Parks and Recreation Advisory Board — Fayetteville, AR
Date: 2026-05-04
Time: 17:30

100 W. Rock St. Suite 246
 Fayetteville, AR 72701

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Agenda
Jordan Annex Room 246 / Virtual Meeting Via Zoom
 Monday, May 4, 2026
 5:30 PM


 Members
 Chair Yarri Davis (Exp: 12/27)
 Vice Chair Sky Caldwell (Exp: 12/27)
 Elizabeth Cunningham (Exp: 12/26)
 Dell Hall (Exp: 12/26)
 David McNiel (Exp: 12/28)
 Josh McGee (Exp: 12/28)
 Doug Walsh (Exp: 12/27)
 Coleman Warren (Exp: 12/28)
 Melissa Zabecki (Exp: 12/26)

 City Staff
 Parks and Recreation Director Alison Jumper
 Recreation Superintendent Lee Farmer
 Park Planning Superintendent Ted Jack
 Senior Administration Elizabeth Milton
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board May 4, 2026




Zoom Information

 Webinar ID: 858 6669 6486
 Registration Link: https://fayetteville-
 ar.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_D8ekhc39R_yEvpN5cTbOYQ

Call to Order

Roll Call

Minutes
 Approval of the April 6, 2026, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Meeting
 Minutes.


New Business

 Gregory Park Art

Reports and Presentations

 2025 Parks and Recreation Annual Report

 Active Transportation Advisory Committee: Doug Walsh

 Botanical Gardens Report: Elizabeth Cunningham

 Arts Council Report: Coleman Warren

 Field and Partnership Report: Yarri Davis

 Construction and HMR Report: Ted Jack
Park Land Dedication


Announcements
 Upcoming Programs and Events



City of Fayetteville, Arkansas Page 2
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board May 4, 2026



 May 5 Tree Anatomy and Function Session 2:
 Jordan Annex Meeting Room
 May 9 Walker Park Splash Pad and Gulley
 Park Interactive Fountain Opens: Walker
 Park / Gulley Park
 May 15 Last Day of YRCC Afterschool: YRCC
 May 23 Wilson Park Pool Opens: Wilson Park
 May 25 City Offices/YRCC Closed for Memorial
 Day (Wilson Pool Open)
 June 1-5 Be Active Summer Camp, Outdoor
 Adventure Camp 1: Lake Fayetteville
 June 1 YRCC Summer Fun4Kids Camp Starts
 (8 Weeks): YRCC
 June 1-11 Swim Lesson Session 1: Wilson Pool
 June 2- July 30 Swim Team: Wilson Pool
 June 4 Gulley Park Summer Concert, Jon
 McLaughlin: Gulley Park
 Next Meeting Day: June 1, 2026


Adjournment


NOTICE TO MEMBERS OF THE AUDIENCE
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meetings may be attended in-person or virtually.
Community members have the opportunity to address the board at a designated time during the
meeting.

The audience may attend the meeting via telephone by dialing (Toll Free) 888-475-4499.

As a courtesy, please turn off all cell phones and pagers.




City of Fayetteville, Arkansas Page 3

100 W. Rock St. Suite 246
 Fayetteville, AR 72701

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Agenda
Jordan Annex Room 246 / Virtual Meeting Via Zoom
 Monday, May 4, 2026
 5:30 PM


 Members
 Chair Yarri Davis (Exp: 12/27)
 Vice Chair Sky Caldwell (Exp: 12/27)
 Elizabeth Cunningham (Exp: 12/26)
 Dell Hall (Exp: 12/26)
 David McNiel (Exp: 12/28)
 Josh McGee (Exp: 12/28)
 Doug Walsh (Exp: 12/27)
 Coleman Warren (Exp: 12/28)
 Melissa Zabecki (Exp: 12/26)

 City Staff
 Parks and Recreation Director Alison Jumper
 Recreation Superintendent Lee Farmer
 Park Planning Superintendent Ted Jack
 Senior Administration Elizabeth Milton
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board May 4, 2026




Zoom Information

 Webinar ID: 858 6669 6486
 Registration Link: https://fayetteville-
 ar.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_D8ekhc39R_yEvpN5cTbOYQ

Call to Order

Roll Call

Minutes
 Approval of the April 6, 2026, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Meeting
 Minutes.


New Business

 Gregory Park Art

Reports and Presentations

 2025 Parks and Recreation Annual Report

 Active Transportation Advisory Committee: Doug Walsh

 Botanical Gardens Report: Elizabeth Cunningham

 Arts Council Report: Coleman Warren

 Field and Partnership Report: Yarri Davis

 Construction and HMR Report: Ted Jack
Park Land Dedication


Announcements
 Upcoming Programs and Events



City of Fayetteville, Arkansas Page 2
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board May 4, 2026



 May 5 Tree Anatomy and Function Session 2:
 Jordan Annex Meeting Room
 May 9 Walker Park Splash Pad and Gulley
 Park Interactive Fountain Opens: Walker
 Park / Gulley Park
 May 15 Last Day of YRCC Afterschool: YRCC
 May 23 Wilson Park Pool Opens: Wilson Park
 May 25 City Offices/YRCC Closed for Memorial
 Day (Wilson Pool Open)
 June 1-5 Be Active Summer Camp, Outdoor
 Adventure Camp 1: Lake Fayetteville
 June 1 YRCC Summer Fun4Kids Camp Starts
 (8 Weeks): YRCC
 June 1-11 Swim Lesson Session 1: Wilson Pool
 June 2- July 30 Swim Team: Wilson Pool
 June 4 Gulley Park Summer Concert, Jon
 McLaughlin: Gulley Park
 Next Meeting Day: June 1, 2026


Adjournment


NOTICE TO MEMBERS OF THE AUDIENCE
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meetings may be attended in-person or virtually.
Community members have the opportunity to address the board at a designated time during the
meeting.

