The Arkansas Congressional Delegation today announced six Arkansas projects that will receive grants totaling $1,099,817 from the Delta Regional Authority (DRA).

The money will support basic public infrastructure and workforce development needs.

“This federal investment will benefit local communities and the entire state by providing crucial funding for public infrastructure and workforce development projects. I remain committed to ensuring that Arkansas has the resources it needs to maintain a strong economy, and I’m pleased to see our state receive this funding,” said U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln.

“The DRA continues to make smart investments to improve infrastructure and spur economic development in the Mississippi Delta,” said U.S. Senator Mark Pryor. “These federal funds channel much needed capital to improve the efficiency of our roads, water systems and research.”

“I’m pleased that the hard work of these communities has been recognized by the Delta Regional Authority. These critical projects will upgrade existing water infrastructure, support our transportation industry, and improve research and development in the First District. I commend Governor Beebe for selecting these development priorities,” said U.S. Representative Marion Berry (AR-01).

“I am pleased that White County is receiving this funding,” said U.S. Representative Vic Snyder (AR-02). “Improving water treatment and distribution provides more households with public water and ensures more families have access to safe and clean water.”

“Maintaining and improving our infrastructure is essential to attracting businesses to locate and stay in Arkansas,” said U.S. Representative John Boozman (AR-03). “These grants provide avenues for job creation and a boost to our state’s economy.”

“Developing our state’s infrastructure is crucial to developing our state’s economy,” said U.S. Representative Mike Ross (AR-04). “I am proud to join my colleagues in announcing these federal funds that will help communities throughout Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District and the entire state of Arkansas attract businesses, grow their economies, and add more jobs.”

Arkansas will receive funds for the following projects:

$100,000 for the Transportation Technology Center at Mid-South Community College – Crittenden County
This project, which is Phase 2 of a larger project, will fund a chemical analysis laboratory in Mid-South Community College’s Transportation Technology Center. The Center will support technician training and research on the impact of biofuels on engine performance and durability, and provide capacity to the region’s transportation industry to test heavy truck and agriculture equipment. The Center plans to train 550 workers for the biofuel industry over the next three years.

$300,000 for Water Extension/Treatment Plant Improvements – Jackson, White and Independence Counties
The purpose of this project is to provide a more efficient water treatment plant and distribution system to the users of the Independence/Jackson Regional Water Users Association, Inc. Approximately 42 households in Jackson, White and Independence Counties that now rely on private sources will be provided public water. The system will also have a backup source of power at the treatment plants and booster stations.

$100,000 for Construction of Industrial Road Access for Feed Mill Road – Union County
These funds will be used to construct and widen an industrial access road. The road will connect the truck traffic leading into Feed Mill Road. As a result, 50 new jobs will be created.
 
$350,000 for a Water System Improvement Project – Jefferson County
These funds will be used to install an elevated water tank and water service lines in White Hall to provide the necessary infrastructure to accommodate Jefferson Regional Medical Center’s new complex. As a result, 50 new jobs will be created.

$66,052 for Infrastructure Improvements for the Port of Yellow Bend – Chicot and Desha Counties
These funds will increase the production and types of cargo that can be handled in the Port of Yellow Bend. The funds will also increase shipping and job opportunities.

$183,765 to Construct an Access Road and Parking Area in Arkansas City – Desha County
These funds will help build an access road and parking area at the local lake and wildlife management area to promote and improve tourism and create jobs. The DRA, a federal agency established by Congress in 2000, is designed to channel resources, aid and guidance for economic development to the Mississippi Delta region.