Development News for Hot Springs, Arkansas

Leonard Street Lofts Planned Development Approved for Affordable Housing

The Board approved the Leonard Street Lofts Planned Development (PD) plan for 333 Leonard Street. The project by Moore and Williams LLC aims to add three detached single-family dwelling units and renovate an existing 1921 farmhouse, creating a 'pocket neighborhood' focused on affordable housing. The PD allows for reduced sideyard and front setbacks and includes community gathering spaces with natural landscaping. This aligns with the Hot Springs Housing Strategy's goal to address a deficiency in rental units. The development will utilize energy-efficient technologies and best practices. The Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions, noting the project meets exceptions from zone district regulations. The PD plan will supersede district regulations for this property.

Water Treatment Plant Upgrade Project Awarded to JL Bryson, Inc.

The Board of Directors considered Resolution R-26-102, which awards a bid to JL Bryson, Inc. for the water treatment plant plate settler project. The project involves upgrading basins one through five by replacing old tube settlers with modern plate settlers to improve water clarification, reduce filter strain, and increase plant reliability. The bid amount is $5,759,999. Funding will come from capital and board-approved water bond funds. The resolution was adopted.

Undeveloped Virginia Drive Rightway Vacated to Facilitate Property Development

Ordinance O-26-24 was passed to vacate, abandon, and close an undeveloped section of Virginia Drive rightway, located between parcels RPI 44486 and RPI 117571. The request came from property owners Nicole and Danny Hardcastle, who plan to build on their landlocked parcel and are negotiating to purchase adjacent land from Derek and Tiffany McCormick. Both parties signed the petition to close the rightway, which is approximately 0.7 acres of undeveloped, wooded, and hilly terrain. Upon approval, the adjacent property owners will take title to the center line of the vacated rightway. Staff and utility providers reviewed the request and found no objections.

Parks and Recreation Code Updated, Tournament Fees Standardized at Kimry Park

Ordinance O-26-25 amends Hot Springs Code Title 11, Chapters 2 and 3, pertaining to the Parks and Recreation Department. Key changes include updating terminology from 'trails' to 'recreation' and defining 'playing courts' and 'athletic fields'. A significant change is the establishment of a flat tournament fee of $500 per day for Kimry Park, which includes the use of all four fields, scoreboards, and lights. This fee structure is comparable to other central Arkansas cities. The ordinance also expands the discount for park pavilion reservations to all Garland County residents, charging $10 per hour, while non-residents pay $20. The changes aim to streamline operations and standardize fees after the merger of parks and trails with sports recreation departments.