• $10.1 million allocated to improve water availability and safety in Pinal County, Arizona.
• Funds sourced from the WaterSMART Drought Resiliency Program.
• Arizona Water Company to remove dangerous contaminants.
• Maricopa-Stanfield Irrigation and Drainage District to construct new wells.

May 14, 2024 — Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema announced last week an investment of $10,149,581 to bolster water supply and ensure safe drinking water in Stanfield, Pinal County. This funding, aimed at mitigating record drought conditions, is part of the WaterSMART Drought Resiliency Program, supported by the bipartisan infrastructure law shaped by both senators.

Key Initiatives:

• Ensuring Safe Drinking Water: The Arizona Water Company, which provides the only source of drinking water for Stanfield, will receive $9,114,490. This investment will remove harmful contaminants such as nitrate and arsenic from the community’s water system, safeguarding public health.
• Increasing Water Availability: The Maricopa-Stanfield Irrigation and Drainage District will be allocated $1,035,091 to construct two new wells. These wells are expected to increase water availability by approximately 4,000 acre-feet during water-scarce years, providing much-needed relief for local farmers and residents.

Senator Kelly emphasized the importance of these investments: “Pinal County families shouldn’t have to worry about the safety and reliability of their water supply. These investments will help ensure Arizonans have access to clean, safe drinking water while also improving drought resiliency for Pinal County farmers.”

Senator Sinema highlighted the broader impact of the funding, saying, “We’re making direct investments in Arizona’s water future – lowering costs and providing peace of mind for families now while ensuring a resilient water supply for generations to come.”

This funding is part of a broader initiative to address water scarcity in Western states like Arizona. The bipartisan infrastructure law, co-authored and negotiated by Sinema, has increased WaterSMART grant funding by $400 million, enabling crucial investments such as those announced today. This strategic approach aims to secure Arizona’s water future and provide long-term solutions to drought challenges.

Image:

Location map for Pinal County, Arizona.  Public Domain.