Downtown Bentonville: Construction, Growth, and What’s Coming Next

Downtown Bentonville continues to evolve rapidly — blending historic preservation with forward-looking growth that enhances both community life and visitor appeal. From major mixed-use developments to infrastructure improvements and cultural expansions, Bentonville’s downtown core is transforming into a more dynamic, walkable, and mixed-use urban hub.

1. Major Mixed-Use Development on the Square (Underway in 2026)

One of the most anticipated projects in downtown Bentonville is a mixed-use development on the north side of Bentonville Square led by Blue Crane and Riverside. This project is planned for Second Street (between NE A and North Main) and will:

• Introduce new residential units right near the square

• Add commercial and retail spaces at street level

• Include an underground parking garage to preserve walkability

• Respect the historic character of the Square by preserving key architectural elements — including the historic Benton County Jail as part of the design

Construction prep is already underway, with utility relocation beginning prior to construction scheduled to start in early 2026. Downtown Bentonville+1

This development is a centerpiece for downtown’s future — combining housing, shopping, and pedestrian-oriented design that encourages residents and visitors to live, work, and play in the heart of Bentonville.

2. The A Street Project: A New Pedestrian Spine

The A Street Project is a multi-block downtown infrastructure effort focused on pedestrian mobility and urban placemaking. Phase 1 has already commenced near Lawrence Plaza and extends southward for over four blocks.

Key goals include:

• A pedestrian-only promenade linking key downtown destinations

• Improved streetscapes and access to shops, dining, public art, and plazas

• Enhanced connectivity for walking and biking within the core district

This project reflects Bentonville’s commitment to making downtown more inviting and accessible for everyday life and events.

3. Hospitality and Retail Growth

Bentonville’s downtown isn’t just about offices and apartments — hospitality and retail offerings are expanding too.

One standout addition is:

• The Compton Hotel, a boutique property with approximately 142 guest rooms, multiple restaurants, bar space, and event facilities. Developed by Blue Crane, this project adds depth to Bentonville’s hospitality market — signaling confidence in downtown as both a local and regional destination.

Retail and café openings (including outposts like Marrs on Main) also reflect a growing creative, artisanal retail scene that complements the downtown experience.

4. Cultural & Institutional Expansion Nearby

While not strictly inside the downtown grid, several major projects near Bentonville’s core help extend its cultural and tourist appeal:

• Crystal Bridges Museum Expansion — A significant enlargement of gallery and engagement space is underway, with completion expected in 2026, enhancing downtown’s cultural draw and community programming. Crystal Bridges

• Destination Master Plan — A long-range framework aligned with Visit Bentonville aims to strategically guide tourism, mobility, and placemaking for the region — with downtown playing a central role in economic vitality and visitor experience. Visit Bentonville

These investments emphasize the city’s long-term vision for a vibrant urban core that supports culture, education, and tourism.

5. Traffic, Streets, and Connectivity Improvements

Bentonville continues investing in street improvements and connectivity that benefit downtown and region-wide access. Projects like the NE J Street extension and new interchange at I-49 are underway under a city bond initiative, enhancing access between the interstate and major cultural attractions — including downtown, Crystal Bridges, and the Scott Family Amazeum.

While not exclusively about downtown, these infrastructure upgrades ease movement across the region and support increased visitation and local commuting.

6. Supporting Office & Economic Growth

Significant redevelopment around Bentonville now also extends to office conversion and adaptive reuse. Recent renovations of buildings such as the Bentonville Plaza rebranded to Blume are transforming older office inventory into modern workspaces that accommodate local businesses, remote workers, and regional employers. Talk Business & Politics

This trend strengthens downtown’s role as a work/play/live destination — not just a weekend or tourist hub.

What This Means for Residents & Visitors

Downtown Bentonville in 2026 is at an exciting inflection point:

• Housing diversity is increasing with more downtown living options

• Hospitality and retail offerings are expanding, boosting nightlife and tourism

• Pedestrian-friendly streetscapes are improving the public realm

• Cultural institutions are growing, attracting year-round visitation

• Infrastructure projects are enhancing access and connectivity

Collectively, these efforts are shaping a more integrated, vibrant urban core that balances historic preservation with contemporary community needs.