Fayetteville Unveils Upper Ramble, Completing 50-Acre Public Park Project
The City of Fayetteville has unveiled the Upper Ramble, marking the completion of a 50-acre public park project. This milestone event brings to fruition a vision that intertwines nature, culture, and community, transforming downtown Fayetteville into a vibrant and sustainable destination.
The Ramble is a dynamic outdoor public space designed to showcase ecology, community, art, and culture. It stretches from near the Fayetteville Public Library to the parking deck on West Avenue, connecting key cultural institutions like the Walton Arts Center, TheatreSquared, Nadine Baum Studios, and the University of Arkansas’ Windgate Art and Design District.
The project was built in phases. The Lower Ramble, located between Center and Prairie streets, opened in September 2022 and set the stage for what the Upper Ramble would become. The Upper Ramble, situated between Center and Dickson streets, includes a civic plaza and enhanced parking facilities.
The city explicitly encourages attendees to use active transportation for the opening ceremony set for Monday, Dec. 30, at 2 p.m. However, those driving can park nearby at the West Avenue Parking Deck. It’s essential to use marked crosswalks and trail crossings when approaching the park.
The event is not just about celebrating; it’s also about immersing in the natural beauty that The Ramble offers. Imagine strolling along winding, elevated walkways that give you a clear view of streams and wooded hillsides. The Ramble also features trails, street improvements, and various seating and performance areas designed to make your visit both enjoyable and safe.
The Lower Ramble received prestigious certifications for its sustainability efforts. It was the first Arkansas project to be certified by the Sustainable SITES Initiative and was recognized with notable awards from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Arkansas (ACEC/A). This year, it received the Grand Conceptor Award and took the highest honor in the large project category for special projects.
Reclaiming an area once overgrown with invasive shrubs, The Ramble now provides access to nature in Fay Jones Woods and Tanglewood Branch creek. A stone amphitheater provides a unique space to spot wildlife or cross the stepping stones along Tanglewood Branch, which has been restored to enhance its ecological balance with micropools, riffles, and other structures that increase dissolved oxygen levels.
- Explore the Trails: The Razorback Greenway, a paved multi-use trail, runs through the heart of The Ramble. Wheelchair-accessible trails connect West Avenue with Fayetteville Public Library, meandering through tree canopies before descending to a scenic creek overlook and bridge.
- Discover Native Wildflowers: Soft surface paths allow visitors to discover a spring and newly planted native wildflowers along the main trail.
- Enjoy Weekend Starts: Fridays from April through October invite live music and hands-on arts activities that run from 5-7 PM.
- Distinctive Benches: The park features dozens of unique benches where you can rest and take in the natural surroundings.
Fayetteville’s dedication to sustainable, beautiful, and functional public landscapes is evident in the creation and completion of The Ramble. As the city continues to evolve, this 50-acre public park stands as a testament to innovative urban planning that prioritizes community engagement and ecological preservation. Whether you explore it on roller skates or simply take it easy on one of the numerous benches, The Ramble should be at the top of every visit to Fayetteville.
