Little Rock, Arkansas – On May 21, 2025, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders unveiled an additional $13.6 million in funding for water and wastewater infrastructure projects across Arkansas. The announcement, which highlights her administration’s continued commitment to improving water systems, will directly impact 12 entities serving over 42,000 residents statewide. These projects, approved by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC), are a part of the broader efforts to modernize the state’s water resources, ensuring clean, safe drinking water for all Arkansans.
“My administration is working hard to improve Arkansas’ water systems, and this additional $13 million in funding will help communities around the state have access to safe drinking water,” Governor Sanders stated. “Arkansans are counting on their local water utilities to deliver consistent and safe water, which is why we have gone above and beyond to overhaul and improve Arkansas’ water resources.”
The funding marks another major step in the state’s long-term water development strategy, which has already garnered significant results. Governor Sanders’ efforts, alongside state and federal partners, have contributed over $2.5 billion in water-related investments across all 75 counties. This comes on the heels of the completion of the first phase of the Arkansas Water Plan, which was developed in collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. These comprehensive plans aim to address water scarcity, improve water quality, and enhance wastewater management throughout the state.
Among the notable recipients of this latest round of funding is the Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment, which has been awarded a $1.8 million grant from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. These funds will be used to establish a statewide PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) detection program, a critical initiative aimed at monitoring and mitigating the effects of toxic chemicals in drinking water systems.
“Adequate water and wastewater infrastructure is critical,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “Thank you to Governor Sanders for her continued leadership on an issue that impacts the economic viability of our state and the quality of life of every Arkansan.” The Secretary emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust water infrastructure as a foundational pillar for economic development and public health in the state.
Chris Colclasure, Director of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Division, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the long-term benefits of the funding for the state’s communities. “Access to dependable water and wastewater systems is essential for the well-being of Arkansans and the growth of our communities,” Colclasure said. “The projects approved today will provide substantial benefit to the citizens served.”
A diverse range of projects will receive financial assistance, reflecting the varied needs of Arkansas’ water systems. These projects span across both urban and rural areas, with recipients including municipal water departments, rural water associations, and conservation organizations.
In Banks, Bradley County, a $95,384 grant will fund part of a regionalization project with the Southeast Bradley County Water Authority. The project, which serves 1,048 residents, is expected to streamline operations and improve water delivery efficiency. Meanwhile, the city of Cushman in Independence County will receive a $140,000 loan to renovate its water system, benefiting 433 residents. These funds will be directed toward upgrades at local booster stations, ensuring that residents continue to have reliable access to clean water.
The city of Flippin, located in Marion County, will see a significant $2.5 million loan aimed at improving its water infrastructure. The funds will be used for critical water main and meter replacements, which will directly benefit 1,836 residents. In Arkansas County, the city of Gillett will receive a $448,000 loan to construct elevated water storage tanks, an essential upgrade for the area’s growing population of 333 residents.
In Calhoun County, Hampton is set to receive a $221,700 grant from the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant Program. This grant will fund a wastewater collection rehabilitation project, serving 1,181 residents. Similarly, Haskell in Saline County will receive $562,638 for a sanitary sewer evaluation survey to address concerns related to the local sewer infrastructure. This project will benefit 3,956 residents.
Other projects receiving funding include those designed to enhance wastewater systems. Nail Swain Water Association in Newton County will receive a $41,037 loan to purchase a maintenance truck, which will improve the association’s ability to maintain water systems for 357 customers. Weiner in Poinsett County is set to receive a $318,057 loan to renovate its wastewater sludge holding ponds, improving wastewater treatment for 413 residents.
The city of Sherwood in Pulaski County has received the largest grant in this round of funding — a massive $7.1 million loan from the General Obligation Bond Fund. This funding will be used for the rehabilitation of the Five Mile Creek interceptor, a key part of the city’s infrastructure serving 32,731 residents. The rehabilitation project aims to address aging infrastructure and improve wastewater treatment services in the area.
The Watershed Conservation Resource Center in Washington County will also benefit from this round of funding, with a $299,092 grant for implementing phase one of a stormwater reuse project. The grant will be used to develop innovative solutions for managing stormwater runoff, which can reduce pollution and protect water quality for local residents.
These water and wastewater projects, funded by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission, represent a vital investment in the state’s future. Governor Sanders’ commitment to addressing water infrastructure needs has proven to be a game-changer for Arkansas communities, particularly those in rural and underserved areas. As the state continues to prioritize water systems, these investments are expected to have long-lasting impacts on public health, economic development, and the overall quality of life in Arkansas.
By providing these resources to local governments and organizations, Arkansas is not only improving water infrastructure but also creating a more sustainable future for its residents. As the projects begin to take shape, the residents of Arkansas will see firsthand the positive effects of this dedicated investment in their communities. With strong leadership and continued collaboration between state and local officials, the state is on track to meet the growing demands of its population and ensure a reliable, safe water supply for all.
