News

Board of Directors to host regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday

Meeting Agenda & Packet

The City of Arkadelphia Board of Directors will host a regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday, December 7 at 5:30 p.m. in the Town Hall Boardroom. 

The agenda for this meeting includes: 

  1. Call to Order – Mayor Scott Byrd
  2. Invocation
  3. Approval of Board Minutes from November 16, 2021 – Mayor Byrd
  4. Resolution Acknowledging FAA Grant – Gary Brinkley
  5. Resolution to Purchase Land from CCIC – Gary Brinkley
  6. Resolution to Purchase Land at 801 Main – Gary Brinkley
  7. MLK Memorial Park Update – Asst. Mayor Roland Gosey
  8. Consider Accepting Bid for Feaster Trail Sidewalk Rehabilitation – Gary Brinkley
  9. 2022 Budget Presentation – Gary Brinkley / Shacresha Wilson
  10. Executive Session to Discuss Annual City Manager Personnel Matter – Mayor Byrd
  11. Consideration of Action on Executive Session City Manager – Mayor Byrd
  12. City Manager’s Report – Gary Brinkley
  13. Routine Business – Mayor Byrd
  14. Adjournment – Mayor Byrd

This meeting will be open to the public. Due to COVID-19, we encourage those in attendance to wear face coverings and practice social distancing. 

Residents can watch this meeting from home on Suddenlink Channel 9, or online via our livestream. To view our livestream, click here. 

Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation opens registration for youth volleyball, announces adult volleyball league

December is here, and as we look to the new year, Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation is getting ready to host several new programs- including, its adult volleyball league.

The league will play a 10-game season over the course of nine weeks, in a 6-v-6 format.

Games will be played on Tuesday nights, starting January 11, 2022, and ending with a double-elimination tournament on March 8.

“This league is part of our commitment to encourage healthy living through affordable recreational opportunities,” Mickey Bivens, Recreation Programs Manager, says. “We hope this league creates a space where people can come out, get active and have fun.”

Registration for the league opened December 1, 2021, and will close January 2, 2022. Teams will need to pay a $150 registration fee to play.  Those without a team are able to sign up as individuals, and will be assigned to a team before the start of the season. Click here to sign up.

Registration for Parks and Recreation’s winter youth volleyball program also opened up on December 1, 2022. 

“Little Spikes” is for children grades 1st-2nd. This group will play a 4-week season, starting January 24, and ending February 14. Parents will need to pay a $35 registration fee when signing their child up.

The youth volleyball program will be for children grades 3rd-6th. This group will play a 7-week season, starting January 17, and ending March 17. A registration fee of $45 will be required when signing up.

Registration for both youth volleyball programs ends January 3, 2022. Click here to sign up.

All Parks and Recreation youth athletic programs are sponsored by Southwest Auto Collection and Dairy Queen.

Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation to host holiday trade show

Finish your last-minute Christmas shopping at “Christmas Market Days!”

On Saturday, December 11, Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation will host its first holiday trade show.

Titled, “Christmas Market Days,” the event will be held inside the Recreation Center from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Approximately 40 vendors will be traveling to Arkadelphia for the event. Shoppers can expect see booths specializing in clothing, accessories, beauty, home goods, crafting, cleaning and more.

“These festive booths will display everything from new, to homemade, to one-of-a-kind items,” Alicia Nichols, Christmas Market Days Coordinator, says. “It’s an exciting opportunity for our residents to find that perfect Christmas gift, right here in Arkadelphia. We’re really looking forward to it.”

Registration is still open for vendors looking to participate. There is a $50 registration fee, and electricity is limited. To learn more, and to sign up, visit https://recreation.arkadelphia.gov/, or call the Recreation Center at 870.246.5499.

Dairy Queen to sponsor Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation youth athletic programs

Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation has a new youth athletic sponsor.

Dairy Queen has agreed to be a gold level sponsor for Parks and Recreation’s youth athletic programs.

“We are thrilled to have Dairy Queen’s support with our youth athletic programs,” Junior Rodemeyer, Parks and Recreation Director, says. “We look forward to building a long, successful relationship with our DQ store.”

Dairy Queen opened its Arkadelphia location in September 2021 and quickly immersed itself in the community.

Dairy Queen’s sponsorship agreement will begin in 2022 with the department’s winter and spring youth athletic programs.

City of Arkadelphia to close in observance of Thanksgiving holiday

All City of Arkadelphia offices will close Thursday, November 25 and Friday, November 26, 2021 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. This includes: 

  • Town Hall
  • Recreation Center
  • Sanitation Department 

There will be no residential trash pick-up, and no make up day.

