Local Water System Gets State Help for Important Upgrades

DEER, AR. - Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders recently announced that several communities across the state will receive money to improve their water systems. Among these is the Nail-Swain Water Association in Newton County, which will get a loan to fix its water tank.

The Nail-Swain Water Association, which serves 379 customers, will receive a $20,806 loan. This money comes from the state's Water Development Fund and will be used to make sure their water tank is in good working order.

In total, the state is providing $478,670 in financial help for water and wastewater projects. This funding will benefit four different groups, including the Nail-Swain Water Association, the Arkansas Rural Water Association, and projects in Saline and Union Counties. These improvements will help more than 8,900 Arkansans.

Governor Sanders explained that Arkansas is growing quickly, and its water systems need to keep up. "We're investing in water projects across the state," she said, highlighting the state's commitment to ensuring everyone has access to safe and reliable water.

Wes Ward, the state's Secretary of Agriculture, added that good water and sewer systems are key for public health and economic growth. He noted that these projects help communities keep vital services running and prepare for future needs.

Other projects receiving funds include:

• Arkansas Rural Water Association: A $120,000 grant for training programs for water operators statewide.
• Bryant (Saline County): A $286,640 loan to improve its sewer system, helping 8,496 customers.

• Felsenthal (Union County): A $51,224 loan for sewer repairs, serving 56 customers.

Since becoming Governor, Sanders has focused on strengthening Arkansas's water infrastructure, with nearly $2.8 billion in state and federal funds approved for water projects across all 75 counties. These investments aim to build stronger, more reliable water systems for future generations.