community engagement – Arkansas News Network

Ozark Regional Transit divides one route into two to better serve Bentonville and Rogers

admin1 month ago06 mins

Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) has improved its services in Northwest Arkansas by introducing new routes in Bentonville and Rogers. Route 14 specifically targets key destinations in Bentonville, such as local schools and medical centers, ensuring residents have reliable access to essential services. The Bentonville-Rogers Connector (BRC) offers faster travel between the two cities, replacing the previous Bentonville-Rogers Express. Initial ridership has already increased by 15%, highlighting the effectiveness of ORT’s strategic planning and community engagement.

Fayetteville public meetings: Feb. 3-7, 2025

admin1 month ago03 mins

February 2025 is gearing up to be an active month for Fayetteville’s local governance, featuring a range of public meetings aimed at keeping the community engaged. The City Council will meet on February 4 to discuss important issues, with agendas set the week prior for thorough preparation. Additionally, the A&P Commission Meeting has been rescheduled to February 18 to encourage wider participation. Residents can join these discussions in person or via Zoom, fostering a vibrant dialogue about the future of the city.

Columbia County students cited at University of Central Arkansas

admin1 month ago06 mins

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) is a hub for student success, featuring a diverse population of over 12,000 students. It offers more than 80 undergraduate and 39 graduate programs, particularly excelling in its College of Education. UCA’s economic impact is significant, contributing over .5 million annually to the region through increased earnings of its graduates. The university actively engages with the local community, particularly through initiatives aimed at improving STEM education.

Modern art gallery opening in Conway

admin1 month ago05 mins

Conway is set to embrace a new modern art gallery, aimed at enriching the local artistic landscape with unique exhibitions and offerings. The grand opening will coincide with the first Friday Art Walk on March 7, inviting both art enthusiasts and newcomers to experience a night filled with creativity. Featuring a lineup of local and regional artists, the gallery will also host interactive events to foster community engagement and collaboration. With its vibrant vision, The Studio Downtown is poised to transform Conway into a dynamic cultural hub.

Castleberry discusses public safety at chamber luncheon

admin2 months ago04 mins

Mayor Bart Castleberry recently launched the 2025 CEO Luncheon Series at the Conway Chamber of Commerce, emphasizing the critical role of public safety in community development. In his keynote address, he urged collaboration between law enforcement, local government, and community organizations to address ongoing safety concerns. Castleberry highlighted the need for integrated solutions and community involvement, encouraging residents to participate actively in safety initiatives. This event serves as a catalyst for ongoing discussions aimed at enhancing public safety and fostering a more resilient community.

Bentonville schools receive .6M of nearly M awarded to state’s high-achieving districts

admin2 months ago06 mins

Bentonville Schools has approved a one-time payout of .6 million in bonuses to all district employees, demonstrating its commitment to recognizing the hard work of teachers and staff. This financial investment follows the achievement of several educational milestones, including specialized course offerings supported by a .1 million grant from the Walton Family Foundation. The district also plans to enhance student success initiatives, ensuring personalized education paths for all students. With the introduction of new parent choice schools, Bentonville Schools continues to prioritize innovative and equitable educational practices.

Public use of downtown Porter Produce space under discussion

admin2 months ago05 mins

The historic Porter Produce space is at the center of community discussions regarding its future use in downtown revitalization. Local residents and civic leaders are considering plans to transform it into a publicly accessible art space, aligning with the city’s vision for cultural engagement. The downtown planning committee is actively seeking public input to ensure the space reflects the community’s values. The initiative aims to create a vibrant hub that supports local artists and hosts various events, enhancing the area’s cultural landscape.

Textile recycling company moving headquarters from Florida to Bentonville

admin2 months ago03 mins

Bentonville is abuzz as a leading textile recycling company prepares to move its headquarters from Florida. Renowned for its pioneering efforts in sustainable waste management, the company aims to revolutionize clothing waste handling while enhancing the city’s ecological footprint. The relocation promises to create jobs and stimulate economic growth, aligning with the community’s commitment to responsible consumption. As the company settles in, Bentonville is set to become a hub for innovative textile sustainability initiatives.

McKenzie designated to State Library Board

admin2 months ago04 mins

McKenzie has been designated to the State Library Board, highlighting the significance of library governance. With over two decades of experience in library administration, McKenzie is well-equipped to address the challenges of digital transformation and community engagement. They will play a key role in shaping policies and initiatives that enhance literacy and promote access to information across Oregon. McKenzie’s appointment is expected to strengthen the state’s commitment to libraries as vital centers for education and social empowerment.

Grant money funds tree restoration as city of Rogers aims to enhance canopy

admin2 months ago05 mins

Rogers, Arkansas is embracing a new initiative focused on enhancing its tree canopy with a significant grant for tree restoration. This project aims to not only plant new trees but also sustain existing ones through robust management plans that include maintenance and invasive species control. Community engagement is key, as residents will participate in planting and educational programs, fostering a sense of ownership over these green spaces. Ultimately, the initiative seeks to transform urban environments into healthier, more resilient areas, celebrating the vital role of trees in improving community well-being.