Master Street Plan needs serious review by public

In the middle of the holidays and the worsening covid-19 pandemic, the city of Bentonville has released the final draft of its latest Master Street Plan. I urge residents of Bentonville and surrounding county areas to go to the “Latest News” section of the city’s website, or straight to https://bentonvillemsp.transportationplanroom.com to examine the map and exhibits, and express your views. Confusingly, some city communications have set a deadline for comments of Dec. 31 while the website lists a deadline of Jan. 2.

It is less a plan than a vague map of proposed new streets and modifications, many nonsensical, alarming and surely very expensive. For example, the map apparently shows a planned 4-lane arterial from the intersection of NW 3rd Street and NW Elm Tree Road extending northward and down into McKissic Creek valley, which would apparently require multiple new bridges, extensive earthwork and possibly the removal of homes if the map is to be believed.

I urge residents to contact their neighbors who might not be aware of this plan, especially if they live in the county. Look carefully at the lines on the map, place them on the landscape, and imagine a possible future that could include a new 70- to 95-foot-wide strip of pavement running across their property. Think of the possible implications for their homes and neighborhoods.

If they don’t like what they see, they should be sure to leave a comment before Dec. 31 and tell others. They should get organized and ensure that their voices are heard.

MICHAEL BELL

Bentonville