Arkansas governor allocates $42 million for water infrastructure projects
(UI) — In a move to bolster Arkansas' water infrastructure, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced more than $42 million in financial assistance for six water and wastewater projects across the state.
The Arkansas Natural Resources Commission gave the green light to this funding on February 28, 2024.
Governor Sanders emphasized the importance of ensuring access to safe and reliable water for all Arkansans. "Every Arkansan deserves access to safe and consistent running water," she stated. "My administration has prioritized improvements to Arkansas’ water infrastructure."
Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward echoed this sentiment, highlighting ongoing efforts to address deficiencies in water and wastewater systems. "The Department of Agriculture continues to work with communities across the state to address these issues," Ward affirmed.
The projects set to receive funding include:
Helena West-Helena in Phillips County, which will benefit from an emergency $100,000 loan from the Water Development Fund and an $11 million loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund. This project aims to serve a customer base of 5,500.
The City of Mena in Polk County, slated to receive a $11,583,500 loan from the Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund, targeting a customer base of 5,558.
The City of Mountainburg in Crawford County, set to receive a $7,037,300 loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund, with a current customer base of 6,184.
The City of Mulberry, also in Crawford County, will receive a $7,549,317 loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund, serving a customer base of 1,543.
The Tri County Regional Water Distribution District in Pope County, set to benefit from a $5 million loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund, with a customer base of 3,500.
In addition to this funding announcement, Governor Sanders has initiated a comprehensive review of Arkansas’ State Water Plan. She has also taken decisive action to address the ongoing water system issues in Helena West-Helena, including approving loans, providing potable water, and enlisting the assistance of the Arkansas National Guard.
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