The audience may attend the meeting via telephone by dialing (Toll Free) 888-475-4499.

As a courtesy, please turn off all cell phones and pagers.




City of Fayetteville, Arkansas Page 3
 Meeting Minutes
 April 6, 2026
 Page 1 of 6




 113 W Mountain St
 Fayetteville, AR 72701

 Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Meeting Minutes
 City Hall Meeting Room 101 / Virtual Meeting via Zoom
 April 6, 2026
 5:30 PM

 Members
 Chair Yarri Davis (Exp: 12/27)
 Vice Chair Sky Caldwell (Exp: 12/27)
 Elizabeth Cunningham (Exp: 12/26)
 Dell Hall (Exp: 12/26)
 David McNiel (Exp: 12/28)
 Josh McGee (Exp: 12/28)
 Doug Walsh (Exp: 12/27)
 Coleman Warren (Exp: 12/28)
 Melissa Zabecki (Exp: 12/26)

 City Staff
 Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs Director Alison Jumper
 Recreation Superintendent Lee Farmer
 Park Planning Superintendent Ted Jack
 Senior Administration Elizabeth Milton

A meeting of the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Advisory Board was held on April 6,
2026 at 5:30 PM in Room 101 of City Hall, located at 113 W. Mountain Street in
Fayetteville, Arkansas..

Zoom Information


 113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479)575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
 Meeting Minutes
 April 6, 2026
 Page 2 of 6

  Webinar ID: 884 4804 0140
  Registration Link: https://fayetteville-
  ar.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1YgugoPoT1ShU57LRVG8gQ
  Passcode: 575664


Call to Order
Vice Chair Sky Caldwell called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

Roll Call
Present: Caldwell, McGee, McNiel, Hall, Walsh, Warren and Zabecki
Absent: Davis, Cunningham

Minutes

  Approval of the March PNRCAAB Meeting Minutes.

  Approval of the March PNRCAAB Minutes. McGee to motion for approval, Hall to
  second.

  PNRCAAB Motion: 7-0-0.

  Please refer to the City of Fayetteville Video on Demand Archive for a detailed
  discussion of the item: https://reflect-fayetteville-
  ar.cablecast.tv/internetchannel/gallery/6?channel=1

New Business

  Approval to Utilize Parkland Dedication Funds for the Design of Kessler Soccer
  Improvements: Ted Jack

  Staff Ted Jack to propose usage of unencumbered SW quadrant bond funds at
  Kessler Soccer Park. In the year 2026, $99,366 will need to be spent on the limited-
  time bond funds, and $528,113 by 2027. The first step proposed on how to use those
  funds is to hire consultants and begin design work to add a full-sized soccer field with
  artificial turf, and a small natural turf soccer field, lighting, bleachers, sidewalks,
  drainage, landscaping and parking. The turf field would be considered not only an
  extra and much-needed field, but Championship field space. Jack asked for approval
  for $400,000 to be released from the Southwest Quadrant for Kessler Soccer Field
  Improvements Project.

 McGee to motion for approval, Hall to second. PNRCAAB Motion: 7-0-0.




 113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479)575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
 Meeting Minutes
 April 6, 2026
 Page 3 of 6
Reports and Presentations

  Urban Forestry Update: John Scott

  Staff John Scott to give an update on Urban Forestry results from 2025, and plans
  for the department's Urban Forestry Master Plan goals for 2026. Scott's goal is to
  increase the City's overall tree canopy from 39% to 40.4% in 20 years. Through a
  recently implemented data collection process, staff are and plan to continue to track
  the removal and planting of trees in new development to make sure our canopy stays
  healthy.

  Scott to report that several events were organized for this year's first Earth Week,
  including tree and native shrub giveaways, a "bounty" photo contest for invasives
  removal, documentary film screenings, Talking to the Trees, dedicating this year's
  Amazing Tree winner in Wilson Park, among others. Several classes/hikes through
  the Fayetteville Community Forester Program were added in 2025 with great
  success and attendance.

  Park Land Dedication Update: Ted Jack

  Combined with Jack's earlier Project Updates.

  Active Transportation Advisory Committee: Doug Walsh

  Walsh to mention that the White River Greenway is 90% planned and is planned to
  be completed this summer. Walsh also reported that there are areas in need of more
  sidewalk access on the west side of town.

  Botanical Gardens Report: Elizabeth Cunningham

  n/a

  Arts Council Report: Coleman Warren

  CAP applications were approved for the first round of applicants, and money has
  been set aside for the second round of applications, which Warren encouraged
  interested applicants to apply for.

  Field and Partnership Report: Yarri Davis

  McGee to report Field and Partnership met with Friends of Fayetteville Parks to
  identify potential parcels for field space/park land acquisition, and plan to work to
  move forward.

  2025 Parks and Recreation Annual Report: Alison Jumper




 113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479)575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
 Meeting Minutes
 April 6, 2026
 Page 4 of 6
  Postponed.

  Construction and HMR Report: Ted Jack

  Ted Jack reported that HMR totals have improved. Installation has begun at the
  Walker Park playground, and construction progress continues throughout the park.
  Artist Jeremy Navarette, who also painted the basketball courts at Walker, will also
  be painting the ceiling of the Large Pavilion at Walker Park. The Lake Fyaetteville
  Nature Trail contract is to go to the Council for approval. An Owl Creek public
  meeting is coming soon to involve the public in planning a 2-acre park in the newly
  dedicated park land, and also to discuss connecting trails to the facility.

