Focusing on Conway’s Growth

An aerial view of downtown Conway, the recipient of a $1.5 million grant to construct water and sewer infrastructure improvements. (Photo courtesy of Conway Area Chamber of Commerce)

Dear business leaders,

At the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, our work focuses on the places where economic opportunity and placemaking collide. Our niche is convening people for progress. That’s why events like Outlook Conway are so important. It is our chance as business leaders to educate ourselves, reflect on the positive outcomes we enjoy and thoughtfully prepare for the challenges that come with sustaining success.

Population Growth

Every week, new families and professionals choose Conway. Five thousand new residents have moved here within the past five years. They are attracted by exceptional job opportunities and quality of life. But meeting the demands for housing has never been more complicated. An estimated 1,000 new lots are needed to meet five-year demand. That will require ambitious and thoughtful planning for infrastructure and lot development.

Economic Growth

Every day almost 40,000 individuals go to work in Conway. Employment growth here consistently outpaces state and national averages. Last year, our city witnessed nearly 5% wage growth. But many of the shovel-ready sites in Conway have already been developed, and the community must determine where the next generation of employers will land.

Education

Education continues to play a pivotal role in our community’s success. The University of Central Arkansas achieved record freshman enrollment growth last fall. Strategic partnerships between Conway schools and the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton will further align academic pathways with future job markets. But there is a looming enrollment cliff confronting all colleges, and educators at every level will be challenged to innovate at an ever-increasing rate as we prepare young people for the jobs of tomorrow.

Quality of Place

Conway continues to invest in amenities like our new community center, public art and expanded trail systems. But recent citizen surveys identified the desire for increased arts, culture and entertainment amenities as the highest priority. There is a quality of place “arms race” among Conway’s peer cities. Our future relies on our ability to attract and retain not just economic talent — but our own kids and grandkids.