City of Searcy Announces Names for New Community Center and Recreation Facilities

Following months of public engagement and review, the City of Searcy has officially selected names for several major recreation facilities.

The naming process began with a community-wide invitation for residents to submit ideas for the new Community Center. Nearly 250 submissions were received, representing a wide range of suggestions—from honoring local individuals to highlighting Searcy's history, values, and vision for the future.

A committee was created to help review and make a recommendation on the name. The committee included Butch Gardner, Jack Shock, Betsy Bailey, Phillip Hays and Kristi Thurmon.

The committee reviewed each submission and evaluated recommendations based on several factors, including connection to Searcy's identity, long-term relevance, ease of use, and the role the facility will play in the community. Through that process, the committee developed a naming framework designed to create a cohesive family of destinations.

The selected names are:

Searcy Landing

The overall district will be known as Searcy Landing, which includes the Community Center, Swim Center, Baseball and Softball Fields, and Soccer Fields. The name reflects a place where people come together, arrive with purpose, and connect with family, friends, recreation, and community. The name also pays tribute to the center's connection to the Little Red River, as the trail network will ultimately link the facility to Riverside Park, and its proximity to the Searcy Regional Airport. As the district continues to grow, Searcy Landing will serve as the umbrella identity for the area and its amenities. 

The RAMP

The new Community Center will be known as The RAMP (Recreation, Arts, Music, Park). The name reflects both the unique design of the facility and its connection to Searcy's growing recreation system. One of the building's signature features will be an actual bike ramp, allowing residents and visitors to ride the trail directly through the facility. 

Pioneer Park

The ballfields on the west side of Main Street, located on Pioneer Road will be called Pioneer Park. 

Veterans Park

The existing ballfield complex, located on Veterans Boulevard, will be named Veterans Park. The name honors the men and women who have served our nation and recognizes their sacrifice, dedication, and commitment to protecting our freedoms. Veterans Park will also serve as the future home of the Searcy Veterans Memorial, a community-led project currently raising funds to create a tribute to local veterans and their service.

These facilities are part of the #MySearcy initiative, a long-term vision shaped by community input and guided by residents' priorities for the future of Searcy. The projects represent a significant investment in quality of life, recreation, connectivity, and community gathering spaces. Construction is currently underway, with the facilities expected to be completed by summer 2027.