Regional bike and walking trails draft plan workshops set n Input sought from residents of local communities

WESTSIDE -- The Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission, with the support of communities and advocates throughout the Northwest Arkansas Region, has begun preparation of a Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan which includes cities on the west side of Benton County

Public input is being sought on a draft plan to link existing communities and bike and walking trails across the Northwest Arkansas Region.

Preliminary plans have been developed which include Gentry, Decatur, Gravette, Siloam Springs and surrounding communities, but additional public input is desired before finalizing plans and seeking financing for the development and linking of trails.

Linking trails between Gentry and Siloam Springs is high on the list of possible projects, but much will depend on public interest in the plans and projects.

The purpose of this Plan is to build upon previous regional bicycle and pedestrian planning and development efforts (including the 36-mile Razorback Greenway) in setting a clear path for Northwest Arkansas to link its communities and regional destinations with a world-class transportation network.

Following development of the Draft Master Plan, the second round of community workshops will occur during the week of August 11 and will provide an opportunity for public review and comment.

These public meetings will include a presentation summarizing Plan recommendations, with supporting maps and display boards highlighting infrastructure and programmatic recommendations.

Meetings are from 4 to 7 p.m. on the following dates:

Monday, Aug. 11 -- Bentonville Public Library;

Tuesday, Aug. 12: -- Fayetteville Public Library; and

Thursday, Aug. 14 -- Siloam Springs City Hall (Board Room).

The project Steering Committee consists of representatives from the NWARPC, agencies throughout the region, non-profits and advocacy groups. Public involvement is an integral part of the planning process that will involve online and in-person opportunities to participate.

For more information on the bicycle and pedestrian master plan, as well as a copy of the draft plan and a public comment section, go to www.nwabikepedplan.com.