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General Category => Random Talk => Topic started by: chittlins on August 07, 2015, 09:06:23 PM

Title: What's going on in NWA, 2021
Post by: chittlins on August 07, 2015, 09:06:23 PM
Rumor, up to a 1,000 layoffs coming at Walmart Corporate. 200 VPs may get cut. Teimming the buracracy. Pain off layoffs expected to be short term

Alice Walton is selling off her cutting horse business and Ranch in Ft. Worth. Wants to concentrate on Crystal Bridges

The Scott Children's Museum is now open in Bentonville. I was underwhelmed cause i've seen a dozen of them with our kids. TheY have outgrown this. Figure newer parents love it.
(http://www.amazeum.org/assets/Uploads/opening-building.jpg)

Arkansas Children's Hospital is coming to Springdale, the 6th largest Children's hospital in the US will build a 225,000 facility on land near Arvest Ballpark donated by the George and
 Evans Families.

http://www.nwabusinessjournal.com/14335/arkansas-childrens-hospital-plans-new-hospital-near-arvest-ballpark?utm_source=enews_080715&utm_medium=email&utm_content=breaking-news--northwest-arkansas-business-journal&utm_campaign=newsletter

(http://s3.amazonaws.com/nwabj/1471/ach-future-site.jpg)

Walton Family Foundation has launched an architecture program:
BENTONVILLE, Ark. - The Walton Family Foundation has announced a plan that will elevate the quality of architectural and landscape design in Benton and Washington counties in Arkansas. The new initiative, called the Northwest Arkansas Design Excellence Program, will promote the highest level of design in the development of future public buildings and spaces.

Karen Minkel, Home Region program director at the Walton Family Foundation, outlined the vision for the project.

"The establishment of a design excellence program in Northwest Arkansas was driven by our strategic approach to preserve our region's sense of place," said Minkel. "Over the last 25 years, the population in Northwest Arkansas has more than doubled, creating opportunities and challenges in planning and design. The Northwest Arkansas Design Excellence Program will encourage quality design of public spaces, while complementing the rich architectural history of our urban fabric."

Through this program, the Walton Family Foundation will provide financial support to entities such as school districts; county, state or local municipalities; and nonprofit organizations that intend to develop space for public purposes. Funds will be earmarked for all phases of design work.

The Northwest Arkansas Design Excellence Program is inspired by a similar enterprise in Columbus, Indiana, by the Cummins Foundation.
http://news.uark.edu/articles/31971/walton-family-foundation-announces-design-excellence-program
Title: Re: What's going on is NWA, Summer 15 edition
Post by: HumphreyHawk on August 11, 2015, 08:16:22 AM
Layoffs haven't happened yet.....and the timing of that report seems wrong.  If it happens I would guess that it will be towards the end of a retail quarter (October) and that it is done mostly through position shifting (re-assignments and demotions) than by actual layoffs.  That actually seems to happen at the HO every couple of years.  It usually happens either in January or April though.  Local news usually exaggerates this things when they do happen.  I few years ago when we went through a restructure the news acted like half the town would be out of a job....I think maybe 20-30 people where actually let go and most where voluntary because they didn't want to change roles....not bad for a company with 6-7k of jobs in town.

NWA is as strong as ever.  The childrens hospital is huge news and kind of long over due.  Its crazy the amount of people here forced to travel 4-5 hours to Little Rock for child care health services.  The children's hospital there is amazing but just too far away to serve a community of our size. 
Title: Re: What's going on is NWA, Summer 15 edition
Post by: chittlins on August 16, 2015, 11:15:44 PM
Xna nabs a nonstop to San Fran from United:

2-class CRJ7. Leaves XNA 0745 arr. SFO 0950. Return leaves SFO 1330 arr. XNA 1945. Looks like it's timed pretty nice for the TPAC bank.

A one stop to Asia via AA/LAX and now United/SFO, waiting for Delta to consider a nonstop to Seattle.
Title: Re: What's going on is NWA, Summer 15 edition(XNA update, Aug 16)
Post by: DianaGail on August 17, 2015, 10:10:26 PM
We took the kids to the children's museum on Saturday.  They had the greatest time!  We will be going again soon.  It's definitely worth $10.00 a person.
Title: Re: What's going on is NWA, Summer 15 edition(some master plans have surfaced, 8-23)
Post by: chittlins on August 23, 2015, 08:43:47 PM
Apparently Springdale has plans for Parsons stadium, increase from 9,000 to over 15,000 with boxes and  completely covered but still open air
(http://static1.squarespace.com/static/55569241e4b0251d92ce91ad/555698ebe4b0741e9be3cfba/55594e46e4b0741e9beba1fa/1439565554878/stadium.jpg?format=2500w)


Oprea in the Ozarks in Eureka is shooting for the stars, they are a hidden gem now. They are in the capitalnfundraising process for this Masterplan
(http://www.opera.org/wp-content/uploads/core-future-site-plan-350x270.jpg)
(http://static1.squarespace.com/static/55569241e4b0251d92ce91ad/555698ebe4b0741e9be3cfba/55594e28e4b003c251056230/1439565602673/opera%2Bhouse%2Bclosed%2B-%2Bperspective%2B07.13.09.jpg?format=1500w)
Title: Re: What's going on is NWA, Summer 15 edition(some master plans have surfaced, 8-23)
Post by: HumphreyHawk on August 24, 2015, 08:22:51 AM
Wow....

I could see Parson Stadium happen....it really needs restroom upgrades!!!!  Maybe they could book more events.  Place could be great for mid-level concerts and festivals.  It is already a great place for Demo Derbys and Monster Truck shows (and rodeos).

The opera place is in the middle of nowhere?  30 min drive to Eureka?  45 to Rogers?  Guess that is part of the attraction?  Good luck to them. 
Title: Re: What's going on is NWA, Summer 15 edition(some master plans have surfaced, 8-23)
Post by: chittlins on August 24, 2015, 03:14:44 PM
Wow....

I could see Parson Stadium happen....it really needs restroom upgrades!!!!  Maybe they could book more events.  Place could be great for mid-level concerts and festivals.  It is already a great place for Demo Derbys and Monster Truck shows (and rodeos).

The opera place is in the middle of nowhere?  30 min drive to Eureka?  45 to Rogers?  Guess that is part of the attraction?  Good luck to them. 

That outfit has put performers onstage at the Met. It's not unknown and has some backing already. What they want is grand in scale so it may take some time but it'll likely get done. They have been around for decades already.
Title: Re: What's going on is NWA, Summer 15 edition(some master plans have surfaced, 8-23)
Post by: chittlins on August 27, 2015, 06:25:49 AM
Darn, NWA building permits up 70 million over July last year to 101 million. To put that into perspective on a national level:

the No. 1 Rank for added construction jobs in July compared to a year ago, according to the Associated General Contractors of America.

.
Title: Re: What's going on is NWA, Fall/Winter 15 update
Post by: chittlins on December 09, 2015, 10:47:38 AM
(http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/1DpOP563age82_vGpWk4jw--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3NfbGVnbztxPTg1O3c9NjMw/http://l.yimg.com/os/publish-images/finance/2015-12-07/3f24c090-9d17-11e5-93aa-ffd844c83d8f_Screen-Shot-2015-12-07-at-1-17-54-PM.png)

Still growing big time, heady company we are keeping

Title: Re: What's going on is NWA, Fall/Winter 15 update
Post by: Joy on December 09, 2015, 06:39:46 PM
How cool! My birth-town is number one! (Santa Clara, CA)
Title: Re: What's going on is NWA, Fall/Winter 15 update
Post by: chittlins on December 09, 2015, 06:45:40 PM
JB Hunt to add up to 1,000 corporate positions

http://talkbusiness.net/2015/12/j-b-hunt-to-add-more-than-1000-corporate-jobs-in-northwest-arkansas/

Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Late Winter 16
Post by: chittlins on March 06, 2016, 09:40:52 PM
Fayetteville/NWA earns #3 on US News and World Report Best Places to Live list.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Late Winter 16
Post by: chittlins on March 15, 2016, 09:16:20 PM
Northwest Arkansas per capita income ($50,686) ranks 31st in the nation among 382 Metropolitan Statistical Areas ... other MSA's in this region of the country: Tulsa ($49,807), Dallas-Fort Worth ($49,506), Oklahoma City ($46,675), Kansas City ($46,319), Little Rock ($40,925) and Springfield ($35,931).
 
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Late Winter 16
Post by: chittlins on March 16, 2016, 08:56:48 PM
Piggybacking on the Per capita news is that TopGolf is looking at NWA
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/topgolf-targeting-more-markets-for-expansion-300237063.html
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Late Winter 16
Post by: Junior, too! on March 17, 2016, 03:11:50 PM
Many great things happening here in NWA! I strongly encourage you after your stay in Branson to make a trip down here for a couple of days and enjoy the attractions, shopping and food. I love living in the area. ;D
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Late Winter 16
Post by: chittlins on March 17, 2016, 05:44:40 PM
Many great things happening here in NWA! I strongly encourage you after your stay in Branson to make a trip down here for a couple of days and enjoy the attractions, shopping and food. I love living in the area. ;D

Now, if I could just find the big money guy to help back my buy out of the Drive In and add a water park to it. 8)

On another note:
NWA employers surveyed plan to add 3,161 jobs by 2018, make $336 million in investments

http://talkbusiness.net/2016/03/nwa-employers-surveyed-plan-to-add-3161-jobs-by-2018-make-336-million-in-investments/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on April 20, 2016, 03:01:58 PM
XNA is gaining another flight from Delta to NYC. That makes 5 daily to NYC, Delta 2, American 2, United 1

Fares are attractive at 300 to 350 roundtrip nonstop.

Bentonville is gaining a 6 screen, downtown cinaplex. It is to support the film fest( you may have seen Geena Davis talk it up on Kimmel).
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Late Winter 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 21, 2016, 08:11:53 AM
They are building another retail/office space building along with the theatre.  Never saw where the buildings are going to go?  Not much space left to build with in walking space of the square. 

I used to get my haircut in a barber shop on central just off the square.  He had been there 30+ years and owned the building.  He said that in the 90s he couldn't give his building away or find anyone to lease.....but starting around 2011 he was getting crazy offers to buy it every day.  He closed shop a couple of years ago and the building has been refurbished.  I'm sure he retired a multimillionaire.  It's crazy what has happened there.....wish I'd had picked up some of those old broke down houses near the square back when I first moved to the area.  I might be 'retired' too.


Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Late Winter 16
Post by: chittlins on April 21, 2016, 09:05:48 AM
They are building another retail/office space building along with the theatre.  Never saw where the buildings are going to go?  Not much space left to build with in walking space of the square. 

I used to get my haircut in a barber shop on central just off the square.  He had been there 30+ years and owned the building.  He said that in the 90s he couldn't give his building away or find anyone to lease.....but starting around 2011 he was getting crazy offers to buy it every day.  He closed shop a couple of years ago and the building has been refurbished.  I'm sure he retired a multimillionaire.  It's crazy what has happened there.....wish I'd had picked up some of those old broke down houses near the square back when I first moved to the area.  I might be 'retired' too.

Memphis based Malco is budding a movie house in the Sojth Main area at the Amtrack Station. It's location is the power plant. They aim to keep the smokestack and the old brick facade. It is to be y indoor screens. The word is Malco will build these with Mezzanine seating, the theory is theowed level is your basic experience while the seating up top is valve added with drink and food service. I think they plan on having a couple of their own proprietry IMAXesque screens here as well. In addition to all of that, supposedly working on an outdoor screen, think drive in without the cars.

When I saw the size I hoped it was something similar but it looks to be an all local endeavor with the Waltons fronting and a local outfit running it.

This brings me to this... The Walton Arts Center should buy and renovate the old UARK Theater on Dickson in Fayetteville into a full fledged Imax. Keep the older facade but be new build behind it. It would serve two purposes. Educational by day, offering the education and informative films for the local schools to further the already existing mission in that area and Feature films by night.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Late Winter 16
Post by: shavethewhales on April 21, 2016, 09:42:43 AM
I think it's interesting how every theater is turning into a dinner theater experience. Always fun to witness an industry evolving quickly to keep up with the times. When I think back to the times we'd go see a movie in a basic elongated theater with a relatively small screen, it just seems barbaric now.

I love that they're keeping the little power plant. Not long ago developers wouldn't even question knocking it down and throwing in some cookie cutter design surrounded by parking.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Late Winter 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 21, 2016, 09:59:23 AM
Malco doing that in Fayetteville then?

I avoid movies these days....beyond star wars and giving in to the kids for a kids movie a couple times a year....going to the movies is a chore and expensive for me these days.  I took the wife to a movie at the Bella Vista theatre a few months back (very old traditional floor seats and 'small' screen).  Between babysitter for 4 kids, tickets, dinner, popcorn/drink, 35 minutes of previews (yes I timed it) after they didn't start till 5 minutes after the show (I had to go tell them to start it) was scheduled to start.....I was out at least $100 bucks and 3.5 hours (2.5 at the show).  Could help but think I could have just waited to see the same movie in my living room for $5 or less a few months later.  There are so many other things now for us to do on our dates the are less expensive, frustrating, and lets us be more engaging the going to the movies these days.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Late Winter 16
Post by: chittlins on April 22, 2016, 08:10:25 PM
Malco doing that in Fayetteville then?

I avoid movies these days....beyond star wars and giving in to the kids for a kids movie a couple times a year....going to the movies is a chore and expensive for me these days.  I took the wife to a movie at the Bella Vista theatre a few months back (very old traditional floor seats and 'small' screen).  Between babysitter for 4 kids, tickets, dinner, popcorn/drink, 35 minutes of previews (yes I timed it) after they didn't start till 5 minutes after the show (I had to go tell them to start it) was scheduled to start.....I was out at least $100 bucks and 3.5 hours (2.5 at the show).  Could help but think I could have just waited to see the same movie in my living room for $5 or less a few months later.  There are so many other things now for us to do on our dates the are less expensive, frustrating, and lets us be more engaging the going to the movies these days

What, my idea for the UARK? NO, but it isn't from me not trying to convince people though. Malco is thinking of reworking the Razorback out by the mall aby adding their version of IMAX and adding the FEC and Bowling options to it.

I If had the moneyt,  I'd do is my Drive In theater and Water Park concept first. My Boss's Son is part of the group that bought the old UARK theater and they a  wanting more of an artsy film house, I am convincing him otherwise and for him to start a dialog with  WAC about the educational by day, features by night Imax and maybe another screen or two with some some Apts on top. There's lots of density being built around Dickson in Fayetteville.

The University shut down its Museum in the mid 90's. The collection is all in a storage and it's quite large, only a fraction was on display. Oddly enough, the old Gymnasium it was in was supposesly closed up forever but last year with WAC as a partner they opened up a smaller  performance theater in it.

Fayetteville should locate a spot and build a Museum housing the Uof A collection, a regional collection and a wing that rotates out various traveling collections via the Smithsonian and others.

Housing sales went up 25% from last year last month for NWA, it is in full boom again and those projections of an MSA upwards of 800,000 by 2030  are looking likely.

