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RESOLUTION TO ENDORSE THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CROWLEY’S RIDGE PARKWAY.
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WHEREAS, tourism is the world’s largest and fastest growing industry, and is currently surpassed in the United States only by agriculture and manufacturing; AND
WHEREAS, tourism trends include a growing popularity of environmental and heritage tourism, along with increased popularity of driving vacations and more frequent family travel for shorter periods of time; AND
WHEREAS, criteria for designation as a state of national scenic byway require that a proposed route must meet at least one of six intrinsic qualities, including scenic, natural, historic, cultural, archeological, or recreational features; AND
WHEREAS, Crowley’s Ridge, which stretches along eight counties in Eastern Arkansas, possesses all of these intrinsic qualities and is a unique landform that is rich in geological, natural and historic significance and has shaped the rich culture and heritage of the region; AND
WHEREAS, the Delta Studies Center at Arkansas State University is leading efforts to designate a route along the ridge as a scenic byway that would bring commerce into the region, while preserving, developing and promoting our natural and cultural heritage; AND
WHEREAS, such environmental and heritage tourism initiatives are compatible with the largely agricultural base of the Eastern Arkansas region and can be operated under local control, with benefits being retained in the local communities; AND
WHEREAS, Jonesboro is the county seat of Craighead County and is located on Crowley’s Ridge, and Crowley’s Ridge Park is among four state parks, one national forest, several county parks and numerous municipal parks along the ridge.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of Jonesboro, Arkansas supports and endorses the establishment of a Crowley’s Ridge Parkway and will participate as a partner in identifying, developing and implementing tourism initiatives for economic development throughout the Arkansas Delta region.
PASSED AND ADOPTED the 5th day of May, 1997.