(Editor’s Note: Each year, Arkansas Business partners with the Arkansas Municipal League to present the Trendsetter City awards, which recognize exceptional initiatives underway in municipalities across the state. Large, medium and small-sized cities were honored in six categories: Diversity and Inclusion; Education/Workforce Development; Infrastructure and Water; Public Works/Environmental and Green Management; Technology and Security; and Tourism Development/Creative Culture. Below is one winner’s story. For more, click here.)
Infrastructure and Water
Honorable Mention • 5,000-20,000
Population: 19,336 | Mayor: Judy Nation | County: Benton | Region: Northwest
The Challenge
Siloam Springs’ aging water treatment plant struggled to keep up with modern demands, and repairs became impossible as the facility’s outdated parts were unavailable for purchase. The city needed to overhaul its water system to ensure a reliable, sustainable supply for its growing population. The COVID-19 pandemic added complications, as did the need to continue providing quality water to local residents as the plant was upgraded.
The Solution
In March 2020, Siloam Springs launched the multimillion-dollar Water Treatment Plant Improvements Project, using a progressive design-build method that minimized delays and costs during the pandemic. Upgraded technology, including an automated supervisory control and data acquisition system, modernized operations and improved efficiency. Funded by a 5/8th cent sales tax extension approved by local voters, the project has increased capacity and reduced long-term costs, setting a model for other cities’ water infrastructure projects.
Siloam Springs’ water treatment plant renovation was the first design-build project to receive funding from the Arkansas State Revolving Fund.
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