The Development of 8th Street Gateway Park
Bentonville, Arkansas, is poised to welcome a new center for community recreation and urban nature through the 8th Street Gateway Park. This ambitious project brings together several key elements designed to enhance the quality of life in Bentonville and Northwest Arkansas.
A World-Class Destination for Cycling
The park will feature nearly 8 miles of greenways, multi-use paths, and bike trails, solidifying its position as a beginner mountain bike destination. This extensive network includes 2 miles of beginner mountain bike trails, making it an ideal spot for cyclists of all levels to learn and enjoy the sport.
Well-Rounded Park Amenities
Beyond its cycling infrastructure, the park offers a wide array of activities for residents and visitors. Some notable amenities include a 1-acre signature playground, a neighborhood-scaled scramble area, climbing boulders, and custom furniture for lounging and people watching. Additionally, there will be an asphalt pump track, a comfort station, and a flexible plaza space for various events and daily activities.
Enhancing Local Ecology and Connectivity
The park places a strong emphasis on enhancing the local ecosystem and connecting the community. It will feature over 1,000 newly planted trees and preserve the existing healthy tree canopy. The restoration of creeks and other water quality improvements ensure the park has a lasting, positive impact on the environment. Furthermore, the 8th Street Gateway Park will provide seamless connections to the region’s parks and greenways through multiple bike and pedestrian bridges and trails.
Community Engagement and Funding
Bentonville Parks & Recreation has actively involved citizens in the park’s development through site tours, feedback sessions, stakeholder meetings, and online surveys. The design of the park is funded by a Design Excellence Grant awarded by the Walton Family Foundation, which has also pledged a .5 million grant to support the project’s construction. The total estimated cost for the park is million.
Phase of Construction
The Bentonville City Council is set to discuss and decide on the project’s construction contracts. If approved, the park will enter the final stages of development and preparation for its grand opening.
Looking Forward to the Opening
With its innovative design and diverse array of amenities, the 8th Street Gateway Park is poised to become a highly sought-after recreation destination in Northwest Arkansas. As the city moves forward with the project, residents and visitors alike can look forward to experiencing this new jewel in Bentonville’s green infrastructure.