XNA is moving forward with a parking deck and then will connect a direct road with a then finished part of what is the interstate quality northern bypass of Springdale of US412 qnd providing a much better connection from I-49.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Late Winter 16
Post by: chittlins on April 22, 2016, 09:21:45 PM
I love that they're keeping the little power plant. Not long ago developers wouldn't even question knocking it down and throwing in some cookie cutter design surrounded by parking.

Malco hasn't really gone all in with dine in movies like others have. They have the Ridgeway and Playhouse on the Square in Memphis that are alternative type venues with Ridgeway serving food. And they are building a third movie, FEC, bowling venue out in the burbs there. They are still tinkering with their version of that. I have not heard of other chains attempting to bring back mezzanines but I like the ideal of the two in one hybrid. I think it may have to do with lot size as well but here's a rendering. This is going to be a block away from a new microdistillery. The family behind that were the y family that had the AB distribution rights in Memphis till they got a stupid sum of money to sell.
(http://media.bizj.us/view/img/7524142/centralstation-malco*750xx963-543-0-149.png)
(http://media.bizj.us/view/img/3185351/old-dominick*750xx1580-886-147-0.jpg)

But this thread is about NWA, Top Golf has acknowledged they are scouting the area, that's big, big city type stuff but just goes to show the goldmine that's developing in SDC's back yard.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Late Winter 16
Post by: chittlins on April 23, 2016, 04:03:17 PM
Folks who developed this http://prestonhollowvillage.com/ is buying 109 acres at the Weddington /I 49 intersections. This will be huge for Fayettevillle.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on April 24, 2016, 09:33:25 AM
Stadium expansion
http://arkansasrazorbacks.com/dwrrs/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: Swoosh on April 24, 2016, 11:29:13 PM
Stadium expansion
http://arkansasrazorbacks.com/dwrrs/

This makes no sense to me.  They can't fill what they already have except for the most marquee of opponents.  It's not the product on the field either - it's the poor location of Fayetteville to its alumni.  Most UA alumni are scattered across the state making it closer to go to see UA play in Starkville, Oxford or Baton Rouge than Fayetteville
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 25, 2016, 07:35:18 AM
It's only 4,800 more seats +the added box seats.   They are after the additional season passes that it will create (with add donations required to get on the list and/or keep good seats).  They don't care if they show up to the NE Idaho St games as long as they buy the season tickets.  Ark fans are used to the travel....they play in Dallas and LR every year and draw fans from all over the region.  It would be 'nice' for the rest of the state if UA where 'better' located but it seems to have done well where it is.

Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on April 25, 2016, 07:49:06 AM
Stadium expansion
http://arkansasrazorbacks.com/dwrrs/

This makes no sense to me.  They can't fill what they already have except for the most marquee of opponents.  It's not the product on the field either - it's the poor location of Fayetteville to its alumni.  Most UA alumni are scattered across the state making it closer to go to see UA play in Starkville, Oxford or Baton Rouge than Fayetteville

They are not adding a single general admission seat. In fact, they are losing a few. They do have a waiting list for every type of seat they are putting in for the most part. The Suites are as go as sold already and a friend in the office tells me 75% of the club seats are spoken for. To address cost issues, they are decreasing upper deck seating prices and they are going to sell even cheaper SROs.

Also, you do not understand our Alumni base very well. The Dallas area has more Alumni than all of Eastern Arkansas. That's why you see us wanting to play there yearly. As to Little Rock, it is the same road between the two cities and with NWA's growth, the MSAs od Ft. Smith and NWA will likely eclipse that of LR's within 10 years, making NWA the population center of Arkansas. Heck, the FSM and NWA MSAs are already 700,000 plus combined. Most see it overtaking Tulsa in total size by 2030. The past two years have seen incoming freshmen from Texas outnumber those from Arkansas and Arkansas has been sending more than ever. Beside's (and I'm living proof) since I-540/I-49 opened more kids from Eastern Arkansas have come to school here and about 75 per cent of us stay. My little old co hometown has been planning a 25 year reunion. There are so many of us up here, we almost held it here instead of Marked Tree.

Another factor is that they'll be no major pro sports competing for that demo going forward either as the areas continues to grow.

Arkansas sells plenty of seats when they don't start the season losing to Toledo.

Little Rock had their chance to do major work on War Memorial 20 years ago and they didn't. Reminds me of Memphis when they would have got the Jacksonville franchise of the NFL had they built a new stadium but an improved Gator Bowl was better than an improved Liberty Bowl. 

The fact is Arkansas is one of the handfull of schools that takes not a single dime of tuition money or state tax money ton run it's Athletic program and runs in the black while doing so. The Athletic Depot actually gives the Academic side millions per year. There is no manditory student athleric fee. Students don't have to give a dime to athletics unless they want the drastically discounted ticket package.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on April 25, 2016, 08:26:37 AM
I want to update some numbers

The MSA for Ft. Smith is 290,000
NWA is 502,000
Gives the two a CSA of 792,000.

The MSA for Little Rock/Conway is 729,000.
The CSA(add in Hot springs and Pine Bluff) is 902,000,

That's only 110,000. I'd change it from 10 years to 5 years on the area overtaking all of Central Arkansas.

Tulsa is 962,000. That's ten years but Tulsa has been nearly flat for a while now. So, maybe sooner than later.



In my opinion, there's two things Arkansas should do ASAP.

Finish I-49 to Texarkana

Make US 412 interstate quality across North Arkansas, shaving over an hour of drive time from Northeast Arkansas to NWA. Pitch it as ultimately extending I-22 from Memphis to Stillwater OK/I-35 using I-555/US 63 as the connector from near Jonesboro to Memphis. An ideal senario would see a new Mississippi River Bridge north of West Memphis that would directly tie into US 51/Future I-69 at the the terminus of the I-269 loop in Millington.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 25, 2016, 09:50:09 AM
Yeap....I moved here 16 years ago and have literally watched the Bville/Roger area explode with development and population. I remember driving around Bentonville the first time back in 2000.....it's crazy how different the place is.  I wish I was wise enough to figure out how to invest in real estate around here back then.  It's getting harder and harder to actually meet people who have haven't moved here within there lifetime.  The majority of the region is know populated with newcomers who bring in there fandom from elsewhere but are also respectful to the local UA fandom (like myself).  I was on a western Caribbean cruse recently that went out of TX and was shocked to see that even all the Intl stores where almost exclusively packed with college merch from the TX schools, Notre Dame, Michigan, and Razorback stuff. 

It's a pretty easy argument to say the NWA has surpassed the LR area economically already....I've always liked living here while its been still a "under the radar" type of great place to live.  I've never wanted to brag about it too much because I've always knew it was going to boom into a bigger town.  I don't want it to start feeling like a 'big city' like Tulsa.  One of NWAs greatest secret is that it is really a group of 'smaller' communities that all have their own identities and small town feel but are all close enough together to work with each other to provide 'bigger' city services too.

They need to get the Bella Vista Bypass done and gets some more/better/cheaper flight options at XNA.  The whole NWA region is behind in it's roadway growth.  A lot branch highways in and out of the main towns need attention too.  It's frustrating to me that Silioam Springs/Springdale gets another/additional bypasses while 2 lane roads from the growing outer towns like Pea Ridge (72), Gentry (171), Decatur (102), etc that carry thousands of cars daily are jammed every morning and night with commuters.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on April 25, 2016, 01:42:50 PM
Yeap....I moved here 16 years ago and have literally watched the Bville/Roger area explode with development and population. I remember driving around Bentonville the first time back in 2000.....it's crazy how different the place is.  I wish I was wise enough to figure out how to invest in real estate around here back then.  It's getting harder and harder to actually meet people who have haven't moved here within there lifetime.  The majority of the region is know populated with newcomers who bring in there fandom from elsewhere but are also respectful to the local UA fandom (like myself).  I was on a western Caribbean cruse recently that went out of TX and was shocked to see that even all the Intl stores where almost exclusively packed with college merch from the TX schools, Notre Dame, Michigan, and Razorback stuff. 

It's a pretty easy argument to say the NWA has surpassed the LR area economically already....I've always liked living here while its been still a "under the radar" type of great place to live.  I've never wanted to brag about it too much because I've always knew it was going to boom into a bigger town.  I don't want it to start feeling like a 'big city' like Tulsa.  One of NWAs greatest secret is that it is really a group of 'smaller' communities that all have their own identities and small town feel but are all close enough together to work with each other to provide 'bigger' city services too.

They need to get the Bella Vista Bypass done and gets some more/better/cheaper flight options at XNA.  The whole NWA region is behind in it's roadway growth.  A lot branch highways in and out of the main towns need attention too.  It's frustrating to me that Silioam Springs/Springdale gets another/additional bypasses while 2 lane roads from the growing outer towns like Pea Ridge (72), Gentry (171), Decatur (102), etc that carry thousands of cars daily are jammed every morning and night with commuters.

The 412 bypass of Springdale is drastically needed, so I will not complain about that. A limited access freeway with lout a single stop from west of Tontitown to Beaver Lake on the east side of Springdale will save 20 minutes off a thru commute to oh, say Branson. I was highly disappointed Ted that there was no four lane divided limited access bypass of Siloam Spring instead of it just getting widened in town. All that money and no time as gained for the thru traffic. That's one that will have to eventually be addresseed again. I get you on 72 but it's up to Bentonville and Pea Ridge to help that along. That 412 bypass will also have a spur straight to the airport. Getting it's traffic off the old highways. Did I mention the parking deck coming to XNA? That's up next.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: getoffmytrain on April 25, 2016, 02:35:16 PM
I completely agree with Chittlens on this and as I live in East Texas, am an Arkansas Alumi and graduated HS in Rogers, I would put I-49 at the top on that list, seconded the completion of 412!  I drove to Branson this weekend on a whim and I-49 would cut that trip by a minimum of 1 1/2 hours.

Oh and Little Rock Games are gone within 2 years.....but that is a topic for a different forum!   8)
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 25, 2016, 02:47:57 PM
SDC next big ride investment should be a tollway between NWA and Branson.  the 2 lakes and hills that are between SDC and NWA really makes a relatively short (as the birds fly) trip much tougher.  We always consider the the drive there and back as apart of the days ride count. 

But seriously....Branson needs to be down in LR and in Jeff City lobbing for better roads for the NWA region to get there.

Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on April 25, 2016, 03:22:07 PM
SDC next big ride investment should be a tollway between NWA and Branson.  the 2 lakes and hills that are between SDC and NWA really makes a relatively short (as the birds fly) trip much tougher.  We always consider the the drive there and back as apart of the days ride count. 

But seriously....Branson needs to be down in LR and in Jeff City lobbing for better roads for the NWA region to get there.

Ideally, it would be much alieviated with one thing Arkansas has control over.

A mostly limited access US 412 to US 65 just north of Harrison. After the 412 bypass of Springdale. the main obsticle will be the stretch between Huntsville and Alpena and then a regrade of portions of US 412 between Alpena and US 65.( this portion is 4 lane divided but one side is the old two lane with more hills and grade)

After that it's mostly in Missouri's hands with overpasses on US 65 at the the three lights........

Actual completion of the Ozark High Road but it does no good till addressing the light at Indian Point. There  absolutely needs to be a flyover or a flyunder for SDC bound traffic coming from Branson on 76. It would take the light out of the mix and drastically improve continous traffic flow.to SDC. Quite honestly, SDC SHOULD be happy to foot that in large part.

Another solution, and you can see this on Google Earth,  is a road from 265 just south of the Wilderness Campground  due west to the parking lots of SDC. Here's where I'd put my resort, relocated White Water.

I
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: shavethewhales on April 25, 2016, 03:47:52 PM
Good lord yes. I've been begging them to upgrade 412 into a proper highway for ages. There are a few decent spans, but it's still a country road in many places. Not to mention how long it takes to crawl through Springdale. It makes travel to a lot of NW Arkansas from Oklahoma a lot more time consuming than it needs to be. Better connecting the area to Branson would be a huge win-win as well, though not necessarily from a sales tax perspective.

I wish they'd hurry up with finishing the 49 connection so that can be the next focus.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on April 25, 2016, 04:43:17 PM
Good lord yes. I've been begging them to upgrade 412 into a proper highway for ages. There are a few decent spans, but it's still a country road in many places. Not to mention how long it takes to crawl through Springdale. It makes travel to a lot of NW Arkansas from Oklahoma a lot more time consuming than it needs to be. Better connecting the area to Branson would be a huge win-win as well, though not necessarily from a sales tax perspective.

I wish they'd hurry up with finishing the 49 connection so that can be the next focus.

When you say I-49 connection, you mean the Bella Vista Bypass right? Arkansas is finally working on that but it will BE Missouri that will have to complete it north of the border.

Another major missing link to US 412 will be Siloam Springs but that's a from Tulsa issue. That would save another 10 minutes easy for inbound Okies.

Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: Swoosh on April 25, 2016, 04:51:39 PM
Stadium expansion
http://arkansasrazorbacks.com/dwrrs/

This makes no sense to me.  They can't fill what they already have except for the most marquee of opponents.  It's not the product on the field either - it's the poor location of Fayetteville to its alumni.  Most UA alumni are scattered across the state making it closer to go to see UA play in Starkville, Oxford or Baton Rouge than Fayetteville

They are not adding a single general admission seat. In fact, they are losing a few. They do have a waiting list for every type of seat they are putting in for the most part. The Suites are as go as sold already and a friend in the office tells me 75% of the club seats are spoken for. To address cost issues, they are decreasing upper deck seating prices and they are going to sell even cheaper SROs.

Also, you do not understand our Alumni base very well. The Dallas area has more Alumni than all of Eastern Arkansas. That's why you see us wanting to play there yearly. As to Little Rock, it is the same road between the two cities and with NWA's growth, the MSAs od Ft. Smith and NWA will likely eclipse that of LR's within 10 years, making NWA the population center of Arkansas. Heck, the FSM and NWA MSAs are already 700,000 plus combined. Most see it overtaking Tulsa in total size by 2030. The past two years have seen incoming freshmen from Texas outnumber those from Arkansas and Arkansas has been sending more than ever. Beside's (and I'm living proof) since I-540/I-49 opened more kids from Eastern Arkansas have come to school here and about 75 per cent of us stay. My little old co hometown has been planning a 25 year reunion. There are so many of us up here, we almost held it here instead of Marked Tree.

Another factor is that they'll be no major pro sports competing for that demo going forward either as the areas continues to grow.

Arkansas sells plenty of seats when they don't start the season losing to Toledo.

Little Rock had their chance to do major work on War Memorial 20 years ago and they didn't. Reminds me of Memphis when they would have got the Jacksonville franchise of the NFL had they built a new stadium but an improved Gator Bowl was better than an improved Liberty Bowl. 

The fact is Arkansas is one of the handfull of schools that takes not a single dime of tuition money or state tax money ton run it's Athletic program and runs in the black while doing so. The Athletic Depot actually gives the Academic side millions per year. There is no manditory student athleric fee. Students don't have to give a dime to athletics unless they want the drastically discounted ticket package.

