Reimagine Downtown
Fayetteville’s Downtown Master Plan was first adopted in 2004, and it helped steer many of the improvements we see today. However, our city has evolved; new businesses, growing neighborhoods, and shifting priorities mean it’s time to take a fresh look.
The Why?
Updating the plan prioritizes the community’s needs and helps to guide future development. Some important elements we would identify today were not included in the original version, so while the 2004 plan laid a strong foundation, it’s time to build a plan that centers the community.
Community First
This time around, we’re doing things differently. We’re opening the door for real conversations with real people. Your ideas, concerns, and hopes will help construct the next phase of downtown. This plan will be built for the community, by the community.
Previous Plan Achievements
Check out the pictures below to see what the previous Downtown Plan helped implement in our town. Your feedback will help implement real changes.
Sidewalks were widened, and curb ramps and crosswalks were added or improved.
The parking lot at the corner of Dickson and West was removed and the Civic Plaza was constructed in its place.
The parking lot at the corner of Dickson and West was removed and the Civic Plaza was constructed in its place.
Infrastructure improvements were made, including a new traffic light at South, a new intersection at Rock St., and new murals have been installed on the north retaining wall.
Infrastructure improvements were made, including a new traffic light at South, a new intersection at Rock St., and new murals have been installed on the north retaining wall.
Improvements to electrical infrastructure supporting night lighting and Lights of the Ozarks.
Improvements to electrical infrastructure supporting night lighting and Lights of the Ozarks.
The collection of buildings in the vicinity of Prairie St. and Nelson Hackett Boulevard.
Construction of the Spring Street and West Ave parking decks.
Construction of the Spring Street and West Ave parking decks.
What is all included in the Downtown Plan?
Think of the Downtown Plan as an investment plan for our city that guides the investments and long-term vision of our community. It's designed to balance economic growth, livability, and cultural identity while responding to community needs and future challenges.
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- Transportation & Mobility Plans for improving walkability, bike infrastructure, public transit, parking, and traffic flow.
- Public Spaces Strategies to enhance parks, plazas, greenways, and gathering spaces that foster community interaction.
- Economic Development Initiatives to attract businesses, support local entrepreneurs, and create jobs.
- Historic Preservation Identification and protection of historic buildings and cultural landmarks that define Fayetteville's character.
- Housing & Affordability Goals for increasing downtown housing options.
- Sustainability & Resilience so that downtown has great natural features to balance our city's growing population.
- Implementation Plan timeline, funding sources, and responsible agencies for executing the plan's recommendations.
- Land Use & Zoning Recommendations for how land should be used and updates to zoning codes to support desired development outcomes.
Why do we need to change/update the plan?
Fayetteville’s Downtown Plan was first adopted in 2004, and it helped steer many of the improvements we see today. However, our city has evolved; new businesses, growing neighborhoods, and shifting priorities mean it’s time to take a fresh look.
Updating the plan prioritizes the community’s needs and helps to guide future development. Some important elements we would identify today were not included in the original version, so while the 2004 plan laid a strong foundation, it’s time to build a plan that centers the community.
This time around, we’re doing things differently. Through the Konveio system, we’re opening the door for real conversations with real people. Your ideas, concerns, and hopes will help construct the next phase of downtown. This plan will be built for the community, by the community.
Why is my input important?
Your input is important because you live the reality that this project is trying to shape. You know the rhythms of Downtown Fayetteville; the places that bring people together, the areas that need attention, and the hidden gems that outsiders might miss. Your voice ensures that the plan reflects not just abstract ideas, but the lived experiences, hopes, and needs of the people it’s meant to serve.
Without community input, the project risks being out of touch. With it, Fayetteville gets a future that feels authentic, inclusive, and rooted in what matters most to its residents. You're not just a participant; you’re a co-creator of the city’s next chapter.
How does the plan affect me?
The Downtown Plan impacts everyone in Fayetteville. From road improvements to community events, it directs the future of our city center. Make sure your priorities are included in the plan, so we can create a downtown experience that reflects what matters most to you and enhances life for all who call Fayetteville home.
- Public Spaces & Events - The plan could include enhancements to parks, plazas, and gathering spots. That means more vibrant community events, festivals, and third spaces to unwind and connect.
