Ray Water increases pressure
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Water customers in the Ray community now enjoy increased water pressure thanks to a new pumping station, largely paid for with ARPA funds. Pictured from left are District 3 Commissioner Brandon Davis, the project engineer, Ray Water Board Member Jack Craver, Board Member Barron Gregg, Water Manager Ronnie Brown, engineer Joe Downey, and in the back is employee James Hoyett. Photo submitted
By Christa Jennings
Senior Staff Writer
Water customers in the Ray community have recently noticed an increase in pressure, for which they are thankful.
Ray Water Manager Ronnie Brown explained that they put in new pumps a few months ago.
“We had a lot of customers who didn’t have the water pressure that they needed,” Brown said. “So we put these variable speed pumps in to get everybody some water pressure. That’s basically what the pumping station is for.”
The work was completed thanks to COVID-19 funds, or the American Rescue Plan Act, contributed by the county, with Ray Water Authority paying the balance.
Brown said the total project cost approximately $170,000. Of that, $100,000 was provided by District 3 Commissioner Brandon Davis from his allotted ARPA funds, and the Water Board paid the rest.
“That’s what it’s about, is getting people more water pressure,” Brown said. “They’ve never had any up there. That’s been the problem for years.”
Brown has been with Ray Water for seven or eight years and said he recommended to the Board that they needed to give the customers more water pressure. To reach that goal, the Board installed a new pumping station, building and the variable speed pumps.
“It’s worked perfect; everyone has pressure,” Brown said.
While the Water Authority had been receiving complaints about the lack of water pressure, Brown said since installing the new equipment they have not heard any complaints. Just the opposite, the Board has received positive feedback and appreciation from customers who are thankful for the increased pressure.
Brown said the first thing he did once the pumping station was operational was visit customers who had the most complaints and check their water pressure to be sure everything was working properly.
“It’s been a real eye opener for everybody because at least they have some pressure now,” he said.
Brown extended his appreciation to Commissioner Davis for his help and said they could not have done it without him and his contributed ARPA funds.
Additionally, Brown appreciates the Ray Water Board for backing the project, thanking Board Chair Wayne Brown, Co-Chair Doug Jones and Board members Travis Riggins, Jack Craver and Barron Gregg.
Brown further gave his thanks to the engineer and the contractor who built the building for the pumping station.
Ray Water Authority serves 430 customers, and Brown said he and the Board just appreciate getting this project done so they can help their water customers.
If anyone in the Ray Water coverage has any trouble with their water, Brown asks them to call him at 256-496-3702.
