LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Environmental Protection Agency has awarded $26.8 million to the state of Arkansas.
According to a press release from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the award is in the amount $26,830,000 and is being distributed under the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to upgrade water infrastructure and keep communities safe.
“Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity. When our water infrastructure fails, it threatens people’s health, peace of mind, and the environment,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan.
This 26M award is part of a five year, $50 billion investment by the Biden-Harris administration that aims to improve water infrastructure through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Officials said that this is the "largest investment in water infrastructure in American history."
As part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law's mandate, officials said that the majority of the funding "must be provided to disadvantaged communities in the form of grants or loans that do not have to be repaid." This is an attempt to ensure that the funds are being distributed to those who need it the most.
“With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s historic investment in water, EPA is working with states and local partners to upgrade infrastructure and address local challenges—from lead in drinking water, to PFAS, to water main breaks, to sewer overflows and climate resilience," Regan said. "Together, we are creating good-paying jobs while ensuring that all people can rely on clean and safe water.”