Park Land Dedication

  Monarch Summers

 Development Name: Monarch Summers

 Engineer: Strand (B. Payne)

 Owner: Goose Creek Addition LLC

 Location: 6061 W Dot Tipton Rd

 Parcel ID Number: 765-16202-650

 Park Quadrant: SW

 Development Size: 66 Ac

 Units: 264 Single-Family

 Land Dedication Requirement: N/A

 Fee-In-Lieu Requirement: $287,496

 Nearby Existing Parks: Harmony Pointe Park, Owl Creek Park, Woolsey Farmstead, Woolsey Wet Prairie

 Developer’S Request: Fee-In-Lieu

 Staff Recommendation: Fee-In-Lieu

 Justification: Proximity To Existing Parks


  Foster to present the Monarch Summers development, proposing a 264 single-family
  project with 66 acres. Staff suggested accepting fees-in-lieu.

  Hall to motion for approval, Zabecki to second.

  PNRCAAB Motion: 7-0-0.

Announcements

  Upcoming Programs and Events




 113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479)575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
 Meeting Minutes
 April 6, 2026
 Page 5 of 6
  April 6 Fayetteville Youth Baseball Games Begin:
 Kessler
  April 12 Outdoor Fayetteville Trail First Aid Response:
 Fire Department Training Center
  April 13 Youth 4 And Under T-Ball Begins: Gary
 Hampton
  April 13 Outdoor Fayetteville Intro To Fishing: Lake
 Fayetteville Marina
  April 16 Outdoor Fayetteville Archery Basics: Lake
 Fayetteville Marina
  April 18 Tree Giveway At Farmers Market:
 Fayetteville Square
  April 20 Amazing Tree Plaque Unveiling: Wilson Park
  April 20 Talking To The Trees
  April 21 Three Documentaries With Panel Discussions:
 Fayetteville Public Library
  April 22 Earth Day Panel Discussion
  April 22 Outdoor Fayetteville Beginner Kayaking: Lake
 Fayetteville Marina
  April 23 Documentary: Fayetteville Public Library
  April 23 Spring Semester X-Factor Ends: YRCC
  April 24 No YRCC Afterschool: YRCC
  April 24 Arbor Day
  April 24 Weekend Starts Begin: Upper Ramble
  April 25 Rumble Pickleball Tournament: Wilson Park
  April 25 Lake Fayetteville Land & Paddle Cleanup: Lake
 Fayetteville Marina
  April 25 YRCC Shoe Giveaway With Samaritan's Feet:
 YRCC
  April 27 YRCC Teen Takeover Ends: YRCC
  May 2 Spring Square 2 Square: Upper Ramble
  May 2 Tree Anatomy And Function: Jordan Annex
 Meeting Room
  May 2 YRCC Basketball Classes End: YRCC

  Next Meeting Date: May 4, 2026

Adjournment
Josh McGee to motion for adjournment at 6:27 p.m., David McNiel to second.

PNRCAAB Motion: 7-0-0




 113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479)575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
 Meeting Minutes
 April 6, 2026
 Page 6 of 6
Minutes Submitted by: Elizabeth Milton




 113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479)575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
PARKS &
RECREATION
DEPARTMENT
ANNUAL
REPORT
2025
 Ash tree at Walker Park, Fayetteville’s 2025 Amazing Tree
 WHAT’S INSIDE

03 Letter from the Director 04 Leadership, Staff &
 Advisory Boards
05 Our Guiding Principles 06 New in 2025

07 Planning & Park 08 Run. Ride. Race. Repeat
 Development
09 Recreation Programs & 10 Youth Camps
 Participation
11 Community Events 12 Arts & Culture

13 Urban Forestry 14 Talking about Parks

15 Applying the 16 Find your Park
 Principles
17 YRCC 18 Service and Action

19 Supporting our parks 20 Connect with Parks
03



 Alison Jumper, ASLA, CPRP
LEADERSHIP PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR



REFLECTIONS
 Fayetteville’s parks and public spaces are a major part of how people
 experience our City every day. They are where neighbors gather, where
 families spend time together, and where community takes shape.
 In 2025, we saw continued growth in HOW residents use and value these
 spaces. From signature events like the Dickson Street Mile and Phantasma to
 new programming at the Upper Ramble, our parks remained active,
 welcoming, and central to community life.
 This year also marked meaningful progress in expanding and improving our
 parks system. We welcomed the community to the expanded Yvonne
 Richardson Community Center, advanced construction on new community
 parks, including Walker, Underwood, and Bryce Davis, and partnered with
 Specialized Real Estate Group to open South Yard Park along the Razorback
 Regional Greenway. These efforts reflect our commitment to increasing
 access and creating spaces that serve residents across Fayetteville.
 At the same time, we continued planning for the future, wrapping up an
 aquatic feasibility study and drafting a park developer-impact fee study. We
 are taking thoughtful steps to make sure our parks grow to meet the needs
 of a changing, expanding community.

 Parks are critical infrastructure.
 They are the heart and lungs of a city and play a vital role in supporting
 community health, economic vitality, and environmental resilience. This
 report reflects the work of a dedicated team whose creativity and
 commitment shine through in every project, program, and space we care for.
 We couldn’t do it without them.
 I am proud of what we accomplished in 2025 and grateful to serve alongside
 this team and for our community. I hope you see the impact of this work as
 you read this report.
 With Gratitude,

 Alison
 04



LEADERSHIP, STAFF &
ADVISORY BOARDS
LEADERSHIP TEAM

 Alison Jumper, Director Tiffany Hoover, Assistant Rec.
 Ted Jack, Planning Superintendent Superintendent
 Lee Farmer, Recreation Superintendent Elizabeth Milton, Sr. Admin.
 Joanna Bell, Arts & Culture Director Assistant

STAFF

RECREATION PARK PLANNING YRCC URBAN ARTS &
Lacie Ballard Melissa Evans Josh Lainfiesta FORESTRY CULTURE
Mark Banks-May Zach Foster T’Essence Long John Scott Sarah Dilatush
Dean Rawlings
J. Elizabeth Smith


ADVISORY BOARDS

Parks, Natural Resources & Cultural Affairs
Steven Sheely, Chair, Sarah Downing, Vice Chair
Members - Skyler Caldwell, Elizabeth Cunningham, Yarri Davis, Dell Hall, Hugh
Kincaid, Doug Walsh, Mel Zabecki
Urban Forestry
Joseph Fox, Chair
Members - Hannah Ash, Carlo Bertani, Joe Donahue, Jim Parrish, Kate Shirley,
Tas Zinck
Arts Council
Chloe Bell, Chair, Emily Miller, Vice Chair
Members - Andrew Blackwell, Jessica DeBari, Na'Tosha De'Von, Elizabeth
Muscari, Diana Rubi, Robert “Bob” Stafford, City Council, Ellen Woodse
 05



 OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES
 Nature Connection
 Our outdoor spaces are integrated in our everyday lives to attract people near
 and far for the health benefits of our natural environment.

 Stewardship and Maintenance
 We care for our parks and assets to ensure they meet the needs of current and
 future generations. Our operations and investments prioritize sustainability,
 fiscal responsibility, and equity.

 Active and Well
 Opportunities for recreation, health, and wellness are accessible for all through
 our parks, fitness and sports programs, and trails and benefit our physical and
 mental health.

 Gathering and Placemaking
 Our parks are designed to provide gathering spaces and amenities for our
 community while celebrating our unique culture, arts, music, people, and the
 beauty of the region.

 Resilient Natural Systems
 Our natural systems and parks help support a city environment that integrates
 natural and built landscapes and maximize ecosystem benefits and nature-based
 recreation for the community.


VISION
To create and sustain a premier park system through best practices that enrich,
welcome and connect residents, strengthening community and cultural pride.



 MISSION
 To improve quality of life through a vibrant park system,
 cultural and natural resources, and recreational opportunities.
 06




 NEW
 TO YOU
 2025
 Over the past year, the City has delivered a number
 of new initiatives that strengthen community
 engagement, promote environmental stewardship,
 and expand access to arts and culture experiences.


 TREES, TREES, TREES COMMUNITY ART
Fayetteville further expanded its focus on our The Community Arts Program (CAP)
tree stewardship through dedicated staff, new was also introduced, offering local
programs, and increased community engagement. artists and organizers the opportunity
The Fayetteville Community Forester Program to lead free, community-based
was launched to foster tree stewardship and activations.
environmental awareness among residents, and The program supports creative
saw 92 residents in classes. expression while enhancing gathering
The first-ever Fayetteville Tree Week was held and shared experiences across the city.
from April 19–26, aligning with Earth Day and The first City Hall Art Exhibition
Arbor Day. Our Urban Forestry team hosted daily featured the work of 32 artists with
events to highlight the environmental and social ties to Arkansas, creating a new space
benefits of trees, encouraging residents to plant to showcase local talent and connect
and care for trees in their communities. residents with the arts.

 Mayor Rawn has challenged Fayetteville to try new things, support fresh
 ideas, and create new ways for the community to connect with parks and
 public spaces. The success of 2025 reflects that approach, building on
 what works while making space for innovation.
 07



 PLANNING & PARK DEVELOPMENT
 In 2025, Fayetteville continued to invest in both new park
 spaces and improvements to existing facilities, expanding
 access and enhancing the overall park system.
 The expansion of the Yvonne Richardson Community Center added new
 community gathering spaces, including a teaching kitchen, classrooms,
 and updated amenities to better serve residents.
 Construction moved forward on several new community parks, including
 Walker, Underwood, and Bryce Davis Parks. Bryce Davis is nearing
 completion, with the remaining parks expected to open in 2026.
 South Yard Park, a new pocket park along the Razorback Regional
 Greenway, opened through a partnership with Specialized Real Estate
 Group, demonstrating how collaboration can expand park access in
 growing areas of the city.
 Improvements at Buddy Hayes Park are also nearing completion, with
 stream restoration and new gathering spaces that enhance both
 environmental function and visitor experience.
 Planning efforts this year focused on preparing for future growth. Design
 work advanced for additional park improvements, including an accessible
 nature trail and bridge at Veterans Park. Master planning began for a new
 neighborhood park at Owl Creek.

 The City also completed an aquatic feasibility study and advanced a park
 developer-impact fee study, helping guide long-term investment decisions
 and ensure the park system continues to meet community needs.


3,853 square
 feet
More room for learning, playing,
and building community.
 Based on the latest population
 count, Fayetteville has one park
 for every 2,194 residents!



 parks in
 47
 Fayetteville
 08



 RUN. RIDE. RACE. REPEAT.
 Fayetteville’s race series continued to grow in 2025, reflecting strong community interest in
 running, cycling, and outdoor fitness. From trail runs to downtown races and regional rides, events
 brought participants of all experience levels together throughout the year.




Frozen Toes set a new The Dickson Street Mile The White Elephant 5K The Square to Square ride
attendance record grew to 526 participants and 1-mile fun run also celebrated its 10th year as
with 554 runners as in its second year, adding reached a record high of the official ride of the
trail running new race categories like 470 participants in its Razorback Greenway,
continues to gain the Heroes Mile alongside fourth year, continuing drawing 3,479 riders
popularity across returning favorites like to build on its reputation across two events and
Northwest Arkansas. the Open Mile, Bartender as a family-friendly connecting communities
 Dash, and Dog Mile. holiday tradition. across the region.



 5,540
 Estimated # of toes
 at Frozen Toes


 3,479
 Square to
 Square riders


 526
 Dickson Street
 Mile runners


 10
 Years of Square
 to Square ride
 09



 RECREATION PROGRAMS &
 PARTICIPATION
 Across all programs, the continued growth in participation
 reflects the important role recreation plays in supporting
 health, connection, and quality of life in Fayetteville.
Youth Programs
Youth programming continued to grow in 2025, with 2,133 athletes
 21,000+
 Visits to Wilson
participating in soccer, supported by approximately 180 volunteer Park Pool
coaches. The Kessler Cup Tournament capped the spring season,
while the “Kicks for Kids” cleat exchange expanded access,
circulating nearly 400 pairs of cleats each season.
Youth softball served 240 athletes, including record participation in
 3,000+
the 10U division. The YRCC X-Factor program engaged more than Adult softball players
800 participants ages 5–14 through homeschool physical on 194 teams
education classes held across Fayetteville parks, offering activities
ranging from archery and rock climbing to team sports and fitness.
Aquatics 180
 Volunteer coaches
Aquatics programs saw strong demand throughout the season. throughout the year.
Wilson Park Pool recorded more than 21,000 visits, while the Wilson
Park Wahoos Swim Team increased to 70 swimmers, its largest team
in more than five years.
Adjustments to class scheduling expanded access for young
 99
 Picklers participated
swimmers, and swim lessons reached an 88% fill rate, significantly Fayetteville’s first ever
reducing waitlists. pickle ball tournament

Adult & All-Ages Programs
Adult and all-ages programs continued to draw strong participation across Fayetteville in 2025.
Three seasons of adult softball brought together 194 teams and more than 3,000 participants at
Lake Fayetteville and Gary Hampton, while the Unified Softball League expanded to 12 teams and
served over 200 participants.
The Adult Soccer League remained steady with 36 teams competing across spring and fall seasons.
Adult kickball also saw strong participation, with 44 teams and 770 players competing at Lake
Fayetteville and Kessler Regional Park.
Tennis and pickleball programming returned to the resurfaced courts at Wilson Park, engaging 243
players, with expanded pickleball offerings for youth and intermediate and advanced participants.
Spring Break 2025
The Yvonne Richardson Community Center (YRCC)
expanded seasonal camp opportunities, with 50
participants in Spring Break Camp and 600 campers
attending the Summer Fun4Kids program. Campers
engaged in games, arts and crafts, sports, and field
trips across the city, including visits to Wilson Park
Pool, the Fayetteville Public Library, Appleseeds Farm,
and the University of Arkansas.

Summer 2025
The Summer Fun4Kids Junior Counselor Program
also provided leadership opportunities for teens,
with six participants supporting camp activities and
gaining hands-on experience.
Partnerships helped support a well-rounded
experience for campers, with meals provided through
Hattie’s Heart, Second Helping NWA & Chef Nate
Walls, and Fayetteville Public Schools.

 These programs continue to create accessible, enriching experiences
 for youth while supporting families throughout the year.



YOUTH CAMPS
Camp programs continued to provide
opportunities for Fayetteville youth to
stay active, learn new skills, and build
connections in a supportive environment.
 883
 Record number of campers in
 2025 Summer Camps


Campers participate across a variety of 3,000+
offerings, including outdoor adventure, Adult softball players
 on 194 teams
biking, tennis, soccer, and theatre.
 180
 10 Volunteer coaches
 throughout the year.
Fayetteville’s events continue to bring people together in parks
and public spaces throughout the year, creating opportunities for
connection, celebration, and shared experiences.
Signature events like the Gulley Park Summer Concert Series drew more than 16,500 attendees
in its 29th year, marking its largest season to date. The series also introduced a sustainability
initiative that diverted 73% of waste from landfills, while continuing to support local artists and
vendors through the Mini Makers and Art Market and Kidz Night programming.

 16,500+
 Gulley Park Community-centered programming at
 concert attendees
 the Yvonne Richardson Community
Seasonal and specialty events saw strong participation Center continued to support residents
across the Upper and Lower Ramble. The Phantasma through events, youth activities, and
Silent Disco and Glow Party attracted approximately partnerships, reaching hundreds of
3,500 attendees, while Trick-or-Treat on the Trail participants throughout the year.
welcomed more than 3,000 participants as a growing
fall tradition.
 100 pairs of shoes
 given with
 Samaritan’s Feet
 3,000+
 25
 Trick-or-Treaters kids from YRCC
 on the trail participated in Burls
 Kids.
Outdoor movie programming expanded, with Movies
in the Parks at Walker and Bryce Davis Parks drawing over Friendsgiving
more than 1,300 attendees. The Dive-In Movie series
at Wilson Park Pool remained a popular summer
activity, including one of its largest events to date.
 300 served 300+ hot
 meals with Second
 Helping NWA.
 25 YRCC kids
Lights of the Ozarks remained a signature holiday
tradition, with more than 500,000 LED lights installed
across the Downtown Square, creating a destination
 100 participated in
 Cookies with Santa
 at Mt. Sequoyah.
for residents and visitors throughout the season.

 500,000+ 100 175 participants at
 Holiday Bingo hosted
 by the YRCC.
 LED lights at
 Lights of the Ozarks

Together, these events reflect the vital role parks play as gathering spaces that
support connection, celebration, and community life across Fayetteville.

