Note:  The images posted are concept renderings of the project.

‍Please read the below PRESS RELEASE from Blue Crane:

BENTONVILLE, Ark. (April 25, 2025) – Today, Blue Crane and development partner Riverside of Austin, Texas, announced a mixed-use project located on Second Street between NE A and North Main in downtown Bentonville. This development will introduce new residential units, commercial spaces and underground parking, while preserving key elements of the Bentonville square.

Utility relocation associated with the project started earlier this month, and construction is expected to begin in early 2026. The development will proceed within Bentonville's current zoning framework as the project team prepares to submit plans through the city's Large Scale Development process this fall.

“We really tried to create a space that honors the square's importance while carefully introducing new architecture and amenities to serve our growing community." said Brian Shaw, a member of the development team at Blue Crane. “This project represents an exciting vision for Bentonville's future—a thoughtful blend of contemporary design that respects the city's heritage.”

At street level, visitors to the north side of the square will experience Bentonville's rich character and history, restoring a deeper connection to the city’s past. The design blends historic elements – with storefronts that reflect the designs of the original brick commercial buildings built in the 1880s – with more modern architecture off the square. The project will also restore and preserve the historic Benton County Jail, which is recognized on the National Historic Registry.

A key component of this project is the reimagining of the Arvest Bank branch on the square. During redevelopment, the Arvest Bank branch will remain downtown, temporarily relocating to 215 NW A Street to ensure service continuity.

"Arvest is part of the downtown Bentonville fabric and remains committed to serving the community," said Chad Evans, Arvest Benton County president. "We look forward to welcoming our customers to a next-generation bank and community room on the square."

The development will add new residential units to downtown Bentonville, bringing residents who will support local businesses. At street level, retail and dining spaces will complement existing businesses while introducing new shopping experiences to the square. Together with existing merchants, these additions will create a more comprehensive shopping district appealing to both residents and visitors alike. An underground parking structure will provide convenient access while preserving the pedestrian-friendly, walkable character that makes downtown Bentonville special.

The project includes public spaces connecting with community assets such as the All-American Trail, the Razorback Greenway, and the A Street Promenade, supporting Bentonville's identity as the Mountain Biking Capital of the World™.

"The North Main project is an investment in Bentonville's future," Barrett Lepore, partner at Riverside, said. "We're creating a place that will bring full time residents and new amenities downtown while contributing to Bentonville's thriving, local economy."

Blue Crane and Riverside have engaged Herzog & de Meuron for the design, and Page as the executive architects. While final plans continue to evolve, the development balances respect for Bentonville's past with the needs of its growing community.

The north side of the square was last renovated in the 1980s when the majority of the original buildings were rebuilt. To stay updated on the project, please visit bluecrane.us.

‍

‍