Jonesboro Receives Federal Grant for Lost Creek Project
A new FEMA grant will fund critical engineering and design work to address recurring flood risks along the Lost Creek channel.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Safety
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The Federal Emergency Management Agency has awarded Jonesboro a $1,036,550 grant to support flood mitigation engineering along 4.27 miles of the Lost Creek channel. This federal support, paired with state contributions, aims to address longstanding flooding challenges in the community.
Why it matters
The funding allows Jonesboro to finalize technical designs necessary for long-term flood protection. These improvements are intended to stabilize the area and mitigate the community impacts caused by recurring flood events.
The federal government is providing $1,036,550 for engineering plans alongside $324,000 in non-federal matching funds. The project scope covers 4.27 miles of the Lost Creek channel and includes an additional $64,550 for management costs.
The players
Federal Emergency Management Agency
This federal agency is responsible for coordinating the response to disasters that occur in the United States.
Arkansas Division of Emergency Management
This state agency manages emergency preparedness and provides support for disaster recovery and mitigation efforts in Arkansas.
The details
Planned infrastructure upgrades for the channel include widening the bottom, adjusting side slopes to be more gradual, and building a tiered bank shelf that incorporates a maintenance road. This initiative builds upon prior investments, including $1 million in federal property acquisition funding received by the city in fiscal year 2025.
Timeline
Fiscal year 2025: The city received $1 million in federal funding for property acquisition.
October 30, 2026: The grant award was officially announced.
Seasonal Patterns
The city plans to pursue future construction phases through funding opportunities such as the Water Resources Development Act. This strategic progression highlights how municipalities must bridge initial design grants with long-term federal infrastructure programs.
Residents living near the Lost Creek channel can anticipate future site work as the city transitions from engineering design to construction. Official safety advisories and updates regarding upcoming infrastructure changes will be provided by city planning authorities.
The takeaway
Securing dedicated engineering funds is a vital prerequisite for managing recurring environmental hazards. Residents should monitor local public notices to stay informed as the project moves from initial planning to construction-ready status.
Further reading
Learn more about local emergency and risk reduction efforts in our Safety section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kait8.
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