Trail-Oriented Development: Enhancing Sustainable Growth in Northwest Arkansas

Transforming Growth: The Power of Trail-Oriented Development

Northwest Arkansas (NWA) is entering a transformative phase, leveraging the Razorback Greenway — a 40-mile-long bicycle and walking trail — to redefine its growth. As one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States, NWA is evolving from small towns to mid-sized cities, driven in part by major employers like Walmart.

A Sustainable Approach to Urban Development

The rise of trail-oriented development signifies a shift towards sustainable practices. It offers a framework for compact, mixed-use growth that prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists, reducing dependence on automobiles, and enhancing the overall quality of life in the area. This model embraces both environmental preservation and urban density, making it a leading example for other regions grappling with urban sprawl.

Integrating Nature in Urban Spaces

Built over a decade with a significant investment by the Walton Family Foundation and federal funds, the Razorback Greenway is not just a trail; it’s a vital community resource that connects diverse neighborhoods. Approximately half of the local residents live within a short walking or biking distance of the trail, promoting healthier lifestyles and increasing access to local businesses. As the region grows, this accessibility is expected to improve, integrating urban spaces with natural landscapes.

Potential Economic Impact of Trail Infrastructure

Trail-oriented development extends beyond recreation; it plays a crucial economic role. Bicycling alone is estimated to bring around $159 million in annual economic benefits to NWA. The Greenway is evolving from a recreational path into a backbone for economic, transportation, and social infrastructure. The project represents a robust opportunity for municipalities to spur local businesses, attract tourism, and even draw new residents seeking vibrant, walkable communities.

A Discussion on Future Opportunities

The focus on trail-oriented development is timely, with the region expected to double its population by 2050. Urban planners and stakeholders are gathering insights, such as during the recent webinar, "Transformative Trail-Oriented Development: Razorback Greenway," to discuss strategies in harnessing that growth positively. As expressed by Meredith Bergstrom of the Walton Family Foundation, this is a pivotal moment to “get that growth right” by prioritizing infrastructure that enhances community well-being.

The Road Ahead: Implementing the Corridor Plan

The Razorback Greenway's Corridor Plan outlines six critical components to further develop trail-oriented growth: protecting and restoring creek corridors, rewilding parts of the Greenway, managing stormwater, developing new neighborhoods, establishing an efficient bicycle network, and connecting various destinations along the trail. Each of these elements ensures that trail development promotes environmental sustainability and economic viability.

As NWA continues to implement trail-oriented developments, it sets a benchmark for sustainable urban planning, illustrating that thoughtful infrastructure can reshape not just a region, but also the quality of life for its residents. For communities across the nation, NWA's example offers valuable lessons in integrating nature with urban growth, setting the stage for a future that benefits both people and the environment.