The city of Cushman in Independence County will receive $140,000 in state funding for its water infrastructure improvements. The funding is part of a broader $13.6 million initiative announced by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders this week.
The Arkansas Natural Resources Commission approved the funding on May 21.
Cushman’s award comes in the form of a low-interest loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund and will benefit the city’s customer base of 433 residents. The funds are designated for renovations to booster stations as part of a larger water system improvement project.
“My administration is working hard to improve Arkansas’ water systems, and this additional $13 million in funding will help communities around the state have access to safe drinking water,” Sanders said. “Arkansans are counting on their local water utilities to deliver consistent and safe water, which is why we have gone above and beyond to overhaul and improve Arkansas’ water resources.”
Cushman’s project is among several across the state aimed at ensuring the long-term reliability of water and wastewater systems. State officials say the improvements will support public health and economic development in both rural and urban communities.
“Adequate water and wastewater infrastructure is critical,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “Thank you to Governor Sanders for her continued leadership on an issue that impacts the economic viability of our state and the quality of life of every Arkansan.”
Chris Colclasure, director of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Division, echoed the sentiment.
“Access to dependable water and wastewater systems is essential for the well-being of Arkansans and the growth of our communities,” Colclasure said. “The projects approved today will provide substantial benefit to the citizens served.”
This latest round of funding follows the completion of the first phase of the Arkansas Water Plan in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
To date, the state has administered more than $2.5 billion in water development projects in all 75 counties using both state and federal funds.
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