The Barnsdall Public Works Authority Receives $2,000,000 Grant for Dam Improvements

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Barnsdall Public Works Authority (Authority) received approval for $2,000,000 in funding Tuesday from the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to improve the Authority’s dam.  Construction of upgrades and improvements to the dam and spillway will be financed by the OWRB American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant program, EPA/Congressional grant of $1,600,000, USDA Emergency Community Water Assistance Grant of $1,000,000, as well as $1,200,000 collective funding from the Osage Nation and City of Barnsdall.

The Authority owns and operates the Waxhoma Dam, which forms Waxhoma Lake and supplies potable water to 506 customers and Osage Co. RWD #5. Currently, the dam has an overall condition rating of unsatisfactory, primarily due to extensive damage to the concrete spillway from two separate breaches. The proposed project involves the complete removal and replacement of the spillway to restore and ensure the dam's integrity and functionality.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $3,100,300 compared to traditional financing.

“This is great news, I know that dam has been causing problems and I am pleased that this is going to help Barnsdall and their water supply,” said Sen. Bill Coleman. 

"Barnsdall is still in the midst of recovery after the devastating tornado earlier this year, and these grants approved by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board will help support the community as we work to rebuild,” said Rep. Judd Storm. “I appreciate the support of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and the hard work of the Barnsdall Public Works Authority, and I look forward to seeing these grants be put to good use."

“We are grateful to State Senator Bill Coleman and State Representative Judd Strom for their continued support of our financial assistance programs,” said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.