Governor Laura Kelly and the Kansas Water Office on Monday announced more than $19 million will be awarded to 44 water-related communities and special districts across Kansas as part of the third round of grant funding created by the Senate Substitute for House Bill 2302 Grant Programs. These programs provide funding for water projects, technical assistance, and loan assistance to small communities across the state.
“We’re addressing pressing water issues now to ensure a safe and resilient water supply for generations of Kansans to come,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This crucial funding has already made a significant impact across the state, and this new round of grants makes progress toward meeting the water needs of Kansas communities.”
Two area communities received a total of more than $1.2 million in technical assistance grants. The city of Pawnee Rock will receive $962,594, and the city of Claflin will receive $303,000. The Pawnee Rock project will impact drinking water with a new well and transmission line. The Claflin project will involve wastewater improvements. Projects in Hoisington, Larned, and Ellsworth were not funded.
In 2023, Senate Substitute for House Bill 2302 increased state funding for the State Water Plan Fund (SWPF) and created two new water-related grant funds: the Technical Assistance Grant Fund and the Water Projects Grant Fund. The programs have funded $44 million over two years with an additional $19 million awarded during this funding cycle.
“Water is a vital resource, and this funding ensures adequate water quality and quantity across the state,” said Connie Owen, Director of the Kansas Water Office. “The program helps build more resilient communities.”
More than 280 applications were submitted for the 2026 funding period, totaling $272 million in grant funding. Grants were awarded to 44 water-related communities and special districts across the state, including 10 water projects, 22 technical assistance awards, and 12 loan assistance awards.
See the full list of funded projects here.