Bentonville residents have a reason to head to outdoor gear stores Thursday morning: The city is opening a new stretch of pavement and a dedicated tunnel to help people get where they’re going without getting stuck in traffic.
Ribbon cutting for the new Razorback Greenway section and tunnel is set for 10 a.m. Friday at 1802 Associate Drive in Bentonville. Organized by the Bentonville Parks and Recreation Department in partnership with Trailblazers and Arkansas Moves, the event welcomes the public to celebrate the updated trail infrastructure.
The new connection occupies a gap between Bentonville High School and the Walmart Campus, bridging the area near Arkansas 102. The centerpiece is a tunnel designed to provide a barrier-free route for walkers, cyclists, and skaters. Previously, transit between these two two major facilities likely required navigating busy intersections or finding a circuitous route on surrounding streets.
This addition fills a piece of the regional puzzle that local transit advocates have been watching closely. The Bentonville Parks and Recreation Department highlighted that the new route creates a continuous, safer path for active transportation. Students heading to school, teams practicing after hours, and Walmarters looking to clock in on two wheels will now have a weather-protected corridor rather than the open air.
Arkansas Moves and Trailblazers, key groups working on non-motorized transit, are involved to emphasize that this isn’t just about recreation. It’s about practical daily movement. The tunnel specifically addresses safety concerns associated with crossing asphalt-heavy zones like Arkansas 102.
The celebration is straightforward: expect a ribbon cutting followed by music and light refreshments. Attendees can show up in sneakers, running gear, or business casual. The city release notes that weather conditions will dictate whether the event proceeds, so keep an eye on the skies.
For anyone living or working in the Bentonville Square or Centerton corridor, this Friday marks another step in the area’s transition into a walkable, bike-accessible community. The trail has long evolved from a scenic loop into a backbone for the city’s daily logistics.
The public is invited to the event location directly; no registration is required. If you have questions about the trail usage rules or further construction updates, reach out to the Bentonville Parks and Recreation Department.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