 COMMUNITY EVENTS
 11
 12



 ARTS Gravity of Memory
 & Augmented reality
 installation exploring
 CULTURE childhood and perception

 Arts and culture continue to shape how
 the community experiences
 Fayetteville’s parks and public spaces,
 bringing creativity into everyday life
 through public art, programming, and
 long-term planning.
 Emoji Dispenser
 New additions to the City’s public art Interactive piece
 collection included two large-scale murals reflecting on
 by international artist Leon Keer, who also
 engaged with local artists, students, and the
 emotion and
 broader community during his time in consumer culture
 Fayetteville. Additional installations across
 the city featured work by regional and
 national artists, contributing to a growing
 and diverse public art presence. In 2025, Fayetteville adopted its first Arts & Culture
 Plan, establishing priorities to support creative
 spaces, public art, and cultural growth. As part of
Nothing but Net this effort, a feasibility study explored opportunities
Mural by Bryan Alexis for artist-focused housing and support for the local
 creative economy.

 Programming expanded throughout the year.
 Weekend Starts activated the Ramble with weekly
 events from March through October, engaging more
Veritate Duce Progredi than 5,700 participants and showcasing over 130
Mural by NTEL artists.
 The Community Arts Program (CAP), launched this
 year, created new opportunities for local artists and
 organizers to lead free, community-based activations
 across Fayetteville.
Play Your Way Together, these efforts reflect a continued
Wayfinding mural commitment to integrating art into public spaces,
at Parks office supporting local artists, and creating shared cultural
 experiences.
  13



URBAN
FORESTRY
Urban Forestry efforts further focused on
expanding Fayetteville’s tree canopy, engaging
residents, and strengthening environmental
stewardship across the community.
Throughout the year, 606 trees were planted
across the city, supported by strong community
participation. More than 2,000 residents
engaged in Urban Forestry programs and events,
reflecting growing interest in caring for
Fayetteville’s natural spaces.
Together, these efforts reflect an ongoing
commitment to maintaining healthy natural
systems, increasing tree canopy, and supporting
a more resilient Fayetteville.




EDUCATION
Education and outreach remained a key
focus. The Fayetteville Community Forester
Program launched this year, strengthening
neighborhood partnerships and supporting
tree planting and naturalization efforts in five
areas of the city. Additional outreach reached
more than 500 elementary students through
school programs and community events.

ENGAGEMENT
Tree giveaways expanded access, with more
than 2,383 trees and shrubs distributed
through seasonal events and neighborhood
partnerships. Volunteer efforts also
supported cleanup and restoration across
parks, trails, and waterways, with more than
80 volunteers contributing across multiple
locations throughout Fayetteville.
 14



PEOPLE ARE TALKING ABOUT
OUR PARKS AT HOME AND
ACROSS THE COUNTRY
 Fayetteville’s commitment to community,
 sustainability, and stewardship was recognized
 through several key achievements in 2025.
 Tree City USA community for the 29th consecutive year
 Governor’s Volunteer Community of the Year award
 2025 Trendsetter City Award for the Ramble
 2025 Architizer A+Awards, Popular Choice Award
 Mayor’s Monarch Pledge Leadership Circle status achievement:
 completed 11 action items that led to more than 1,500 pollinator-
 supportive plants, seeds, and trees being distributed through public
 giveaways and events across the city.


 Braxton on the CAP Program
 “I'm a multimedia artist and educator with a
 focus in natural and fiber arts. My
 YRCC Holiday Bingo Participant
 activations with the City of Fayetteville
  “I thought it was wonderful. The included mini moss gardens workshops and
  YRCC have improved this event so block printing. All events brought in
  much from early years (it’s always maximum participants with a wide range of
  been great). I’m really impressed by ages and backgrounds represented. I will
  the YRCC team. Thankful for the definitely be applying for the next round!”
  work they put in.”
 “What a wonderful way to connect
“Helping to clean up my community makes me with nature this winter! Love the idea
feel connected to my neighbors and gives me a of learning to identify trees by bark,
strong sense of purpose. It’s a rewarding, hands- buds, and form while enjoying the
on way to take pride in where we live and ensure quiet beauty of the season.”
our town stays beautiful. The city of Fayetteville
makes it so easy to work with them, we are all Peak State Recovery on the
blessed to have such a great city we can partner Community Forester Program
with to make this a better place to live."
 Dennis
 15



 WHY WE CONTINUE
 DOING THIS WORK
 Fayetteville’s parks and recreation system continued to grow in ways that
 reflect the City’s guiding principles, connecting investments, programs, and
 community experiences across the parks system.


 Nature Connection
 Improvements to trails, wetlands, and park spaces expanded opportunities for residents
 to engage with the natural environment, from restored connections along the
 Fayetteville Traverse Trail to new and enhanced gathering spaces in neighborhood parks.



 Stewardship and Maintenance
  Ongoing investments in park infrastructure and environmental
  restoration ensured that existing spaces remain safe, functional, and
  sustainable, supporting both daily use and long-term system health.



 Active and Well
 Recreation programs, camps, and community events continued to see strong
 participation, reflecting the important role parks play in supporting physical
 activity, wellness, and social connection across all ages.



 Gathering and Placemaking
Parks served as key gathering spaces for cultural events,
performances, and community traditions, bringing residents together
and reinforcing Fayetteville’s identity through shared experiences.




 Resilient Natural Systems
 Tree planting, environmental restoration, and volunteer
 efforts strengthened the city’s natural systems,
 supporting long-term ecological health and resilience.
FIND A PARK IN
FAYETTEVILLE




 Scan to open an
 interactive map
  of all our parks
 powered by the
City of Fayetteville
 GIS Department.




