BENTONVILLE, Ark. — During Plan Bentonville Design Week, the city has all sorts of different events where residents can express opinions on how they want the city to grow.
On Feb. 26, the city held an open house where more than 100 people came to write their opinions down and meet with city planners.
“We're here to engage with the public and ask what they want to see in the future,” said Matt Lambert, a partner with DPZ Codesign. “We're asking what Bentonville is going to look like. How should it feel? How should it operate when [there are 200,000 people], not 64,000."
And those citizens came ready to let their voices be heard.
“We've got to make it safe for everyone involved, make it accessible and attainable to people who are not wealthy, and find ways to make amazing locations in Bentonville.” Luke Powers, a Bentonville citizen said.
“I want [Bentonville] to be a place that can support the density that we need, but to [keep] the charm that I think a lot of people moved here for," Added Kevin Butler, another Bentonville citizen.
Some residents, like Isaac Stevens, are still skeptical. “I'm honestly not very hopeful about Bentonville— The City Council won't even approve affordable housing [programs]. How can we expect them to provide enough housing to actually solve the problem?"
If you want to voice your opinions or hear more about it go to Planbentonville.com and take the survey.
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