Porum Public Works Authority Receives $99,999 Grant for Wastewater System Improvements from the OWRB

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Porum Public Works Authority (Authority) in Muskogee County received approval for a $99,999 Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP) grant Tuesday through the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to improve the Authority’s wastewater infrastructure.

The Porum Public Works Authority is making essential upgrades to its wastewater treatment system to reduce inflow and infiltration, which have been causing operational challenges and increased costs. The project will replace approximately 1,300 linear feet of aging 8-inch sewer main, install three new manholes, and complete necessary surface repairs to improve system efficiency and reliability. By modernizing deteriorating clay tile pipes and brick-and-concrete manholes, these improvements will enhance wastewater management, extend the lifespan of critical infrastructure, and help protect local water quality for the community. The estimated cost of the project is $99,999.00 which will be funded by the OWRB REAP Grant of $99,999.00.

Lori Johnson, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $182,000 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds.

“We are grateful to State Legislators in the Porum area including Representative Tim Turner for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB ExecutiveDirector.

Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $7.8 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.