Council approves land purchase for wastewater upgrades along I-40; utility says 115-acre site best suited for capacity improvements

The North Little Rock City Council on June 28 approved Resolution R25149 authorizing the mayor and city clerk to execute a real estate purchase agreement for property along Interstate 40 from the Woodcrest Company LLLP for use by the North Little Rock Wastewater Utility.

Why it matters: Wastewater officials said the purchase secures land needed to construct facilities and increase hydraulic capacity for large-diameter pipes serving the Dark Hollow area, where the utility has reached carrying capacity.

Michael Clayton, executive director of North Little Rock Wastewater, briefed the council and said the property is roughly 115 acres and is located north of the Union Pacific railroad and south of I-40. Clayton described the site as "ideally suited for the use of our facilities," adding it is out of the public's direct view and not publicly accessible. He said consultants previously recommended facilities in the Dark Hollow area and that a newer hydraulic study refined locations where capacity enhancements are needed.

Council members voiced support for the purchase and thanked utility staff for the work. The resolution was moved and seconded and the council recorded all "yes" votes on the motion to adopt.

Outcome: R25149 passed; the council authorized the mayor and city clerk to execute the sale and purchase agreement on behalf of the North Little Rock Wastewater Utility. No public opposition came forward during a called public hearing.

Discussion-only versus formal action: This item was a formal resolution that the council adopted at the June 28 meeting.