We hope everyone has a safe, enjoyable holiday weekend, surrounded by the people you’re thankful for. 

City of Arkadelphia awarded $119K grant for street, safety improvements

The City of Arkadelphia has been awarded a $119,000 grant from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) for street improvement and pedestrian safety projects.

The grant is funded through ARDOT’S Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP). Also known as the “Safe Routes To Schools” program, TAP provides funding to “transportation alternative” projects, or projects focusing on creating safe transportation methods for pedestrians, bicyclists and other non-motorized travelers.   

City officials plan to use the grant to address areas of concern around local school areas, including:

  • Completing significant work at the intersection of North 12th Street and Caddo Street
  • Making improvements around the Peake Rosenwald facilities at North 16th Street and Caddo Street
  • Constructing a sidewalk from Crittenden to the Department of Human Services facility on South 10th Street

TAP is a reimbursement-type grant. ARDOT will provide an 80 percent federal share, and the City of Arkadelphia will fund the remaining 20 percent, made possible by the “Moving Arkadelphia Forward” tax initiative.

“When the citizens passed the ‘Moving Arkadelphia Forward’ initiative, we promised to leverage their money, and this is a prime example of that,” Arkadelphia City Manager Gary Brinkley says. “With this approval, we will begin to finalize the drawings and bid packages.”

Arkadelphia Police Chief Jason Jackson has long been concerned about pedestrian safety on South 10th Street. “The hill on South 10th Street makes it hard to see pedestrians at certain points in the road,” Chief Jackson says. “We are excited to hear it is getting addressed, and for the safe access it will create for everyone in that area.”

89 cities and towns across the state applied for a TAP grant. The City of Arkadelphia was one of 47 selected.

City officials anticipate work will begin in the summer of 2022.

Click here to view the project plans and documents. 

 

Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation to host 10-day fitness program

Get ahead of your New Year’s resolutions and sign up for Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation’s “Forever Young Mini Session.”

The 10-day fitness class will run from November 22 to December 17, meeting Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. in the Recreation Center’s multipurpose room. Class will not meet November 24-26, due to the Thanksgiving holiday. 

The three-week session is designed to increase flexibility, joint stability, balance, coordination, strength and endurance. Workouts focus on aerobic, flexibility and strength training in a fun and friendly atmosphere. 

The course will cost $60 for Recreation Center members, and $90 for non-members. 

Registration is now open. Click here to sign up. 

City of Arkadelphia offices to close in observance of Veteran’s Day

All City of Arkadelphia offices will close Thursday, November 11, 2021 in observance Veteran’s Day. This includes: 

  • Town Hall
  • Recreation Center
  • Sanitation Department 

There will be no residential trash pick-up, and no make up day. 

To all current and future veterans, we thank you for your bravery and commitment to our freedoms. 

Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation introduces new adult basketball league

Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation continues to create more athletic opportunities for adults. Starting December 2021, the department will host its first adult basketball league.

The coed league will play Monday nights from December 6, 2021 to January 17, 2022 at the Recreation Center. Teams of four will compete against one another throughout the season, finishing with a double-elimination tournament.

“This program gives adults in our area a designated time and space to come together, play some ball and have fun,” Mickey Bivens, Recreations Program Manager, says. “We’re excited to provide this service to our residents, and look forward to watching the league grow.”

Games will be played in a half-court, 3-on-3 format. At the end of the season, members of the winning team will receive new basketballs and duffle bags. Members of the team who finishes in second place will receive league t-shirts.

To participate, teams will need to pay a $150 registration fee online, or at the Recreation Center, by November 30, 2021.

Individual players are invited to join Parks and Recreation’s “Free Agent” list. Free agents will receive team assignments before the start of the season.

To learn more, visit https://recreation.arkadelphia.gov.

Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation acquires local soccer program

Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation is adding a new sport to its youth athletic programs.

Starting Spring 2022, Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation will offer a recreational soccer league for children ages 2 through 14.

The youth recreational soccer league has been under the leadership of the Arkadelphia Soccer Association (ASA) for years. Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation began meeting with ASA earlier this month to discuss the possibility of acquiring the program. The two organizations reached an agreement late last week, and decided the city would begin facilitating the program in Spring of 2022.   

“This program has a lot of history in our community,” Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation Director Junior Rodemeyer says. “We are excited to maintain and improve on that history in the years to come.”

The Arkadelphia Soccer Association will manage the program through the Fall 2021 season.

Registration for the spring season will begin January 1, 2022. Registration will take place online, on the Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation app and at the Recreation Center. 

