Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced more than $3.47 million in financial assistance to support water and wastewater projects across Arkansas, continuing the state’s efforts to improve critical infrastructure and strengthen communities.
The newly approved funding totals $3,477,436 and will support projects involving five different entities. According to state officials, three of the funded projects will directly serve more than 8,780 Arkansans, while the remaining projects are expected to provide training and assistance that will benefit communities throughout the state.
Governor Sanders said reliable water and wastewater systems remain essential for Arkansas residents, businesses, and future growth.
“Today’s announcement continues my administration’s record of delivering for Arkansas communities and the water and wastewater facilities they rely on,” said Governor Sanders. “Our state doesn’t work without the water resources our citizens need, and we’re continuing to invest in communities across the state to help them grow, build, and thrive.”
Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward also emphasized the importance of maintaining strong water infrastructure across the state.
“Water and wastewater infrastructure is the foundation of community stability, public health, economic growth, and quality of life in Arkansas,” Ward said. “Continued investment in these critical systems ensures communities have access to safe, reliable service today while preparing for the needs of future generations.”
Chris Colclasure, Director of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Division, said the investments are designed to support both current and future needs.
“Water infrastructure is one of Arkansas’ most important long-term responsibilities,” Colclasure said. “By prioritizing upgrades and supporting system reliability, we’re helping ensure that residents, businesses, and industries have access to the safe, stable services they depend on every day.”
Funding supports local projects and statewide training
Among the largest awards announced was additional financing for the City of Decatur in Benton County. The city received an additional $2,125,000 loan through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. The money will help expand the headworks at the city’s wastewater treatment plant, a project that currently serves approximately 8,165 customers.
The City of Ratliff in Logan County was approved for a $100,000 emergency loan from the Water Development Fund. Officials said the project serves approximately 570 customers and will help address important water system needs.
The Horseshoe Bend Property Owners Association in Washington County received an additional $42,436 loan from the Water, Sewer, and Solid Waste Fund. The funding will be used to improve local water lines serving 51 customers.
In addition to local infrastructure projects, two organizations received funding to provide education and technical support throughout Arkansas.
The Arkansas Environmental Training Academy was awarded two grants totaling $540,000. One grant of $324,000 from the Water Development Fund will provide training for retail water boards, while another grant of $216,000 from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund will support training for wastewater operators. Officials said these programs will have a statewide impact.
The Arkansas Rural Water Association also received three grants totaling $670,000. The funding includes $270,000 for the Drinking Water Circuit Rider Grant Program, $130,000 for the Technical Assistance Grant Program, and another $270,000 for the Wastewater Circuit Rider Grant Program. These programs are intended to provide guidance and technical assistance to water and wastewater systems across Arkansas.
State officials noted that strengthening water infrastructure has remained one of Governor Sanders’ major priorities since taking office.
According to the governor’s office, nearly $2.8 billion in combined state and federal funding has been approved for water and wastewater improvements benefiting all 75 Arkansas counties during her administration.
The announcement also highlights the state’s ongoing work to update the Arkansas Water Plan. In 2023, Governor Sanders signed Executive Order 23-27, launching a comprehensive review of the state’s long-term strategy for managing water resources, including water supply, demand, quality, and future planning.
The first phase of that update was completed in August 2024 by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Officials said work on the second phase is continuing and is expected to be completed during the summer of 2026, helping guide Arkansas’ water management strategy for years to come.