- Local Business Support - By platforming local businesses, the plan could help protect and grow our local economy, so your favorite coffee shop, bar or boutique will thrive, not disappear.
- Housing & Affordability - With housing as a top priority, the plan could influence where new homes are built, how affordable they are, and what kinds of neighborhoods emerge.
- Transportation & Traffic Flow – What kind of road layouts, pedestrian zones, and bike paths does our Downtown need? These updates aim to make getting around downtown smoother and safer.
- Your Voice Matters - Mayor Molly Rawn emphasizes that downtown is the “heartbeat of our city” and wants residents to help shape its future. So, if there’s something you care about, and that could be anything from green space, to accessibility, to cultural preservation, now’s the time to speak up.
How does the plan actually get created and approved?
Creating and approving the Downtown Plan is a collaborative, multi-step process designed to reflect the community’s vision while ensuring long-term feasibility and impact. Here's how it works:
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- Community Engagement
- Residents, business owners, and community members share ideas, concerns, and priorities.
- Focus groups, in-person engagement events, and forums (like the Konveio system) gather input to lead the plan’s direction.
- Drafting the Plan
- City planners and technical consultants analyze feedback, current conditions, and future projections and provide that information back to the community for discussion.
- A draft plan is created outlining goals, strategies, and proposed projects for the next 20–30 years.
- Review and Refinement
- The draft is presented to the public for review and additional feedback.
- Adjustments are made to ensure the plan reflects community values and practical needs.
- Approval Process
- The finalized plan is submitted to the Planning Commission for public hearing and recommendation to the City Council. City Council will hold a public hearing and makes a final decision on whether to adopt the plan.
- Implementation
- Once approved, the plan guides city decisions on funding, infrastructure, and development priorities.
- Projects are rolled out over time, with continued input from the community to keep things on track.
What happens after the plan is approved?
Once the Downtown Plan is officially adopted by the City Council, tentatively scheduled for winter 2026/2027, the city will begin implementing the plan's objectives through a phased, strategic approach. Here's what typically happens next:
Post-Approval Steps
- Prioritization of Projects - the City will work with the community to identify which goals and initiatives should be tackled first based on urgency, budget, and community impact.
- Budgeting & Funding - Funding sources, such as city budgets, grants, and state/federal programs, will be reviewed for alignment with the plan's priorities.
- Infrastructure Planning - Improvements to streets, sidewalks, utilities, and public spaces will be scheduled and designed.
- Community Engagement Continues - As we work through the projects community members will be kept in the loop and there will be future public meetings, updates, and feedback channels as projects progress and new needs are identified.
- Monitoring & Evaluation - The city will track progress and adjust strategies as needed to continue to reach the plans goals.
This is the phase where vision becomes reality. With your input as the foundation, the Downtown Plan begins shaping real improvements in the heart of our city, bringing ideas to life and turning community goals into tangible progress as we reimagine Fayetteville.
What is considered Downtown Fayetteville?
Downtown Fayetteville refers to the city's historic beginning, a vibrant district known for its cultural landmarks, local businesses, and community events. While the exact boundaries have shifted over time due to rezoning and district overlaps, the area generally includes the central square and surrounding blocks that serve as the heart of civic life.
A map of the current boundary is provided below. Keep in mind, these lines aren't set in stone. As Fayetteville continues to grow and evolve, so can the definition of what "downtown" means, guided by community input and city planning.
Are physical copies of the plan available?
Yes! Physical copies of the plan are available at the Development Services Building located at 125 W Mountain Street, Fayetteville, AR 72701, open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Does this mean more rules and regulations?
No, updating the Downtown Plan does not create new rules or regulations. This plan is a visionary guide with formal goals, not a set of rules. It helps city leaders and stakeholders decide which projects and initiatives to prioritize over the next 20 to 30 years to support Fayetteville's continued growth, prosperity and quality of life. The plan may propose adjusting the rules or result in the consideration of new rules or requirements, but those would be separate items with separate consideration by the City Council.
I have questions about the plan, who do I contact?
For questions, comments and suggestions, contact the Long Range Planning team through email, longrangeplanning@fayetteville-ar.gov or through call or text at (479) 601-3332, available Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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