Northwest Arkansas’ partnership with two other regions in the state will bring a $100 million federal grant to the Natural State, enabling it to take on a series of projects that can reduce emissions and enhance sustainability.
The significant funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will support projects in Central Arkansas, the Fort Smith area and in Northwest Arkansas. The entities in Northwest Arkansas will receive $36.25 million.
Most of the Northwest Arkansas projects were first identified in the Northwest Arkansas Open Space Plan and the Northwest Arkansas Bicycle/Pedestrian Master Plan. Creating the plans were projects of the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission, and they were both funded by the Walton Family Foundation.
“This CPRG grant is great news for Northwest Arkansas, and we truly appreciate the partnership with Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission, Metroplan, and Fort Smith,” said Fayetteville Mayor Lioneld Jordan. “As Fayetteville begins implementation of our recently adopted Climate Action Plan, this grant brings us one step closer to achieving nature-based solutions at the city and regional level.”
Springdale Mayor Doug Sprouse emphasized the grant’s role in transforming and preserving the Spring Creek corridor.
“This award is a game changer,” Sprouse said. “The projects identified in the grant will be a huge leap forward toward keeping the Natural State ‘natural’ and the ‘green’ in the Razorback Greenway. This grant will allow Springdale to continue the transformation and preservation of the Spring Creek corridor located in the heart of the city to ensure our residents and visitors can enjoy the benefits of connected outdoor spaces well into the future.”
The grant will pay for various projects aimed at reducing emissions and enhancing sustainability, including protecting and restoring natural areas to sequester carbon and reduce pollution. Efforts such as reforestation, wetland restoration and habitat preservation will help absorb carbon dioxide and provide natural buffers against extreme weather.
Additionally, the grant will encourage the adoption of eco-friendly transportation options through initiatives such as the Electric Bike (E-Bike) Incentive Program, creating a more energy-efficient transportation infrastructure and reducing the carbon footprint of daily car commutes. Ensuring equitable access to green spaces is also a priority, with projects focused on providing green spaces and enhancing connectivity for all communities in Northwest Arkansas.
The Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission, with support from Metroplan and Fort Smith, collaborated to pursue this grant.
“The CPRG grant represents a pivotal achievement for Northwest Arkansas, driving the region toward a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly future,” said Nelson Peacock, president and CEO of the Council. “This funding will spark partnerships and innovations that will pave the way for future advancements. Continued regional cooperation will not only fuel growth but also preserve our quality of life and maintain the natural beauty of Northwest Arkansas.”
