Press Release

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Lehigh Development Authority (Authority) in Coal County received approval for a $99,999 Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP) grant on Tuesday through the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to improve the Authority’s water infrastructure.

The Authority operates a water distribution system that is currently experiencing water loss due to outdated and inefficient meters. The proposed project will involve the installation of 175 Automated Meter Reading (AMR) meters, which will help improve water usage tracking and reduce waste. These upgrades will enhance the accuracy and efficiency of the water system. The estimated cost of the project is $99,999.00 which will be funded by the OWRB REAP grant in the amount of $99,999.00.

Lori Johnson, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $181,600 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds.