Jonesboro, AR – Contributed – More than 100 residents gathered Feb. 12 at the Earl Bell Community Center to share what they value most about Jonesboro, and what must improve as the city grows.

The open house marked the first public meeting for Plan Jonesboro, the City’s comprehensive planning effort to guide growth over the next 30 years. 

Participants examined information boards about demographics, economics, housing, land use, and transportation, then took part in interactive mapping and visioning exercises. Residents identified community strengths, future hopes, and key concerns that will help shape the plan.

One resident described the event as “warm and friendly” and “not at all what I expected,” adding that she felt “right at home sharing both hopes and concerns with others.”

Residents consistently praised Jonesboro’s people and strong sense of community. The city’s small-town character, schools and churches, Arkansas State University, Foundation of Arts, the medical community, local businesses, proximity to larger metropolitan areas, and a growing downtown were all highlighted as core strengths.

At the same time, many voiced concern that growth is outpacing infrastructure and coordination. Traffic congestion, aging roads, limited sidewalks and bike connections, and the need for stronger long-term planning were recurring themes. One resident said she is “dying for walkability,” noting she must walk in the street in her neighborhood. Red Wolf Boulevard was frequently cited as a corridor needing attention, along with calls for better coordination to manage growth intentionally.

Investment in youth and families emerged as one of the strongest priorities. Residents called for more activities for children and teens, expanded parks and recreation options, senior amenities, arts and cultural events, and stronger support for public institutions such as schools and the library.

Concerns about housing costs, homelessness, environmental quality, and preserving green space were also raised. Many participants stressed that future growth should protect what makes Jonesboro special while expanding opportunity and inclusion.

One resident remarked that the community is “not thinking big enough.” Plan Jonesboro aims to meet that challenge by aligning land use, transportation, infrastructure, and community priorities into a coordinated long-term strategy.

“These meetings are about listening,” said Julie Luther Kelso, vice president of planning at Crafton Tull. “We want to understand how residents experience Jonesboro today and what they want it to become, what they think is working, and what can be better. That’s how a shared vision takes shape.”

As the planning process continues, additional themes will emerge from community input. which will be developed into actionable strategies as part of the comprehensive plan.

The next phase of engagement will take place March 30 through April 3, when the community is invited to participate in a multi-day design workshop featuring additional interactive exhibits and opportunities to share what they value, what they would like to change, and how they envision the city’s future.

Residents can also complete a survey and contribute ideas through an interactive map at PlanJonesboro.com.