Added amenities and enhanced police and fire protection help support Greenwood’s economic growth that added 106,254 square feet of new residential and commercial space in 2024, according to Doug Kinslow, the city’s mayor.
Kinslow on Monday (March 31) delivered a state of the city address that highlighted the city’s growth in 2024 and steps necessary for more “smart growth” in 2025. The address was delivered to more than 80 gathered at the newly renovated Greenwood Senior Activity Center, Work on the center was supported by a $500,000 grant from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.
“Whether it’s the completion of the new Senior Center, the splash pad, construction of the bypass, expansion of our parks and trail system, the success of our students and athletes, or the leadership and service demonstrated by our police and firefighters, Greenwood continues to lead by example,” said Kinslow, who was elected mayor in 2014 of the city that has almost 10,000 residents.
Development mentions in his address included the newly renovated Greenwood Senior Activity Center, academic and sports successes at the Greenwood Public School District, new radios and body cameras for the Greenwood Police Department, increased fire and medical support from the Greenwood Fire Department, numerous new parks and trails additions, including the city’s new splash pad, and improvements to “The Curve,” which the mayor said will be part of the city’s “western gateway” near the intersection of U.S. 71 South and Arkansas Highway 10.
Kinslow spent several minutes speaking about quality of life improvements in the city, noting that part of making the city more livable is to attract residents who may work in Fort Smith, including those affiliated with the foreign military pilot training center at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith.
“Whether it’s through structured events or casual afternoons spent outdoors, Greenwood’s parks continue to be a destination for memorable moments, bringing families together, supporting local events, and making our city a better place to live,” the mayor noted in prepared remarks.
He said his focus is to ensure economic development, including support of local businesses. Part of that is the “Welcome Home to Greenwood” campaign in which coupons from local businesses will be distributed by the city’s water department.
Another part of economic growth is road and other infrastructure work. The work includes the new Greenwood Bypass, work on Veterans Way, resurfacing of Bell Road, sidewalk and crosswalk improvements in several areas, and the Trey Burgess Memorial Highway, which when complete will redirect heavy truck traffic out of downtown Greenwood, Kinslow said.
“Excellence in Infrastructure means investing in safer roads, better sidewalks, and long-term improvements that keep Greenwood moving forward,” he said. “In 2024, we made significant progress in enhancing our city’s streets, starting with a state aid grant for the resurfacing of Bell Road and East Denver, ensuring smoother and safer travel. Soon we will complete the construction of Veterans Way, improving access and connectivity in a key area of town.”
One issue that may limit future work is inflation, with the mayor saying city officials are “carefully evaluating” the budget to “balance between wants and needs.”
“As we look ahead, we remain committed to supporting our businesses, enhancing city services, and investing in the people who make Greenwood great,” Kinslow said.
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