Nearly $500K for Urban Design in Arkansas

Not all urban planning stories start in big cities. In Northwest Arkansas, the Congress for the New Urbanism is investing nearly $500,000 in free planning services for local communities. That might sound small compared to megaprojects, but for towns struggling with vacant main streets or unsafe intersections, this kind of help is transformative. It’s proof that design doesn’t just belong to wealthy metros—it matters everywhere. When smaller communities get access to top-tier planning expertise, they can make changes that ripple for generations. Think safer crossings, revitalized downtowns, or parks that actually serve people. This investment underscores that planning equity starts with resources, and when those resources reach smaller places, everyone benefits. Sometimes big ideas start on small streets.