Fort Smith, Ark. – The City of Fort Smith has been making progress on a major sewer rehabilitation project aimed at improving infrastructure and ensuring compliance with a federal Consent Decree. The initiative, designated as Project 23-19-C3, began construction on November 25, 2024, and involves extensive repairs and capacity improvements in multiple sub-basins across the city.
The project includes the rehabilitation of approximately 3,750 linear feet of sanitary sewer lines, ranging in diameter from 8 to 12 inches. The primary method being utilized for the repairs is Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP) lining, a trenchless technology designed to reinforce aging pipelines without requiring extensive excavation. Additionally, the project calls for the installation of approximately 160 cleanouts to enhance maintenance access.
As of February 2025, significant progress has been made. According to city officials, 2,040 linear feet of CIPP liner has been successfully installed, and 25 cleanouts have been completed. The total value of the work completed to date stands at $522,750.
The project is being overseen by design engineering firm RJN Group, while Humbard Contracting is handling the construction. The estimated total cost for the project is $3,499,950, with funding sourced from the 5/8% sales tax dedicated specifically to Consent Decree projects. The city has set a projected completion date of December 31, 2025.
City officials emphasize that the improvements will play a crucial role in addressing ongoing sewer infrastructure challenges and preventing potential environmental violations. The Consent Decree, which Fort Smith entered into following legal action from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Justice, mandates the city to upgrade its wastewater collection and treatment systems to meet federal water quality standards.
Once completed, the project is expected to provide long-term benefits by reducing the risk of sewer overflows, improving system efficiency, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Residents can expect continued construction activity in the designated sub-basin areas as work progresses toward the final completion date.
The city has committed to keeping the public informed about further developments and any potential disruptions that may arise due to the ongoing work. Fort Smith officials encourage residents to stay updated through city announcements and project reports.