How can we connect communities in ways that support economic development, as well as health and well-being?
Razorback Greenway
Alta Planning and Design
Local City Governments, the Northwest Arkansas Planning Commission, the University of Arkansas, and the Walton Family Foundation
Northwest Arkansas
1990 - Present
Over the past 100 years, transportation policy has prioritized cars. Recently, however, communities have been working to become bicycle-friendly to protect the environment, improve health, and offer more equitable means of transportation.
In Northwest Arkansas, cycling is a popular recreational activity due to the region's reputation for mountain biking. However, in recent decades, bicycles have also become a practical means of transportation between towns, whether for work or leisure.
The Razorback Greenway, a 40-mile paved trail connects seven communities: Fayetteville, Johnson, Springdale, Lowell, Rogers, Bentonville, and Bella Vista.
It primarily runs off-road and includes tunnels and bridges to separate cyclists from traffic and streams.
It provides access to amenities such as world-class arts, culture, healthcare, corporate headquarters, downtown areas, and residential districts.
Residents use the trail for their daily commute, which helps remove transportation barriers for those without cars. Additionally, the increase in cycling tourism along the route has positively impacted local businesses.
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WEBSITE
Razorback Greenway: www.razorbackgreenway.org
VIDEOS
Walton Family Foundation, “The Northwest Arkansas Razorback Greenway,” 2013.
Discusses the vision for the Razorback Greenway.
Dave Outdoors, “Biking 30 Miles on the Razorback Greenway,” 2020.
Time-lapse video of a bike ride on the Razorback Greenway.
Images courtesy of Razorback Greenway Alliance