25-02-2025
Gov. Sanders signs tramway bill, touts tourism projects at GovCon
BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed a bill at the 51st annual Governor's Conference on Tourism that the general assembly says advances outdoor recreation in Arkansas.
Gov. Sanders signed SB203 at GovCon on Tuesday, paving the way for the construction of a downhill mountain biking trail with chairlift service in Bella Vista. The bill specifies operator liability for tramways at state parks.
The governor signed the bill following her speech at the governor's conference.
In her speech, Gov. Sanders highlighted the steps local leaders have taken to grow the tourism industry in the state.
'I'm under no illusions that Arkansas tourism is breaking records because of the state government, but because of the people here in this room.'
Gov. Sanders shared stories of business owners around the state that specialize in outdoor recreation. She says the state government is dedicated to uplifting these industries.
'Hunting and fishing guides, bike mechanics, trail builders, chefs, resort operators, innovators and entrepreneurs. I'm here to tell you that the state has your back,' Sanders said.
According to the governor, 50 million visitors spent more than $10 billion in 2024, both of which are state records in tourism.
She says these travelers support more than 70,000 jobs in The Natural State, adding roughly $800 million in state and local taxes.
Gov. Sanders also highlighted The Natural State Initiative, led by First Gentlemen Bryan Sanders.
Since its inception in 2023, the governor says the initiative to promote outdoor recreation has increased investments in trails and improved amenities, as well as offering tax credits and grant programs.
Gov. Sanders also laid out her administration's plans for the future of tourism in the state.
Mountain Biking Trails in Mena
The governor highlighted the development of mountain biking trails in Mena.
According to the Arkansas Parks & Recreation Foundation's master plan, this project will create more than 100 miles of trails, including 30 gravity-specific trails suited for mountain biking.
Improvements to Petit Jean State Park
The governor added that she plans to enhance Petit Jean State Park in Morrilton — Arkansas' very first state park.
According to the project's master plan, this will include multi-use mountain biking trails, catered to cyclists of all skill levels.
The project also aims to preserve the park's natural resources by removing invasive species.
Completion of Delta Heritage Trail
Gov. Sanders noted that the Delta Heritage Trail project is close to completion.
So far, almost 70 miles of trail have already been completed in the 84-mile-long project.
According to the project's plan, these trails will eventually cross the White and Arkansas rivers.
Maumelle Pinnacles
Lastly, the governor says she's excited to see the completion of the Maumelle Pinnacles project that began in late 2023.
The goal of this project is to increase options for outdoor recreation at Pinnacle Mountain State Park, including cycling, horseback riding rock climbing, boating and hunting, among others.
According to its master plan, the project also aims to protect drinking water at Pinnacle, as the park supplies 90% of Little Rock's fresh drinking water.
Gov. Sanders concluded her speech at GovCon with Arkansas' growth in new visitors. She says that the state is the #1 destination for inbound movers.
'Arkansas is not only the best place to visit, it's the best to live, to work, to raise a family and to retire and something that we can all be proud of.'
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