YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – Yuma County has received just over $40 million in COVID-19 American Rescue Plan Act funding.

The Yuma County Board of Supervisors says state funds are being put to good use on some projects.

“I know it comes out of difficult circumstances, but ARPA funds go to a lot of really good things in our community,” Yuma County PIO Arlyn Galaviz said.

More than half of the funding received will be used to improve internet access through broadband projects.

“The future of Yuma County depends on the children attending our schools now, and we must ensure they have the tools they need to grow, thrive and become the next leaders of Yuma County,” Yuma County Executive Ian McGaughey said.

The project will also benefit the agriculture industry.

“We will help them succeed and grow with this new smart agriculture technology that is revolutionizing the industry,” McGaughey said.

The county explains how the funding is helping to accelerate local projects.

“Some of these projects are complex and expensive, but this ARPA funding allows us to deliver them quickly for the benefit of our local communities,” Galaviz said.

Other areas in Yuma County where the funds are being utilized include a new water system in Tacna, the installation of a new sewer system in parts of Yuma County and a domestic violence shelter in San Luis.

“The Board is pleased to provide funding for a new domestic violence shelter in San Luis to provide protection for women and children who may be victims of domestic violence,” McGaughey said.

The city says the broadband project is currently under budget and on track to be completed by the end of the year.