Governor Asa Hutchinson for Alma, Arkansas
Alma, Arkansas
Alma High School Courtyard
May 7, 2018
Alma is in the heart of everything going on in Northwest Arkansas. So get ready, get your boots on, and get ready to work because Alma is a key part of the future of economic development in Arkansas, shared Governor Asa Hutchinson at the unveiling of the Kick Start Alma Action Plan. The plan higlights short and long-term goals for Alma, branding, downtown revitalization and job creation.
Excellent day in Alma, and thanks to the University of Central Arkansas and the University of Arkansas. The Governor had the attention of the visitors, Mayor Keith Greene.
Over 150 people from Alma, surrounding communities and state government gathered at Alma High School (Alma, Arkansas) for the unveiling of the Action Plan. Attending and supporting the Action Plan unveiling was University of Central Arkansas President Houston Davis, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, Western Arkansas Planning and Development District, Arkansas Economic Development Commission, City of Alma, Alma School District, and the Alma Area Chamber of Commerce for your support of this initiative.
News and media outlets were present including Leia Howton who had interviewed the Governor and Mayor for The Leia Show (LeiaShow.com).
Copies of the Kick Start Alma Action Plan can be obtained through the Alma city offices.
Some of the broad five-year goals in the action plan include:
• Create public festivals and events that draw residents and tourists to the community.
• Support and create public spaces and programs that support arts, culture, and community gathering.
• Create a culture of health within the community by supporting regional recreational activities and facilities.
• Implement the River Valley wayfinding sign plan.
• Connect the downtown area to I-40 and I-49 travelers.
• Seek grants, private investments and limited city funds to build a plaza for hosing activities and events that will draw artists, musicians, food trucks and citizens to the downtown area.
• Strengthen the capacity for economic development in Alma.
• Support existing businesses to strengthen and grow and support the creation of new businesses in Alma.
• Take a fresh look at economic development infrastructure capacity and opportunities in Alma.