The Arapaho Public Works Authority Receives $99,995 Grant for Wastewater System Improvements from the OWRB

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Arapaho Public Works Authority (Authority) in Custer County received approval for a $99,995 Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP) grant on Tuesday through the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to improve the Authority’s wastewater infrastructure.

The Authority will move forward with vital wastewater system improvements to address infiltration and inflow (I&I) challenges at its wastewater treatment plant. These issues, caused by cracked structures, leaks, and unsealed manholes, allow excess stormwater and groundwater to enter the sanitary sewer system—placing unnecessary strain on treatment processes and increasing operational costs. The proposed project will rehabilitate five deteriorating manholes through the replacement of manhole rings and covers, reconstruction of the internal flow channels (invert and bench), and installation of approximately 50 vertical feet of protective interior lining. All necessary materials and components will be included to complete the rehabilitation and restore structural integrity.

The total estimated cost of the project is $99,995.00, which will be fully funded through a Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP) grant from the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB).

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.

“We are grateful to Senator Darcy Jech and Representative Anthony Moore 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.