Searcy, Arkansas – The City of Searcy is moving forward with a major step in its long-term economic development plans after securing more than $680,000 in state funding aimed at preparing land for future industrial growth and new business opportunities.
Officials announced that Searcy has been awarded $680,010 through the Arkansas Site Development Program, a statewide initiative designed to help communities improve industrial sites so they are ready for companies looking to expand or relocate. The funding is expected to play a key role in making the city more competitive in attracting new employers.
The announcement was made by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders alongside the Arkansas Economic Development Commission as part of a broader $25 million distribution to 22 communities across the state. The program continues a statewide effort focused on strengthening infrastructure and building a foundation for long-term job creation.
For Searcy, local leaders say the grant will be used specifically to support development of a new industrial site. The goal is to improve readiness by completing key groundwork that businesses typically require before committing to a location. This includes preparing land so it meets modern industrial standards and can support future investment.
A significant portion of the work behind the grant application was led by Forward Searcy, Inc., a local economic development organization that has been active in the city’s growth strategy. Under the leadership of Darrell Welch, the group has helped secure nearly $1 million in grant funding for Searcy over the past two years.
Welch said the latest award represents another important milestone for the city’s economic future.
“This award is another strong step forward for Searcy’s future,” said Welch. “Having competitive, development-ready industrial sites is critical when companies are evaluating where to expand or locate new operations. This funding helps position Searcy to compete for high-quality jobs and continued investment.”
City leaders, Forward Searcy, and the Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce have been working together as part of a broader Economic Masterplan. The plan focuses on three main areas: economic development, workforce preparation, and job creation. Officials say the collaboration between public and private partners has been central to recent progress.
Governor Sanders emphasized that the state program is designed to help communities build strong foundations that can attract long-term business growth.
“Every success story starts with a strong foundation, and the Arkansas Site Development Program helps communities build the groundwork essential to keep attracting businesses to our state,” Sanders said. “From company-ready sites to our low income taxes and pro-business environment, Arkansas is creating the framework for business success, driving economic growth, and expanding opportunity for generations to come.”
State officials explained that communities applying for funding were required to meet specific criteria. Eligible projects needed to include at least 30 contiguous acres listed on the Arkansas Site Selection Database and either owned or under option by the applicant. Funds can be used for a wide range of improvements, including infrastructure work, grading, drainage, soil studies, right-of-way acquisition, and other preparatory steps needed to make land suitable for industrial use.
Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, said the program is designed with competition in mind.
“The Arkansas Site Development Program is focused on helping local communities compete and win economic development projects,” said Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “Congratulations to the award recipients – the work we do today developing sites will lead to more and better job opportunities for Arkansans in the coming years.”
The Arkansas Site Development Program first launched in 2024 with support from Governor Sanders and the Arkansas General Assembly. State leaders have indicated that another round of $25 million in funding is expected to be awarded in Fiscal Year 2027, continuing efforts to strengthen infrastructure and attract new industry across Arkansas.
For Searcy, the latest grant adds momentum to ongoing development efforts and signals continued focus on preparing the city for future economic expansion.
