Snyder Announces House Approval of Projects for Brushy Island, White Co., Morrilton WASHINGTON, D.C. - United States Representative Vic Snyder (AR-02) announced that last night the House passed the Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2004 (H.R. 2673), which provides $77.5 billion in new appropriations for FY04 and includes funding for rural development projects. Rural development projects for Brushy Island, White County and the city of Morrilton were included in the bill.
"While specific amounts are not earmarked for these projects, and applications must still be submitted to receive the funding, they are expressly mentioned in the bill," Congressman Vic Snyder said. "The language used to recommend these projects is favorable and urges the Under Secretary for Rural Development to give them consideration."
Due to age and poor materials, the Brushy Island water system is not capable of operating at the standard water pressure being provided to them. The BIWA currently operates its system at a pressure just above the state required minimum of 20 psi. BIWA also has is a lack of fire protection, due to a combination of low system pressure and water mains of insufficient size to provide an adequate fire flow throughout the system. If granted, this funding will provide for the much needed water improvements in Brushy Island.
In 1998, White County received hazard mitigation grant funding to purchase 15 alert sirens, which were installed in each incorporated city in the county. However, due to many large rural areas, these sirens are not audible to citizens who reside outside incorporated cities. This funding would provide for alert warning sirens in 9 unincorporated communities, including: El Paso, Joy, Romance, Floyd, Hickory Flat, Albion, Antioch, Velvet Ridge, and Center Hill.
The city of Morrilton has acquired the city's old post office, a 1936 building that plays a significant role in the community's history. Due to the age of the structure, the building contains lead paint and asbestos. Upon its refurbishment, the city plans to use the basement of the building as an emergency services office and 911 backup center, and the main floor of the building as an economic development center for Conway County.
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