Sparkman, AR: Drinking Water System Upgrades
August 2023 - Present
The Dalark Pump Station, north of the City of Sparkman
Community Description
The City of Sparkman, AR has a current population of 339 and serves 509 connections with potable water through over 80 miles of water main within the City and surrounding areas. The total population served is approximately 1,325. Sparkman is located in Dallas County and is approximately 65 miles southwest of Little Rock. The median household income is approximately $35,870.
Project Scope
EPIC was connected with the City in 2023 as they were facing extensive challenges with their water distribution system. EPIC supported the City of Sparkman in procuring engineering services to result in a Preliminary Engineering Report (PER). The PER outlined numerous project priority options for the City, including repair and replacement in the drinking water transmission system, replacement of drinking water meters, and purchase of a backup generator for a water system pump station. EPIC provided project management supervision and support in selecting project priorities and applying for project funding.
Background and Services Provided
The City purchases water, which is pumped through the Dalark Pumping Station (DPS), located northwest of the city. The DPS contains a pump house with three Grundfos pumps, which carry water into the City’s distribution system. The DPS must remain operational at all times to supply water to the City. However, upon power loss, the pumping stations turn off as no backup power source is available. Loss of pump station power can lead to low or negative pressure in the system, which necessitates boil water advisories and other emergency measures. Additionally, the inability to pump water during a power outage may lead to extended water outage events.
Furthermore, the City currently uses meters of varying types, sizes, and ages to meter retail water service. Aging and inconsistent water meter systems are problematic for utility employees who struggle with inaccurate readings and malfunctioning equipment, which is difficult to calibrate. The City struggles to maintain a positive relationship with residents at times due to a sense of distrust around potentially inaccurate water meter readings.
EPIC was able to contract with engineering firm TYLin for $44,250 to author the PER, which outlined needed Capital Improvements for the City, including the need for a larger water main replacement project, and other discrete project options. After extensive consideration, City leadership and staff determined their highest priority needs were the purchase of a backup generator for the DPS and the purchase and installation of upgraded water meters throughout the service area.
Challenges and Opportunities
| Type of Challenge | Project Experience | Outcomes and/or Opportunities |
|---|---|---|
| Financial | City staff expressed a desire to only pursue grant funding due to a perceived inability to pay back loan funds, even with extremely low-interest options. | After exploratory presentations and discussions, the City agreed to submit a funding application with EPIC’s support and ongoing financial consultation. |
| Technical | City staff often struggle to carry out basic administrative tasks due to unreliable internet service and aging computer systems. | EPIC worked with City staff to overcome these barriers with creative solutions, including in-person visits to exchange documentation. |
| Administrative | City staff struggle with information management because many records are still kept on paper. | EPIC continues to support City staff to ensure more effective information management, including digitizing and sharing certain records. |
Project Next Steps
In September 2025, after extensive discussions with City staff, EPIC supported the City in applying for state and federal project funding. The City applied for a total of $454,341 in funding for the proposed project, which will include installation of a backup generator at the DPS and installation of new water meters, along with a modern meter reading and billing system. The multi-step application process included a pre-application, an application to be listed on the PPL, and the funding application to the state agency. EPIC staff is continuing to support the City in additional steps required to finalize access to funding, including environmental review and financial preparation.
Installation of a backup generator at the Dalark Pumping Station will immediately address urgent health and safety risks occurring during power outages and will allow the City to more accurately plan for emergency operations and for sustainable long-term system management. Installation of new water meters will provide accurate, real-time data on water usage, system performance, and potential issues such as leaks and non-revenue water loss. Finally, automated reading systems will reduce the chance of human error and increase customer satisfaction and trust through reliable and accurate billing.