To learn more, visit https://recreation.arkadelphia.gov

BID NOTIFICATIONS – SIDEWALK BIDS

BID NOTIFICATION- The City of Arkadelphia will be accepting bids for Arkadelphia Sidewalk Project-Addendum #1. ARDOT# 070464

Sealed  bids  addressed  to  the  City  of  Arkadelphia  Arkansas,  will  be  received  at  the  City  of  Arkadelphia Town Hall, 700 Clay Street, Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923, until  10:00 am, Tuesday,  September 7th,  2021,  for  the  construction  of  an  8’  wide  concrete  sidewalk  along  Twin  Rivers  Drive. The sealed bids will then be opened and publicly read aloud. The work includes all  labor, material, and equipment required to perform the work as described in the project plans and specifications.

00 11 16 Invitation to Bid   ARKADELPHIA SIDEWALK PROJECT ADDENDUM #1

More information may be requested from the City Clerk’s Office, 700 Clay Street, Arkadelphia AR, 71923 between the hours of 7:30 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Thursday and 7:30 am to 11:30 am on Friday.

Submit sealed bids to the Office of the City Clerk before 10:00 am September 7th, 2021.

By: Samantha Roybal, City Clerk

ARKADELPHIA ANNOUNCES A $2.5 MILLION PARK TO HONOR DR. MLK Jr.  City officials unveiled plans for a $2.5 million community park honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. According to Mayor Scott Byrd, “This project may be the most significant addition to making Arkadelphia the community we all have envisioned it could be.” Mayor Byrd, a local dentist, introduced Chairman of the MLK Jr. Park committee Roland Gosey, a local business owner and a member of the Arkadelphia City Board of Directors. In addition, Mayor Byrd recognized Honorary Co-Chairmen, Dr. Fitzgerald Hill and Mitch Bettis; both Arkadelphia natives. Hill is a 1987 graduate of Ouachita Baptist University and served as Assistant Head Football Coach & Recruiting Coordinator for the Razorbacks. Hill was President of Arkansas Baptist College for 10 years. Bettis graduated from Ouachita Baptist University as well and is President of the Arkansas Business Publishing Group. Byrd stated, “The leadership for this project has deep roots in our community as well as throughout the region. The vision began over 12 years ago. I am fortunate enough to have seen the vision blossom and now become more than a dream. Not only will this park properly memorialize Dr. King’s contributions, it will serve as a legacy for all children, pointing them to a better tomorrow.”

The park will feature a quarter-mile walking path with educational kiosks that tell the story of the civil rights movement and the life of MLK Jr. Other features include an outdoor community amphitheater, youth empowerment zone, sports courts, play area and walking paths. The amphitheater stage doubles as a splash pad. A large open lawn adjacent to the amphitheater provides ample seating for community events. Arkadelphia City Manager, Gary Brinkley noted the site (previously the Clark County Hospital) serves as a natural gathering space for the city and is ideally situated along Pine Street; one of the city’s primary thoroughfares. Brinkley stated, “This was the former county hospital site where people came to be healed. When the Board of Directors made the promise to place the memorial park on this site, it set in motion a vision of a healed community. We stand behind that decision and have moved forward with the message of A promise made- promise kept. We can’t wait to celebrate this promise delivered.”
 
Dr. Fitz Hill is developing collations among local community and state leaders to create an alliance of teamwork and financial resources. According to Dr. Hill, “We have selected a theme for our campaign, ‘Teamwork to Make the Dream Work.’ The seed that Dr. King planted decades ago will now have the opportunity to grow and blossom right here in southwest Arkansas.” Hill, who serves on the Arkansas Board of Education, has enlisted the support of another Clark County native, Education Secretary Johnny Key, as well as Arkansas MLK Commission Executive Director, DuShun Scarbrough. The dream for this park has unlimited potential not only for the citizens of Arkadelphia but as a must-see attraction along Interstate 30. Other notable attendees at the announcement were members of the regional banking community as well as leadership from Ouachita Baptist University, Dr. Ben Sells, and Henderson State University Chancellor Dr. Jim Borsig along with state and local elected officials.
 
The park design was developed by Halff Associates of Little Rock and features an elliptical design of pathways and platforms for activities. According to Halff landscape architect, Sally Horsey “The park is inspired by Dr. King’s 1967 speech, ‘What is your Life’s Blueprint‘ in which he uses the importance of ‘a good solid blueprint,’ to illustrate the significance of planning one’s life.” The goal of the park reflects a commitment to provide a solid foundation. “Because of the park’s central location, surrounding neighborhoods, schools, churches and businesses have access,” Horsey noted. “The memorial site also provides an educational setting with gathering spaces for schools and civic groups to learn local history. It is a place for the entire community to enjoy the splash fountains, a youth empowerment zone featuring an inclusive play area, basketball courts, and restrooms. Streetscapes will lend themselves to the idea that the area is for all who wish to learn and communicate the message of Dr. King’s speech to, “Be the best of whatever you are.”
 
