Forward Searcy Secures $314,165 Grant for Economic Development Project

Forward Searcy is excited to announce it has been awarded a $314,165 grant from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) through their Arkansas Site Development Program. The funding will support the development of Forward Searcy Site 1, located on Veterans Boulevard, making the property more marketable to potential businesses. The ultimate goal of investing in this property is to create jobs and drive economic growth in Searcy.

“Many businesses are looking for properties that are as close to shovel ready as possible,” Darrell Welch with Forward Searcy said. “These funds will allow us to improve the property in a way that will make it more appealing to businesses.”

The Arkansas Site Development Program is intended to provide matching funding for site development improvement activities that will enhance industrial site readiness and competitiveness for job-creating projects. The funds can be used for things such as drainage improvements, dirtwork, grading, site rehabilitation and more. 

“By preparing this property for development, we are positioning Searcy as an even more competitive destination for new businesses,” Searcy Mayor Mat Faulkner said. “We appreciate the support from AEDC and Forward Searcy’s leadership in making this possible.”

The site, owned by the City of Searcy, has been identified as a prime location for economic development due to its accessibility and strategic location. The Searcy City Council approved the marketing of this property for economic development purposes earlier this year. 

Forward Searcy, in collaboration with the City of Searcy, continues to focus on enhancing the local economy by supporting existing industries and recruiting new businesses to the area. The preparation of Site 1 represents an important milestone in the strategic plan to create new jobs in Searcy.