Bentonville moves forward with 8th Street Gateway Park

BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — A plan to build the 8th Street Gateway Park in Bentonville is moving forward.

The city council voted on August 13 to accept a $32.5 million grant from the Walton Family Foundation and approved a contract for about $38 million for the park’s construction.

The city council also approved using grant money to buy a piece of property on S. Main Street for the Quilt of Parks Project.

“It’s great for the city to be able to get that property, and with the help of that grant money, to purchase that, and to be able to turn those parking spaces into public plaza and public use in the future,” said city council member Chris Sooter.

The Quilt of Parks Project is a visionary approach working to connect six parks and public spaces in downtown Bentonville.

Once finished, the Bentonville Parks and Recreation Department says the streets and open spaces will work together for an improved downtown pedestrian and cyclist experience.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.