North Little Rock Overview

Known only as "opposite Little Rock" until the Civil War, North Little Rock grew as a crossroads that linked river and overland traffic. In 1866, surveyed and platted, an unincorporated town of mills, factories, hotels and saloons became known as the town of Argenta. In 1890, the community of Argenta filed papers to incorporate as a city. However, Argenta's southern neighbor, across the Arkansas River, quickly passed legislation to annex the little town and make it the eighth ward of that city. Years later a group of north side businessmen led by William C. Faucette (who was elected to the Arkansas state legislature) introduced a bill to allow a new city to be created by annexing the eighth ward of Little Rock. In 1903 North Little Rock and Argenta town residents voted to merge. Little Rock mounted a court challenge, but on February 6, 1904, the Arkansas Supreme Court ruled in favor of the 1903 merger of North Little Rock and Argenta (named for silver mines), with more than 8,000 residents. In January of 1906 North Little Rock changes its name to Argenta, but in October 1917 renamed itself back to North Little Rock. Visit the History and Historic Commission's page for information on historic buildings, landmarks and sites, learn more about the colorful stories of the people and places that shaped the North Little Rock of today.

Currently, North Little Rock has a population of 60,433+, with approximately 52 square miles of diverse, charming and affordable neighborhoods, beautiful lakes, outstanding parks and recreational facilities, walking and bicycling trails along the Arkansas River on the picturesque Riverfront, a rapidly growing downtown business and historic residential district, many churches and faith based organizations, and substantial business, industry, entertainment facilities and restaurants which flourish throughout the city.

Residents enjoy a wholesome quality of life, safe neighborhoods with organized neighborhood associations, outstanding services and facilities for our youth and seniors, downtown revitalization, booming economic development activities, exciting riverfront development, and a terrific sense of community pride evidenced by our city's recognition as a Volunteer Community of the Year.

A progressive political climate under the leadership of Mayor Patrick Henry Hays exists today, creating a high level of public confidence in the responsiveness of our Mayor and elected officials. Close working relationships among city, school district, and business partners (including the Chamber of Commerce) continues to earn respect and success for our Mayor/City Council form of government.

North Little Rock Today

The city utilizes a land use master plan, zoning ordinances, promotes responsible fiscal management, aggressively pursues new economic development opportunities, maintains a professional, community-oriented police and fire departments and emergency services agency, supports community development projects, encourages public involvement in government issues, promotes responsible curbside and hazardous waste recycling, and maintains an active code enforcement, all key ingredients to keeping the city running smoothly. To view the North Little Rock Ward Boundaries click here.

Economic Development

North Little Rock is in the center of economic activity. With the 8th best manufacturing climate in the nation, and given the fact that North Little Rock has the state's largest indoor mall and is strategically located within a day's drive of nearly 2/3 of the entire U.S., population, business is good! North Little Rock enjoys a diverse business and industry base which creates a steady-growing local economy. Arkansas ranks among the five lowest states in the nation in overall per capita tax burden.

The city-owned generating facility provides an ample source of affordable power. New businesses benefit from a reduced economic development rate making North Little Rock electricity even more affordable. Even natural gas is cheaper here. The city does not levy a franchise fee making natural gas about 5% cheaper than in neighboring municipalities.

Economic and business development organizations such as the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, the North Little Rock Economic Development Agency, Main Street Argenta, and the Argenta CDC Downtown are helping boost our economy to new levels.

The Chamber plans a new Chamber building "Commerce Corner" at Main and E. Broadway, an attraction of its own welcoming folks entering the city from the Main Street Bridge.

River Rail Trolley Service between North Little Rock and Little Rock (via the Main Street Bridge) calls for service to begin in 2004. New businesses are expected to locate downtown to take advantage of the tourist rider-ship when attractions such as The Clinton Library, Heifer Project International, and the vintage replica streetcars (housed in the Trolley Barn) open in 2004.

Recreation and Entertainment

Located in the center of Arkansas' business and cultural center, North Little Rock offers the most diverse recreation and entertainment venues in the state. Thanks to mild seasonal temperatures, you'll enjoy year-round outdoor activities at places like Burns Park, the second largest municipal park in the nation, with close to 1,600 acres of lighted ball fields, hiking trails, fishing, and a 36-hole championship golf course. Recreational Opportunities abound at North Little Rock's Burns Park as well as Sports Activities along with a unique Urban Equestrian Trail, Scenic River Trail, Emerald Park Mountain Bike, and Multi Use Trails as listed in our 2005 Brochure. (PDF)

The new 17-field soccer complex located between White Oak Bayou and the Arkansas River has irrigated fields, concession facilities, scorekeeper rooms, restrooms, parking for each field, lights, nine pavilions, 25 acres of preserved wetland.

North Shore Riverwalk offers a wide variety of adaptable uses. The Riverwalk offers a picturesque promenade and four-mile pedestrian/bicycle trail featuring the Arkansas River as a backdrop. The site offers event planners a built-in speaker system, amphitheatre pad, utilities and permanent restroom facilities.

The Arkansas River Trail, also known as the Millennium Trail, will soon unite Little Rock and North Little Rock. A bike and pedestrian bridge over the Murray Lock and Dam is expected to be completed in 2004. This fourteen mile trail will offer Little Rock and North Little Rock citizens and visitors a wonderful recreational opportunity.

A 60-foot wide boat launching ramp and fishing pier is located beside the Interstate 30 bridge over the river. This was a result of a joint project with the City of North Little Rock and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.