What is the 1/8% Sales and Use Tax?

This is a portion of the ¼% Sales and Use Tax voted on by the citizens of Fort Smith in 2012 for a period of ten (10) years. Voters approved to extend this tax an additional eight (8) years on May 24, 2022. Citizens also elected to restrict the use of the funds during the extension period to capital projects. The sales and use tax will continue to be collected through September 30, 2030.

Recently Completed Projects

Martin Luther King, Jr. Park Inclusive Playground

The equipment on the large playground area was significantly worn down and due for replacement. An all-inclusive playground was constructed. The completed project features a variety of amenities to accommodate all ages and abilities. Poured-in-place rubber surfacing was to eliminate mobility barriers caused by the standard wood fiber mulch. Additional shade within the playground area was also included in this project.

John Bell, Jr. Park Inclusive Playground

The project consisted of the construction of an inclusive playground at John Bell, Jr. Park (formerly referred to as Riverfront Drive Sports Fields). The total cost for construction of the inclusive playground is $1,051,887.71. This inclusive playground features a variety of amenities designed to accommodate individuals of all abilities, poured-in-place rubber surfacing, perimeter fencing, and large shade structures across the main play areas. This is quickly becoming Fort Smith’s premier park, as thousands of citizens have already used the park since its July 2022 opening for public use.

Creekmore Park Improvements

Walking Trail: The first phase of improvements to the park included the installation of an inclusive playground, as this neighborhood park lacked play amenities for young children to enjoy. The playground components offer a variety of activities that accommodate multiple abilities. A shaded picnic area, benches, and a paved walkway to the playground were also installed.

Inclusive Playground: The second phase of improvements addressed the dilapidated basketball courts. This project consisted of resurfacing of the existing basketball courts, sidewalk improvements, new basketball goals and spectator seating. Electric boxes were also included in this project, which will serve to accommodate vendors during large events held at the park, such as the Team Takeover basketball series

Harley A. Wilson Park Basketball Improvements

This project consisted of the resurfacing of the basketball courts, sidewalk improvements, basketball goals, and installation of electric boxes Additional amenities included the installation of electrical stations to accommodate food truck vendors and spectator bleachers. 

Complete List of Completed Projects