Helping Northwest Arkansas communities plan with purpose and grow with vision
The Plan Local program supports places that are experiencing rapid change and want to shape that growth with care and clarity. Each participating community gains the skills, connections, and confidence needed to guide development while honoring its unique character and sense of place. This is accomplished through three distinct pillars – Planning Partnership, Roundtable Series, and Leadership Program.
The Planning Partnership connects communities with planning experts, ULI members, and local partners to create actionable land use plans that guide future growth and investment. Each year, a select group of communities is chosen through a competitive process to receive customized planning and design assistance.
The Roundtable Series strengthens regional collaboration through a learning network of planners, engineers, and public officials. Monthly sessions provide space to share ideas, discuss local challenges, and exchange best practices that improve planning across the region.
The Leadership Exchange maintains strong ties with past Plan Local (and Small Cities Initiative) participants by supporting ongoing implementation and leadership development. The program brings together mayors, city administrators, and senior staff from across Northwest Arkansas for structured peer learning, reflection, and collaboration.