Featured image: A computer rendering of proposed development of Riverside Park.
After city voters approved critical water infrastructure upgrades and quality-of-life enhancements through an August special election, residents are now invited to lend their voices in “Building a Better Batesville.”
According to a release from the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, the City of Batesville, in partnership with IMPACT Independence County, is taking a step towards community-driven development by announcing the formation of multiple advisory teams “…for a series of transformative projects, inviting residents to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of their community.”
“Resident participation is instrumental in shaping the future of our community. We look forward to having a variety of voices on advisory teams,” said Jamie Rayford, chief operating officer at the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, which primarily facilitates IMPACT work
The release said the initiatives span diverse areas of community development, aim to enhance the quality of life, promote inclusivity, and create vibrant spaces for residents and visitors.
Projects include:
- Events Center: A state-of-the-art facility “…set to become a cultural and economic epicenter, hosting concerts, sporting events, conventions, and more.”
- Children’s Nature Discovery and Play Area: A space “…designed to nurture the curiosity and imagination of our youngest residents while connecting them with the natural world.”
- Commercial Commons: An area that fosters businesses, artisans, and entrepreneurs while promoting a sense of community.
- Lifestyle Features of the Park: Features such as walking trails, bridges, pavilions, and recreational amenities that encourage active living.
- Sports Courts: Multi-purpose courts for various sports, promoting physical activity and friendly competition.
- Water Play: A refreshing water-based attraction for all to enjoy during warmer months.
- All-Inclusive Play Space: An accessible playground designed to cater to children of all abilities, ensuring everyone can participate in playtime.
- Skate and Cycle Park: A dedicated facility for skateboarders and cyclists to practice their skills safely and an “adrenaline-pumping” destination offering courses for other outdoor adventures.
- Downtown Plaza: A dynamic public space that “…celebrates community culture and serves as a gathering point for residents and visitors.”
Computer rendering of a potential Downtown Plaza.
Each advisory team will focus on a specific project and bring together a diverse group of stakeholders and design, accessibility, safety, business development, and community engagement experts, the release said.
The teams will “…play a crucial role as a bridge between the project team and the community, ensuring that the project aligns with the community’s vision. They will make recommendations, address challenges, and advocate for the projects, actively seeking community support and enthusiasm for these initiatives.”
Interested individuals are encouraged to apply to join an advisory team for specific project(s) by Oct. 9, 2023.
Applications should include a statement of interest and any additional information deemed pertinent. Subject matter experts should include a résumé or CV highlighting relevant experience and expertise. Applications can be found at projects.betterbatesville.info.
Following the application period, selection committees will review submissions and select individuals who bring diverse perspectives and expertise to each project. Notifications of selection will be sent out by Oct. 13, 2023.
There is also an open opportunity for all residents to provide feedback and input on projects via an online form until Oct. 9, 2023. The feedback form can be found at projects.betterbatesville.info.
For more information or inquiries, please contact Jamie Rayford, Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce COO at coo@batesvilleareachamber.com.
For more information on IMPACT Independence County, click here.
Images: Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce
Have a news tip or event to promote? Email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. And don’t forget to download the White River Now mobile app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
Get up-to-date local and regional news/weather from the First Community Bank Newsroom on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ every weekday morning and afternoon. White River Now updates are also aired on weekday mornings on 93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5, and Your FM 99.5.
