Central Arkansas Water's Economic Impact Valued at $3.2 Billion
LITTLE ROCK - A new economic impact report reveals that Central Arkansas Water (CAW) has generated an impressive $3.2 billion in total economic impact from 2015 to 2024, according to a comprehensive analysis conducted by Boyette Strategic Advisors.
The report highlights CAW’s substantial role in regional economic growth, including a $1.7 billion boost to Gross Regional Product (GRP) and the creation of more than 6,600 jobs throughout the decade. In total, CAW’s operations, employment, and capital investments led to $958 million in labor income and $226 million in state and local tax revenues.
“This significant economic impact underscores that Central Arkansas Water is not just a utility, but a driver of economic vitality for our region,” Tad Bohannon, Chief Executive Officer of CAW, said. “Our commitment to delivering high-quality drinking water and protecting our natural resources directly supports the health, safety, and prosperity of nearly half a million Arkansans. We’re proud to serve as both stewards of the environment and catalysts for economic growth.”
This impact includes nearly $749 million in operating expenditures, $635 million in capital investments, and $1.8 billion in employment-related impact.
The report also recognizes CAW as a national and global leader as demonstrated by the utility’s sustainable activities, water capacity, and water quality. CAW not only consistently meets Environmental Protection Agency goals, but, in fact, exceeds them by establishing its own goals for chemical levels in the water. By conducting about 155,000 water tests annually, CAW keeps meticulous records of its product quality.
You can see the entire report here: Economic Impact Study
About Central Arkansas Water:
Central Arkansas Water is the largest water utility in Arkansas, serving more than 500,000 people in eight counties. CAW is committed to protecting public health and increasing the quality of life for our customers by delivering high-quality, affordable, abundant, dependable water services.