Little Rock, Arkansas – The City of Little Rock is moving steadily toward realizing its first-ever Downtown Master Plan, Mayor Frank Scott, Jr., announced Friday, emphasizing the importance of public participation as the city begins planning the new 30 Crossing Park. City officials encouraged residents, stakeholders, and community members to share feedback on the upcoming urban greenspace, which promises to be a central feature of the River Market area.
The 30 Crossing Park, an 18-acre property at the intersection of Second and Sherman streets, was acquired by the city following the completion of the state’s 30 Crossing Project. The park is envisioned as a vibrant community gathering place that blends natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and public amenities. The Downtown Little Rock Partnership will host its 14th Annual Downtown Food Truck Festival on Sunday at the site, offering visitors a chance to experience the space and contribute ideas for its development.
Representatives from Sasaki, the globally recognized design firm tasked with creating the plan for 30 Crossing Park, will be on hand at the festival to take public input. Residents will have the opportunity to explore interactive displays, ask questions, and share their vision for the park. Sasaki will also host a Public Open House on Saturday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the University of Arkansas-Little Rock Downtown campus, located at 333 President Clinton Avenue.
“30 Crossing Park, in the heart of the River Market, is a vital part of our vision to re-imagine and transform Little Rock’s urban core through the Downtown Master Plan,” Mayor Scott said. “Community input is a priority as we make plans for the park, just like it was when we worked with Sasaki to set a course for Downtown’s future. And, because we know that without progress, a plan is just paper, we are excited to be moving forward with implementation of the Downtown Master Plan. The Downtown Little Rock Partnership, Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Little Rock Board of Directors and so many other individuals and organizations are working collaboratively to enhance Downtown for generations to come.”
The Mayor also highlighted recent approvals and initiatives designed to support ongoing downtown improvements. The Little Rock Board of Directors recently approved funding to extend the successful Downtown Ambassadors program for another year. Ambassadors work seven days a week to greet visitors, maintain public spaces, and ensure safety, reinforcing the city’s commitment to creating a welcoming and accessible downtown environment.
During a news conference Friday, Mayor Scott provided updates on several other key Downtown projects. Among them are $10 million in renovations to the Statehouse Convention Center, planned upgrades to River Market Hall, and improvements to Finley Vinson Plaza. The city is also implementing changes to Cumberland Street and Capitol Avenue west of Broadway to enhance safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
Other notable projects include the development of the Rose Creek Greenway, the Phase II expansion of the Little Rock Tech Park, and modernization of the city’s Urban Use Ordinance to support sustainable growth and development. Each initiative is designed to complement the Downtown Master Plan and strengthen Little Rock’s position as a thriving urban center.
The upcoming Downtown Food Truck Festival provides a timely opportunity for the public to engage with these developments. Residents can see firsthand how the 30 Crossing Park site will transform over time, while also enjoying food, entertainment, and a sense of community. City officials emphasized that public input is critical to ensuring the park reflects the needs, preferences, and creativity of the people who will use it.
By combining large-scale planning with community-driven ideas, Little Rock aims to create a downtown experience that balances recreation, culture, and economic growth. “We are not just building a park; we are shaping the future of our city,” Mayor Scott said. “The input of every resident matters as we bring the Downtown Master Plan to life.”
The city encourages all residents to attend the festival, visit the Public Open House, and stay engaged in planning efforts. More information on the Downtown Master Plan and 30 Crossing Park can be found through the Little Rock City website or by contacting the Downtown Little Rock Partnership.