Do you even read posts before jumping to butthurt?   Try reading my post again and then realize how stupid your 2nd paragraph was. 
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on April 25, 2016, 08:01:23 PM
Stadium expansion
http://arkansasrazorbacks.com/dwrrs/

This makes no sense to me.  They can't fill what they already have except for the most marquee of opponents.  It's not the product on the field either - it's the poor location of Fayetteville to its alumni.  Most UA alumni are scattered across the state making it closer to go to see UA play in Starkville, Oxford or Baton Rouge than Fayetteville

They are not adding a single general admission seat. In fact, they are losing a few. They do have a waiting list for every type of seat they are putting in for the most part. The Suites are as go as sold already and a friend in the office tells me 75% of the club seats are spoken for. To address cost issues, they are decreasing upper deck seating prices and they are going to sell even cheaper SROs.

Also, you do not understand our Alumni base very well. The Dallas area has more Alumni than all of Eastern Arkansas. That's why you see us wanting to play there yearly. As to Little Rock, it is the same road between the two cities and with NWA's growth, the MSAs od Ft. Smith and NWA will likely eclipse that of LR's within 10 years, making NWA the population center of Arkansas. Heck, the FSM and NWA MSAs are already 700,000 plus combined. Most see it overtaking Tulsa in total size by 2030. The past two years have seen incoming freshmen from Texas outnumber those from Arkansas and Arkansas has been sending more than ever. Beside's (and I'm living proof) since I-540/I-49 opened more kids from Eastern Arkansas have come to school here and about 75 per cent of us stay. My little old co hometown has been planning a 25 year reunion. There are so many of us up here, we almost held it here instead of Marked Tree.

Another factor is that they'll be no major pro sports competing for that demo going forward either as the areas continues to grow.

Arkansas sells plenty of seats when they don't start the season losing to Toledo.

Little Rock had their chance to do major work on War Memorial 20 years ago and they didn't. Reminds me of Memphis when they would have got the Jacksonville franchise of the NFL had they built a new stadium but an improved Gator Bowl was better than an improved Liberty Bowl. 

The fact is Arkansas is one of the handfull of schools that takes not a single dime of tuition money or state tax money ton run it's Athletic program and runs in the black while doing so. The Athletic Depot actually gives the Academic side millions per year. There is no manditory student athleric fee. Students don't have to give a dime to athletics unless they want the drastically discounted ticket package.

Do you even read posts before jumping to butthurt?   Try reading my post again and then realize how stupid your 2nd paragraph was.
You posted:
it's the poor location of Fayetteville to its alumni.  Most UA alumni are scattered across the state making it closer to go to see UA play in Starkville, Oxford or Baton Rouge than Fayetteville

That implies the most of the UofA Alumni are somehow closer to these locales than they are to Fayetteville. They are not. It is 3 hrs from LR to Fayetteville. It is as close or closer than any city you listed. Outside of NWA, Alumni bases are Little Rock and then Dallas. Dallas is much closer to NWA than any city you listed. You were wrong about the distribution of our Alumni.

So, in summary, you spoke about crap you were ignorant on. I've done it too. You got corrected and then you make a smart assed  remark to show the real butthurt. Stop acting like you got beat out for 1st chair for Blowing One's Horn Section. There's always next year. Now, I would normally say something smartassed about Mizzou, but they need no help these days. I'd stick with antagonizing the TPR folk.

For the Business School only
(http://walton.uark.edu/images/alumni-map.jpg)
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: runner1960 on April 26, 2016, 08:15:13 AM
SDC next big ride investment should be a tollway between NWA and Branson.  the 2 lakes and hills that are between SDC and NWA really makes a relatively short (as the birds fly) trip much tougher.  We always consider the the drive there and back as apart of the days ride count. 

But seriously....Branson needs to be down in LR and in Jeff City lobbing for better roads for the NWA region to get there.

Ideally, it would be much alieviated with one thing Arkansas has control over.

A mostly limited access US 412 to US 65 just north of Harrison. After the 412 bypass of Springdale. the main obsticle will be the stretch between Huntsville and Alpena and then a regrade of portions of US 412 between Alpena and US 65.( this portion is 4 lane divided but one side is the old two lane with more hills and grade)

After that it's mostly in Missouri's hands with overpasses on US 65 at the the three lights........

Actual completion of the Ozark High Road but it does no good till addressing the light at Indian Point. There  absolutely needs to be a flyover or a flyunder for SDC bound traffic coming from Branson on 76. It would take the light out of the mix and drastically improve continous traffic flow.to SDC. Quite honestly, SDC SHOULD be happy to foot that in large part.

Another solution, and you can see this on Google Earth,  is a road from 265 just south of the Wilderness Campground  due west to the parking lots of SDC. Here's where I'd put my resort, relocated White Water.

I

You got some pretty big plans there for a state you do not even reside in. If you think Missouri is going to invest millions on the high road( road to nowhere) you are sadly mistaken. Interstate 70 rebuild is foremost on MoDots radar. Mo Citizens would be up in arms if money was spent for a private entity to prosper more while the main roads and bridges that carry most of the states commerce crumple.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on April 26, 2016, 08:59:32 AM
SDC next big ride investment should be a tollway between NWA and Branson.  the 2 lakes and hills that are between SDC and NWA really makes a relatively short (as the birds fly) trip much tougher.  We always consider the the drive there and back as apart of the days ride count. 

But seriously....Branson needs to be down in LR and in Jeff City lobbing for better roads for the NWA region to get there.

Ideally, it would be much alieviated with one thing Arkansas has control over.

A mostly limited access US 412 to US 65 just north of Harrison. After the 412 bypass of Springdale. the main obsticle will be the stretch between Huntsville and Alpena and then a regrade of portions of US 412 between Alpena and US 65.( this portion is 4 lane divided but one side is the old two lane with more hills and grade)

After that it's mostly in Missouri's hands with overpasses on US 65 at the the three lights........

Actual completion of the Ozark High Road but it does no good till addressing the light at Indian Point. There  absolutely needs to be a flyover or a flyunder for SDC bound traffic coming from Branson on 76. It would take the light out of the mix and drastically improve continous traffic flow.to SDC. Quite honestly, SDC SHOULD be happy to foot that in large part.

Another solution, and you can see this on Google Earth,  is a road from 265 just south of the Wilderness Campground  due west to the parking lots of SDC. Here's where I'd put my resort, relocated White Water.

I

You got some pretty big plans there for a state you do not even reside in. If you think Missouri is going to invest millions on the high road( road to nowhere) you are sadly mistaken. Interstate 70 rebuild is foremost on MoDots radar. Mo Citizens would be up in arms if money was spent for a private entity to prosper more while the main roads and bridges that carry most of the states commerce crumple.

I'm not telling Missouri to do a darn thing, I'm just saying that would the about the only way to really spee transit up.

Now, if Missouri did get rid of the lights south of Hollister and SDC actually helped foot the bill for the needed improvements at Indian Point/76. Going a little further north to use the existing High Road wouldn't be so bad .

But, SDC should connect their parking area with 265 with a cut thru to over around Wilderness Campground. If they have to start charging for parking, so be it. Several of the locals I know complained mightily after some major backups on their trips to SDC last year. 10 husks to save an hour or more of life stuck it traffic is a deal.

In other news Arkansas is pushing to turn US 67 from Little Rock to the Missouri State line into being signed I-57.  The Newport to Walnut Ridge section will open in July. The alignment for the run to the Missouri line should be chosen this summer.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on April 27, 2016, 02:10:30 PM
So, Washington Regional builds a new tower and is in expansion mode, Arkansas Children's is building a facility in Springdale and now:
ROGERS — Mercy Northwest Arkansas leaders were joined by Gov. Asa Hutchinson today as they announced plans to invest $247 million on capital projects and equipment over the next five years.
Expansion plans include a new patient tower that will add more than 100 beds to the hospital and new clinics in Benton and north Washington counties.
Mercy leaders expect the expansion to add more than 1,000 jobs over the next five years.
“Our hospital and clinics have been serving the community at a very high capacity,” Eric Pianalto, Mercy Hospital president said in a news release. “To ensure we carry out our mission and continue to meet the needs of Northwest Arkansas, we developed this $247 million community presence plan that will allow us to serve our patients into the future by providing additional access to quality care and advancing the region as a health care destination.”
The plans also call for creation of a University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences community internal medicine residency program in partnership with the Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks in Fayetteville. The program will provide training to eight doctors the first year, growing to 24 doctors in three years.
Other specialty care areas benefiting from the capital investment include the heart and vascular center and women’s and children’s services.
“Having more clinics and recruiting new doctors and advanced practitioners to Mercy will allow our patients to get care close to home,” Dr. Steve Goss, president of Mercy Clinic, stated in the release. “Our intent is that these expansions will positively impact the health and wellness of the community.”
Mercy already has several area projects underway, including a hybrid cardiac catheterization lab that provides technology for advanced heart procedures not currently being performed in the region; an interim renovation of the Level IIIA Neonatal Intensive Care Unit; renovation of the seventh floor to add 24 inpatient beds; and a 500-space parking lot expansion.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 27, 2016, 02:44:50 PM
Awesome!!!!

I'm so happy the Children s hospital is being built....wish it was done already....the LR children's hospital is the only reason I've ever had to go to LR in my life:(  I'm not a big fan of that town and it's sad to have to see so many families around here have to endure those long trips during what are usually tough circumstances.  I'm hoping the it gets built up the right way to be able to serve NWA with as high of quality facilities and staff as LR has. 

I have a little one going to UAMS in LR for some testing in a few weeks.  Maybe a trip like this will be closer in the near future.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on April 27, 2016, 02:53:12 PM
Awesome!!!!

I'm so happy the Children s hospital is being built....wish it was done already....the LR children's hospital is the only reason I've ever had to go to LR in my life:(  I'm not a big fan of that town and it's sad to have to see so many families around here have to endure those long trips during what are usually tough circumstances.  I'm hoping the it gets built up the right way to be able to serve NWA with as high of quality facilities and staff as LR has. 

I have a little one going to UAMS in LR for some testing in a few weeks.  Maybe a trip like this will be closer in the near future.

It's going in across from Arvest Ballpark.
(http://m.swtimes.com/sites/swtimes.com/files/styles/large/public/field/media/web1_Arkansas-Children-s-Hospital-Expansion-Springdale_2.jpg?itok=Qr6s0QHV)
As soon as I see renderings, i'll post.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 27, 2016, 03:01:37 PM
You got some pretty big plans there for a state you do not even reside in. If you think Missouri is going to invest millions on the high road( road to nowhere) you are sadly mistaken. Interstate 70 rebuild is foremost on MoDots radar. Mo Citizens would be up in arms if money was spent for a private entity to prosper more while the main roads and bridges that carry most of the states commerce crumple.
[/quote]

If you're talking about the Bella Vista Bypass (complete I-49)....That road would be main drag to both one of the biggest growing regions in the country (NWA) and a future connection to the Gulf (when Ft Smith to Texarkana is done).  That would be a direct interstates between KC/Stl and Houston/Gal port...without having to go through Dallas.  A direct North/South route from the Gulf to shipping centers in MO.

The only reason MO isn't getting it completed is that they playing the political games with the fed road money and trying to wait it out till the Ark Ft.Smith to Texarkana section is officially started (budget approved).  Can't blame them for spending their money on other priorities until that is green lighted....or even trying to get extra dollars to help finish it as the AR project money gets approved.  Point is....it will be a huge win for MO to eventually do it.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 27, 2016, 03:07:19 PM
I knew it was going in across from Arvest ballpark....

On a selfish note that I just thought of...wonder if that will impact the fireworks displays after the games?  Naturals have the best displays I've every seen and they set them up right on that corner.  Not sure if that would be a good or bad thing to have thought right outside the hospital at night?  They may have to literally tone them down.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on April 27, 2016, 04:22:27 PM
You got some pretty big plans there for a state you do not even reside in. If you think Missouri is going to invest millions on the high road( road to nowhere) you are sadly mistaken. Interstate 70 rebuild is foremost on MoDots radar. Mo Citizens would be up in arms if money was spent for a private entity to prosper more while the main roads and bridges that carry most of the states commerce crumple.

If you're talking about the Bella Vista Bypass (complete I-49)....That road would be main drag to both one of the biggest growing regions in the country (NWA) and a future connection to the Gulf (when Ft Smith to Texarkana is done).  That would be a direct interstates between KC/Stl and Houston/Gal port...without having to go through Dallas.  A direct North/South route from the Gulf to shipping centers in MO.

The only reason MO isn't getting it completed is that they playing the political games with the fed road money and trying to wait it out till the Ark Ft.Smith to Texarkana section is officially started (budget approved).  Can't blame them for spending their money on other priorities until that is green lighted....or even trying to get extra dollars to help finish it as the AR project money gets approved.  Point is....it will be a huge win for MO to eventually do it.
[/quote]
I've got to correct you a bit.

I-49 will run to New Orleans providing a southern flanking maneuver of Baton Rouge. What you will be able to do is connect to I-69 at Texarkana that then will take a you straight to the Houston/Galveston area. I've got issues with the  future routing of I-69 thru Miss and Arkansas but that's got nothing to do with this
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on May 05, 2016, 09:44:59 AM
Bentonville gets a downtown movie house and now it appears Fayetteville will gain it's former one back.

(http://www.fayettevilleflyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/uark.jpg)

Plans are afoot to tear down all but he facade and restored Marque of the UARK theater. Current plans call for a multilevel facility with a bar and restaurant with two smaller screens on the ground level with two larger screens on the second and third levels.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on May 05, 2016, 11:42:11 AM
Cool....makes sense to have add a few screens that close to campus.  Walking distance to thousands of bored kids.

FYI.....Bentonville Film Fest (BFF) just started.  Might be a few 'movie stars' running around here.  I was underwhelmed with the schedule/events this year.  The whole scene isn't really my thing but with the added development to downtown and the buzz the festival still regular gets....I'm guessing is going to keep growing.

bentonvillefilmfestival.com
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on May 16, 2016, 10:56:49 AM
#1

http://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/slideshows/the-20-best-affordable-places-to-live-in-the-us/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on July 14, 2016, 01:00:49 PM
ECONOMY RANKS NO. 5 THROUGH 2021
PUBLISHED: JULY 7, 2016
The Northwest Arkansas economy’s growth rate will rank No. 5 nationally through 2021, researchers with IHS Global Insight predict.

The same economic analysis, which was prepared for the U.S. Conference of Mayors, predicts Northwest Arkansas will rank No. 8 in the U.S. in its job growth rate in 2017.

The IHS report continues a series of positive economic and quality of life reports about Northwest Arkansas and how it stacks up against the nation’s other metropolitan areas. In recent months, Forbes put the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers Metropolitan Statistical Area (Northwest Arkansas) at No. 2 on its list of Best Midsize Cities for Jobs and the region was No. 3 on a U.S. News and World Report ranking of Best Places to Live.

Only four U.S. regions — two in Utah and two in Florida — are expected to see their economies grow at a faster rate than Northwest Arkansas through 2021. The 3.9 percent annual growth rate predicted for Northwest Arkansas will push the region’s economy past $30 billion.

Impressive job growth will be part of the strong economic performance. The report shows jobs increased in Northwest Arkansas by 5 percent in 2015. The region’s job growth wasn’t expected to rank in the nation’s Top 10 this year, but it will be ranked again in 2017, coming in at No. 8, the analysis shows.

