Roff Public Works Authority Receives $99,999 Grant for Wastewater System Improvements from the OWRB
OKLAHOMA CITY – The Roff Public Works Authority (Authority) in Pontotoc County received approval for a $99,999 Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP) grant on Tuesday through the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to improve the Authority’s wastewater infrastructure.
In response to a Sanitary Sewer Evaluation Study (SSES) completed to assess system deficiencies, the Authority will focus efforts on reducing inflow and infiltration (I/I). The proposed project includes the rehabilitation of nine deteriorated manholes, erosion control and roadway repairs around the lagoon treatment area, and the replacement of approximately 2,000 linear feet of aging sewer line. These improvements will enhance the reliability and efficiency of the community's wastewater system, while ensuring the Town of Roff stays in compliance with state regulations.
The estimated cost of the project is $724,999.00 which will be funded by the OWRB REAP Grant of $99,999.00, County ARPA Funds of $125,000.00, and a CDBG Grant of $500,000.00.
Lori Johnson, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $185,600 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds.
“Sewer systems are a crucial, yet often overlooked, part of local infrastructure,” said Sen. Jonathan Wingard, R-Ada. “This $99,999 grant from the Oklahoma Water Resources Board will assist the Roff Public Works Authority in replacing outdated sewer lines, upgrading manholes, and making essential repairs to ensure the wastewater system operates reliably and efficiently.
“I want to thank the Oklahoma Water Resources Board for approving this REAP grant and for their continued support of rural communities across our state," said Rep. Ronny Johns, R-Ada. "This funding represents an important step toward improving critical infrastructure in Roff. By supporting essential upgrades to the community’s wastewater system, this investment helps ensure public health, environmental protection and long-term service reliability for local residents. I appreciate the continued collaboration among local and state partners in bringing these resources to communities that need them.”
“We are grateful to Senator Jonathan Wingard and Representative Ronny Johns 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 $7.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.
