The Seiling Public Works Authority Receives $1,000,000 Grant for System Improvements from the OWRB
OKLAHOMA CITY – The Seiling Public Works Authority (Authority) received approval for $1,000,000 in funding on Tuesday from the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to improve the Authority’s water and wastewater infrastructure. Construction of upgrades and improvements to the water and wastewater system will be financed by the OWRB American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant program.
The Authority operates both water and wastewater systems that serve the community. With the development of a new business park, the city recognized the need for dependable water, sewer, and drainage infrastructure to support the site and prepare for future growth. The project included installing new sewer lines and manholes, water lines, fire hydrants, and roadway drainage improvements to ensure the park is equipped for long-term success. These upgrades strengthen essential services, enhance public safety, and provide a foundation for economic development in Seiling. The total project cost was $1,085,952.57 which was originally funded by local funds, and now eligible for $1,000,000.00 in reimbursement from an OWRB ARPA Grant.
Lori Johnson, chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $1,657,800.00 compared to traditional financing.
“This investment will help Seiling prepare for future growth by ensuring the new business park has the reliable infrastructure it needs," said Sen. Casey Murdock, R-Felt. "Strong water, sewer and drainage systems lay the foundation for attracting jobs and supporting local development.”
"I'm so grateful to ORWB for recognizing the need for this funding to benefit the residents of Seiling and to support the new business park,” said Rep. Mike Dobrinski, R-Okeene. “It's this kind of partnership that helps us bring meaningful improvements to our rural communities, and it's much appreciated."
“We are grateful to State Senator Casey Murdock and State Representative Mike Dobrinski for their continued support of our financial assistance programs,” said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.
The ARPA grant program is administered by the OWRB with funding from the U.S. Department of the Treasury and appropriated through the American Rescue Plan Act grants program. This OWRB program has been structured to provide communities and other eligible entities with the financial resources necessary to address water and wastewater infrastructure needs within their systems.
Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $8.3 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.
