Hawkins-Weir Fort Smith water system needs upgrades before prison can proceed

A report from Hawkins-Weir Engineers highlights that Fort Smith's water system is approaching its treatment and transmission limits, complicating plans for a proposed 3,000-bed prison in Franklin County. The report calls for immediate upgrades to the city's water infrastructure, advising evaluations of future developments on a case-by-case basis. Acting city administrator Jeff Dingman stated that these upgrades could take three to six years once funding is secured, indicating that future projects may face challenges due to current infrastructure limitations. Dated June 30, 2025, the report was released on the same day Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders urged the continuation of the prison project, despite previous attempts to secure $750 million in funding failing. The prison would increase daily water demand by approximately 562,500 gallons, further straining a system already on the brink.

Historical data reveal that demand surpassed 45 million gallons on multiple occasions in 2023 and 2024, with projections suggesting that this will rise significantly by 2030. The report also notes that the prison's demands would not create new deficiencies but would worsen existing low-pressure areas, particularly in southeast Fort Smith. The city’s Chaffee Crossing Pump Station can currently manage the added demand but will face increased run times and stress on its equipment.