The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) has authorized the execution of contracts for grant funding amounting to $35,788,153 from the Rural Water Assistance Fund (RWAF) to support water loss projects. This funding is part of a larger initiative financed by the Texas Water Fund, which was approved by voters through Proposition 6 in November 2023. The fund was established with a $1 billion appropriation aimed at upgrading water infrastructure and promoting innovative water supply projects.
At a meeting held in August 2024, the TWDB approved a prioritized list of projects eligible for RWAF and Water Loan Assistance Fund grants. These projects are categorized based on population size, with entities having populations of 1,000 or less qualifying for full grant funding specifically targeting conservation and water loss issues.
Among the ten approved projects receiving full grant coverage through RWAF are:
- City of Alba: Allocated $1,817,000 for storage tank rehabilitation, generator installation, and distribution line replacement.
- Arimak Water Supply Corporation: Granted $955,000 to replace lines and valves and install automated meters.
- Chappell Hill Water Supply Corporation: Awarded $4,056,503 for main replacements and new installations including a standpipe.
- East Medina County Special Utility District: Received $2,128,400 for pipe replacement and backflow prevention installations.
- City of Evant: Secured $1,263,000 for well installation and distribution improvements.
- City of Graford: Provided with $555,000 for line replacements and meter upgrades.
- City of Groveton: Allocated $4,261,250 for system assessment studies and new well construction.
- City of Matador: Granted $13,682,000 to replace transmission lines and improve systems.
- Mooreville Water Supply Corporation: Awarded $4,606,000 to upgrade lines and add pumps.
- Red River Authority of Texas: Received $2,464,000 for tank construction and pump station enhancements.
The TWDB plays a crucial role as the state agency responsible for managing water-related data collection and dissemination. It also assists with regional planning efforts related to water resources and flood management while administering financial assistance programs that facilitate various water-related infrastructure projects across Texas.