 16
  17



 YVONNE RICHARDSON
 COMMUNITY CENTER
 EXPANSION
 The expansion of the Yvonne Richardson Community Center
 (YRCC) marked a significant investment in community space
 and access. The 3,853-square-foot addition includes a
 teaching kitchen, community rooms, a multipurpose
 classroom, and upgraded amenities, including a new
 gymnasium floor, restrooms, and renovated office space.
 YRCC HAS
  COME A These improvements allow the YRCC to expand programming,
LONG WAY! increase capacity, and better serve residents of all ages. The
 updated spaces support a wide range of activities, from youth
 programs and camps to community events and educational
 opportunities.

 As a central hub for connection and support, the YRCC
 continues to play a vital role in strengthening community,
 providing access to resources, and creating welcoming spaces
 for Fayetteville residents
 18



 SERVICE IN ACTION
 Fayetteville’s parks are shaped by people who care for them.
 In 2025, volunteers contributed 20,967 hours supporting parks, trails,
 waterways, and public spaces across the City, setting a new annual
 record.
 This work represents an estimated $729,000 in community value. It
 also reflects the impact of residents, partners, and organizations who
 work together to continuously improve quality of life in Fayetteville.
 Groups like Ozark Off Road Cyclists and the Arkansas Conservation
 Corps played a key role in trail building, maintenance, and restoration
 efforts across the City.
 Residents can support Fayetteville’s parks in a variety of ways, from
 volunteering at events and cleanups to participating in programs or
 contributing to park initiatives. Every effort helps strengthen the
 spaces that connect our community.

 20,967
 Volunteer hours
 contributed



 $729,000
 Estimated community
 value of volunteers



 9,300+
 Hours contributed by
 Ozark Off Road Cyclists



 4,000+
 Hours contributed by
Arkansas Conservation Corps
 VOLUNTEER
 Volunteers help make Fayetteville’s parks possible.

 https://givepul.se/kypjtm


Fayetteville’s parks and programs are strengthened by the support
 of residents, partners, and community organizations. Donations
 help expand access, enhance spaces, and support programs that
 serve the community year-round.

 FRIENDS OF FAYETTEVILLE PARKS
 Friends of Fayetteville Parks is a nonprofit partner that supports
 park improvements, special projects, and community initiatives.
 Donations help fund enhancements and opportunities beyond
 what public funding alone can provide.
 www.fofpar.org




 PARKS AND RECREATION
 Contributions to the department support programs, public
 Contributions
 spaces,toand
 theinitiatives
 department support parks,
 that enhance programs, publicarts,
 recreation, spaces,
 and initiatives
 and that enhance parks,
 environmental recreation,
 stewardship arts,
 across the  city.and environmental
 stewardship across the city.
 https://secure.rec1.com/AR/fayetteville-ar/catalog



 FRIENDS OF YVONNE RICHARDSON COMMUNITY

 Donations to the Yvonne Richardson Community support
 youth programs, camps, meals, and community-based services
 that provide access and opportunity for Fayetteville residents.

 www.friendsofyrcc.org




 SUPPORT YOUR
 18
 LOCAL PARKS
Follow the City of Fayetteville, AR,
Parks and Recreation Department
 on Instagram and Facebook

@FayettevilleParksAndRec




 100 W. ROCK ST. SUITE 250
 FAYETTEVILLE, AR
 GOPLAYFAY.COM
Year to Date

 Total

Comparison
 $100,000 $200,000 $300,000 $400,000 $500,000 $600,000
$ $0

 $353,407
 2022 $381,681
 JANUARY $382,586
974,831 $405,262
 $398,610

 $225,420
 $356,842
 FEBRUARY $349,739
 2023 $369,258
$ 1,152,678 $408,446

 $396,004
 $414,154
 MARCH $401,088
 $387,971
 2024 $436,250

 $378,289
$ 1,133,413
 $435,355
 APRIL $294,466
 $448,150
 $0
 Fayetteville Parks and Recreation HMR Comparison

 2025 $428,867
$ 1,162,491 $436,973
 MAY $532,459
 2022 $465,579
 $0

 $409,478
 2026 2023 $440,113
 JUNE $507,169
 $487,346
$ 1,243,305
 $0
 2024
 $385,513
 $411,199
 JULY $454,990
 2025 $449,440
 2022 - 2026

 $0

 2026 $363,072
 $379,564
 AUGUST $394,928
 $389,269
 $0
7.0%
 $407,731
 YTD 2025-2026
 $405,720
 SEPTEMBER $453,844
 $478,192
 $0

 $471,436
 $461,660
 OCTOBER $476,619
 $457,956
 $0

 $449,542
 $440,250
$80,814 NOVEMBER $546,090
 $521,500
 $0
 YTD 2025-2026


 $419,040
 $432,391
 DECEMBER $496,396
 $464,789
 $0

Meeting Minutes
 May 4, 2026
 Page 1 of 4




 100 W. Rock St. Suite 246
 Fayetteville, AR 72701

 Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Meeting Minutes
 Jordan Annex Room 246 / Virtual Meeting Via Zoom
 May 4, 2026
 5:30 PM

 Members
 Chair Yarri Davis (Exp: 12/27)
 Vice Chair Sky Caldwell (Exp: 12/27)
 Elizabeth Cunningham (Exp: 12/26)
 Dell Hall (Exp: 12/26)
 David McNiel (Exp: 12/28)
 Josh McGee (Exp: 12/28)
 Doug Walsh (Exp: 12/27)
 Coleman Warren (Exp: 12/28)
 Melissa Zabecki (Exp: 12/26)

 City Staff
 Parks and Recreation Director Alison Jumper
 Recreation Superintendent Lee Farmer
 Park Planning Superintendent Ted Jack
 Senior Administration Elizabeth Milton

A meeting of the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Advisory Board was held on May 4,
2026 at 5:30 PM in Suite 246 of the City Hall Jordan Annex Building, located at 100 W.
Rock Street in Fayetteville, Arkansas..

