LRWRA

LRWRA’s role is to collect and treat wastewater generated by the proposed data center in the Port of Little Rock. We will ensure all wastewater is managed safely and in compliance with environmental regulations to protect public health, water quality, and treatment capacity of our plant.

Yes. In 2025, LRWRA evaluated the expected wastewater from the proposed Google data center. The study confirmed that the Fourche Creek Water Reclamation Facility can treat the wastewater without affecting plant operations or treatment performance.

 Note: Google funded the study.

Yes. The facility currently has approximately 8 million gallons per day of available treatment capacity. This allows LRWRA to serve the proposed data center while maintaining capacity for future growth in the Port area.

No. The proposed data center will pay all costs associated with transporting and treating its wastewater.

This means:

• No costs will be passed on to LRWRA customers.
• Sewer rates for residents and businesses will not increase because of this project.
• Google will pay for any studies, improvements, or infrastructure needed specifically for the data center.

Presently we have committed to treat 300k gallons per day. However, the amount of wastewater generated depends on the size of the facility and its cooling system.

In general:

• Wastewater volumes may be higher during warmer months due to increased cooling needs.
• Some water used for cooling evaporates and does not return to the wastewater system.
• Final wastewater volumes will depend on the facility’s design and future expansion.

The proposed site is located near LRWRA’s Fourche Creek Water Reclamation Facility. This allows wastewater to be transported and treated efficiently using existing infrastructure, reducing the need for major system expansions.

LRWRA already has the treatment capacity needed for the project. The utility continues to make long term investments in infrastructure to support growth in the Port area.

Any infrastructure required specifically for the data center will be funded by Google, not LRWRA customers.

Yes. All wastewater will be treated using established processes that meet state and federal environmental standards. LRWRA’s evaluation confirmed that the proposed wastewater can be treated safely without affecting treatment performance or regulatory compliance.

LRWRA regularly tests and monitors wastewater to ensure it meets all state and federal requirements before it is released back into the environment.

This includes:

• Using proven treatment processes to remove contaminants.
• Conducting routine testing and monitoring.
• Meeting standards designed to protect waterways and public health.

LRWRA’s evaluation confirmed that wastewater from the proposed data center can be treated within these standards.

LRWRA recognizes that residential, commercial, and industrial growth can not occurr in Little Rock without sewer infrastructure.

We regularly partner with developers and businesses to determine and evaluate their wastewater needs.

LRWRA support growth supports growth in Little Rock by ensuring there is adequate wastewater capacity while protecting public health and the environment.

No. At this time, there are no plans to use recycled (reclaimed) water to cool the proposed data center.

However, LRWRA continues to explore future water reuse opportunities as part of its long-term sustainability efforts. Any potential reuse project would require additional study, infrastructure, and regulatory approvals before implementation.

To view research from the Clinton School of Public Service on the public perception of water reuse click here.

No. LRWRA’s involvement is limited to the proposed data center in the Port of Little Rock. The AVAIO project is outside LRWRA’s service area, and LRWRA will not provide wastewater service to that facility.