The Arkansas Department of Transportation (“AR DOT”) announced upcoming infrastructure projects coming to NWA highways.

Two-thirds of federal transportation funding for the state of Arkansas is coming our way. As Northwest Arkansas anticipates future population growth, the state is investing in roadways.

What does that mean for NWA real estate? That and more on your Front Porch!

🚧 Highways Under Construction

Northwest Arkansas will receive roughly two-thirds of Arkansas’ new federal transportation funding ($105 million). All of this is going toward long overdue highway projects.

The projects are designed to improve freight movement, commuting, and long-term economic expansion across the region.

All this anticipates 1 million people calling NWA home by 2050.

💰 Follow the Money

What projects can we expect? Upcoming projects will prioritize highways and bypasses:

• The largest share, about $59 million, supports the next phase of the U.S. 412 Springdale Bypass. This will efficiently divert travelers around the traditional Tontitown, U.S. 412 access to further east/west access points.

• Another $11 million funds will be used for improvements along the broader U.S. 412 corridor.

• $3 million goes toward rebuilding and widening HWY 112 between Bentonville and Fayetteville. You can read more about that project HERE. This will include 27 roundabouts between Fayetteville and Bentonville.

Planning for the Springdale bypass dates back to 1996. So this funding addresses concerns that go back decades.

💣 Here Comes the Boom

You know this and we know this, but the reason for the improvements is because NWA population continues to explode.

Regional planning efforts anticipate NWA reaching 1 million residents by 2050. Transportation investment is tied directly to the projected population boom.

NWA residents express support for these projects. A 2022 regional infrastructure survey showed strong public support for these projects:

• 40.8% ranked completing the Springdale bypass as the top transportation priority

• 32.5% identified HWY 112 improvements as most important

The new funding moves these long-planned projects into their next stage.

🏡 Front Porch’s Take

Transportation capacity shapes where housing and commercial development can expand. We expect these projects to open new areas for residential growth, retail development, and mixed-use projects. We’re expecting:

• 📈 Increased development opportunities along the U.S. 412 corridor, especially near Springdale and westward growth areas

• 🙌🏻 Shorter and less congested commute times between Bentonville and Fayetteville via HWY 112 as drivers use it as a main thoroughfare.

• 🔎 Expanded housing search areas as cross-commuting becomes easier. Look for places on the fringes to become more coveted pieces of property.

This funding signals continued long-term demand for housing across Northwest Arkansas. Keep an eye out for opportunities throughout these areas.

Thinking about buying or selling in NWA? 

Reach out: pat@frontporchnwa.com

_{Sources: Northwest Arkansas Council, Arkansas Department of Transportation, KNWA}