Civil Municipal - September 2024

This city is also home to Wabash Wood Products who specialize in making wood floorings for semi trailers. The city’s Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in attracting and supporting businesses, ensuring the local economy thrives.To supplement that, Harrison is focusing its efforts on improving its downtown district as well. “We’re revitalizing our downtown, and as hard as that is to do, we’ve already seen some great results! Three new eateries announced that they’ll be opening next month in our downtown area,” Mayor Jackson states, mentioning that many of the incoming downtown improvements, like new restaurants, will be positioned near the iconic Crooked Creek that runs right through downtown, as well as the Creekside Community Center. When completed, these projects will only enhance the city’s appeal but also create new opportunities for residents and businesses alike. Of course, attracting and supporting new businesses means supporting Harrison’s workforce as well, therefore, a key component of Harrison’s long-term strategy is also its focus on workforce development. The city recognizes the importance of preparing the next generation for successful careers, whether they enter the workforce directly or pursue higher education. For example, WIN (Workforce Initiative Network), a local workforce network, reaches out to middle school students, exposing them to career opportunities in manufacturing and other industries. This program is valuable for students who may not be interested in attending college but want to acquire the skills needed to earn a living wage. North Arkansas College, the city’s local community college, also plays a crucial role in this effort by offering programs that allow students to earn a fouryear degree without leaving Harrison. A FUTURE FOCUS ON QUALITY OF LIFE Harrison is making significant strides in its tourism and promotion,but its biggest leaps have undoubtedly 157 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 09 HARRISON, AR

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