Northwest Arkansas has long had an economy that ranks higher nationally than its overall population.

While the Northwest Arkansas MSA is the nation’s 105th largest in population, the presence of Walmart, Sam’s Club, Tyson Foods, J.B. Hunt Transport Services and more than 1,450 Walmart suppliers puff up the economy’s size.

With a gross metropolitan product of $26.1 billion in 2015, Northwest Arkansas ranked No. 94 in the U.S. It ranks No. 198 in the world, putting it right behind El Salvador ($26.3 billion).

The report by IHS was made public on June 24.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on July 14, 2016, 01:03:14 PM
Realtors across Benton and Washington counties are having the best year in history through the first six months of 2016, selling 4,603 homes valued at $970.268 million through June.

Sales will easily top the $1 billion mark in July. The 2015 home sales first topped $1 billion in August.


Units sales through June are up 35.9% from the same period last year, according to data provided by Eric Harris at Weichert Downum Realty in Springdale. There were an average of 211 more homes sold each month of 2016, compared to the first six months of 2015. Sales volume rose 23.4% from the same period a year ago.

“Home sales continue to be strong in Northwest Arkansas. If you are a buyer and find a home you like you had better not wait to make an offer on a desirable property. If you are a seller it’s a great time to get your home on the market,” Harris said.

Active buyer demand has created a seller’s market and helped to hoist home prices higher from a year ago. Taking all the sales through the June the median home price rose to $179,900 in Benton County, and $165,000 in Washington County. A year ago the median homes prices were $167,000 and $162,000, respectively. That’s a gain of 7.72% in Benton County and 1.85% in Washington County.

MEDIAN PRICE RECOVERY
Looking back six years in each county it’s clear that home prices are trending higher. Benton County’s median home price through June in 2010 was $129,000. At that time foreclosures were being unleashed in the region and by 2011 median home prices in Benton County dropped to $119,900. Over the next five years the median home price in Benton rose more than $70,000, or a whopping 58.4%.

In Washington County median home prices bottomed in 2011 at $115,000. Since that time median home prices are up more $53,000, or 46.2%.

Nicky Dou, an executive broker for Keller Williams in Bentonville, said this year is as busy as she can remember. Dou was the top producing agent in the region last year with just under $40 million of sales credited to her. Dou told Talk Business & Politics that so far this year she has placed a little more than $30 million under contract. Her sales team which includes her husband Jerry Dou, Terri Elbatnigi and Jenny Miller are also having a great year.

“If we were to add up all of our sales together we would be around $47 million to date,” Dou said.

She said homes priced under $400,000 are selling well, especially new construction. With more high level homes being sold in Benton County, that is part of the reason the median price is up more so than in Washington County.

“Homes priced under $250,000 are selling within days of being listed and some with multiple offers, if they are in good condition,” Dou said.

The low supply of homes for sale in some price ranges are also pushing some prices higher than asking prices. Dou said that has resulting in a few appraisal issues in recent weeks.

“I listed a home in Fayetteville last Thursday (July 7) and by end of Saturday (July 9) I had two offers on it. It was listed at $165,000 so the buyer demand is not only in Benton County,” she said.

STRONG JUNE
Harris’ info showed that Benton County reported unit home sales of 625 in June, valued at $146.851 million. Unit sales were up 18.6%, while sales volume rose 32.17% from $111.105 million reported a year ago.

Washington County Realtors sold 400 homes last month, up 39.89% from the 286 homes sold a year ago. Total sales volume rose to $82.734 million, up 33.9% from $61.743 million reported a year ago.

Northwest Arkansas posted its best June on record in terms overall sales volume and units sold. Average home prices in Benton County last month topped out $234.963, up 11.44% over the $210.827 reported in June 2015. Looking back to 2013, average home prices in Benton County in June are up 23.35%.

Washington County’s average home price was $206,835 in June, below the June 2015 average of $215,885. That said, for the month of June average home sales price are up 16% in Washington County.

BACK HALF FORECAST
Agents polled by Talk Business & Politics said 2016 will likely be one for record books. Economist Kathy Deck, director for the Center for Business and Economic Research at the University of Arkansas, agreed there are solid reasons for the local real estate market to climb to new highs. She said it is supported by a growing population, strong job market in the region.

One of the issues Realtors thought might weigh on demand in the coming months was rising interest rates, but with the Brexit vote and other global issues have pushed interests lower, not higher. The British exit from the European Union, commonly referred to as Brexit, prompted the rate of a 30-year fixed mortgage to drop to an average of 3.41% compared to where it stood a year ago at 4.08%. According to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, Freddie Mac, it’s the lowest such rate since May 2013.

The average rate on a 15-year fixed mortgage recently dropped to 2.74%, compared to 3.2% last year.

“Mortgage rates were already low for potential homebuyers and this drop creates an even better opportunity for them to save money and secure an even lower rate when purchasing or refinancing a home,” said Steven Plaisance, president and CEO for Arvest Bank Mortgage Division.

Arvest is one of the largest mortgage lenders in the region. Plaisance said the lender is seeing lots of activity for new purchases and refinances, which is some cases is saving customers $200 per month. The Mortgage Bankers Association also reports a 14.2% increase in mortgage applications following the drop in interest rates that was triggered by the Brexit vote.

This renewed activity in the U.S. housing market comes at a time when the industry has seen low inventory and higher home prices. Industry leaders are hopeful the recently adjusted rates will continue to spark more activity, as homeowners decide to act quickly.

“There is no way to predict how long these rates will remain, or in which direction they will go next,” Plaisance said.

HOME SALES (January through June)
Benton County
Unit Sales
2016: 2,877
2015: 2,457
2014: 2,178
2013: 2,178
2012: 1,811
2011: 1,766
2010: 1,708

Sales Volume
2016: $625.367 million
2015: $491.360 million
2014: $408.608 million
2013: $402.024 milion
2012: $313.659 million
2011: $276.415 million
2010: $272.846 million

Median Home Price
2016: $190,000
2015: $167,000
2014: $150,000
2013: $150,000
2012: $139,000
2011: $119,900
2010: $129,000

Washington County
Unit Sales
2016: 1,726
2015: 1,430
2014: 1,241
2013: 1,302
2012: 1,104
2011: 1,111
2010: 1,091

Sales Volume
2016: $344.901 million
2015: $274.799 million
2014: $274.799 million
2013: $224.201 milion
2012: $175.644 million
2011: $155.232 million
2010: $170.852 million

Median Sales Price
2016: $179,900
2015: $162,000
2014: $152,000
2013: $146,750
2012: $133,125
2011: $115.000
2010: $130,000
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on July 27, 2016, 09:19:06 PM
Pretty sad something under 4 percent gets this honor but I'll take it.

http://talkbusiness.net/2016/07/arkansas-leads-nation-in-gdp-growth-at-3-9-tourism-fishing-and-hunting-sectors-thriving/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: shavethewhales on July 28, 2016, 04:19:37 PM
I just signed on to a new company that also has an office in Fayetteville. They were talking like they may eventually want me to move out there in the next few years. I don't think I'd mind that at all, I just hope I don't buy at the high end of this real estate surge.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: Junior, too! on August 07, 2016, 08:45:40 AM
When you get here, Shave, let us know. The NWA members would like to meet you and shake your hand.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: Duelist on August 07, 2016, 02:05:03 PM
I saw Michael McDonald and Boz Scaggs will be at the Walmart AMP in Rogers this Friday night.  Sounds like a great concert! (still doesn't mean I want to hear their music at SDC, Laroy!  LOL)
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on August 07, 2016, 10:03:07 PM
I saw Michael McDonald and Boz Scaggs will be at the Walmart AMP in Rogers this Friday night.  Sounds like a great concert! (still doesn't mean I want to hear their music at SDC, Laroy!  LOL)

I took my Mom to McDonald with Toto at the Hard Rock in Tulsa this time last year.   I'm adverse on buying outdoor tickets in July and August, I took my daughter to 21 Pilots in KC over NWA cause Indoors. :o
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on August 14, 2016, 11:58:39 AM
I found it amusing that she's building a new hospital up here and yet was shocked of what the growth projections were till just very recently when the Walmart CEO filled her in  that it's a million people in 15 years.

https://youtu.be/JAEct1dq994
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on August 14, 2016, 12:02:41 PM
New School for former Bentonville Fairgrounds
by Paul Gatling

Officials of a new independent school in Northwest Arkansas, backed by the Walton Family Foundation, said Thursday the campus will be built at the former Benton County Fairgrounds site in Bentonville.

The site, at the corner of Main and Eighth streets south of the downtown square, is currently owned by Wal-Mart Stores Inc., and will be donated to the school, according to a news release.

The school, announced last summer, will be called Thaden School, in honor of Bentonville native Iris Louise McPhetridge Thaden (1905-1979), considered one of the greatest aviators of her time.

The school will open in the fall of 2017 starting with grades 7 and 9 and grow incrementally over the next four years to serve students in grades 6 through 12, according to the release.

The school expects to provide full or partial financial assistance to at least 25 percent of its students, according to the release.

The development of the campus will start with indoor and outdoor spaces that will support the school during its first two years. During this initial phase of operations, the institution will be located on its permanent site. The design and construction process for the rest of the campus will begin later this year, and is expected to be completed no later than the fall of 2019.

Before 1924, the former fairgrounds site was location for three other educational institutions, including Bentonville High School when Thaden was a student there. The campus will eventually include a historic house where Louise Thaden once lived, currently located at 703 W. Central Avenue in downtown Bentonville.

The Scott family will donate the house to the school, and Thaden officials are working on a plan to store the structure until it can be relocated to the permanent site as part of the campus master plan.

The relocation will need approval from the City of Bentonville.

The school also announced a number of hires for its leadership team and board of directors.

Dr. Clayton Marsh, formerly the deputy dean of the college at Princeton University, was announced as the founding head of school effective January 2016.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on August 15, 2016, 02:28:44 PM
^^^^

Interesting....I'll have to look into this school.  I have a few kids they might be able to slide right into that plan.

I know a couple of folks who work for the Walton foundation.  It's incredible how much money the put into schools around NWA (and around the country).  They have practically 100% funded some awesome new alternative HS programs that has completely changed the way the students learn.  Basically....10th and 11th grades kids start getting opportunities to get hands on training/experience in various fields of potential study outside of the basic HS studies and by 12th grade they all have career paths identified and many spend 12 grade either doing college level class work and/or start doing apprenticeship work within the community.  It's huge jump start both for college bound kids and even a bigger boost for non-college bound kids who getting a leg up getting straight into the workforce.  The program was a first of it's kind has been getting some national attention.

To the educaters on the board....look up the Walton Foundation.....they love to "invest" in education.....just come to them with a gameplan for improving your school.

NWA is awesome place to live.....just quit telling everyone....we are getting too big....lol
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on August 18, 2016, 03:36:29 PM
I'm ripping off a post from elsewhere that adds the River Valley to NWA, this is considered a combined tv market as is but that tunnel makes it seem seperated.:

Add metro Fort Smith to the expanding population.  This would put the metro Fort Smith area to about 400,000.  A combined NWA/FSM of 1,400,000 would be bigger than metro Memphis is today:

  Quote
The population of Fort Smith is projected to grow about 20 percent by the year 2040 for a total of more than 107,000 people, but Greenwood will outpace the region.



Using U.S. Census data and sources such as the Arkansas Municipal League and University of Arkansas at Little Rock, the Frontier Metropolitan Planning Organization estimates most communities in the region will also have a 1 percent annual increase over the next 20 years.

While Fort Smith will likely to continue being the most populated city in the four-county area, the largest population growth locally is expected to be seen at Greenwood with a 153 percent projected increase by the year 2040.

Greenwood, the southern Sebastian County seat, is projected to have a population of about 24,495 by the year 2040. It was 9,666 in 2015.

Tony Crockett, a Justice of the Peace for Greenwood in the Sebastian County Quorum Court, says Greenwood has shown steady growth in all directions, particularly north toward Fort Smith.

“I’ve been telling people for a long time that eventually you won’t be able to tell where Greenwood ends and Fort Smith starts,” Crockett said. “Fort Smith is growing south and east and Greenwood is going north so eventually they’ll meet up.”

Alma and Barling are expected to see the second- and third-most growth in the region, respectively. Alma, which lies on U.S. 64 east of Van Buren, is expected to increase in population over 80 percent: 5,600 in 2015 to a projected 10,259 in 2040.

http://www.swtimes.com/news/20160814/population-projections-show-greenwood-booming
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on August 18, 2016, 03:41:43 PM
This ties into the post above, gotta figure out a way to get it built. The Texarkana to KC Stretch is the middle of a hour glass that connects Nawlins and Houston to Canada with I -49 and I-69 on bottom and I-35 and I-29 on top:

From a businessman online friend in Fort Smith:

" When I-49 is complete, Fort Smith will explode. It will be at the corner of I-40 and I-49, in the center of the U.S. With access to rail and river, the proximity to major trucking lines (ABF, C. R. England, J. B. Hunt, USA Trucking, Jones Truck Lines etc.) it will be, perhaps, the single largest drop and ship hub (not attached to a sea or ocean) in the country. It will be central most drop point for shipped items arriving in the gulf ports for distribution east, west, and north.

I read a study several months ago that predicted that, after the completion of I-49, the River Valley will be one on the 5 fastest growing areas in the country, with a return of it's strong manufacturing base to take advantage of it's, now enhanced, ability to ship North, South, East, and West.

According to a couple of friends of mine on the FS Board of Directors and the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority, east and south of Fort Smith is being gobbled up in huge chunks by investors in anticipation of the growth that will be facilitated by the completion of I-49. "
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on August 18, 2016, 04:11:04 PM
I didn't realize the river valley was growing that much...It seemed to me to be kind of struggling with the loss of manufacturing jobs like a lot of the rest of the midwest. 

I know the KCK region had similar talks about population explosion due to both I-49 and the proposed I-35 'free trade' corridor that was at one time a thing.  They even build some type of International Trucking 'Port' around the railroad yards that is supposed to be the busiest 'inland port' in the country.

My father-in law has some land near an I-35 exit an hours south of KC....I told him he is on gold mind if the right legislation is passed.  Wish I had some land near the proposed I-49 corridor.  In about 15-20 years I-49 is going to need a 2nd bypass around NWA...probably running north/south from Springdale, XNA, west of Rogers and Bville. 
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on August 19, 2016, 07:57:56 AM
I didn't realize the river valley was growing that much...It seemed to me to be kind of struggling with the loss of manufacturing jobs like a lot of the rest of the midwest. 

I know the KCK region had similar talks about population explosion due to both I-49 and the proposed I-35 'free trade' corridor that was at one time a thing.  They even build some type of International Trucking 'Port' around the railroad yards that is supposed to be the busiest 'inland port' in the country.

My father-in law has some land near an I-35 exit an hours south of KC....I told him he is on gold mind if the right legislation is passed.  Wish I had some land near the proposed I-49 corridor.  In about 15-20 years I-49 is going to need a 2nd bypass around NWA...probably running north/south from Springdale, XNA, west of Rogers and Bville.

