The City of Searcy has been awarded a $500,000 Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) to support the first phase of a new shared-use path connecting Harding University to Downtown Searcy.
The project will create a 12-foot-wide shared-use sidepath along East Center Street, extending from North Grand Avenue on Harding University's campus to South Spring Street in Downtown Searcy. The path will provide a safer, more accessible route for pedestrians and cyclists traveling between two of the community's most active destinations.
The proposed route follows a corridor already frequently used by Harding students, faculty, staff, residents and visitors. By creating a dedicated space for pedestrians and cyclists, the project will help improve safety while encouraging walking and biking as convenient transportation options.
"This is an important investment in connecting two areas that are such a big part of our community," said Searcy Mayor Mat Faulkner. "Harding University and Downtown Searcy are both tremendous assets, and we want to make it easier and safer for people to travel between them. This project builds on our continued efforts to improve connectivity and create a more walkable, bike-friendly Searcy."
With approximately 5,000 students, Harding University generates significant pedestrian and bicycle activity throughout the year. The new path will better accommodate that traffic while providing an improved connection to Downtown Searcy's restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and historic attractions.
The downtown end of the proposed path will connect near the White County Courthouse Square, an area that hosts numerous community events, festivals, concerts and farmers markets throughout the year. City leaders anticipate that improving access between the university and downtown will encourage more students, residents and visitors to explore and engage with local businesses and community activities.
The project will be constructed in multiple phases, with the $500,000 TAP grant supporting Phase 1. Additional phases will be completed as funding and project development allow.
The shared-use path is part of the City's broader commitment to improving pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, strengthening connections between community destinations and enhancing quality of life for residents and visitors.