Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders on Thursday unveiled $405,646 in new financial assistance aimed at bolstering water and wastewater infrastructure across Arkansas. The funding, directed to three local entities, will support projects serving more than 1,398 residents statewide.
“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.”
The announcement highlights the continued emphasis on strengthening water systems across the state. Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward stressed the broader importance of these investments, noting, “Reliable water and wastewater infrastructure is critical to protecting public health and supporting economic development across Arkansas. 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.”
Funding approved in this round targets both urgent repairs and essential system upgrades. Felsenthal in Union County will receive a $100,000 loan from the Water Development Fund to address emergency water main repairs, benefiting the town’s 256 customers. Meanwhile, Mansfield, covering Scott and Sebastian counties, secured $285,046 to support emergency repairs at its wastewater treatment plant, serving 499 residents. Finally, Ratcliff in Logan County will use $20,600 for meter replacements for its 643 customers.
Chris Colclasure, Director of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Division, emphasized the role of careful planning alongside consistent funding in maintaining public utilities. “Strong water infrastructure depends on thoughtful planning and reliable funding,” he said. “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.”
Since taking office, Governor Sanders has prioritized water projects throughout Arkansas, directing more than $2.7 billion in state and federal resources to improve water and wastewater systems in all 75 counties. These investments are part of a broader strategy to ensure communities can meet the demands of population growth, industry, and public health needs.
The governor’s administration has also been actively updating the Arkansas Water Plan. Executive Order 23-27, issued in 2023, launched a comprehensive review of water management practices, covering areas such as water supply, demand, and quality. The first phase of the plan, carried out by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, was completed in August 2024. Phase two is underway and is expected to be finalized in summer 2026, providing updated guidance for long-term water planning and sustainability.
Experts say these investments are more than just infrastructure spending—they are vital to supporting local economies and protecting residents. Aging water and wastewater systems, if left unaddressed, can pose health risks and disrupt everyday life. By targeting funds to small towns and rural areas, Arkansas is taking steps to ensure that even the state’s most remote communities have reliable access to essential services.
Governor Sanders’ latest announcement underscores a dual focus: meeting immediate infrastructure needs while planning for future growth. In communities like Felsenthal, Mansfield, and Ratcliff, the new loans are expected to provide relief and prevent potential service interruptions. Across the state, similar projects have contributed to a broader effort to modernize Arkansas’ water systems, ensuring that residents have access to clean, safe, and dependable water.
As Arkansas continues to grow, state officials say ongoing investments and updated planning efforts are crucial. With nearly $3 billion already directed to water projects, Governor Sanders’ administration is aiming to create a lasting foundation that balances immediate repairs with long-term sustainability, ensuring safe water for all Arkansans for decades to come.
