Governor Sanders Announces $405,646 in Arkansas Water Financing

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders today announced $405,646 in financial assistance for water and wastewater projects for three entities, serving more than 1,398 Arkansans across the state.

"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."

"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."

"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."

Funding approved today includes:

• Felsenthal, Union County, received a $100,000 loan from the Water Development Fund. This project serves a current customer base of 256. These funds will be used for emergency water main repairs.
• Mansfield, Scott and Sebastian counties, received a $285,046 loan from the Water Development Fund. This project serves a current customer base of 499. These funds will be used for emergency wastewater treatment plant repairs.
• Ratcliff, Logan County, received a $20,600 loan from the Water Development Fund. This project serves a current customer base of 643. These funds will be used for meter replacements.

Since taking office, Governor Sanders has prioritized strengthening Arkansas' water infrastructure in every corner of the state, with more than $2.7 billion in state and federal funds invested in water projects across all 75 counties.

In 2023, Governor Sanders issued Executive Order 23-27, initiating a comprehensive review of and update to the Arkansas Water Plan, guiding the state's management of water resources, water supply, water demand, water quality, and more. The first phase was completed by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in August 2024. The second phase of the update is underway and will be completed in summer 2026.

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