Not much is going to happen on the KC end till Arkansas finds ways to get done from Alma to Texarkana. Texas is at least building segments of I-69 and most of I-49 is done in LA with Sheveport being the sticking point.

Arkansas is going to have to explore tolls whether they want to or not, old US 71 would offer a free route but with much less traffic for those that are toll adverse and like 55mph speed limits. I can say the same thing for a Turnpike across North Arkansas from Harrison to Walnut Ridge. These need done yesterday, it benefits the entire state.not a single person tells me they would pay a toll to Texarkana if it meant advice US 69 in Oklahoma to get to Dallas.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on August 26, 2016, 08:38:57 AM
I bet a toll road would work and actually makes a lot of sense.  Make is 'temporary' (like 20 years) just to pay it off....or at least sell it that way.....or just toll the southern AR section to help pay for the AR/Mo section that is left. 

KC already has 35, 70, 29, 49 and easy access to to 44....it's already a hub...but completing 49 to have more direct route to Houston and the Gulf will ease traffic on 35 and create another major trucking lane.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: History Buff on August 26, 2016, 03:31:13 PM
I bet a toll road would work and actually makes a lot of sense.  Make is 'temporary' (like 20 years) just to pay it off....or at least sell it that way.....or just toll the southern AR section to help pay for the AR/Mo section that is left. 

KC already has 35, 70, 29, 49 and easy access to to 44....it's already a hub...but completing 49 to have more direct route to Houston and the Gulf will ease traffic on 35 and create another major trucking lane.

You mean temporary like every toll road ever built in Oklahoma?  Ha!
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: shavethewhales on August 26, 2016, 03:45:39 PM
Yeah, about those toll roads... OK is about to pass another 16% increase. They said at the time that it was temporary, but the law actually states that as long as a new toll road is under construction they can keep managing tolls to help pay for it. So guess what they keep doing...

But AR does have some serious road needs. They can't build a Springdale bypass fast enough for me. Being able to speed through there would cut my travel time to the places I want to be by an hour at least.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: History Buff on August 26, 2016, 05:39:32 PM
Yeah, about those toll roads... OK is about to pass another 16% increase. They said at the time that it was temporary, but the law actually states that as long as a new toll road is under construction they can keep managing tolls to help pay for it. So guess what they keep doing...

But AR does have some serious road needs. They can't build a Springdale bypass fast enough for me. Being able to speed through there would cut my travel time to the places I want to be by an hour at least.

It should be the first thing OK puts in their travel guide and on their new license plates.  It can be the new state nickname and slogan:  "The Land of Paying to Drive on a Highway that Has Been Reduced to Single Lanes Because if We Fix Them, We'll Have to Stop Charging You to Drive on Them."

Good grief.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on August 26, 2016, 07:23:20 PM
Yeah, about those toll roads... OK is about to pass another 16% increase. They said at the time that it was temporary, but the law actually states that as long as a new toll road is under construction they can keep managing tolls to help pay for it. So guess what they keep doing...

But AR does have some serious road needs. They can't build a Springdale bypass fast enough for me. Being able to speed through there would cut my travel time to the places I want to be by an hour at least.

I went to Tulsa last last for Coldplay, I have no issues with there rates. 5 bucks r/t or old 412 if i'm cheap, you HAVE a choice. Someone should tell the cars the were 50 deep at 1am in toll plaza that pike passes are a god send. As long as there's a free alternative, I'm all for tolls to get new freeways built. Old 71 south fFt. Smith to Texarkana would be just that and old 412 across North would work for a turnpike across North Arkansas. The leg should put it on a ballot. Northwest Arkansas would overwhelmingly vote for it. If they offered a third land between Memphis and LR with trucks forbidden it would be incredibly popular. They can get by with it because they would us a loophole that allows new bridge construction to be funded by tolls. That would he a new White River  bridge, already designed as a 6 lane facility.. in fact, they are now studing the I-49 bridge over the Arkansas as a toll. Unless they extended it far last Greenwood. I don't see that being successful as the segment thru Chaffee just dead end at Greenwood.

Oh, Fayetteville is gaining a Fairfield Inn and indoor trampoline place
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: Dewayne on August 27, 2016, 09:59:54 AM
Yeah, about those toll roads... OK is about to pass another 16% increase. They said at the time that it was temporary, but the law actually states that as long as a new toll road is under construction they can keep managing tolls to help pay for it. So guess what they keep doing...

But AR does have some serious road needs. They can't build a Springdale bypass fast enough for me. Being able to speed through there would cut my travel time to the places I want to be by an hour at least.

Exactly. Tulsa has at least 4 different interstates including toll roads to get thru town fast and bypass every slow road that has to stop at every light. Springdale, Rogers, and Fayetteville are all different towns linked together, and almost as big as Tulsa together. The people who build roads think we need 1 interstate going North and South along with 2 roads that arent much of highways since you have to stop at every light. They dont think they need anything going East and West to get thru town fast? They think 1 interstate with 4 lanes is enough to handle all the traffic?............. ??? ??? :o......No, that aint gonna cut it. Now they finally realize that they need to widen 49, but thats not enough. 49 turns into a parking lot any time there is a wreck and at 5:00, just like Tulsa's I-44/244 intersection. They need to build more interstates for more choices and decrease traffic. Its like a bottle neck. With all the tourists and locals, they need a way for better traffic flow.  I think there should be 2 interstates going North/South and at least 1 going East/West. 412 aint gonna cut it. Its too slow. 49 is a good interstate on the West side of town, but there should be another on the East side too. 71 is also too slow. Tulsa has a big variety in choices, including interstates. Springdale/Rogers/Fayetteville should too. Im glad there are no tolls on the roads I drive on thru AR and MO. Im fine if they build toll roads, but Id rather they be free and fast. Theres 2 or 3 toll roads near me in OK and I rarely go on them. Thats the 1 thing I like AR and MO about more than OK.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on August 29, 2016, 08:06:18 AM
Yeah, about those toll roads... OK is about to pass another 16% increase. They said at the time that it was temporary, but the law actually states that as long as a new toll road is under construction they can keep managing tolls to help pay for it. So guess what they keep doing...

But AR does have some serious road needs. They can't build a Springdale bypass fast enough for me. Being able to speed through there would cut my travel time to the places I want to be by an hour at least.

Exactly. Tulsa has at least 4 different interstates including toll roads to get thru town fast and bypass every slow road that has to stop at every light. Springdale, Rogers, and Fayetteville are all different towns linked together, and almost as big as Tulsa together. The people who build roads think we need 1 interstate going North and South along with 2 roads that arent much of highways since you have to stop at every light. They dont think they need anything going East and West to get thru town fast? They think 1 interstate with 4 lanes is enough to handle all the traffic?............. ??? ??? :o......No, that aint gonna cut it. Now they finally realize that they need to widen 49, but thats not enough. 49 turns into a parking lot any time there is a wreck and at 5:00, just like Tulsa's I-44/244 intersection. They need to build more interstates for more choices and decrease traffic. Its like a bottle neck. With all the tourists and locals, they need a way for better traffic flow.  I think there should be 2 interstates going North/South and at least 1 going East/West. 412 aint gonna cut it. Its too slow. 49 is a good interstate on the West side of town, but there should be another on the East side too. 71 is also too slow. Tulsa has a big variety in choices, including interstates. Springdale/Rogers/Fayetteville should too. Im glad there are no tolls on the roads I drive on thru AR and MO. Im fine if they build toll roads, but Id rather they be free and fast. Theres 2 or 3 toll roads near me in OK and I rarely go on them. Thats the 1 thing I like AR and MO about more than OK.

Tulsa only has one real interstate (I-44)with a 3 digit loop (I-244) to compliment it.  It also has upgraded US highways and turnpikes that makes it seem like it has more interstates but there are not interstates.

It is true that NWA is basically a clusters of small cities that make up a greater metro area, it is about 520,000  as of today, half of Tulsa's MSA. But... Projections have it cathing up around 2030 based on current growth patterns. There's two basic comparisons for this region as of today. Memphis is to Oklahoma City as Little Rock is to Tulsa. If you add NWA and the Ft. Smith area together  it's nipping at the latter's heels but not by themselves....yet.

Right now there is a moritorium on new Federal Interstates being built via tolls. Now there is a pilot program which I think OK is part of that allows it. It is only for 6 states. a couple of those are basically squaring on their right to do so with no immediate plans. Arkansas has made it clear it wants one of those slots. The loophole to that is the Bridges. You can place a toll ro replace or build new bridges on the interstate system. The money raised can only go for that and it's upkeep. The fly in the ointment is how far past the actual span that toll zone can be extended and be considered part of that project.

Let's look at two possible examples for Arkansas.

The I-40 White River Bridge. Get ready that's coming soon, well into engineering. It is slated to be six lanes. Why you may ask? Because I-40 between LR and Memphis is a virtual truck stop on a 4 lane road. They clog traffic particularly during the work week, governed 18 wheeler after governed 18 wheeler passing one another clogging car traffic and creating constant slowdowns that lead to countless wrecks and Nascar worthy traffic weaving. The state deaparately wants to six lane it with the third lane being a toll lane and truck free. The study came back saying that wouldn't pay of it but tolling all the lanes would. Arkansas could feasibly extern a third lane 10s of miles on each side of the a new construction White River Bridge. This is especially true on the east side as it wod incorporate smaller spans at the Cache and L'Anguille Rivers (Basically to Forrest City). The west side would be a little harder sell. The cost may be justified as it offering at least half the transit to Memphis at 6 lanes with the ability to fill in the gaps on each end  via traditionql funding.

Now there's the new I-49 Arkansas River Bridge. This would connect I-49/I-40 ar Alma to a new segment of I-49 that cross old parts of Ft. Chaffee they have already built. The AHTD boxed themselves in here. They'll only be able to toll the bridge because there's no need for three lanes on the new section and that prohibits a toll possible funding a lengthening of I-49 southward past Greenwood.

Now, back to US 412. I'm from the  east Arkansas Delta. Mraked Tree to be exact. I did spend my teen years in Memphis. I keep up with stuff over there, My Brother and Mother live in the Memphis area. I-22 is about done thus creating an interstate from upgrade US 78. My desire to see a turnpike across North Arkansas ties into I-22. I want I-22 extended from Memphis thru Arkansas to I-35 west of Tulsa (Stoolwater) and maybe to Pueblo CO. From there. For the Arkansas part, build a turnpike from Harrison to Walnut Ridge where it would intersect an interstate quality US 67 that's been proposed as an extension of I-57, build a southern bypass of JonesBoro to connect the new I-555 portion of US 63 from the I-555 terminus at I-55 at Turrell build a new northern Mississippi River Bridge that would connect to the future I-69/269 at Millington TN and share signage through Memphis to the the complete part of I-22 on the south end. That would give NWA and Tulsa two interstates

Long ramble over

Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on August 29, 2016, 09:26:30 AM
Well for NWA....

I still see a future need for a western North/South bypass....I wish the leaders would start marking it out now.  From the BellaVista/Gravette area down through Centerton, West Rogers, by the XNA, maybe connect with Springdale bypass, but continue down around Springdale and West Fayetteville and/or Farmington.  Create a corridor that links it to the HO in Bville and upgrade a few of the East/West roads between the two N/S highways. 

It's really the only place to create another corridor considering the geography.....plus it's where the growth is going.  I-49 is basically the Main St of NWA and it's going to need help even after the lane additions.  Let 71B/94 we the Eastern corridor.

The whole area just has grown too fast for its infrastructure.  Each city seems to have traffic issues due to lack of planning plus the region as only seemed to come together recently and trying to plan it all out.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: Dewayne on August 29, 2016, 02:12:56 PM
I consider any road in Tulsa that has a speed of 70+ with no lights or stop signs, including toll roads, to be an Interstate. Although, even the smallest wreck could cause traffic. There needs to be more roads like this everywhere. Roads with a speed of up to 65 or down to 30 with lights all the way thru town and a few out in the middle of nowhere, are considered Highways.

Those new roads you talked about sound great.......but how long will it be until they are started? If they start now, I know for sure it wont be until 2026 or later until they are finished. Arkansas is slower at building/upgrading a road than OK or MO. The intersection on 412 at Pilot is even taking a while and its a pretty easy process compared to the new lanes on 412 near Hindsville.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on August 29, 2016, 02:42:50 PM
I consider any road in Tulsa that has a speed of 70+ with no lights or stop signs, including toll roads, to be an Interstate. Although, even the smallest wreck could cause traffic. There needs to be more roads like this everywhere. Roads with a speed of up to 65 or down to 30 with lights all the way thru town and a few out in the middle of nowhere, are considered Highways.

Those new roads you talked about sound great.......but how long will it be until they are started? If they start now, I know for sure it wont be until 2026 or later until they are finished. Arkansas is slower at building/upgrading a road than OK or MO. The intersection on 412 at Pilot is even taking a while and its a pretty easy process compared to the new lanes on 412 near Hindsville.

You can consider them whatever you like, will not be right, but go ahead. Unless it is designated as an interstate by the Federales, it isn't.  It's is an important designation, mainly for marketing purposes, but important.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on August 29, 2016, 03:44:13 PM
Well for NWA....

I still see a future need for a western North/South bypass....I wish the leaders would start marking it out now.  From the BellaVista/Gravette area down through Centerton, West Rogers, by the XNA, maybe connect with Springdale bypass, but continue down around Springdale and West Fayetteville and/or Farmington.  Create a corridor that links it to the HO in Bville and upgrade a few of the East/West roads between the two N/S highways. 

It's really the only place to create another corridor considering the geography.....plus it's where the growth is going.  I-49 is basically the Main St of NWA and it's going to need help even after the lane additions.  Let 71B/94 we the Eastern corridor.

The whole area just has grown too fast for its infrastructure.  Each city seems to have traffic issues due to lack of planning plus the region as only seemed to come together recently and trying to plan it all out.

I could see an extension/spur of the west terminus of the 412 bypass west of Tontitown down to between PG and Farmington.

That was studied once, route chosen and pretty much considered a pipe dream and forgotten. What you'll get is a 5 lane of 112. Almost everyone thinks it should have been 8 laned. I bet you'll see it inplaces after they complete rebuild of the I-49/112 interchange in Fayetteville.

You absolutely pegged that it's growing too fast but they ate still building for now and not tommorrow. Crossover in Fayetteville should have been six laned
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on September 02, 2016, 04:21:24 PM
Ft. Smith/Fayetteville media market has cracked the top 100 at #99 according to the last Nielson ratings.

Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: HumphreyHawk on September 02, 2016, 05:35:50 PM
Just in time for when nobody watches local or live tv anymore :P
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on September 03, 2016, 07:32:26 PM
Just in time for when nobody watches local or live tv anymore :P

The redo of the interchange in Fayetteville  starts in a couple of weeks, it will be a cluster for a couple of years.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 16
Post by: chittlins on December 05, 2016, 08:21:51 AM
XNA is getting nonstops via American to Reagan National in April.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Winter16-17
Post by: Gilligan on December 05, 2016, 11:51:22 AM
XNA is getting nonstops via American to Reagan National in April.

