Clarksdale, Miss. – The Delta Regional Authority (DRA) recently concluded Fiscal Year 2025 with an investment of nearly $17 million to support 11 critical infrastructure projects across the region. Provided through the Community Infrastructure Fund (CIF), this funding program is designed to address unmet basic public infrastructure, transportation infrastructure and flood control needs for DRA communities within the lower Mississippi Delta and Alabama Black Belt regions.
Awarded to grantees spanning across Arkansas, Illinois, Louisiana and Mississippi, the $17 million investment will support 11 projects estimated to create or retain more than 1,700 jobs and impact more than 18,000 families in the Delta region. Together, these projects will help to strengthen the region’s economic vitality by supporting residents, attracting and retaining businesses, and fostering economic growth.
“The Community Infrastructure Fund is one of DRA’s most unique tools that allows us to expand and invest in the region’s public infrastructure,” said Dr. Corey Wiggins, DRA Federal Co-Chairman. “As a result of this investment, 18,700 families will have improved access to infrastructure, helping to enhance their quality of life and increase economic opportunities in their communities.”
With these awards, DRA’s total CIF investments for Fiscal Year 2025 now reach approximately $46 million, supporting 35 projects across its eight-state region.
The latest round of CIF award recipients include:
Arkansas
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City of Forrest City was awarded more than $1.8 million for a storm sewer infrastructure project that will address the city’s current drainage issues and improve its access to critical community and emergency resources during weather-related events.
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City of Walnut Ridge was awarded $2 million to continue construction on a multi-phased rehabilitation project that will provide for a more efficient and adequate wastewater system, strengthening the city’s competitiveness to engage and attract new businesses.
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Town of Felsenthal was awarded more than $1.4 million for a water infrastructure modernization project that will provide safe, reliable drinking water; reduce system water loss; and strengthen community resilience.
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City of Hampton was awarded more than $1.5 million for a wastewater rehabilitation project that will improve the community’s wastewater system and bring it to a functionally appropriate standard.
Illinois
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City of Eldorado was awarded approximately $2 million for a water main infrastructure project that will alleviate problems with the city’s existing water supply to positively impact the community’s economic vitality, well-being, public health and quality of life.
Louisiana
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Madison Parish Port Commission was awarded more than $1 million for a transportation and sewer infrastructure project that will improve road access for commercial traffic and provide for reliable wastewater management services for port growth.
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St. Bernard Parish was awarded $2 million for a drainage improvement project in Arabi, Louisiana, that will mitigate increased flood risk in the historic community, improving residents’ well-being and the business community’s success.
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City of Westwego was awarded $2 million to modernize its aging wastewater treatment system to address longstanding infrastructure deficiencies, enhance environmental protection and improve public health.
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Pointe Coupee Parish Government was awarded $800,000 for a water consolidation project that will improve the infrastructure of a water distribution system to service two districts, ultimately eliminating water interruptions, providing a consistent water supply, and enhancing residents’ quality of life.
Mississippi
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Public Service Commission of Yazoo City was awarded approximately $1 million to rehabilitate three water storage tanks to ensure safe, reliable and quality water services to residents.
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City of Water Valley was awarded $1 million to make major improvements to the city’s electrical system to provide for a modern and efficient system that will deliver uninterrupted service and power.
For more information about the Community Infrastructure Fund, visit www.dra.gov.
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