Hill said, “Dr. King’s legacy is tied to him planting trees for shade he would never sit under. That’s the definition of sacrifice and Dr. King gave the ultimate. Assuming the responsibility of Co-Chairman is something I knew would be time-consuming and require a sacrifice of my time. But I am inspired to educate future generations regarding Dr. King’s legacy to reactivate ‘The Dream’. It is my prayer that this park can serve a major part in unifying our city and state”.
 

In addition to Chairman Roland Gosey, members of the MLK Park committee include Nikki Chandler, Kyle Jones, Taylor Chaney, Lee McGlone, Martha Dixon, and City Manager Gary Brinkley. The Clark County Community Foundation (CCCF) an affiliate of the Arkansas Community Foundation is managing contributions throughout the fundraising process. To reach the CCCF, contact Deb Sasser at clarkcounty@arcf.org or log onto the campaign website at www.MLKjrPark.org for contribution details. Don Hale of The Diamond Agency is providing campaign management and marketing services for the project. Additional information and construction timelines are available by contacting Julie Lacy, Arkadelphia Communications Director, at julielacy@arkadelphia.gov or by calling (870) 246-9864.

ARKADELPHIA NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN – NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

COMING TUESDAY, ARKADELPHIA NATIONAL NIGHT OUT, AUGUST 3, 2021, 6:30 – 9:30 pm- Future Site Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Park 1420 Pine Street. MEET THE FIRST RESPONDERS. FREE LIVE MUSIC! Bring your chairs and enjoy!

DRIVE-IN MOVIES IN THE PARK SERIES – THURSDAY, AUG. 3, 2021, 8:30PM

DRIVE-IN MOVIES IN THE PARK SAVE THE DATE- Don’t miss the next Drive-In Movie Series in the Park, August 5th, 2021, Thursday, next week. “Little Giants” will be featured. Showtime begins at 8:30PM.

Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, outdoor seating, or tune in your automobiles.
 
FREE ADMISSION, thanks to The Southwest Auto Collection, Title Sponsor for our Movies in the Park Series! 
 
FREE SNOWCONES, thanks to Suddenlink, for sponsoring Goofy Greg’s to serve snowcones before the movie begins and during the movie!
 

SPECIAL MEETING CALLED – 5/24/21

SPECIAL CALLED MEETING-There will be a Special Called Meeting for the Board of Directors, Monday, May 24th, 2021 at 5:30 at Town Hall. Attached is the Agenda for the Special Meeting.
Agenda:
-Call to Order
-Invocation
-Consider Resolution for Feater Trail
-Consider Resolution for Safe Routes to School
 
 
LINK to Watch Special Meeting  LIVE

GUM SPRINGS WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS

Construction of upgrades and improvements to the AWU Gum Springs Water System were financed by the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. The DWSRF program is administered by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission with joint funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the State of Arkansas. This project involves upgrades and improvements to the AWU Gum Springs Water Distribution system including replacement of approximately 3.9 miles of water line, procurement and installation of an automatic meter reading system complete with 400 new water meters, construction of a new booster pump station, rehabilitation of the elevated water storage tank and installation of a new tank mixing system that will provide water quality benefits such as improved water quality, fire flow protection, system reliability and redundancy for community residents and businesses in and near Gum Springs. DWSRF programs operate around the country to provide states and communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources nationwide.

CITY OF ARKADELPHIA 2021 BUDGET

The Arkadelphia City Board approved the 2021 Operating Budget (presented on January 5, 2021) for city operations on January 19, 2021, Arkadelphia, City Board Meeting. Resolution R-21-02. 

2021 BUDGET PRESENTATION

2021 BUDGET PDF

CITY BOARD APPOINTMENTS

CITY DIRECTOR WARD #3, KEITH CREWS, SWORN IN- New City Ward #3 Director, Keith Crews, was sworn in at the City Board Meeting, Tuesday, January 5, 2021. Director Crews will serve the Arkadelphia City Board through December 31, 2024.

