leadership,” he added, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a high quality of life throughout the state.
Funding Breakdown for Key Water Projects
The projects receiving financial support include several critical infrastructure improvements, including treatment plant upgrades, water tank rehabilitation, and wastewater collection systems. The following are key recipients:
- Arkansas Environmental Training Academy in Camden is receiving a $232,840 grant from the Clean Water Revolving Fund to provide wastewater operator training.
- Central Arkansas Water in Pulaski County is receiving an $80 million loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund to continue improvements at the Jack H. Wilson Treatment Plant. The project serves 156,000 customers.
- Magazine in Logan County will receive a $2,046,080 loan from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund to upgrade its wastewater collection and treatment system. The project serves 391 residents.
- Mountain Top Suburban Improvement District No. 66 in Garland County will get a $570,000 loan to continue improvements to its wastewater treatment plant. The project serves 67 customers.
- Newton County on behalf of Compton Water Association will receive an $83,070 loan to rehabilitate a 100,000-gallon standpipe for 348 customers.
- Newton County on behalf of Nail-Swain Water Association is receiving two loans totaling $148,320 to rehabilitate two water tanks serving 379 residents.
- Tri-County Regional Water Distribution District in Pope County will receive a $363,185 loan for wastewater collection and treatment rehabilitation, serving 8,101 customers.
Scope Modifications Without Additional Funding
Two projects received scope modifications without changes in their existing funding:
- Helena-West Helena in Phillips County had previously secured an $11 million loan in February 2024 to serve 5,500 customers.
- Lonoke White Public Water Authority in Cleburne County had secured a $12,970,441 loan in January 2023 to serve 101,000 customers.
Arkansas Water Plan in Full Swing
In August, Governor Sanders announced the completion of the first phase of the Arkansas Water Plan. With the collaboration of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, more than $2.5 billion has been allocated for water development projects across all 75 counties using both state and federal funds. This effort continues to strengthen Arkansas’ water systems and ensure access to safe drinking water statewide.
