Lake Sylvia, Arkansas – Playtime is here! Arkansas First Gentleman Bryan Sanders met with representatives from the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism (ADPHT) to dedicate a new playground and pump track at the Lake Sylvia Recreation Area.
According to officials, the occasion made clear how crucial it is to preserve Arkansans’ natural beauty while offering them easily accessible and entertaining outdoor areas.
“This is an investment in the health, happiness, and well-being of Arkansans—it’s more than just a playground or pump track,” stated Shea Lewis, director of Arkansas State Parks and secretary of the ADPHT. “Today’s dedication is one step toward realizing a larger vision of interconnected recreation spaces across central Arkansas, and Lake Sylvia is an important part of the Maumelle Pinnacles Conservation Area.”
Constructed on top of a dilapidated building that existed when Arkansas State Parks assumed control of the land in 2021, the park boasts a modular pump track that appeals to cyclists of all ages and abilities.
Jeff King, deputy director of Arkansas State Parks, stated, “The project here at Lake Sylvia demonstrates the power of collaboration with federal and state partners and what we can accomplish when conservation and recreation work hand in hand.”
Katherine Andrews, director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation, stated, “We at the Office of Outdoor Recreation are proud to collaborate with federal agencies, state partners, and private organizations to improve outdoor opportunities that not only connect our communities but also celebrate Arkansas’ natural beauty.” “These areas are essential for encouraging healthy lifestyles, boosting regional economies, and guaranteeing that all Arkansans have access to inspiring and unifying outdoor experiences.”
The Maumelle Pinnacles Conservation Area Recreation Management Plan includes the new facilities, according to officials.
Arkansas State Parks, Central Arkansas Water, the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, Pulaski County, the City of Little Rock, and other interested parties collaborated to develop the Plan.
The long-term objective of the 55,000-acre Maumelle Pinnacles Conservation Area is to foster recreation connections between Lake Sylvia and the Big Dam Bridge.
“Activating natural spaces for both recreational enjoyment and reverence is important, as demonstrated by projects like the Maumelle Pinnacles Conservation Area,” Sanders added.
“Some of the most breathtaking locations in the country are found here in Arkansas, and they are open all year round. The MPCA offers a chance to enhance our residents’ quality of life while simultaneously drawing tourists to our state.