Director Keith Crews is an entrepreneur, business owner, and General Manager for Pioneer Scale Co., Inc headquartered in Benton, Ar. Keith is a leader in the service community and has built a business with a passion for taking care of industrial customers by being a problem solver. “It’s not about how far you get ahead, but how many people you can bring with you.” Keith believes that customer service starts with a team who can communicate, works hard, and has the integrity to stand behind what they sell.
Keith graduated from Henderson State University in 1984 after growing up in Benton, Ar. While at Henderson he served in the Student Government, was active in the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, and was a cheerleader for the Reddies. After graduating and marrying Melinda Neel from Arkadelphia, the couple has made Arkadelphia their home for the past 33 years.
Keith currently serves on the HSU School of Business Advisory Committee and HSU’s Alumni Board. In 2019 Keith was inducted into the Henderson State School of Business Hall of Fame and his company, Pioneer Scale was selected in the Reddie 5, an honor for outstanding businesses managed or owned by Henderson Graduates. Keith has been active for the past 8 years in the Henderson Mentorship Experience. Photo credit: Steve Fellers.
 
 
 
REAPPOINTMENT OF ARKADELPHIA VICE-MAYOR ROLAND L. GOSEY- After 14 years of service to Arkadelphia, former Vice-Mayor and former Director Roland Gosey has been reappointed as Vice-Mayor of Arkadelphia by his peers on the City Board, Tuesday, January 5, 2021.
Vice-Mayor Roland L. Gosey is the owner and managing funeral director of Williams Funeral Home, LLC in Arkadelphia and Arkansas. He is a 1996 graduate of Arkadelphia Sr. High School and a 2004 graduate of the University of Arkansas Community College at Hope where he earned an Associate of Applied Science in Funeral Services.
Roland has led Williams Funeral Home to become the premier funeral home in Southwest Arkansas specializing in incomparable service and personalization. Under his management, Williams Funeral Home still remains a positive household name known over the state for its compassionate staff, professional and personalized service.
His previous civic service includes serving as a former member of the Economic Development Corporation of Clark County, a commissioner with the Clark County Election Commission, a board member of Group Living, Inc., Arkadelphia Housing Authority, Arkadelphia Racial and Cultural Diversity Committee, Commissioner with the Arkadelphia Planning and Zoning Commission. He is a past vice-president of Clark County NAACP and a former director with the Arkadelphia City Board of Directors representing Ward 4 and former vice-mayor.
He is a humble member of the historic Greater Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church, est. 1867.
He has been a deputy coroner with the Clark County Coroner’s Office since 2005. He currently serves as the Arkadelphia City Board of Directors member-at-large and vice-mayor.
Williams Funeral Home – Arkadelphia
Williams Funeral Home Van Buren – Camden
 
 
RE-ELECTED AS ARKADELPHIA CITY DIRECTOR WARD#5, JASON JONES- After 9 years of service to Arkadelphia, former Director Jason Jones has been re-elected to serve as Ward 5 City Director in Arkadelphia on the City Board. Jason Jones will serve through December 31, 2024.
Director Jason Jones is beginning his second term as Ward # 5 City Director. He began his public service as the city director for Ward 1 in January of 2011. After serving for several years in Ward 1 his family moved across town and Director Jones was elected to represent Ward 5.
Jason is the Executive Director of the Arkadelphia Promise, a scholarship program that is aligned with a small group of cities that were created to help students pay for college from their local school districts. He began working with the Arkadelphia Promise in 2011 after a 20-year high school and college coaching career.
Jason is a member of Park Hill Baptist Church and leads the Park Hill Worship Band. He is married to Dr. Rebecca Jones, Associate Professor of Communications at Ouachita Baptist University. Jason and Rebecca have two sons, Anderson (17) and Sullivan (15).
 
 
RE-ELECTED AS ARKADELPHIA CITY DIRECTOR WARD# 2, CHRIS PORTER- After several years of service to Arkadelphia, former Director Chris Porter has been re-elected to serve as Ward#2 City Director in Arkadelphia on the City Board. Chris Porter will serve through December 31, 2024.
Director Chris Porter graduated from Henderson State University with a Master’s in Counseling. Chris currently is practicing as a psychotherapist.
 
Director Chris Porter is married to AJ. They have two children. Matthew 16 and Lyndi 20. Chris Porter and his wife have lived in Arkadelphia since 1986. Chris and his family are a member of Baring Cross Missionary Baptist Church. When Chris is not working he enjoys anything outdoors and anything competitive
 

ARKADELPHIA BYPASS PUBLIC HEARING THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19th at 5:30 PM​

 The Arkansas Department of Transportation is proposing to construct a new Arkadelphia Bypass that will extend from Highway 67 to Highway 51 in Clark County.
The Virtual Location Public Hearing will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 19, 2020.
The ArDOT project staff will give a presentation regarding the project. The presentation will include both audio and visual components and will be in English. After the presentation, the project team will respond to questions and comments from attendees.
 
