The Welch Public Works Authority Receives $64,900 Emergency Grant for Infrastructure Repair from the OWRB

The Welch Public Works Authority (Authority) in Craig County received approval for a $64,900 Emergency Grant Tuesday through the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to improve the Authority’s water infrastructure.

The Welch Public Works Authority, which operates a public water supply system serving the community, is addressing critical infrastructure needs following recent weather events. After receiving nine inches of rain in early November, the Authority identified a leak in the north wall of its clearwell, likely caused by a foundation shift exacerbated by flooding after extreme drought conditions. To ensure continued reliable water service, the Authority plans to construct a new 30,000-gallon clearwell, along with all necessary appurtenances. The $194,000 project is funded through a $64,900 OWRB Emergency Grant, $100,000 in RIG Grant Funds, and $29,100 in local contributions. This investment will enhance the resilience and functionality of the town’s water system.

Lori Johnson, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the OWRB Emergency Grant will save the Authority’s customers $124,300 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds.

"I am very thankful for the Oklahoma Water Resources Board awarding grants to the town of Welch to repair damage and construct a new well,” said Rep. Steve Bashore, R-Miami. “This project will positively impact the quality of life for the citizens of Welch now and for generations to come."

“We are grateful to Senator Micheal Bergstrom and Representative Steve Bashore for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $7.7 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.