How does the airport in Springfield compare to the one in the Fayetteville area?  Same size? Which one would you rather use if you were about equal distance between the two?
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Winter16-17
Post by: chittlins on December 05, 2016, 04:29:19 PM
XNA is getting nonstops via American to Reagan National in April.

How does the airport in Springfield compare to the one in the Fayetteville area?  Same size? Which one would you rather use if you were about equal distance between the two?

XNA likely has more flights and it's got more passengers, cost isn't an advantage but connections to hubs via legacies is. Allegiant doesn't offer too many destinations, Orlando and Vegas with seasonal LAX. If a Sprit moved in, it would stimulate more vacation O&D. As it stands there's lots of bleed to Tulsa and Southwest on that front.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: chittlins on April 05, 2017, 08:26:50 AM
Updated US Census figures show NWA is fast approaching top 100 size metro size status. Adding about 31 people a day. Percentage wise that's up there with Dallas and other fast growing regions. That said folks in NWA think the census data is lowballing the growth and expects it to be revises upward.
http://talkbusiness.net/2017/03/census-estimate-shows-northwest-arkansas-continues-to-lead-state-in-pace-of-population-growth/

These numbers are reflected in the fact that home permits for the area is up over 20% from this time last year and the apartment market is very tight. Once the Area cracks the top 100, the commercial real estate guys expect a wave of new retailers enter the market.

Top Golf and Dave and Busters seemed to be sniffing for locations as it is.

Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 05, 2017, 08:51:18 PM
Well....A very well known NWA company has been going through some pretty major layoffs the past two days that hit very very very close to me:(  10% (over 300 jobs) of the tech division this week with rumors of more in other departments this month.  I'm shocked that the news isn't picking it up.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: chittlins on April 06, 2017, 10:55:39 AM
Walmart has done that several times now, I don't know what the real motivation is because they seem to build back up after one. I'm sure it plays to Wall Street well. Sadly, it's becoming their MO.

Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: Gilligan on April 06, 2017, 12:49:14 PM
Would it have anything to do with them purchasing Jet?
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: runner1960 on April 06, 2017, 02:29:48 PM
Would it have anything to do with them purchasing Jet?

Yea, Jet has gone downhill since Wally World took it over. Reminds me why I haven't set foot in a Wal Mart or Sams club in the last 5 years.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: biscuitcreek on April 06, 2017, 06:25:54 PM
Well....A very well known NWA company has been going through some pretty major layoffs the past two days that hit very very very close to me:(  10% (over 300 jobs) of the tech division this week with rumors of more in other departments this month.  I'm shocked that the news isn't picking it up.

It has been in the news in AR. I read about it online in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette and KY3 news in Springfield has mentioned it.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: sanddunerider on April 07, 2017, 09:31:25 AM
Would it have anything to do with them purchasing Jet?

Yea, Jet has gone downhill since Wally World took it over. Reminds me why I haven't set foot in a Wal Mart or Sams club in the last 5 years.

^^ ;D ;D
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: jstein4507 on April 10, 2017, 12:46:19 PM
Pretty sure the current ISD layoffs are in regards to better, cheaper, and yes, foreign contracts as replacements. While the layoff tradition appears to grow, so does the WM hiring seem to be growing.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 14, 2017, 09:04:08 AM
Pretty sure the current ISD layoffs are in regards to better, cheaper, and yes, foreign contracts as replacements. While the layoff tradition appears to grow, so does the WM hiring seem to be growing.

I have so many thoughts, opinions, some inside knowledge on this topic and other points made on this thread.  Just don't think it would be wise to lay it all out here.  Don't believe 90% of the conspiracy theories about the company and the 10% that are true are the ones that aren't that juicy.

Let me just say this....the company has been changing to make sure it can compete beyond the old traditional retail market over the past few years.  The company is in a market share fight....and it's not with Kmart and Target.  It makes sense that the Tech division is a focus of change.  It is being asked to blend having to support the traditional business while also being asked to be a Silicon Valley tech start like IT company to push the new stuff needed.  A lot of cool new tech delivered stuff has be done and is still on the way.


 
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: chittlins on June 28, 2017, 06:17:35 PM
There's plenty more of this stuff on the way
https://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-trails/northwest-arkansas-13-million-can-build/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: Junior, too! on July 09, 2017, 05:02:39 PM
Amazon is giving Walmart some stiff competition. There is always gonna be someone who knocks down the king of the hill. When I was a kid, no one could touch Sears or JC Penny...my how time changes things. Anyone remember Montgomery Ward, lol!
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: Joy on July 09, 2017, 07:20:21 PM
Amazon is giving Walmart some stiff competition. There is always gonna be someone who knocks down the king of the hill. When I was a kid, no one could touch Sears or JC Penny...my how time changes things. Anyone remember Montgomery Ward, lol!

I am *just* old enough to remember Montgomery Ward! My grandpa always called it "Monkey Ward," LOL.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: chittlins on July 10, 2017, 07:46:17 PM
Amazon is giving Walmart some stiff competition. There is always gonna be someone who knocks down the king of the hill. When I was a kid, no one could touch Sears or JC Penny...my how time changes things. Anyone remember Montgomery Ward, lol!

I am *just* old enough to remember Montgomery Ward! My grandpa always called it "Monkey Ward," LOL.

The funny thing is that Amazon is basically the Sears catalog   of today. You look at a page and order an item and if it is broke or it doesn't fit it's a pain. But, hey it's the "in" thing. I rarely find a place that much different than I can find locally.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: sirwillow on July 10, 2017, 08:15:24 PM


I am *just* old enough to remember Montgomery Ward! My grandpa always called it "Monkey Ward," LOL.

I loved Wards as a kid.  We used to shop there pretty often.

The funny thing is that Amazon is basically the Sears catalog   of today. You look at a page and order an item and if it is broke or it doesn't fit it's a pain. But, hey it's the "in" thing. I rarely find a place that much different than I can find locally.

This is why I am so shocked and saddened by how poorly Sears is doing right now.  If anyone should have been Amazon today, it's Sears with all of their catalog experience.  They absolutely blew the opportunity to lead the field in what they were already doing.  Instead they are stuck back over 20 years ago, with aging, ugly stores that no one wants to go into and about to close up forever.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: chittlins on July 11, 2017, 11:19:12 PM


I am *just* old enough to remember Montgomery Ward! My grandpa always called it "Monkey Ward," LOL.

I loved Wards as a kid.  We used to shop there pretty often.

The funny thing is that Amazon is basically the Sears catalog   of today. You look at a page and order an item and if it is broke or it doesn't fit it's a pain. But, hey it's the "in" thing. I rarely find a place that much different than I can find locally.

This is why I am so shocked and saddened by how poorly Sears is doing right now.  If anyone should have been Amazon today, it's Sears with all of their catalog experience.  They absolutely blew the opportunity to lead the field in what they were already doing.  Instead they are stuck back over 20 years ago, with aging, ugly stores that no one wants to go into and about to close up forever.

Sears doubled down on soft lines and lost. In the process they over populated their appliance dept with no hope of keeping even 25 percent of it in stock. I get that Kenmorees are made by the others but you compete with yourself while carrying the samething with different name. Same went for electronics. Way too many skus. They abandoned sporting goods except for exercise equipment. In the following years they diminished their Craftsman brand by outsourcing it all to China. You can't change the same price for something that no longer has any differentiation from all the other brands out there. Not even going to touch on them squandering the Auto Center business.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Spring 17
Post by: runner1960 on July 12, 2017, 06:46:07 AM
Amazon is giving Walmart some stiff competition. There is always gonna be someone who knocks down the king of the hill. When I was a kid, no one could touch Sears or JC Penny...my how time changes things. Anyone remember Montgomery Ward, lol!

Amazon has amazing customer service. Just made my first order with Alexa on Prime day. Took the opportunity on Prime day to stock up on essentials. I could go the rest of my life and never step inside a brick and mortar store. So far now it is almost 4 years without being in a wally world or Sams club.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Fall 17
Post by: chittlins on September 12, 2017, 11:54:56 AM
Just in time for Star Wars

https://www.fayettevilleflyer.com/2017/09/12/malco-razorback-cinema-to-add-imax-theatre-in-fayetteville/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Fall 17
Post by: chittlins on September 15, 2017, 12:55:37 PM
Walmart getting new HQ

http://talkbusiness.net/2017/09/wal-mart-stores-announces-plans-for-new-headquarters-in-bentonville/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Fall 17
Post by: HumphreyHawk on September 15, 2017, 01:44:30 PM
5-7 years to complete.  Its right off of the new exit being built off i49.  They have been quietly buying up that land for years (namely the houses).  Of course they already owned most if it and it's right beside the Tech campus that already exists.  It's both much needed and a little bit of a strange move if you understand how un-walmart this actually is.  The company is historically been proud that its HQ is basically ran out of an old distribution center and re-purposed stores.  Already have thousands of people working in that area so is going to be a real mess during this time to actually build it all.  I know some of the operations in the area have already been moved.

Already a lot of rumors about what will happen to the current offices.

Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Fall 17
Post by: chittlins on September 15, 2017, 08:45:46 PM
5-7 years to complete.  Its right off of the new exit being built off i49.  They have been quietly buying up that land for years (namely the houses).  Of course they already owned most if it and it's right beside the Tech campus that already exists.  It's both much needed and a little bit of a strange move if you understand how un-walmart this actually is.  The company is historically been proud that its HQ is basically ran out of an old distribution center and re-purposed stores.  Already have thousands of people working in that area so is going to be a real mess during this time to actually build it all.  I know some of the operations in the area have already been moved.

Already a lot of rumors about what will happen to the current offices.

You wanna know where that new larger theater will go  ;)
They'll tie the old campus in with the fairground stuff they are pushing. I wonder how larger they'll make Say Morning Meeting arena. Butter yet, will it be placed to be something else as well given the interstate access.

If this gets them out of old stores and open them up for redevelopment particularly the Old Bentonville store, it'll be great.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Fall 17
Post by: HumphreyHawk on September 16, 2017, 09:49:33 AM
idk if it will impact the current stores. 

The current HO auditorium wouldn't be a very good movie theatre....imo....my uninformed guess would be that that whole build would be probably just get leveled and redeveloped.  They have been using the new auditorium over at the Tech Center (and co-broadcasting from/to other locations) for the morning meetings for a few years now.  The 3 story building closest to Walton is an old reinforced (bunker like) data center that isn't used as that but still holds a operations center (and regular offices).  It will be interesting to see if they leave that.

I'm hearing a new fitness center will be the first thing replaced.  The already just finished moving one of the oldest DCs across town from that property.  They still have two other DCs and 5-6 medium to large office complex in that area.  It will be interesting to see how the transition everything around to make it happen.  No doubt when it's completed....those that couple of miles of property could be the most densely populated in the state most weekdays.

Also...as one of the leaders put it.  They are proud that then didn't play the shake down game with every state/city in the country (unlike what a competitor is currently doing)


Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Fall 17
Post by: chittlins on September 17, 2017, 09:15:06 PM
idk if it will impact the current stores. 

The current HO auditorium wouldn't be a very good movie theatre....imo....my uninformed guess would be that that whole build would be probably just get leveled and redeveloped.  They have been using the new auditorium over at the Tech Center (and co-broadcasting from/to other locations) for the morning meetings for a few years now.  The 3 story building closest to Walton is an old reinforced (bunker like) data center that isn't used as that but still holds a operations center (and regular offices).  It will be interesting to see if they leave that.

I'm hearing a new fitness center will be the first thing replaced.  The already just finished moving one of the oldest DCs across town from that property.  They still have two other DCs and 5-6 medium to large office complex in that area.  It will be interesting to see how the transition everything around to make it happen.  No doubt when it's completed....those that couple of miles of property could be the most densely populated in the state most weekdays.

Also...as one of the leaders put it.  They are proud that then didn't play the shake down game with every state/city in the country (unlike what a competitor is currently doing)

If you thought I was suggesting a repurpose, I wasn't. They'll.bulldoze that whole thing. I'm told everything but the Sam's and IT will be getting replaced.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, Fall 17
Post by: chittlins on September 29, 2017, 09:32:24 AM
I don't think I've ever seen this.

http://talkbusiness.net/2017/09/nwa-planners-to-apply-for-federal-grant-to-complete-i-49-gap-between-missouri-and-arkansas/

Our side is completely funded now and this is Arkansas trying to get money for Missouri.

The word is if Arkansas can get the money to build the new bridge in Ft. Smith for I-49, they are going to get after the south part quicker by making it tolled. Fine by me. Anything to avoid McAlister to Durant on US 69.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: chittlins on January 30, 2018, 09:19:00 AM
God help us if this guy is correct with his 90,000 housing units needed in 3 to 5 years. At 3 souls per unit, that's 270,000 people, making NWA around  800,000. If that was to continue till about 2030, yikes.
https://talkbusiness.net/2018/01/growth-to-continue-during-2018-in-northwest-arkansas-state-human-and-financial-capital-key-to-long-term-growth/

Good problem for SDC to have in their backyard.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: shavethewhales on January 30, 2018, 08:33:41 PM
Over a wide area, maybe. It seems we may be heading into another market pull back of some nature though... hard to say how that will affect NWA. Good thing about this area is that it is at least somewhat diversified. 

I'll be interested to see how it bleeds over westward toward Tulsa and vice versa. Historically, NWA has made use of Tulsa for access to major things it didn't have like the airport and the arena with the big acts coming through. Now they are starting to grow towards getting those things on their own, with the expansion of their airport and such.

It's spread out, but it really is a super region that SDC has to draw from.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: chittlins on January 30, 2018, 10:41:44 PM
Over a wide area, maybe. It seems we may be heading into another market pull back of some nature though... hard to say how that will affect NWA. Good thing about this area is that it is at least somewhat diversified. 

I'll be interested to see how it bleeds over westward toward Tulsa and vice versa. Historically, NWA has made use of Tulsa for access to major things it didn't have like the airport and the arena with the big acts coming through. Now they are starting to grow towards getting those things on their own, with the expansion of their airport and such.

It's spread out, but it really is a super region that SDC has to draw from.

We were having a conversation elsewhere about XNA. It's insanely expensive to fly out of due to so much business traffic and that is what it depended on. Folks wanting to fly cheaper drove to Tulsa and hopped on Southwest and many are still doing it. But...as the area grows demand for more leasure  travel friendly pricing is building. Many are baffled by XNA management. They talk the talk about lowering airfares but 5he walk ain't happening. Just look at Springfield's Allegiant offerings compared XNA's and you see where this is going. Allegiant could easily fly another 3 to 4 routes and do well on them. Austin, Ft. Lauderdale and New Orleans come to mind. Frontier would find gold with Denver and Silver with Orlando. They'd trounce Allegiant there since they go into MCO. If the growth continues. Southwest has to start to take notice as it becomes big enough as a stand alone market. The problem with Southwest is they have fallen for Boeing's trap of going for bigger and bigger 737s with no plane for smaller markets. They stupidly handled the 717 they got from Airtran to Delta for a song all because Bo3ing want done with the last redheaded step child they adopted when they bought McDonnel Douglas.That's what Air Tran was running into Branson. It was right sized at 117 seats. Any 737 was too much for Branson and Southwest has since retired the smaller 737s that they did use on Branson.  Delta loved the size so much, they have ordered similar.Bombardier CS100s. They thing with the C Series is they are so darn fuel effiecient and with stupid range for their size. Boeing tried to kill off the plane and guided it into the arms of Airbus  where they dump the A319. Southwest is so wedded to Boeing that they'd never would consider it and they should be all over it.

