Bella Vista Land Acquisition: Community Engagement and Development Plans
Acquisition and Background
Blue Crane, a real estate development company based in Bentonville, has completed a significant land acquisition in Bella Vista. This purchase includes approximately 2,700 acres of undeveloped land from Cooper Communities Inc. of Rogers. The acquired land is situated throughout Bella Vista in Benton County, with a significant portion lying west of the interstate reaching up to the Missouri border. Additionally, Blue Crane had previously acquired 54 acres of land along Mercy Way that included the Sugar Creek Shopping Center.
Community Engagement
The acquisition has sparked significant interest and discussions within the Bella Vista community. At a meet-and-greet event held at the Bella Vista Country Club, around 500 residents attended to hear from company officials and share their questions and concerns. Tom Walton, the CEO of Runway Group, the parent company of Blue Crane, emphasized the importance of involving the community in the future development plans. Public officials, including state Rep. Mindy McAlindon, attended the event and expressed enthusiasm about the potential for collaborative growth and the consideration given to Bella Vista’s natural elements.
Future Plans
While specific plans for the land have not been disclosed, Blue Crane has indicated a focus on outdoor recreational development. The company has stated that it will prioritize community input and engage in continuous conversations to ensure responsible stewardship of the land. An infrastructure survey will be conducted over the remainder of the year, and more information is expected to be shared by the end of 2024. Several community members have expressed their appreciation for Blue Crane’s commitment to preserving Bella Vista’s natural environment and enhancing the quality of life in the area.
City Official Engagement
Bella Vista Mayor John Flynn spoke at the community event, expressing his enthusiasm for working with Blue Crane. Mayor Flynn believes the acquisition will bring significant opportunities for local development and growth. Runway Group and Blue Crane representatives have emphasized their desire to work closely with city officials to ensure that any plans align with the needs and values of the Bella Vista community.
Community Expectations
Residents of Bella Vista have shared diverse views and hopes for the future development. Some have voiced concerns about housing affordability, while others look forward to new opportunities for recreational activities. For instance, residents such as Shea Newport have expressed their support for a permanent facility for the Bella Vista Farmers Market. Over time, it is clear that the evolving plans will continue to shape Bella Vista’s landscape and community in meaningful ways.
Ongoing Discussions
Runway Group and Blue Crane remain committed to engaging with the community and addressing its concerns. The company has stated its intent to provide regular updates and hold additional community events to share its progress. As the details of the infrastructure survey become available and development plans take shape, the community will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of Bella Vista.
