LITTLE ROCK — Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, alongside the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, today announced more than $12.52 million in funding for Arkansas cities, counties, and communities. That includes General Assistance Block Grants coming to Prescott, Nevada County, $499,606.00 and Willisville, Nevada County, $499,439.00.
The 88 grants, totaling $12,522,736, were awarded from the Community Development Block Grant (CDGB) and State Rural Community Grant programs.
“Arkansas’ success starts with our local communities,” said Governor Sanders. “The places that shape our towns and cities are often the ones that define them – a park, walking trail, community center, safer street. These funds help local leaders build those places that bring neighbors together, improve quality of life, and build on what Arkansans already know: there is no better place in America to live, work, and raise a family than the Natural State.”
“Local communities are the foundation of our success in Arkansas,” said Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “With the grants from the Division of Rural Services and the Grants Division, we aim to help communities access the resources and services they need to grow and continue creating economic opportunities.”
“The Division of Rural Services and the Rural Development Commission are proud to present recipients of the Rural Community Grant and the Rural Services Block Grant for fiscal year 2026,” said Becca Caldwell, director of AEDC’s Division of Rural Services. “These grant programs are essential for the development of rural Arkansas as they help communities improve their quality of life, address safety concerns, and improve infrastructure. The Division of Rural Services is committed to help set up our rural communities to thrive.”
“The success of the CDBG program lies in the dedication of our local leaders who work tirelessly to improve their communities,” said Jean Noble, director of AEDC’s Grants Division. “The CDBG program gives the state the ability to partner with these cities and counties to turn critical infrastructure priorities into reality while addressing their most urgent safety, health, and development needs. We look forward to seeing how these investments revitalize local economies and build safer, more vibrant places to live.”
State CDBG funds are utilized for a variety of public facility and infrastructure projects, including senior centers, childcare centers, public health facilities, youth centers, flood control and drainage projects, as well as economic development grants. Funds are awarded on an annual basis, with counties and municipalities also allocating resources to meet urgent needs.
The Rural Services Block Grant program funds new construction or renovation of community centers, fire stations, or multi-purpose buildings, as well as the purchase of fire trucks and fire equipment. Applicants from incorporated towns of less than 3,000 in population and unincorporated rural areas with low to moderate incomes of 51 percent or higher are eligible for up to $$100,000 in funds under the program with a 10 percent match.
The Rural Community Grant Program is used to fund projects such as fire trucks, fire protection equipment, community centers, storm sirens, community parks, and walking trails. Applicants from incorporated towns of less than 3,000 in population and unincorporated rural areas are eligible for up to $15,000 in 50/50 matching funds under the program.
Other area General Assistance Block Grants:
Bradley, Lafayette County, $499,939.00
Glenwood, Pike County, $499,828.00
Gurdon, Clark County, $500,000.00
Wilton, Little River County, $499,720.00
Area Rural Community Grants
City of Ogden, Little River County, $7,401.95
Mineral Springs FD, Howard County, $15,000.00