The Salina Public Works Authority Receives $37,286 Emergency Grant for Wastewater System Improvements from the OWRB

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Salina Public Works Authority (Authority) in Mayes County received approval for a $37,286 Emergency Grant on Tuesday from the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to improve the Authority’s wastewater infrastructure.

The Authority operates a public wastewater system that serves the community. Recently, two critical sewage pumps failed simultaneously, causing backups in the system and disrupting normal operations. To restore full functionality and prevent future failures, the Authority plans to replace the existing pumps with higher-grade models designed for improved performance and durability.

The estimated cost of the project is $43,867.00 which will be funded by the OWRB Emergency grant in the amount of $37,286.00 and $6,581.00 from local funds.

Lori Johnson, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $70,000 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds.

“Reliable wastewater infrastructure is essential to protecting public health and supporting the daily operations of our communities,” said Sen. Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair. “Thanks to the OWRB Emergency Grant and local contributions, we’re moving quickly to replace the failed systems in Salina with upgraded, more resilient pumps. This investment will not only restore proper wastewater service but also ensure greater reliability for the future.”

“We are grateful to Senators Micheal Bergstrom and Julie McIntosh and Representative Josh West 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 $8.3 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.