Cultural Arts Corridor
Consultation has concluded
The City of Fayetteville seeks to improve publicly owned land and create a dynamic Cultural Arts Corridor at the heart of the community. This corridor will link cultural institutions—including the Walton Arts Center, TheatreSquared’s new performing arts venue, Nadine Baum Studios, Fayetteville Public Library, and the University of Arkansas’ Art and Design District—and will activate the outdoor environment, the Fay Jones Woods, between Dickson and Prairie Streets with amenities that will enhance the experience for city residents and visitors alike.
Phase One of development of the Corridor is now underway. This includes improvements to Fay Jones Woods, streetscaping along West Avenue, replacement parking, and improvements to the Razorback Greenway.
To follow the progress ofthe Cultural Arts Corridor, view the project's page on the City of Fayetteville's website.
Timeline
Click image to enlarge.
Plan Overview
The plan incorporates playful recreational elements, public art, streetscaping, enhanced pedestrian paths, and open-air gathering spaces while integrating the natural landscape within the urban fabric. The project is designed to sustain and strengthen local ecologies and watersheds and demonstrate Fayetteville’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
The creation of this corridor will improve access and walkability between natural and urban public spaces, cultural attractions, the University of Arkansas, the Razorback Greenway, the Downtown Square, and the wider city. The City is also committed to replacing any displaced parking prior to construction so that access to downtown businesses and institutions can continue to thrive.
As is demonstrated in communities across the world, this type of public investment also spurs private development on private land. The project will be a catalyst for additional development and density in the downtown area, increasing bike trails and connections, and improving streets and walkability.
Funding
The plan for this transformative project is made possible by a grant from the Walton Family Foundation’s Design Excellence Program. Award-winning landscape architects Nelson Byrd Woltz (NBW) were selected to design the corridor. When complete, the 50-acre corridor will serve as a vibrant and memorable civic space for entertainment, community, and expression that showcases the unique character and creative culture of Fayetteville.
The Cultural Arts Corridor is a public investment on public land for public use. Construction is funded through a Bond issue, passed by voters in April, 2019.
Designers' rendering of the proposed West Avenue Civic Space
Visit this City of Fayetteville webpage for additional information about the Cultural Arts Corridor: www.fayetteville-ar.gov/culturalartscorridor