Years ago Cooper Communities enticed prospects to Bella Vista for the purpose of lot sales.
It kept the village growing, but not any more. Here’s an idea: We have a gold mine of prospects, visitors that travel every day on U.S. 71. Bella Vista should take advantage of this huge volume of traffic.
Secure the use of the former Arkansas Welcome Center site and make it a Bella Vista Welcome Center.
The site, just south of the Missouri-Arkansas state line in Bella Vista, is vacant. It’s fully paved, with easy access; however, it’s presently blocked with huge boulders.
Most travelers view the golf courses as they travel on U.S. 71, but they don’t realize all the amenities Bella Vista has to ofter, such as tennis, lodging, fishing, hiking, churches, clubs galore, dining facilities, swimming pools, recreation centers and more. It has a low cost of living, too. They’ll meet friendly folks from all parts of the U.S.A.
Bella Vista is one of America’s Top 10 best healthy places to retire.
There are many employment opportunities in Northwest Arkansas as well.
Lighted posters (weatherproof) such as a large map of Bella Vista, lists of churches or amenities should be installed. Maybe there could be a few picnic tables or a gazebo with brochures in weatherproof containers. No restrooms or staff.
On some very high volume, peak traffic days, maybe some volunteer group, such as a local realty firm like Vacation Rentals, might want to staff it. They could ofter travelers free coffee, bottled water and info. A real gold mine here.
Prospects could visit local restaurants, fuel stops, vacationing, golf, RV Park, shopping, lot and home sales, visit the Cooper Memorial Chapel, the Veterans Wall of Honor Memorial. Embrace the Good Life of Bella Vista.
If the former Arkansas welcome site is not available, consider the area around the Bella Vista museum and the new America Legion Post facility, all on U.S. 71, with easy on and oft access. The new American Legion Post will have food and drink and has a very beautiful covered picnic area with a fl owing spring.
Maybe the city of Bella Vista, Bella Vista POA, Bella Vista Business Association and clubs could join together and make it all happen.
LEONARD EISERT
Bella Vista
Opinion, Pages 5 on 06/19/2013