Fort Smith · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Fort Smith public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Maybranch Greenway connection approved as sharrows
The city was set to accept a $2.44 million federal grant to build the first phase of the May Branch Railroad Trail connecting Martin Luther King Jr. Park to the river levee trails — with an equal city match.
Cisterna Park Project
The board is planning a major renovation of Cisterna Park, possibly incorporating the General Darby statue and monument elements from Cisterna, Italy, and other Darby-connected towns. New concepts from MAHG architects are expected in early October, with costs possibly around $1 to $1.5 million.
Future of Deer Trails Golf Course
The board declined to buy the golf course but showed interest in rezoning it so it can only be used as a golf course — a way to preserve the amenity without a public purchase. Residents were split, with some opposing any city takeover of a money-losing operation.
Cisterna Park Pump House restoration
The city will raise the old pump house five feet instead of rebuilding it, protecting staff from floodwater-and-electricity hazards. But the donated Yantis family fountain is leaking, and a proper fix could run about $45,000, so alternatives are being weighed.
Bass Reeves Legacy Loop revised scope
The trail project funded by a federal RAISE/BUILD grant is being reshaped and won't be a full loop, but the city is keeping the grant by adjusting the scope.
Former ACME Brick property redevelopment master plan
The city is working through the design of stormwater mitigation ponds tied to the ACME Brick site. The engineering agreement amendment gets a vote on April 21, which keeps the flood-mitigation project moving.
Parrot Island Waterpark waterslide construction
The Board was scheduled to consider a budget amendment and a $1.74 million no-bid contract with Royal Ridge Construction to install new waterslides at Parrot Island Waterpark. The contract was flagged as not budgeted, so the funding source matters to taxpayers.
Methodist Village connector trail to Carol Ann Cross Park
A $196,000 federal TAP grant will fund a safe, ADA-accessible trail connecting Methodist Village Senior Living residents and nearby neighborhoods to Carol Ann Cross Park. The city will hold a public trail easement, and the commission recommends paying design costs from park-restricted cell tower fees.