What's been going on with the C-Series ad Boeing's fight against it is great theater. Boeing forced Bombardier to make a sweetheart deal to Airbus to save it. Airbus announced they would build a plane already 52% American in content  at it's Mobile AL assemby plant. All the while p $#ING off  Canada, Great Britain and Ireland to the point they thy are in great jeopardy of losing military sales of F-18s and other planes. Now they are chasing Embraer's skirt but getting rebuffed by the Brazilian gov't refusing to allow a foriegn buyout of them. They could have bought the C Seies from Bombardier for chump change but went for the kill and got floored by the counterpunch of Airbus buying a majority stake in it for baeically nothing. Bombarsier si evn going tho pay to build the FAL in Mobile for Airbus. They managed to get the Commerce dept to slap some horrific punitive tariffs on the planes that Delta bought but that got overtuned at the ITC by a 4-0 vote.

America needs some upstart airlines but the pilot unions and the legacies have manufactured a pilot shortage where you have to suffer at regionals at low wages while wanting on a seat at the big boys.  It's placed a huge burden of entry into the field.



Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: chittlins on May 08, 2018, 12:28:13 PM
Population estimates released this spring show Northwest Arkansas (Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers metro) continues to grow at a brisk pace ... the area grew 2.3% with a population of 537,463.  The area is netting 34 people per day, eclipsing 1,000 people per month migrating to NWA for a total of 12,287 people added to the population.  The area is the 14th fastest growing metro in the US, up from 20th in 2016.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: sdcfan88 on May 08, 2018, 02:50:03 PM
Forgot to mention on an entertainment related note NWA as of Feb 2018 has their own Dave N Busters now. Its in the Pinnacle Hills Promenade where the old food court used to me. I am a game tech there and helped with setting up the facility, so feel free to come say hi. lol

Note if you have been to one before this one is actually half the size of most other DnB's due to them repurposing an existing building.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: chittlins on May 18, 2018, 09:04:32 AM
Forgot to mention on an entertainment related note NWA as of Feb 2018 has their own Dave N Busters now. Its in the Pinnacle Hills Promenade where the old food court used to me. I am a game tech there and helped with setting up the facility, so feel free to come say hi. lol

Note if you have been to one before this one is actually half the size of most other DnB's due to them repurposing an existing building.

Been aiming to go, just haven't made it up I-49 yet. Yep, they took the former food Court at Pinnacle Hills which never once had full occupancy and convertEd it.

I was shocked Malco dodn't add an Imax screen there when they put them in at Razorback and Town Center.. malco has their own FEC concept with Bowling.

Malco should build that next to the Razorback in Fayetteville muy pronto.

BTW, TopGolf is supposed to announce across the interchange from there today.

Duluth Trading is supposed to be getting real close to announcing a Rogers store
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: chittlins on May 29, 2018, 01:38:44 PM
Individual city growth:

Quote
In national rankings of cities with over 50,000 people, Rogers ranked as the #33 (18.7% growth rate) fastest growing city nation wide and Fayetteville ranked #63 (15.9% growth rate).  However, had Bentonville qualified (they are at 49,300 residents) they would have ranked 8th nationally as its growth rate is 39.7%
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: HumphreyHawk on June 04, 2018, 02:26:44 PM
Forgot to mention on an entertainment related note NWA as of Feb 2018 has their own Dave N Busters now. Its in the Pinnacle Hills Promenade where the old food court used to me. I am a game tech there and helped with setting up the facility, so feel free to come say hi. lol

Note if you have been to one before this one is actually half the size of most other DnB's due to them repurposing an existing building.

Been aiming to go, just haven't made it up I-49 yet. Yep, they took the former food Court at Pinnacle Hills which never once had full occupancy and convertEd it.

I was shocked Malco dodn't add an Imax screen there when they put them in at Razorback and Town Center.. malco has their own FEC concept with Bowling.

Malco should build that next to the Razorback in Fayetteville muy pronto.

BTW, TopGolf is supposed to announce across the interchange from there today.

Duluth Trading is supposed to be getting real close to announcing a Rogers store

Where is TopGolf going?  Fayetteville or Rogers?

I took the family to D@Bs in LR a few months back and really wasn't impressed.  Food seem extremely expensive....menu was hard to figure out with the tokens they upsell ya.  Maybe I'm just getting too old now but it still feels like a Chuck E Cheeses without a ballpit.  We live in a world where you can download a lot of those arcade games to your phone.  I get some are unique and the multi-player games are great for a night out....but I'm not a big fan.  I'll probably end up visiting the Rogers one at some point.....I'm surprised I haven't had a work event or other group outing there yet....hopefully it's better than the other one I've been to.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: jstein4507 on June 06, 2018, 12:19:54 PM
Topgolf will be near the Walmart AMP. I read that another D&B will be in F'ville.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: chittlins on June 06, 2018, 12:29:16 PM
Topgolf will be near the Walmart AMP. I read that another D&B will be in F'ville.

The area is reaching the point where one location doesn't cut it in most cases. Here, it's completely missing the college demo for the most part.  The  housing development in Uptown Fayetteville really skews to the 20 somethings. Look at the business JJ's micro brew  and beer garden is doing with it's assortment of things to do. If retail was in such a funk they'd be twins of everything.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: HumphreyHawk on June 06, 2018, 09:14:52 PM
Topgolf will be near the Walmart AMP. I read that another D&B will be in F'ville.

The area is reaching the point where one location doesn't cut it in most cases. Here, it's completely missing the college demo for the most part.  The  housing development in Uptown Fayetteville really skews to the 20 somethings. Look at the business JJ's micro brew  and beer garden is doing with it's assortment of things to do. If retail was in such a funk they'd be twins of everything.

Yeap...I'm in Benton county....hardly ever need to go to Washington anymore.   Naturals games and Razorback sports are about the only reason I go.  Seem like most of the franchises that are setting up new locations are doing them in pairs now.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: chittlins on June 07, 2018, 11:20:34 AM
Fayetteville is building a mid city Mountain Bike park but this is for Springdale and I just flat out stole a post from Urban Planet to share:
Quote
Springdale officials announced and broke ground this week on a new 2.75 acre bike park at the Jones Center ... the park will include the Velosolutions Pump Track and Runway Skills Parkalong with a bicycle playground for kids.

This October the park will host the 'Red Bull Pump Track World Championship Final'.

Cycling amenities in Northwest Arkansas are abundant these days - rightfully so as were only behind Minneapolis, Vancouver and Portland in daily volume of cyclist per 1,000 population.


https://redbullpumptrackworldchampionship.com/news/article/the-jones-center-springdale-arkansas-will-host-the-2018-red-bull-pump-track-world-championship-fin/

Oh, appears Duluth Trading Co will open a store in the Pleasant Grove area near AG Russell. 

Oh, and congrats go to Lowell. Way to go with allowing that obscene truck stop sign off your single exit. I'm sure all the housing develop men's love to see that thing nice and bright at night. ::)

There's business friendly and there's ungodly tacky. They nailed the latter.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: HumphreyHawk on June 13, 2018, 09:37:23 PM
The bike community in NWA is exploding.....and not by accident.  Read an article recently about a Walton grandkid who is an avid cyclist and has always loved to ride around here.....the family has been helping with funding to build out all the trails around the area.  Bentonville has and/or is becoming a "bike resort" town.....like a "ski resort".  Cyclist from around the country are coming to ride the trails.  We'll probably keep getting events like that.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: chittlins on October 02, 2018, 11:51:52 AM
Fayetteville's Gregory Park Mountain Bike trail is now open

https://www.fayettevilleflyer.com/2018/09/27/video-photos-mountain-bike-park-now-open-at-gregory-park-in-fayetteville/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: chittlins on October 13, 2018, 11:06:54 AM
If you know Fayetteville, you'll be grabbing your popcorn

https://www.fayettevilleflyer.com/2018/10/12/cultural-arts-corridor-early-sketches-include-reimagining-of-west-avenue-parking-lot/

Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2018
Post by: chittlins on April 08, 2019, 10:57:53 AM
Frontier finally xomes to XNA.

The following is of routes and frequency to Denver: Depart XNA: 5:47 p.m. Arrive DEN: 6:50 p.m. Depart DEN: 1:58 p.m. Arrive XNA: 4:57 p.m.

The flights will happen every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.

No idea how this might effect the BKG flights that I know some locals have used
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2019
Post by: chittlins on July 21, 2019, 10:22:05 PM
So, XNA was all set to land Southwest (initial service to DAL, DEN,BNA) but XNA's FBO played hardball on prices and lost it for XNA. This breakdown is what spurred Frontier on finally adding DEN.

Anyhoo, Dave and Buster's is open at Pinnicle Hills and Top Golf broke ground. Arkansas Childrens is open, since my Son's has ITP, we are now frequently visiting it.  Our Dr. there arraigned to have his blood platelets checked while we were in Paris at no cost. So, I'm singing high praises of ACH- Northwest.  A couple of Walton grandkids are investing big into downtown Springdale, new mixed use development on the way. More bike trails going up everywhere.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2019
Post by: HumphreyHawk on July 28, 2019, 08:40:07 PM
I took my first non-business flight out of XNA recently.  Good old Allegent.  Good price and terrible flight experiences have been common with them in my 3-4 flight experiences and out of XNA is no exception.  Had and arguement about a carryon bags and both our flight to Stanford and from where both delayed:(  I ended up regretting saving the few bucks I did by taking the airline....Would have been less hassle to pay a bit more....have better flight time options (had late and early flights) and better service.  Of course remember with these flights...seat selection and bags are upcharges that quickly can make those great prices disappear.

I've got HS friends in Denver and I was excited to see Frontier come.  We have flown them before from Tulsa.  Not much better than Allegant but excited about trying them out.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2019
Post by: chittlins on July 29, 2019, 02:05:43 PM
I took my first non-business flight out of XNA recently.  Good old Allegent.  Good price and terrible flight experiences have been common with them in my 3-4 flight experiences and out of XNA is no exception.  Had and arguement about a carryon bags and both our flight to Stanford and from where both delayed:(  I ended up regretting saving the few bucks I did by taking the airline....Would have been less hassle to pay a bit more....have better flight time options (had late and early flights) and better service.  Of course remember with these flights...seat selection and bags are upcharges that quickly can make those great prices disappear.

I've got HS friends in Denver and I was excited to see Frontier come.  We have flown them before from Tulsa.  Not much better than Allegant but excited about trying them out.

It is wierd, some seem to never have issues with them. Anyhoo, Allegiant is bringing back Nashville starting in Feb, some periods have them flying to Destin near daily. Traddic has boomed and this is BEFORE Frontier started XNA
Quote
More great news! June represents another record month for XNA with 91,305 passenger enplanements compared to 78,912 in June of 2018 - a 15% increase. Cumulative passenger enplanements also up 15% from the same period last year (434,232 up from 376,791). We want to thank everyone who has chosen to fly XNA and the continued support from all of our community partners./quote]
SOmeone told me that Southwest backed out due to their issues with the MAX but wouldn't have if they had come to an agreement with the FBO before the issue came up.

Either way, they were on the verge of coming and two events conspired to stop it.

That is all hearsay.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2019
Post by: HumphreyHawk on July 30, 2019, 03:41:25 PM
Southwest would be amazing!!!!  Maybe could afford a trip to Hawaii for the whole family.

Allegiant cancelled a return trip from Vegas last year about 12 hours before boarding due to mechanical issues.....they offered to pay for another night but we had to get back to pick up a kid from camp.  We ended up renting a car and driving to LAX to catch another flight back that day.  That was through Tulsa.

On the FL trip they charged all my kids for carryon bags ($50 each) that I would have considered personal items in bags that they didn't charge me for on our Vegas trip.....plus.....they were 3 hours behind leaving XNA which put us into the hotel in Orlando at 3am:( 

Took my about 10 tries over 3 days and 3-4 hours worth of waiting on hold before I found anyone to actually pick up the phone for customer support.  I'll at least give the credit for waiving the bags fees cause of the delays and believe it or not....they applied a small credit from the Vegas trip issue.  I had a voucher that they never contacted me about.  All that being said....Its going to be hard to use them again in less it's just me traveling light and my schedule is pretty open.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2019
Post by: chittlins on July 31, 2019, 10:56:10 PM
Southwest would be amazing!!!!  Maybe could afford a trip to Hawaii for the whole family.

Allegiant cancelled a return trip from Vegas last year about 12 hours before boarding due to mechanical issues.....they offered to pay for another night but we had to get back to pick up a kid from camp.  We ended up renting a car and driving to LAX to catch another flight back that day.  That was through Tulsa.

On the FL trip they charged all my kids for carryon bags ($50 each) that I would have considered personal items in bags that they didn't charge me for on our Vegas trip.....plus.....they were 3 hours behind leaving XNA which put us into the hotel in Orlando at 3am:( 

Took my about 10 tries over 3 days and 3-4 hours worth of waiting on hold before I found anyone to actually pick up the phone for customer support.  I'll at least give the credit for waiving the bags fees cause of the delays and believe it or not....they applied a small credit from the Vegas trip issue.  I had a voucher that they never contacted me about.  All that being said....Its going to be hard to use them again in less it's just me traveling light and my schedule is pretty open.