View the Thursday, November 19, 2020 at 5:30PM meeting invite for more information:
 
 

TREES ABOVE STREETS & SIDEWALKS TO BE CUT BACK THIS WEKK 9/30/20                        

Crews will be out on Wednesday, September 30, 2020 cutting back trees limbs that hang less than 14’ above streets or less than 9’ above sidewalks. They will also be trimming back limbs and shrubs that visually impair traffic signs or block the view of drivers at street corners.
“It has been a long time since trees and shrubs have been trimmed back to heights that are safe for travel and don’t hinder emergency vehicles and other equipment,” said Mayor Scott Byrd. “it is all part of cleaning up and Moving Arkadelphia Forward.”

Arkadelphia Preliminary Trail Master Plan

The City of Arkadelphia is developing a Trails Master Plan that will assess the current condition of trails and prioritize recommendations for improvements.

This survey asks your opinions on walking, cycling, and using trails in Arkadelphia. The results of the survey at the link below will be used to inform the overall Trails Master Plan recommendations.
Please click the link below to complete our survey!

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ArkadelphiaTrails

 

Joint Communication from the County of Clark and City of Arkadelphia

Please see the attached press release from the City of Arkadelphia regarding the update of a positive test in Clark County.  City and County Officials will provide additional information tomorrow.

Flattening the Curve

Our friends at Baptist Health have shared links and information that we will be sharing today. The first link speaks about flattening the curve. Preventing the spread and exposure from person to person contact allows our medical professionals and facilities to adequately serve those that need immediate care.

https://www.baptist-health.com/helping-to-flatten-the-curv…/

Modified Operations/Closings

The current emergency regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an ever-changing, fluid situation. In our best efforts to protect the citizens and our employees we working with the appropriate healthcare officials to ensure we have the most current information. We encourage you to follow the guidelines determined by the Arkansas Department of Health and the CDC. Below are updates regarding public facility operations.
 
The Arkadelphia Recreation Center will close and remain closed until further notice.
 
Town Hall, Fire Station One and the Police Station will remain open for public business. However, to prevent the spread of the highly contagious virus, visitors to city facilities will be restricted to designated areas of entry. The designated area for Town Hall will be the South Entrance, (Water Department). The North end facing Clay St. will remain locked.
 
Additionally, following CDC guidelines and the President’s request, please don’t congregate in crowds of 10 or more in public parks.

 

Pre-Census Fun Day

 

March 31st from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the Arkadelphia Recreation Center Gym the Complete Count Census Committee of Clark County will be hosting a Pre-Census Funday for the children of Arkadelphia. We will provide hot dogs, popcorn, and drinks to those that attend, and there will be bounce houses for the kids! If you are a member of an organization that would like to set up a booth to hand out candy or take away information to the children and parents please complete the short 4 question survey at the link below. The Census is very important to future funding for our community so please join us for this fun and educational event!

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/X6JKZ9D

Pine Street Signal Light Updates

1. The City has been given approval from ArDOT to move forward with a study for the implementation of a protected left-turn signal at WP Malone and Pine (coming into town). The engineering firm has been contracted and we anticipate the necessary study by March 17th. This will allow staff to bid the project and contract to have the light installed.

2. The light at 26th and Pine is not cycling property due to the loops in the pavement which have been damaged. Staff is working with a local contractor to provide new infrared cameras on the pole masts which will overcome the continuing issues with the sensor loops in the pavement being damaged and causing the lights not to cycle optimally.

3. The staff has been working with ArDOT for the installation of a traffic light at Professional Drive and Pine to protect ambulances and others going or coming from the hospital. The light passed a warrant study by ArDOT and we are in the process of securing an engineering contract to complete an installation study for ArDOT’s approval. This will take up to a year to complete and get the light installed but the journey has begun.

Pediatrics Plus Groundbreaking

The following photos are from the Pediatrics Plus groundbreaking ceremony hosted at Ouachita Baptist University this morning! This is a great step towards additional professional and educational opportunities within Arkadelphia!

With the development of this facility, Ouachita Baptist University will begin its new Masters of Science Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, which is the only full applied behavioral analysis program in the state!

       

 

City honored at Arkadelphia Alliance and Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet

The City of Arkadelphia was honored to receive the annual Business Excellence Award at the Arkadelphia Alliance and Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet! We are very humbled to receive this recognition. We look forward to improving the city’s infrastructure and moving Arkadelphia forward in 2020!

