LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The largest water plant in Arkansas is getting its first renovation since it was built in the 1950s, coming with a hefty price tag Central Arkansas Water customers will be paying.
On Sept. 18, the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission approved the final $80 million of a $230 million loan for the project. The commission already approved $150 million prior.
Central Arkansas Water begins trickling into west Pulaski County
At 70, the Jack H. Wilson Treatment Plant is still pumping 125 million gallons a day, but CAW Public Information Officer Doug Shackleford said, “It’s just starting to show its age.”
Rust, rubble and rattling are not hard to find at the plant. Shackelford said that’s all about to change in early 2025. A five-year renovation process will begin with the main goal of more efficiently producing more water.
“We’re ensuring water for generations, and that’s really what this is all about,” Shackelford said.
CAW officials said everything will be new and modernized from the concrete making the basins to the systems feeding chemicals or eliminating waste. Some portions are currently unused and without purpose because of advancing technology and have been incorporated into the new design.