School Considers Land Purchase

PRAIRIE GROVE — Allen Williams, superintendent of Prairie Grove Schools, has signed a contract for the district to purchase 61 acres for $1.1 million, contingent on the results of a feasibility study of the land and the final approval of Prairie Grove School Board.

Monday, School Board members approved a request from Williams to seek a study on the 61 acres to determine if the land is feasible to be used by the school for future projects. The study would include an appraisal of the property, geotechnical imaging to check for caverns in the ground, soil testing and a topography study to see how much of the property can be used.

The school also will research options in determining the best way to pay for the land.

The land is located across from Prairie Grove High School on Buchanan Street and is divided into three parcels adjacent to each other. One parcel has almost 25 acres, another one 31 acres and the smallest lot has 5 acres.

The property is owned by DD&B Inc., and David Parks is president.

Williams said Prairie Grove does not have an immediate need for new land but the land would be available for future growth.

“I think this is the last opportunity to buy this type of parcel for the school district,” Williams said, noting there is not a lot of land available nearby for future growth. This land is across from the high school and fits in with the district, Williams added.

He recommended a feasibility study, he said, because there is some concern about drainage on the property.

“I want to make sure it can be easily built upon,” Williams said.

Williams initiated discussions to purchase the land after the real estate company placed a For Sale sign on the property.

“I saw the sign go up, called the agent and started talking from there.”

The school first offered $1 million for the 61 acres. The owner countered with $1.1 million. Williams accepted this and signed a contract April 16, with the contingencies. The contract allows 60-90 days for the feasibility study to be completed.

According to the real estate contract, the school would close on the property July 29.