Two cities in North Central Arkansas are among 106 across the country set to share $282 million to improve water and wastewater infrastructure. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is funding the projects in 36 states and Puerto Rico through its Rural Development agency.The City of Cotter has been selected to receive a loan of over $1.5 million and a $619,000 grant to rehabilitate the existing wastewater collection and treatment system. The cities of Cotter and Gassville jointly own and operate the existing wastewater system. The primary purpose of the project is to make improvements to the joint wastewater system and to address health and sanitary standards. The USDA says the project will provide area rural residents with more efficient wastewater collections and treatment services.
The City of Flippin has been selected to receive a $775,000 loan and a grant of over $3.7 million to rehabilitate its wastewater collection system. The rehabilitation will consist of replacing existing wastewater lines and manholes. The project will also include wastewater extensions within the city limits, which will serve an estimated 51 new users. USDA says the rehabilitation project will provide the area rural residents with reliable wastewater services.
“These investments will bring modern, reliable water and wastewater infrastructure to rural communities. They will replace deteriorating, leaking water pipes with new ones and upgrade water handling systems that are decades old. These investments create jobs and improve public health and safety for our rural neighbors,” USDA Deputy Under Secretary Bette Brand says. “Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA is committed to partnering with rural communities to help them improve their infrastructure, because when rural America thrives, all of America thrives.”
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas.
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