The City of Searcy has been awarded a $4,222,900 planning grant from the US Department of Transportation to fund the planning and design phase of the Little Red Greenway project. The RAISE grant (Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity) is the largest federal grant the city has ever received.
The project will expand the existing 5.5 miles of the Searcy Bike Trail into a comprehensive 21-mile active transportation trail system. This network will connect key areas such as Harding University, downtown Searcy, seven schools, nine essential services, medical centers, six parks, major employers and other vital services throughout the community. It will also establish a connection to the neighboring city of Kensett. Once the planning and design process is completed with these funds, Searcy will be able to apply for the RAISE capital grant of up to $25 million for the implementation of the project.
Searcy’s application for the RAISE grant was supported by members of the Arkansas Congressional Delegation.
“This investment will help connect Searcy with the surrounding area while enhancing recreation opportunities and improving the quality of life,” Senator John Boozman said. “I’m pleased the Department of Transportation awarded funding to support this Arkansas project.”
Representative French Hill said the grant will allow Searcy to complete the planning of the project, which will improve safety, bolster economic competitiveness and create greater connectivity within the city.
“This grant is a monumental achievement for Searcy,” Mayor Mat Faulkner said. “It not only allows us to improve our transportation infrastructure but also enhances the quality of life for our residents by providing safe and accessible routes throughout the city. We are grateful for the support and are excited to move forward with this transformative project.”
“The Little Red Greenway project is a critical step in addressing transportation inequities and promoting environmental sustainability,” City Planner Richard Stafford said. “By updating our Master Street Plan, creating a Complete Streets Policy, and improving Land Use and Zoning Plans, we are creating a more connected and equitable community.”
The idea for the Little Red Greenway was hatched during the city’s recently completed master planning process. Engineering firm Crafton Tull assisted city employees in developing the 144-page document for the application process that was submitted in February. Several focus groups were also held for public input and providing letters of support for the application involving community partners and stakeholders.
“Receiving this grant is a major achievement, which was only possible through a true team effort between the city and Crafton Tull, who were indispensable partners in this process,” Grant Coordinator Debbie Smith said. “We also had strong community support, and the input from our stakeholders was critical in developing a proposed project that was truly reflective of community needs and priorities.”
According to the release, The Little Red Greenway project aims to create a safe and efficient active transportation network that supports mobility, economic development and community connectivity, while also promoting environmental sustainability and improving the overall quality of life for residents of Searcy and Kensett.
For more information and updates on the Little Red Greenway project, visit cityofsearcy.org.
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