TISHOMINGO, Okla. (KXII) – City Manager Bryce Jones says a 25-year agreement will allow Murray State’s existing water infrastructure to be integrated into Tishomingo’s water supply as part of a four-project plan to address the city’s water problems.

“We completed our water plant earlier this year, now we’re going to have Murray State as a customer, we’re going to have a new wastewater treatment plant and we’re going to build an alternative water supply, which is a groundwater well,” Jones said.

He says each project should be completed by summer 2026, with the goal of improving water access for all residents.

“This is critical to the City of Tishomingo, not only to serve the residents we already have and support the businesses we have, but also to provide some economic growth in the future,” Jones explained.

Jones says they are working together to improve the sustainability of the city’s main water source, Pennington Creek.

“Both the college and the city have been taking water directly from Pennington Creek and treating it. It is no surprise that Pennington Creek water levels are dropping,” Jones said.

Murray State College President Dr. Tim Faltyn says the partnership will promote growth for both the city and the college.

“We need to manage our resources, be it natural resources like water or financial resources. If we can pool our resources, we can do more for our community,” said Dr. Faltyn.

“As the city grows and thrives, it becomes a greater experience for our students and everyone has a better experience that way,” added Dr. Faltyn.

The project is scheduled to be put out to tender this autumn.

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