Fort Smith, AR – The City of Fort Smith is pleased to announce that it has been awarded the Rebuilding America’s Infrastructure for Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant from the United States Department of Transportation (DOT), securing $24,987,098 toward the Bass Reeves Legacy Loop Greenway Initiative. Once complete, this project will form a “loop” of approximately 14 miles of paved shared use paths and other pedestrian facilities to be used for active transportation and recreation. The Bass Reeves Legacy Loop will connect a number of Fort Smith’s landmarks, parks, greenspaces, and neighborhoods, while also utilizing the existing Greg Smith Riverfront Trail and Maybranch Trail systems. Upon construction, it is estimated that over 20% of Fort Smith residents will live within a half mile of the Bass Reeves Legacy Loop.
This project seeks to honor the life and legacy of Bass Reeves, a significant historical figure in the region whose remarkable story epitomizes resilience, justice, and progress. Bass Reeves journey from enslavement to becoming one of the first Black law enforcement officers in the American West is a powerful inspiration for overcoming adversity. By honoring his legacy through the Bass Reeves Legacy Loop, we not only pay tribute to his contributions to Fort Smith, but we also affirm our commitment to building a community where all people, regardless of background or circumstance, have the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
“Few names are as inextricably linked to the history and culture of Fort Smith as that of Bass Reeves,” said Ben Johnson, U.S. Marshals Museum President and CEO. “We are proud to see that his legacy will play such a profound role in Fort Smith’s future as well. The Bass Reeves Legacy Loop will bring our community together in new and exciting ways, and we can’t wait to see it come to fruition.”
The City of Fort Smith will utilize RAISE grant resources to significantly reduce the number of vehicle-pedestrian collisions in coming years. Shared use paths will provide separation from motorized traffic for bicyclists, pedestrians, skaters, wheelchair users, joggers, and other users. Trail lighting and modernized traffic control devices at street crossings will also help to create better visibility and awareness for vulnerable roadway users.
The Bass Reeves Legacy Loop follows the guidance of the City of Fort Smith Trails and Greenway Plan by connecting the existing Riverfront Trail with the Maybranch Trail and Mill Creek. This project will lead to the construction of 9.3 miles of new trails. A section of the Maybranch Trail was built in 2024, with other sections set to be open later this year.
“The Bass Reeves Legacy Loop is not just an investment in infrastructure; it’s an investment in our people and our future.” said Fort Smith Mayor George B. McGill. “This grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation brings us one step closer to realizing a vision that will enhance connectivity, improve the quality of life, and highlight the incredible legacy of Bass Reeves. This project will be a true game-changer for Fort Smith, and we’re deeply grateful for the support and recognition of our community’s potential.”
The City extends our heartfelt thanks to the Department of Transportation for this generous grant, which will enable us to bring this transformative project to life. We also appreciate the unwavering support from our Congressional delegation during the application process. Additionally, we want to express our gratitude to our community partners who provided letters of support for this project. Your advocacy and collaboration have been invaluable in making this vision a reality.
The City of Fort Smith is committed to providing high-quality, resident-focused services for the advancement of a thriving community. Our vision is to be a dynamic, business, family, and military-friendly destination that welcomes people from all over the world.
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