Rebranding Initiative

With input from graphic design professionals and other city leaders and residents, The City of Arkadelphia Board of Directors launched a rebranding initiative for the city at the March 3, 2020 meeting, by voting to adopt a new logo and visual identity. The image below illustrates the inspiration for the new design. The design is unique and graphically represents our geographic location, while providing an opportunity for us to tell our story.

 

Remembering Mayor James Calhoun

The City of Arkadelphia grieves the loss of our former Mayor and friend, James Calhoun.  Mayor Calhoun served on the City Board of Directors for 18 years beginning his service as City Board Member-At-Large in 2001, until appointed as Mayor from 2015- 2019.  Mayor Calhoun was instrumental in various ways during his tenure on the City Board of Directors including the Arkadelphia Coming Together (ACT) initiative, which was the plan that brought the Aquatic Park, Recreation Center, River Park Amphitheater, the Youth Sports Complex, and updates to Feaster Trail.  During his tenure as Mayor, Arkadelphia progressed in various ways including the development of the new Ouachita River Bridge, Desoto Bluff Trail Pavilion, and Water Utility Consolidation between Arkadelphia and Gum Springs.  He also presented more than 100 proclamations for various events/celebrations held in Arkadelphia.  Originally from Star City, Arkansas, he and his family moved to Arkadelphia in 1984 when he accepted the position of Pastor at Baring Cross Missionary Baptist Church where they served for 20 years.  Mayor Calhoun continued his ministry service as the Promotional Director of Arkansas Missions Projects raising money for missionaries and building plans.  Mayor Calhoun retired from his position as Mayor in September of 2019.  During a 2019 interview, he shared, “This town has been good to us; we have a lot of friends here, and Arkadelphia is a Great Place to Call Home.”

Madden 20 Tournament on February 1st at Recreation Center

The Arkadelphia Recreation Center will be hosting a Madden 2020 Tournament on Saturday, February 1st.  Each participant must pay a $25.00 entry fee, 30% of the total entry fees collected will go to the winner of the tournament and 15% will be awarded to second place.  Special thanks to Game Stop of Arkadelphia for providing the equipment for the tournament!  For more information contact Junior Rodemeyer at junior.rodemeyer@arkadelphia.gov.

Phase 1 of Signage Upgrades Begins

 

Over the course of the next month, new signs will be posted on the streets highlighted on the Phase 1 Signage Map attached below. Batson Signs is helping the Street Department to replace older worn signs with new signs with enhanced reflectivity among the major streets within Arkadelphia.

 

Youth Volleyball League Beginning  in Late February 

Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting a Co-Ed Youth Volleyball League.  Registration deadline is February 8th by 5:00 PM, practice will begin February 19th and games beginning February 25th.  Participants will be divided into two divisions based on grades (3rd and 4th Grade Division and 5th and 6th Grade Division.)

Parks and Recreation Department Adopts Youth Fastpitch Softball Program

The Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation Department proudly announces that we are adopting the responsibility of managing the Youth Fast Pitch Softball Program. This program was previously managed by the Arkadelphia Fast Pitch Association, and their dedication to this program is greatly appreciated. We are excited to move this project forward and to continue a wonderful softball program for the local youth and surrounding communities. More information and registration information will be coming soon!

Basketball After Dark

Join the Parks and Recreation staff from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Wednesday Nights from January 15th – February 19th.  $5.00 Drop-in fee, or $25.00 for all 6 weeks!  Contact Megan Engeler at megan.engeler@arkadelphia.gov for more information.

 

Founders Day Celebration

We had a great time celebrating the 163rd anniversary of the Incorporation of the City of Arkadelphia!  Special thanks to Samantha’s Sweets and Java Primo for providing deserts and drinks!

      

 

Arkadelphia Founders Day Celebration

        Arkadelphia was incorporated on January 6th, 1857. To commemorate our founding, The City Staff invites the community to celebrate 163 years of Arkadelphia on January 9th from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM on the first floor of Town Hall. Cakes and other goodies from Samantha’s Sweets will be provided as well as cider and hot chocolate from Java Primo. After you celebrate with us, visit the Clark County Historical Museum and their special display of Arkadelphia’s history! Finally, to complete the evening, stroll around downtown during our first Open Late ‘Til 8 event of the year! Several of our Downtown businesses will be open until 8:00 PM and don’t forget to pick up your passport for a drawing. The winner of the drawing will be announced the week of January 13th-17th 2020.

