LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced more than $42 million in financial assistance for six water and wastewater projects serving more than 22,000 Arkansans. The Arkansas Natural Resources Commission approved this funding on February 28, 2024.

“Every Arkansan deserves access to safe and consistent running water. My administration has prioritized improvements to Arkansas’ water infrastructure and today, I’m proud to announce $42 million in much-needed assistance for communities that face critical issues with their existing water facilities,” said Governor Sanders.

“The Department of Agriculture continues to work with communities across the state to address deficiencies in water and wastewater systems. The action regarding Helena-West Helena continues to demonstrate the Governor’s ongoing effort to address a difficult situation and we are proud to partner with her,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. 

The projects receiving funding are below:

• Helena West-Helena, Phillips County, will receive an emergency $100,000 loan from the Water Development Fund and an $11,000,000 loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund. The current customer base for this project is 5,500.
• City of Mena, Polk County, will receive an $11,583,500 loan from the Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund. The current customer base for this project is 5,558.
• City of Mountainburg, Crawford County, will receive a $7,037,300 loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund. The current customer base for this project is 6,184.
• City of Mulberry, Crawford County, will receive a $7,549,317 loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund. The current customer base for this project is 1,543.
• Tri County Regional Water Distribution District, Pope County, will receive a $5,000,000 loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund. The current customer base for this project is 3,500.

In addition to this announcement, Governor Sanders has launched a comprehensive analysis and review of Arkansas’ State Water Plan. She has also taken action to address Helena West-Helena’s ongoing water system issues, including approving loans, providing potable water, and offering Arkansas National Guard assistance.