USDA Invests $31.7M to Improve Wastewater Infrastructure in Jim Wells County

(Ben Bolt, Texas, Oct. 14, 2026) - U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Texas State Director James Redfield was recently in Ben Bolt, Texas, to announce a $29.2 million grant and $2.5 million loan for Jim Wells County Fresh Water Supply District (FWSD) No.1 to construct a wastewater collection system that will serve the Ben Bolt, Green Acres, and surrounding areas. State Director Redfield was joined by Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) and Jim Wells County FWSD No. 1 General Manager Octavio Flores for the announcement.

This project will replace aging septic systems with modern wastewater infrastructure that will connect to the City of Alice's wastewater system for treatment. In doing so, it will help protect public health, improve environmental quality, and provide a reliable foundation for future growth and development throughout the area.

"Reliable water and wastewater infrastructure is essential to the health, safety, and economic vitality of rural America. The Trump Administration remains committed to ensuring families, farmers, and businesses have access to the modern infrastructure they need to grow and prosper. It is a privilege to help advance this investment and others like it that strengthen infrastructure, expand opportunity, and support a brighter future for communities across rural Texas," said Redfield.

"This $31 million investment will be truly transformational for the community of Ben Bolt. I am thrilled to help secure funding that delivers first-time sewer service to enhance sanitation, water quality, and public health standards. This is not just an infrastructure upgrade; it is a long-term investment for Texas families and the community for decades to come," said Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15).

The funding is provided through USDA Rural Development's Water and Environmental Programs. USDA's Water and Environmental Programs offer direct loans, loan guarantees, and grants for public service needs to improve the quality of life, develop, and sustain rural America.

Learn more online at www.rd.usda.gov , and subscribe for updates .

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