VisionWorks' Breakthrough Solutions
Community and Regional Success Stories
Eureka Springs Continues to Spring Forward – April 2004
A center for artists and creativity in the state, Eureka Springs
is always a source of new and fresh ideas. Leaders in Eureka Springs
are continuing this tradition by improving the quality of life in
the community while preserving its unique architecture and cultural
heritage. City leaders are tapping resources from the U of Arkansas
– Fayetteville, using innovative funding mechanisms, and creating an
arts and culture district that reflect the city’s creativity.
A year ago, Eureka Springs applied for a HUD Rural Housing and
Economic Development Grant to help develop affordable housing in
Carroll County. The $149,000 grant resulted in the hiring of Theresa
Mills to fulfill the work plan. One challenge is to develop
affordable housing that is architecturally in keeping with the
Eureka Springs historical area. Mills is working on a housing
assessment to determine the need for new housing, as well as rehab
projects and funding. Once the assessment is completed, the
community will develop funding mechanisms to rehabilitate existing
housing and build new housing needed.
The HUD grant funded research for economic development in
consultation with the Walton School of Business at the University of
Arkansas Fayetteville. The TIF (Tax Incremental Financing) that was
developed will fund economic development projects, including the
Arts and Cultural District. The Arts and Cultural District includes
development of a Main Stage (a creative multi-functional community
center) with a variety of arts and music programs, projects, and
productions for the community. There is also a writers’ colony,
providing uninterrupted living and workspace for writers who
contribute community service. Outreach to a women’s prison unit is
one example of volunteerism by the writers.
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