 

Parks and Recreation Hosts Youth Volleyball Clinic

 The registration deadline for the Youth Volleyball Clinic is Jan. 17th at 6:00 PM! Boys and girls who participate will be instructed by HSU and OBU coaches and their student-athletes!

 

Adult Co-Ed Volleyball League

The Parks and Recreation Department is hosting an Adult Co-Ed Volleyball League!  Registration Deadline is January 8th, and the league starts on January 13th.  Contact Megan Engeler at megan.engeler@arkadelphia.gov for additional details!

ARKADELPHIA STREET DEPT. SLURRY SEAL OVER 2 MILES OF STREETS BEGINS 07/10/2021

SOME ARKADELPHIA STREETS WILL HAVE LIMITED ACCESS WITH SLURRY SEAL-Arkadelphia Street Department will be working with the Slurry Seal Team, resurfacing Arkadelphia streets, beginning on Saturday, July 10th. The following streets will have limited access throughout the week of July 10-17, 2021. 
You will notice the Arkadelphia Street Department and a Slurry Seal Team begin work among the city streets of Arkadelphia, beginning this Saturday, July 10th, 2021. The slurry seal resurfacing project will be completed by the end of next week.
 
The mechanics of resurfacing the streets with the Slurry Seal is a multi-faceted labor-intensive project. The Arkadelphia Street Department has been working the last several months to ready the streets for the slurry seal. They will slurry seal approximately 2.3 miles of roads this year. The slurry sealing of the streets will lengthen the life of the streets 8 to 12 years.
 
Please use caution and be mindful of the crews and teams working together for Arkadelphia. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause throughout the week.
 

2020 INITIATIVE RECAP

2020 INITIATIVE FUNDS RECAP- We are grateful and appreciative of your continued support. Together, we are making Arkadelphia a better place to live, work, and play. #MovingArkadelphiaForward #ArkadelphiaTaxInitiative

FEASTER PARK- BASKETBALL COURTS DEDICATION VIDEO​

Mayor Scott Byrd and Assistant Mayor Roland Gosey served as “referees” recently at the pick-up game and illumination event at the refurbished Feaster Park Basketball Courts. Thank you to those who braved the cold to light up the courts! Thank you, Arkadelphia for supporting the #MoveArkadelphiaForwardNeedsInitiative.

Updates to Youth Sport Complex Fields

Athletic Field Services of Arkansas did a fantastic job on our full sized baseball and softball fields at the Youth Sports Complex! The four little league fields are scheduled to be done within the next three weeks. This is a Move Arkadelphia Forward project.

For updates on all Move Arkadelphia Forward projects please visit the 2019 Arkadelphia Needs Initiative Page on our new website!

https://arkadelphia.gov/2019needsinitiative/

     

Moving Arkadelphia Forward Update


•The water leaking into the north side of the Arkadelphia Police Department has been repaired.
•The air conditioning at the Arkadelphia Police Department has been replaced and is now operational.
•The leaking window on the north side of Arkadelphia Fire Department Station 2 has been fixed and the sheetrock repairs made.
•City Staff is working with an engineering firm to scope work for repairs at the Aquatic Park, drainage and street lights.
More to come!

New Police Vehicles Expected for Spring 2020

To begin phasing in our new Police Department vehicles, we will see 8 new vehicles in the department around April of this year! The attached image is a sample of what our new Police cars will look like in 2020!

Safety Upgrades at Youth Sports Complex

Baseball Field #5 at the Youth Sports complex has received safety updates recently. We have replaced the 20ft. poles with 30 ft. poles that will expand 145 ft. wide with netting to prevent foul balls from flying into the concession area, or toward spectators at nearby softball fields.
 
 

Concrete Work at Arkadelphia Police Station

 

Much needed improvements at the Arkadelphia Police Station began with foundation concrete work was completed!

 

Feaster Trail Drainage Upgrades

 

The Feaster Trail drainage project near the 10th Street Bridge is complete! This will improve drainage and provide a better recreation experience for those that frequent Feaster Trail!
 

New Turnout Gear at Arkadelphia Fire Department

Christmas came early at Arkadelphia Fire. Our firefighters are now all fitted with new turnout gear replacing our outdated gear. This helps ensure the safety of each firefighter. Funded by Move Arkadelphia Forward 2019. A huge thanks to the Citizens of Arkadelphia for making this department better for our community.
 

New Extrication Tools Received by Arkadelphia Fire Department

A big thanks to the citizens of Arkadelphia.  Arkadelphia Firefighters are unpacking and prepping our new extrication tools to be put in service this week. These tools will allow our rescue crews to be more efficient while working vehicle wrecks. Funded by Move Arkadelphia Forward 2019.
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