We had two very smooth flights on easyJet in Europe. We paid extra for assigned seating and quick boarding that assures your normal sized carry on isn't gate checked  and it had.no.weight limit either. With all of.that, both flights were still under 250 for 4 of us.. Same with Ryanair, we got their priority plus via the website(not availible on app) It got us each a checked bag, one carry on and personal item (8x10x6) Was still only 220.bucks for 4. Their ULLC carriers are superior to ours. You still have to play the game but we had no issues.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2019
Post by: chittlins on August 20, 2019, 11:31:47 AM
https://youtu.be/cWc8m-9Rv9E
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2019
Post by: chittlins on October 17, 2019, 08:28:41 PM
Bentonville's new park

https://5newsonline.com/2019/10/16/plans-announced-for-walton-family-foundation-supported-osage-park-in-bentonville/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2020
Post by: chittlins on January 08, 2020, 10:50:25 PM
The Momentary is opening soon and I'm all over their Freshgrass event in April with that line up.
https://themomentary.org/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2020
Post by: chittlins on January 23, 2020, 04:11:45 PM
AMP 2020 Schedule (so far)
June 13 – Alanis Morissette / Garbage / Liz Phair
June 17 – Steely Dan / Steve Winwood
June 22 – Journey / Pretenders
June 24 – The Black Crowes
June 28 – Chicago / Rick Springfield
July 29 – Phish
Aug. 8 – Nickelback / Stone Temple Pilots
Aug. 15 – Kids Bop Live
Aug. 18 – Matchbox 20 / The Wallflowers
Aug. 27 – Lady Antebellum / Jake Owen / Maddie and Tae
Sept. 22 – Dave Matthews Band
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2020
Post by: chittlins on January 25, 2020, 09:12:36 PM
Updated
June 11 – Kenny Chesney / Michael Franti & Spearhead
June 13 – Alanis Morissette / Garbage / Liz Phair
June 17 – Steely Dan / Steve Winwood
June 22 – Journey / Pretenders
June 24 – The Black Crowes
June 28 – Chicago / Rick Springfield
July 17 – Rascal Flatts
July 23 – Old Dominion / Dustin Lynch / Carly Pearce
July 29 – Phish
July 31 – Jason Aldean / Brett Young / Michael Tenpenny / Dee Jay Silver
Aug. 8 – Nickelback / Stone Temple Pilots
Aug. 9 – Avett Brothers / Tyler Childers
Aug. 15 – Kids Bop Live
Aug. 18 – Matchbox 20 / The Wallflowers
Aug. 21 – Chris Young / Scotty McCreery / Payton Smith
Aug. 27 – Lady Antebellum / Jake Owen / Maddie and Tae
Sept. 22 – Dave Matthews Band
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2020
Post by: chittlins on February 05, 2020, 08:34:31 PM
The Momentary made Blooloops top new museums at #5

https://blooloop.com/features/top-new-museums-2020/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2020
Post by: chittlins on February 10, 2020, 01:17:39 PM
Walmart Amp concert list as of today

AMP 2020 Schedule (so far)
June 11 – Kenny Chesney / Michael Franti & Spearhead
June 13 – Alanis Morissette / Garbage / Liz Phair
June 17 – Steely Dan / Steve Winwood
June 22 – Journey / Pretenders
June 24 – The Black Crowes
June 28 – Chicago / Rick Springfield
July 14 – Megadeth / Lamb of God / Trivium / In Flames
July 17 – Rascal Flatts
July 23 – Old Dominion / Dustin Lynch / Carly Pearce
July 29 – Phish
July 31 – Jason Aldean / Brett Young / Michael Tenpenny / Dee Jay Silver
Aug. 6 – Sam Hunt / Kip Moore / Travis Denning / Earnest
Aug. 8 – Nickelback / Stone Temple Pilots
Aug. 9 – Avett Brothers / Tyler Childers
Aug. 15 – Kids Bop Live
Aug. 18 – Matchbox 20 / The Wallflowers
Aug. 21 – Chris Young / Scotty McCreery / Payton Smith
Aug. 23 – Backstreet Boys
Aug. 26 – Disturbed / Staind / Bad Wolves
Aug. 27 – Lady Antebellum / Jake Owen / Maddie and Tae
Sept. 2 – Incubus / 311 / Badflower
Sept. 22 – Dave Matthews Band
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2019
Post by: chittlins on February 10, 2020, 01:33:19 PM
Southwest would be amazing!!!!  Maybe could afford a trip to Hawaii for the whole family.

Allegiant cancelled a return trip from Vegas last year about 12 hours before boarding due to mechanical issues.....they offered to pay for another night but we had to get back to pick up a kid from camp.  We ended up renting a car and driving to LAX to catch another flight back that day.  That was through Tulsa.

On the FL trip they charged all my kids for carryon bags ($50 each) that I would have considered personal items in bags that they didn't charge me for on our Vegas trip.....plus.....they were 3 hours behind leaving XNA which put us into the hotel in Orlando at 3am:( 

Took my about 10 tries over 3 days and 3-4 hours worth of waiting on hold before I found anyone to actually pick up the phone for customer support.  I'll at least give the credit for waiving the bags fees cause of the delays and believe it or not....they applied a small credit from the Vegas trip issue.  I had a voucher that they never contacted me about.  All that being said....Its going to be hard to use them again in less it's just me traveling light and my schedule is pretty open.

Southwest is in a pickle. They have relied on 737s and have stayed a single  model plane(different variants) operator and they had ALL their eggs in one basket with replacing and growing their fleet with 737 MAX aircraft. They have now effectively been at a standstill on geowing their markets and entering new one as well. Still no end in sight.

XNA Had something like 922k enplanements last year. That is nearly 2 mil in total passengers. With another year of growth like 2019, they will surpass LIT and be breathing down Tulsa's neck

I predict XNA will announce an 8 gate expansion by to end 2020. They already have too many airplanes RONing(remain overnight) and not enough gates for them in the morning. This would hamper Southwest service as they would almost certainly RON planes. Simply not enough stables in the barn at the moment, meaning there are no free gates in the morning. United is using  outside hard stands to board some flights in the morning.

JetBlue founder is awaiting a second Operation Certificate for some E195s to start up Breeze airlines. Said he would start selling seats 60 days out when he gets it, it could be at anytime. He already has the paperwork for his brand new A223s and those will start flying in April 2021.
Springfield and XNA seem to be right to his business model's alley.
 
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2020
Post by: chittlins on May 21, 2020, 11:46:18 AM
Bentonville is now the 5th fastest growing city in the US and adding 10 people a day. And... there this 2045 projection

https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2020/apr/13/planners-consider-how-to-fit-1-milllion/

1 million by 2045.

Not a bad thing for SDC's back yard.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2020
Post by: chittlins on October 29, 2020, 02:58:35 PM
https://talkbusiness.net/2020/10/walton-family-foundation-supports-33-million-whitewater-park-planned-near-siloam-springs/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2020
Post by: chittlins on April 07, 2021, 05:34:19 PM
Big expansion

https://www.fayettevilleflyer.com/2021/04/07/crystal-bridges-announces-100000-square-foot-expansion-project/
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2020
Post by: KBCraig on April 09, 2021, 11:36:58 PM
Bentonville is now the 5th fastest growing city in the US and adding 10 people a day. And... there this 2045 projection

https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2020/apr/13/planners-consider-how-to-fit-1-milllion/

1 million by 2045.

Not a bad thing for SDC's back yard.

I will turn 82 in 2045, and I hope to be around to say, "I told you so."

There is no way this projection turns out to be true. There are too many people with big money in NWA to allow it.

It just doesn't make sense. You think someone with their 15 acre microranch is going to accept a 15 story apartment building next to them?

How are developers going to build on land where it is very difficult to build more densely without running afoul of environmental regulations, and especially not cheaply compared to slab-on-grade flatlands?

With the topography in NWA, how would that many people get transported around? Traffic is already insane. They're talking about working class people, so they have to get to work, get to stores, and get home.

It's not going to happen.

Anyone who speculates on housing based on this, probably "owns" a home on Indian Ridge.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2020
Post by: chittlins on April 13, 2021, 11:02:06 PM
Bentonville is now the 5th fastest growing city in the US and adding 10 people a day. And... there this 2045 projection

https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2020/apr/13/planners-consider-how-to-fit-1-milllion/

1 million by 2045.

Not a bad thing for SDC's back yard.

I will turn 82 in 2045, and I hope to be around to say, "I told you so."

There is no way this projection turns out to be true. There are too many people with big money in NWA to allow it.

It just doesn't make sense. You think someone with their 15 acre microranch is going to accept a 15 story apartment building next to them?

How are developers going to build on land where it is very difficult to build more densely without running afoul of environmental regulations, and especially not cheaply compared to slab-on-grade flatlands?

With the topography in NWA, how would that many people get transported around? Traffic is already insane. They're talking about working class people, so they have to get to work, get to stores, and get home.

It's not going to happen.

Anyone who speculates on housing based on this, probably "owns" a home on Indian Ridge.

The big money wants this and is driving it.

Just look at the NWACouncil.org site.

Growth is continuing and the scope of it is growing as we speak, it is insane. Homes sold before the foundation is poured, entire streets at a time. There's plenty of land still. The smaller towns like Elkins are seeing hundreds of new homes.

UAMS will have a full fledged Med School in NWA in 10 years time.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2021
Post by: shavethewhales on April 14, 2021, 08:40:17 AM
I am a civil engineer working in the site development/water resources sector, and I can say that development is very fluid. NWA is a huge area, and developers will continuously seek out individual opportunities wherever they lie. If the powers that be in NWA are smart, they are developing comprehensive master plans and carving out space for higher density development. If not, prepare for Dallas sized sprawl across the whole area.

Transportation is a massive, massive hurdle for them because they don't have much in the way of existing highway infrastructure and building more will be prohibitively expensive. They need to get creative NOW with mass transit. Finishing the Springdale Northern Bypass should also be a priority.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2021
Post by: chittlins on April 14, 2021, 10:42:32 AM
I am a civil engineer working in the site development/water resources sector, and I can say that development is very fluid. NWA is a huge area, and developers will continuously seek out individual opportunities wherever they lie. If the powers that be in NWA are smart, they are developing comprehensive master plans and carving out space for higher density development. If not, prepare for Dallas sized sprawl across the whole area.

Transportation is a massive, massive hurdle for them because they don't have much in the way of existing highway infrastructure and building more will be prohibitively expensive. They need to get creative NOW with mass transit. Finishing the Springdale Northern Bypass should also be a priority.

They have a little used but in use rail line that is a straight shot from Roger, Springdale and Fayetteville. Sadly the spirit lines for it was decommissioned years ago and make up many bike trails but it hits at the heart if those three cities. A commuter line could be established but it would take some major work at road crossings to get it's speed up 

Fayetteville has a robust bus system with Razorback Transit but it is centered to serve the University. The regional transit is the hobo express and no one will use it. You'll have to make it 'cool' and it'll have to be on tracks.

The midrises are going up around Arvest Ballpark at a good clip now. Rumor is this is where UAMS will center it's future building in conjunction with Ark Childrens and Highlands Oncology with substantial gifts from the Springdale folks(Tyson /George/ other)

Alice is starting her own Med School in Bentonville, no word yet on who it is going to be affiliated with.
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2021
Post by: sdcfan88 on April 15, 2021, 10:27:29 PM
Transportation is a massive, massive hurdle for them because they don't have much in the way of existing highway infrastructure and building more will be prohibitively expensive. They need to get creative NOW with mass transit. Finishing the Springdale Northern Bypass should also be a priority.

They are still tinkering around with plan proposals last I heard. Here are some graphics I obtained for what the future road network is supposed to be. First to be done is the final 5 miles of I49 going up to Anderson, MO which is in progress (currently ends at Gravette) and is expected to be done by 2024. Next is to build the 4 lane highway bypass to the XNA entrance off of 612 that currently ends just south of Wagon Wheel Road on 112. Then they are to finish the 612 bypass to connect just west of Tontitown and going thru Bethel Heights and finally ending at Sonora on 412 east. Other well traveled two lane roads (such as 112) are also expected to be widened at some point.

TBH the highway infrastructure between Springdale, Bentonville, and XNA should have been done during or shortly after the airport was opened back in '98. Its crazy that 23 years later a major airport still has the tiny two lane roads (HWY 12 & 264) as the only major access points.

Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2021
Post by: chittlins on May 21, 2021, 07:26:29 AM
Breeze( New airline by the founder of JetBlue)  has blown in to XNA(even Tulsa too)

New flights to New Orleans/Tampa/San Antonio to start.

40 buck one way fares to be had right now.

Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2021
Post by: KBCraig on May 22, 2021, 07:23:00 PM
What's going on in NWA?

Razorbacks kicking butt in baseball and softball!  ;D
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2021
Post by: chittlins on May 22, 2021, 10:13:25 PM
What's going on in NWA?

Razorbacks kicking butt in baseball and softball!  ;D

Men's Golf Team is off to the NCAA Championships as well
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2021
Post by: shavethewhales on May 24, 2021, 09:22:05 PM
Breeze( New airline by the founder of JetBlue)  has blown in to XNA(even Tulsa too)

New flights to New Orleans/Tampa/San Antonio to start.

40 buck one way fares to be had right now.

Interesting that they are at XNA, but I guess that makes sense since they want to focus on smaller cities/less served routes. I am looking at that Tampa to Tulsa route for this summer, maybe hit up BGW!

https://talkbusiness.net/2021/05/u-s-legislators-look-to-designate-part-of-highway-412-as-future-interstate/
Turning 412 into an interstate would be huge! Obviously this is 10 or more years out since ARDOT has so many other big projects they haven't even broken ground on, but it's encouraging. I just want that Springdale bypass!
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2021
Post by: chittlins on May 25, 2021, 11:12:17 AM
Breeze( New airline by the founder of JetBlue)  has blown in to XNA(even Tulsa too)

New flights to New Orleans/Tampa/San Antonio to start.

40 buck one way fares to be had right now.

Interesting that they are at XNA, but I guess that makes sense since they want to focus on smaller cities/less served routes. I am looking at that Tampa to Tulsa route for this summer, maybe hit up BGW!

https://talkbusiness.net/2021/05/u-s-legislators-look-to-designate-part-of-highway-412-as-future-interstate/
Turning 412 into an interstate would be huge! Obviously this is 10 or more years out since ARDOT has so many other big projects they haven't even broken ground on, but it's encouraging. I just want that Springdale bypass!

Allegiant jumps on PIE(Tampa alternative) with a quick start date in July and announced FLL to start in October in what I assume is a preemptive move against Breeze. I think their AUS service was to head off the SAT service by Breeze.

I wish Allegiant would focus instead of retaliating but on other unserved markets like Knoxville, Baltimore, Oakland, Boston, Sarasota or RSW, Bozeman and Salt Lake City/Provo

The Breeze Nicer option is the way to go.  These dates
Were $419 on Delta in basic and that was the cheapest among the legacies
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2021
Post by: chittlins on May 25, 2021, 11:20:17 AM
As for US 412. At the very least continue to Harrison/US 65.

In an ideal world, US 412 would be upgraded all the way to Walnut Ridge, share some of I-57 to the South and Extend I-555 south of Jonesboro to AR 226 and upgrade AR 226 to standard. All would be an extension of I-22 from Memphis.

Missouri would like I-22 routed to West Plainsboro US 60 ferm Walnut Ridge using US 63 as a template. Then  US 60 to Springfield and on the KC via MO 13. Nyet! That needs tto be an extention of I-155 from Dyersburg and conversion to a two digit interstate via Hayti toKennett on US 412 and Kennett to Popular Bluff  via  US 49 between Rector and Piggott and then US 60 to Springfield.(or just share I-55 to Sikeston and then US 60).
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2021
Post by: chittlins on May 25, 2021, 11:34:29 AM
As for US 412. At the very least continue to Harrison/US 65.

In an ideal world, US 412 would be upgraded all the way to Walnut Ridge, share some of I-57 to the South and Extend I-555 south of Jonesboro to AR 226 and upgrade AR 226 to standard. All would be an extension of I-22 from Memphis.

Missouri would like I-22 routed to West Plains and US 60 from Walnut Ridge using US 63 as a template. Then  US 60 to Springfield and on the KC via MO 13. Nyet! That needs tto be an extention of I-155 from Dyersburg and conversion to a two digit interstate via Hayti toKennett on US 412 and Kennett to Popular Bluff  via  US 49 between Rector and Piggott and then US 60 to Springfield.(or just share I-55 to Sikeston and then US 60).
Title: Re: What's going on in NWA, 2021
Post by: chittlins on July 27, 2021, 06:21:45 PM
Frontier has added LAS and MCO to XNA