Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced $3,477,436 in financial assistance for water and wastewater infrastructure projects that will benefit communities across Arkansas, including Decatur, Ratliff, Horseshoe Bend, and statewide training programs.
State officials say three of the projects will directly serve more than 8,780 Arkansans, while five additional grants will strengthen water and wastewater systems through statewide education and technical assistance programs.
Governor Highlights Continued Investment
Governor Sanders said improving Arkansas’ water infrastructure remains one of her administration’s highest priorities.
“Today’s announcement continues my administration’s record of delivering for Arkansas communities and the water and wastewater facilities they rely on,” Sanders said. “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 emphasized that dependable water and wastewater systems are essential to every community.
“Water and wastewater infrastructure is the foundation of community stability, public health, economic growth, and quality of life in Arkansas. 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 will strengthen long-term reliability.
“Water infrastructure is one of Arkansas’ most important long-term responsibilities. 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.”
Projects Receiving Funding
Arkansas Environmental Training Academy – Statewide
The Arkansas Environmental Training Academy received two grants totaling $540,000:
$324,000 from the Water Development Fund to provide training for retail water boards.
$216,000 from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund to train wastewater operators.
Officials say both programs will have a statewide impact.
Arkansas Rural Water Association – Statewide
The Arkansas Rural Water Association received three grants totaling $670,000:
$270,000 for the Drinking Water Circuit Rider Grant Program.
$130,000 for the Technical Assistance Grant Program.
$270,000 for the Wastewater Circuit Rider Grant Program.
These grants also provide assistance to water systems throughout Arkansas.
City of Decatur – Benton County
The City of Decatur received an additional $2,125,000 loan from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund.
The money will help expand the city’s wastewater treatment plant headworks and serves approximately 8,165 customers.
Horseshoe Bend Property Owners Association
The Horseshoe Bend Property Owners Association was approved for an additional $42,436 loan from the Water, Sewer and Solid Waste Fund.
The funding will improve water lines serving approximately 51 customers.
City of Ratliff – Logan County
The City of Ratliff received a $100,000 emergency loan from the Water Development Fund.
The project serves approximately 570 customers and will help maintain reliable water service.
Nearly $2.8 Billion Approved Since 2023
Since taking office, Governor Sanders has made water infrastructure one of her administration’s top priorities.
According to the Governor’s Office, nearly $2.8 billion in state and federal funding has been approved for water and wastewater projects benefiting all 75 Arkansas counties.
In 2023, Governor Sanders signed Executive Order 23-27, launching a comprehensive update to the Arkansas Water Plan.
The plan guides management of the state’s water resources, water supply, water demand and water quality. Officials completed the first phase in August 2024, while the second phase is expected to be finished during the summer of 2026.
Funding at a Glance
Recipient Location Amount Purpose
Arkansas Environmental Training Academy Statewide $540,000 Water board and wastewater operator training
Arkansas Rural Water Association Statewide $670,000 Technical assistance and circuit rider programs
City of Decatur Decatur, Benton County $2,125,000 Wastewater treatment plant expansion
Horseshoe Bend Property Owners Association Washington County $42,436 Water line improvements
City of Ratliff Ratliff, Logan County $100,000 Emergency water system improvements
45-Word Radio News Story
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced $3.48 million for water and wastewater projects across Arkansas. Funding includes $2.125 million for Decatur in Benton County, emergency assistance for Ratliff in Logan County, water improvements in Washington County, and statewide training programs.
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