Zoom Information


 113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479)575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
 Meeting Minutes
 May 4, 2026
 Page 2 of 4

  Webinar ID: 858 6669 6486
  Registration Link: https://fayetteville-
  ar.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_D8ekhc39R_yEvpN5cTbOYQ


Call to Order
Davis called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

Roll Call
Present: Davis, Caldwell, Cunningham, Hall, McNiel, McGee, Walsh, Warren, Zabecki

Minutes

  Approval of the April 6, 2026, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Meeting
  Minutes.

  McGee to motion for approval of April Minutes, Cunningham to second.

  PRAB Motion: 9-0-0.

  Please refer to the City of Fayetteville Video on Demand Archive for a detailed
  discussion of the item: Public Meetings: Agendas, Minutes and Video | Fayetteville,
  AR — Official Website

New Business

  Gregory Park Art

  Brannon Pack from Experience Fayetteville, and Rob Reno from OORC, to speak
  about a proposed 3rd wall ride art installation by local artist Jason Jones, in Gregory
  Park. Experience Fayetteville and the OORC funded the first two wall ride
  installations, an Arkansas skink and a walking stick, respectively, and proposed a
  collaboration between the two organizations to install the third and last wall ride with
  a fox mural, again by Jason Jones. Parks board voted to accept the generous
  donation. The City's contribution to the project included work on the trailhead parking
  lot, and agreed to provide power washing and maintenance for the installations.

  Walsh to motion for approval, Zabecki to second. PRAB Motion to accept: 9-0-0.

Reports and Presentations

  2025 Parks and Recreation Annual Report




 113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479)575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
 Meeting Minutes
 May 4, 2026
 Page 3 of 4
The Parks and Recreation Annual Report is a chance to highlight some of our
accomplishments and new starts throughout the previous year. Urban Forestry
began Fayetteville Community Forester classes, and the Community Arts Program
were two new starts that saw great community response and participation in both
programs. In 2025, Community Park Planning and Development made major strides
in completing steps outlined in the Parks Master Plan. South Yard park was opened,
and Buddy Hayes Park is near completion. Recreation Programming hit record
numbers in 2025 from race participation, to Trick or Treat on the Trail in The Ramble.
The Lights of the Ozarks collaboration with Experience Fayetteville and the
Downtown Fayetteville Coalition with Parks Maintenance continues to grow and has
become a beloved, festive annual community event. Arts and Culture installed two
new murals by world-renowned artists and continued to grow Fayetteville as a
destination for public art. Board members gave suggestions to round out the Annual
Report, and staff plan to present those edits in the June Parks Board meeting.

Active Transportation Advisory Committee: Doug Walsh

Walsh to clarify a confusing intersection issue at Maple and Arkansas Avenues for
riders and walkers has been addressed. Walsh also mentioned issues with dog
owners not leashing their pets in Parks. Additional signage was suggested to help,
as well as calling Animal Services to report those instances. The board also
suggested posting fine amounts on signage in Parks as a helpful deterrent.

Botanical Gardens Report: Elizabeth Cunningham

Cunningham to report that the recent plant sale at Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks
was successful. Yoga in the Garden starts every Saturday at 9:30 am for free. Chefs
in the Garden is coming up, and tickets to the popular event can be purchased.

Arts Council Report: Coleman Warren

Coleman to report that the Arts Council welcomed new members, and applications
are open for the Community Arts Program. Muralist Jason Jones was selected to
complete a section of Nelson Hackett mural wall.

Field and Partnership Report: Yarri Davis

McGee to report that several parcels of land have been identified as potential
purchase options for our growing field needs. The committee is getting organized
and putting things in place to be able to make an offer on land when the right fit
comes along.

Construction and HMR Report: Ted Jack

Ted Jack to give updates, starting at Walker Park. They're getting ready to put
playground surfacing down, and the fields have been tilled in preparation for grass.



 113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479)575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
 Meeting Minutes
 May 4, 2026
 Page 4 of 4
  The Pavilion slab at Walker has been redone. Underwood's playground continues to
  make progress, and the donated statues of a dog and a tree have arrived and will
  soon be installed. The Lake Fayetteville Bridge and Nature Trail meeting is to take
  place soon, strategizing on when work should start to minimize interruption in the
  park. Kessler Soccer Field improvement is seeking a consultant on the project to get
  that started. HMR saw another uptick in trend for March.

Park Land Dedication

Announcements

  Upcoming Programs and Events
 May 5 Tree Anatomy And Function Session 2:
 Jordan Annex Meeting Room
 May 9 Walker Park Splash Pad And Gulley
 Park Interactive Fountain Opens: Walker
 Park / Gulley Park
 May 15 Last Day Of YRCC Afterschool: YRCC
 May 23 Wilson Park Pool Opens: Wilson Park
 May 25 City Offices/YRCC Closed For Memorial
 Day (Wilson Pool Open)
 June 1-5 Be Active Summer Camp, Outdoor
 Adventure Camp 1: Lake Fayetteville
 June 1 YRCC Summer Fun4kids Camp Starts (8
 Weeks): YRCC
 June 1-11 Swim Lesson Session 1: Wilson Pool
 June 2- July 30 Swim Team: Wilson Pool
 June 4 Gulley Park Summer Concert, Jon
 Mclaughlin: Gulley Park
 Next Meeting Day: June 1, 2026

Adjournment
Caldwell to motion for adjournment at 6:17 p.m. with Cunningham to second.

PRAB MOTION: 9-0-0.


Minutes Submitted by: Elizabeth Milton




 113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479)575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov