Beyond the Line Fall 2021

Beyond the Line Fall 2021

T E X A R K ANA US A R EG I ONA L CHAMB E R O F COMME RC E COMMUN I T Y D I R EC TORY

FA L L 202 1

10 LIVING ON THE LINE 20 2 CITIES, 1 VOICE 32 EDUCATION FOR ALL 44 HEALTHCARE HUB 50 YOUR CHAMBER TEXARKANA USA REG IONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COMMUN I TY D I RECTORY CONTENTS

819 NORTH STATE LINE AVENUE TEXARKANA, TEXAS 75501 903-792-7191 TEXARKANA.ORG

CHAMBER STAFF Michael Malone, IOM, CCE President and Chief Executive Officer Natalie Haywood Director of Events and Communications Robbin Bass Director of Business Retention and Expansion Amber Adams Director of Partnership Development Greg Stone Office Manager Since being established in 1905, the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce has been a partnership of businesses, organizations and professionals working together to build a healthy economy and improve the quality of life in the community. To accomplish these goals we are active in many roles including economic developer, community planner, tourism hospitality resource, business spokesperson, economic counselor, government relations specialist, human resources adviser and public relations practitioner. The Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce is run by its members. Members elect a board of directors who determines policies and sets goals. The 2021 Chairman of the Board, Jennifer Harland, is the chief elected officer who presides over all board meetings. The chamber’s day-to-day operations are handled by the President and CEO, Michael Malone, who employs a team of professionals who assist the Board of Directors in accomplishing its goals. Contact us for more information about the opportunities and benefits of Chamber membership at texarkana.org.

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TEXARKANA USA REG IONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COMMUN I TY D I RECTORY CONTENTS

819 NORTH STATE LINE AVENUE TEXARKANA, TEXAS 75501 903-792-7191 TEXARKANA.ORG

RESOURCES

PUBLISHED BY Cardinal Publishing PROJECT MANAGEMENT BY

8 Famously Texarkana

16 A Sight to See

903-949-1460 • www.txkmag.com PHOTOGRAPHY Matt Cornelius Mary Cyrus Kyle DeLaughter Kara Humphrey Rodney Love EDITORIAL/DESIGN/SPONSORSHIPS Matt Cornelius Britt Earnest Kara Humphrey Cassy Meisenheimer Leah Orr Terri Sandefur Beyond the Line , the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce Community Directory is published twice yearly by Cardinal Publishing. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. Information in this directory is gathered from various sources and every effort has been made to ensure accuracy. The publisher assumes no responsibility for omissions, errors or misinformation. Please contact the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce with any additions or corrections. ON THE COVER Over the last few years, Texarkana’s downtown buildings have become works of art thanks to the talent of our local artists. The newest addition to the city’s portfolio is the incredible balloon mural, by Jes Weiner, on the corner of Third and Main Streets. This mylar balloon mural trend was first painted by Stockholm, Sweden artist, Daniel Fahlstrom and has been the inspiration for other mural artists such as Jessica Haas (@jessicakhaas) and Tino Ortega (@ortegtino). These fun murals can be found across the USA, including New York City, Los Angeles, Nashville, Austin and now Texarkana!

18 Community Vitals

29 Community Partner

30 Economic Vitals

32 Education by the Numbers

53 Chamber Benefits

54 Chamber President Letter

54 Chamber Chairman Letter

56 Chamber Programs and Events

61 Chamber Award Winners

63 Member Directory

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TEXARKANA

Joe Anderson , NFL Player Miller Barber , Professional Golfer and Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame Jesse Belvin , Rock and Roll Singer, Pianist and Songwriter

Jarrion Lawson , Sprinter and Long Jumper

“It’s a great small town and I was blessed to grow up in a place with a strong sense of community—where people genuinely cared about one another and helped each other.”

Joshua Logan III , Stage and Film Director—Pulitzer Prize Winner Ryan Mallett , NFL Player Edwin “Eddie” Matthews , MLB Player and National Baseball Hall of Fame Durwood Merrill , MLB Umpire Will Middlebrooks , MLB Player Craig “C. Mo” Monroe , MLB Player Mac Morgan , Bass Baritone Singer Dustin Moseley , MLB Player Ross Perot , Businessman, Billionaire, Philanthropist and Presidential Candidate in 1992 and 1996 Molly C. Quinn , Actor Collin Raye , Country Music Singer Ben Rice , Grammy Winning Record Producer, Vocal Producer, Musician and Mix Engineer Bill Rogers , Professional Golfer Sarah Huckabee Sanders , White House Press Secretary and Candidate for Governor of Arkansas Dame Marjorie Morris Scardino , Publisher and Businesswoman Billy Sims , Heisman Winner and NFL Player A. Maceo Smith , Pioneer Civil Rights Leader Harmonica Slim , American Blues Harmonicist, Singer and Songwriter Rod Smith , NFL Player Gunnar Stansson , Screenwriter Drew Stubbs , MLB Player Jeremiah Trotter , NFL Player Nathan Vasher , NFL Player Michael Wacha , MLB Player Frank D. White , Former Governor of Arkansas Dr. Otis Williams , Co-founder of The Temptations

J.B. Bobo , Magician Dan Blocker , Actor Tra Carson , NFL Player

Bessie Coleman , First African American Woman Airplane Pilot David Crowder , Musician Ellen DeGeneres , Comedian, Television Host, Actress, Writer and Producer Dorothea Church , Model Nancy Curtis , Opera Singer Carl Finch , Grammy Winning Musician Ocielia Gibson , Speaker and Author William “Bill” Glass , NFL Player and College Football Hall of Fame Kenny Graham , AFL and NFL Player Corinne Griffith , Actress, Producer and Author Jessica Haas , Speed Painter Cobi Hamilton , NFL Player Slade Heathcott , MLB Player Rich Houston , NFL Player Mike Huckabee , Former Governor of Arkansas, Presidential Candidate and Television Host LaMichael James , NFL Player Jacque “Jack” Jenkins , NFL Player Brandon Jones , NFL Player Nate Jones , NFL Player Parnelli Jones , Professional Race Car Driver and Racing Team Owner Scott Joplin , Composer and Pianist Jeff Keith , Musician

Sarah Huckabee Sanders TXK Roots— Texarkana Magazin e

“(Texarkana was) a good place to grow up. It was a

small town, but big enough to ‘spread your wings’ a little.” Collin Raye TXK Roots— Texarkana Magazin e

“I am just grateful that I had such a fun childhood in Texarkana. It’s the little things… I don’t take that for granted.”

Molly C. Quinn TXK Roots— Texarkana Magazin e

“It was a great town to grow up in as a young kid because the pace of life was slow, and I was surrounded by so much love from my grandparents and family.” Dr. Otis Williams TXK Roots— Texarkana Magazin e

Gary Kusin , Entrepreneur Tracy Lawrence , Country Music Singer

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NICEST PLACE TO LIVE READERS DIGEST

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There’s no other place like Texarkana. It is all the beauty of Arkansas and the hospitality of Texas rolled into a perfect Twin City package. A diverse community of friendly people, low cost of living, flourishing job market, affordable housing, beautiful parks and first-class educational choices of fer Texarkana residents countless opportunities on both sides of the state line. Texarkana was voted Nicest Place to Live in Texas and Arkansas by Reader’s Digest , who picks one place from each state that “exemplifies kindness and civility in a time of American divisiveness.” Texarkana offers the perfect balance of small-town community living with the excitement of burgeoning opportunity and development. It is that balance, along with our convenient location along I-30, that draws people to this area and provides the safety and security of home-sweet-home.

Don’t let the state line fool you. Though Texarkana operates as two separately functioning cities, the divide is only geographical. There is a longstanding tradition of cooperation and collaboration that unites the people and continues to build a firm foundation for the future of Texarkana. First settled in 1873, Texarkana made its start as a railroad town. Since that time, the city has grown into a place with as much diversity in business as is represented by more than 149,000 residents across the Texarkana Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). Bowie County, Texas and Miller County, Arkansas, which comprise the MSA, offer a wide variety of attractions, recreational oppor tunities, parks, entertainment, food, shopping and fun for everyone!

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CITY STAPLES & COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT Texarkana offers all the commercial and specialty stores you have come to depend on no matter where you travel: Target, Sam’s Club, Home Depot, Old Navy and Bed Bath & Beyond to name a few. The restaurant offerings include a wide variety of options from the wildly popular Texas Roadhouse and On the Border, to locally owned favorites such as Ironwood Grill and Twisted Fork Grill and Lounge. Each establishment boasts a distinctly unique atmosphere and diversity of food choices that provide everyone their preferred dining experience. The entertainment and recreational opportunities include a 14-screen Cinemark Movie Theater, trampoline park, bowling center and golf courses. Holiday Springs Water Park features a lazy river, water slides, a wave pool and much more. Open the entire summer, this is an option guaranteed to help you beat the heat. Locally owned businesses are the cornerstone of Texarkana. Our unique character has been built by the businesses operating in our city. As members of our community, Texarkana’s local business owners share the values and needs of their friends and neighbors and are committed to meeting those needs with friendly, hometown customer service. Whether it’s Merchant House Interiors, Fan Fare Gifts & Boutique, Four States Furniture or Redbone Magic Brewing, Texarkana is home to many quality local businesses and restaurants, stimulating our economy and supporting our residents.

LOCAL VIBES

The beauty of Texarkana’s homes and neighborhoods is hard to match. Craftsmanship and style, along with large yards and canopies of trees draw new residents to the city’s historic homes. These classic homes offer a look into the character of Texarkana in days gone by, and the restoration of so many gems has brought them back to their former glory. As we continue to expand, quality new builds and modern landscapes bring an excitement to home buyers as well. The twin cities area is home to many beautiful and safe neighborhoods, along with apartment living and multi-unit communities. This variety offers affordable options to all Texarkana residents. Residents enjoy the fishing, walking trails and playgrounds of our beautiful parks including Spring Lake Park, Bringle Lake Park and Bobby Ferguson Park. You can find a spring-fed lake, open green spaces, playgrounds, walking and bike trails, a disc golf course and covered picnic areas. It’s the perfect way to spend a Texarkana weekend. Swanger Sports Complex, which hosts Texarkana Dixie Baseball, Dobson Field, home of The Texas A&M–Texarkana Eagles, and the Ed Worrell Baseball Park bring city sports to the upcoming athletes and superstars of our area. On a hot summer day, Spring Lake Park’s Rotary Splash Pad provides cooling relief with its 18 water structures. There’s even space for man’s best friend to enjoy safe and secure outdoor locations as they run and play in the Kylee Sullivan-Pet Safe and PetSafe JefFURson Dog Parks. Whether it’s fishing in the lakes or watching Movies in the Park, Texarkana offers great options for the perfect outdoor retreat.

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WHERE IT ALL BEGAN From Texarkana’s inception, the downtown area has been at its heart. Today, driven by the arts, downtown is alive with the murals of local artists. There are four museums, the Texarkana Regional Arts Center and historical buildings that tell the story of Texarkana’s past. Fully restored in 1979 and 1980, the beautiful and historic Perot Theatre plays host to a variety of spectacular concerts and theatre productions. It is also the home of The Texarkana Symphony Orchestra, which enhances and richly expands Texarkana’s musical culture. The state line running through Texarkana runs right through the middle of one of Downtown’s most notable attractions. State Line Post Office and Federal Courthouse is unique in that it is located in both Texas and Arkansas. The building even has two zip codes! It has become the second most photographed United States courthouse, following only the Supreme Court building in Washington D.C. It is not uncommon to see visitors and natives alike taking family photos in front of the iconic sign with the well-known building serving as the backdrop, one foot in Texas and the other in Arkansas. Residents and visitors can experience great food, drinks, live music and more in Texarkana’s Entertainment Districts, where open containers are approved for guests ages 21 and older in the public spaces within the districts’ boundaries. Many of downtown’s most notable and loved restaurants can be counted on to provide the perfect mixed drinks and locally craf ted beers to spice up your nights. Many Texarkana residents also call the downtown area home. Beautiful loft apartments are scattered throughout downtown, and residents can enjoy the city’s best food and entertainment right outside their doors. As downtown revitalization efforts continue, more living accommodations will be available and will be the perfect place for those who want to stay in the middle of all the action.

INDUSTRY& EXPANSION When traveling around town, you immediately notice the growth and development of Texarkana. The cities have what it takes and are ideally located, affordable and offer a pro-business treasure trove of possibility. The manufacturing jobs of Cooper Tire and Rubber Company and the department of defense personnel by Red River Army Depot have offered employment opportunities with competitive salaries for the citizens of Texarkana for many years. These businesses and many others are continuing to draw new people and take advantage of the potential of Texarkana’s growing community. You find even more opportunities traveling around town including locations for a day of golf and plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy year-round. New Haven Golf Club, Oak Grove Golf Club and Texarkana Country Club all offer beautiful options for the most enthusiastic golfer. All around town, golfers can take their pick between a variety of courses. Finally, Texarkana offers great choices for the sportsman and hunter of the family. The fishing at Millwood Lake and Lake Wright Patman cannot be beat. These lakes are perfect for hiking, skiing, camping and swimming as well. A day at the lake is always a good day and Texarkana has several beautiful options.

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Kidtopia and Skatetopia Park 201 Oak Street • Texarkana, Texas

World War I Memorial Sheppard Park • 6th and Olive Streets • Texarkana, Texas

Kidtopia Park is a wooden playground designed by kids for kids. It features some of Texarkana’s most famous landmarks, just twice the fun of the real things! Skatetopia Park is adjacent to Kidtopia. Built completely from custom concrete, this park is made for users of all skill levels. Museum of Regional History 219 North State Line Avenue • Texarkana, Texas Housed in the city’s oldest brick building, it serves as the Texarkana Arts and Historic District Visitor’s Center, welcoming you with information on locations and events in downtown Texarkana that you do not want to miss on your visit.

A memorial to the men from Bowie County, Texas and Miller County, Arkansas, who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of their country in the World War 1917-1918. Erected by the Texarkana Memorial Unit, an organization of women banded together to honor their loyalty, their service and their devotion. Texarkana Public Library 600 West 3rd Street • Texarkana, Texas The library has over 100,000 materials available for check-out that include books, compact discs, videos, DVDs, digital audio books, magazines and downloadable audio books. In addition to these items, thousands of people enter the library to utilize print and electronic reference resources, access the Internet, checkout a laptop in house, enjoy free Wi-Fi service, make copies, send a fax, participate in computer and Internet training or attend one of the Library’s events.

PHOTOS BY MATT CORNELIUS

DOWNTOWN

Texarkana Regional Arts Center (TRAHC) 321 West 4th Street • Texarkana, Texas The beautifully renovated Regional Arts Center began life in 1909 as a United States District Courthouse. The old courtroom is now a grand hall with a 26-foot-high ceiling. National touring art exhibitions grace gallery walls 12 months a year, and the halls ring out when the rolls are playing on the unique reproducing player piano. The Center also features “For Arts Sake” Gift Shop filled with unique gifts. It’s not to be missed.

Ace of Clubs House 420 Pine Street • Texarkana, Texas A living museum, the 22-sided house was built with the winnings from a poker game. Legend has it that James H. Draughon’s winning card was the ace of clubs. Architecturally unique, the Italianate Victorian home is most notable for its three octagonal wings and one rectangular wing that join to form the distinct shape of a “club.” P.J. Ahern House 403 Laurel Street • Texarkana, Arkansas Placed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Classical Revival style home was built in 1906 by P.J. Ahern and serves as museum and event venue.

Photographer’s Island 500 North State Line Avenue • Texarkana, USA The United States Post Office and Courthouse, also known as Texarkana U.S. Post Office and Federal Building is located on State Line Avenue in Texarkana, straddling the border between Arkansas and Texas. The Post Office is so unique that it has been noted to be the 2nd most photographed Post Office in the United States!

TRAHC ArtSpark and Art Wall 4th Street between Texas Boulevard and Main Street • Texarkana, Texas A relaxing green space with revolving events and art displays.

Scott Joplin Mural Third & Main Streets • Texarkana, Texas A mural honoring Texarkana’s most famous son, Ragtime composer Scott Joplin. Kress Gap Murals 116 West Broad Street • Texarkana, Texas What was formerly the Kress Department Store, has now become charming and colorful murals, bringing life to the abandoned space. Union Station 101 Front Street • Texarkana, Arkansas Union Station sits diagonally on the Arkansas- Texas state line. The building is the current home to Amtrak. Drive by and see this historic treasure.

1894 Gallery 105 Olive Street • Texarkana, Arkansas Located inside the historic 1894 City Market. It’s the place for local and regional art. The historic setting and the floating walls of art makes this truly a must- see for art lovers and architectural appreciation. Four States Auto Museum 217 Laurel Street • Texarkana, Arkansas Automobile museum that exhibits, restores and operates appropriate pieces of automotive equipment and displays static exhibits which provide educational and recreational experiences. Through programs, lectures, publications, research library and special events, the museum augments its efforts to provide a meaningful educational experience for its visitors and those who use it as a resource.

Perot Theatre 219 Main Street • Texarkana, Texas A jewel of the region, bringing the best of Broadway, classical music, ballet, jazz, modern dance and more to Texarkana. First opened in 1924 as the Saenger Theatre, Emil Weil’s Italian Renaissance design is an architectural marvel. Throughout the year, the Perot Theatre Series brings national and international productions to the region and tours are available year-round.

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Front Street Caboose Front Street Festival Plaza • Wood and Broad Streets • Texarkana, Arkansas This nifty old fifty-ton caboose was donated by Union Pacific Railroad to Texarkana in 2015. The 1979 Southern Pacific caboose was restored and placed in Front Street Plaza to serve as a symbol and celebration of Texarkana’s relationship with the railroad.

The Otis Henry Memorial at Rose Hill Cemetery

Bringle Lake Wilderness Area 7500 Bringle Lake Road • Texarkana, Texas Has approximately 144 acres that has been set aside as a nature area. This area also includes a bike/walk trail that begins at Bringle Lake East and runs to the Waterworks Spillway. There is also a single mountain bike trail that twists throughout the wilderness area.

100 South Lelia Street • Texarkana, Texas One of the oldest cemeteries in Texarkana. Founded as “city cemetery” in 1874, the Rose Hill cemetery and memorial lawn is the final resting place for several of Texarkana’s pioneers, forebears and veterans dating back to the Civil War. One of the most arresting WWI statues in Texas is a four-figured marble memorial for Corporal Otis Henry. A generic statue of a soldier throwing a grenade stands above a statue of the civilian Otis Henry flanked by two angels.

George Tobolowsky Sculpture Roundabout on Gibson Lane • Texarkana, Texas Tobolowsky creates steel and stainless steel sculptures by welding together unique objects, such as scrap metal and industrial parts. AROUND TOWN Four States Fair Ag Learning Center 3700 East 50th Street • Texarkana, Arkansas This is your only chance to visit the home of Miss Moo. The Four States Fair, in partnership with The Southeast United Dairy Industry Association (SUDIA), promotes dairy education and agricultural awareness in children. The center is the first of its kind in Arkansas and in the four states region. Lake Wright Patman Off U.S. Highway 59 South Activities include camping, picnicking, fishing (Catfish, Crappie, Perch, Bass), hiking, boating, canoeing, swimming and bird watching. Rocky Creek Outdoors 4001 South State Line Avenue Texarkana, Arkansas Located on 80 acres just outside of the Texarkana city limits, offers trap, skeet, 13-station sporting clay course, five-stand warm up facility, 3D archery course, 100-yard rifle range with four booths, and a 25-yard pistol range with five booths. Legendary Firearm’s Indoor Gun Range 101 Slaton Drive • Nash, Texas Indoor gun range in the Texarkana area, located just west of Nash on Highway 82 offering four lanes at 25 yards, all indoors and climate-controlled. With a classroom for safety, LTC and NRA training. Millwood Lake U.S. Highway 71 North to Ashdown, Arkansas This is the place for serious bass fishing. A series of boat lanes meanders through submerged timber, marshes and oxbow cutoffs making it an outstanding fishing destination. This 29,260-acre lake abounds in largemouth bass, catfish and crappie. Birding is also popular at this Audubon- designated Important Bird Area with sightings of over 300 of Arkansas’ 400 species on record.

Arkansas Municipal Auditorium East 3rd and Walnut Street • Texarkana, Arkansas Built in the 1920s, the Texarkana Municipal Auditorium saw its heyday in the mid-twentieth century. Visit the Municipal Auditorium to hear more about the architecture and the history of the building. Walk of Fame Park 416 East 3rd Street • Texarkana, Arkansas The Walk of Fame Park was built by the Arkansas Municipal Auditorium Commission to honor the people that performed on the stage in the Historic Arkansas Municipal Auditorium (AMA) since its opening in 1930. The AMA was one of the stops of many music legends that include Elvis, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jim Ed Brown.

Texarkana Historical Tour 819 North State Line Avenue • Texarkana, Texas See Texarkana in a brand new light with the Texarkana Historical Tour, a short, self-guided audio tour that showcases the character of the Texarkana community. Start at the Chamber of Commerce on State Line Avenue with your map and your audio guide. Slip back in time as you learn fun facts, bits of history and begin to see the city as architects, historians and artists do, as you tour in and around downtown Perot Leadership Museum 1024 Tucker Street • Texarkana, Texas The permanent exhibit is a composite replica of Gabriel Ross Perot’s cotton office, which a young H. Ross Perot helped his father build. Learn about the art of cotton buying and check out artifacts from a bygone era in this permanent exhibition.

Discovery Place Children’s Museum 215 Pine Street • Texarkana, Texas The area’s best hands-on children’s museum has a one-of-a-kind 12 foot sound wall, giant prehistoric animal murals and a living science lab. A special dress-up theatre and tot spot for the younger ones make this an attraction for the entire family. MIDTOWN Spring Lake Park 4303 North Park Road • Texarkana, Texas The heart and pride of the Texarkana, Texas park system. This 145-acre park features a spring fed lake, open green spaces with picnic areas, playground units, fishing piers and an 18-hole disc golf course. The 1.75 mile Phillip McDougal Walking/ Biking Trail strolls throughout the entire park and is a favorite spot for the recreational or avid jogger. James Bowie Centennial Statue 800 State Line Avenue • Texarkana, Texas One of the 14 statues erected for the 1936 Texas Centennial celebration, this larger-than- life bronze was designed by sculptor William M. McVey with W.W. Watkins providing the design for the Marble Falls granite base.

Majestic Magnolia 4700 County Avenue • Texarkana, Arkansas The largest magnolia tree in Arkansas is estimated to be 185 years old. The tree is 16 feet, 7 inches in diameter, 61 feet tall and has an 82-foot wing span. Certified Arkansas’ largest Magnolia by the Arkansas Forestry Commission. UPTOWN Bringle Lake Art Park Located along Bringle Lake Wilderness Trail 7500 Bringle Lake Road • Texarkana, Texas Tucked away along the Bringle Lake Wilderness Trail near the Waterworks Spillway is home to walls of murals and a pathway of colorful sidewalks painted by locals. This spot is popular for recreational activities and located mid-way through the trail system.

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32 246 14+ 7 2 2 Dog Parks

Churches

Recreation Areas

Festivals and Community Gatherings

Community Centers

Entertainment Districts

UNDER 5 6.6% 5-9 YEARS 6.7%

50.2% Male

OVER 65 14.3%

2000

137,486

10-14 YEARS 6.8%

Population History

2010

49.8% Female

45-54 YEARS 14.2%

149,198

Projected Population 2023

15-24 YEARS 12.9%

155,206

55-64 YEARS 12.3%

71.5 Square Miles (city limits) Twice as Nice

25-34 YEARS 13.2%

35-44 YEARS 13.0%

RECREATION AREAS ARKANSAS Bobby Ferguson Park Bramble Park

TEXAS Bell Park

32

Beverly Park Bringle Lake

Ed Worrell Baseball Park Ermer Dansby Pondexter Sports Complex Four States Fairground Iron Mountain Park

Bringle Lake Park East Bringle Lake Park West Bringle Lake Wilderness Area Collins Senior Center Ferguson Park Findley Park Grady T. Wallace Park Karrh Park Kidtopia/Skatetopia Kylee Sullivan Dog Park Lake Wright Patman Rotary Splash Pad Scott Joplin Park Southwest Community Center Spring Lake Park

Jeerson Park Millwood Lake

PetSafe JefFURson Dog Park Sandat Glendale Shannon Neighborhood Center

Senator Street Park Vera Bradeld Park

2

15+ Miles of O-Road Bike Trails

4 Public Golf Courses

Private Golf Courses & Country Clubs Northridge Country Club Texarkana Country Club

New Haven Golf Club Oak Grove Golf Club Texarkana Golf Ranch The Links

Population | 153,008

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2 CITIES 1 VISION

Quality of life is determined by more than great places to eat and entertainment options. It also depends on the economy, business opportunities, housing, cost of living and transportation of a city. Easily accessed and perfectly situated between Dallas and Little Rock, along Interstate 30, the twin cities of Texarkana, Arkansas and Texarkana, Texas, have always been a central source of metropolitan conveniences, commerce, and transport to the surrounding region. With the urban cities of Dallas, Texas 167 miles west and Little Rock, Arkansas only 140 miles east, Texarkana is a gateway for trade and is accessed conveniently through a nexus of highways, railways, trucking lines, freight carriers, bus lines and airports. The twin cities cover 70 square miles and are key players in the commerce of the region.

LOW COST OF LIVING KIPLINGER

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ECONOMY AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES As Texarkana grows, the cities’ leaders intentionally take steps to continually improve the day-to-day lives of their citizens and those who will come in the future. Success for the city will mean building an economically strong, business friendly environment poised to welcome new industry. The combined population of the twin cities is over 60,000 but includes a market of more than 149,000 people across the Texarkana TX-AR Metropolitan Statistical Area. Among these individuals is a dedicated and skilled workforce with a strong work ethic, resulting in successful operation and continued growth in several industries. Unemployment rates are comparable to the national average, but as our population benefits from a lower cost of living, residents can thrive in this economic climate. Location is key when considering opportunities for business in Texarkana. Access to key markets from the Midwest to the Gulf Coast, made convenient by our proximity to several major interstates, gives Texarkana an edge in drawing opportunity. With access to Texarkana College and University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana, along with a four-year university, Texas A&M-Texarkana, and a state medical school, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences-Southwest, the training of qualified employees is easily within our reach. Add to all of that a dedicated and skilled labor force, and you begin to recognize all the potential of the area. According to Kiplinger’s magazine, Texarkana ranks number 17 in their top 25 most affordable cities in the United States to live. The twin cities have a cost-of-living percentage that is 13.4% lower than the national average. Median household incomes are about $45,000 and the unemployment rate as of December 2020, was 5.9% compared to the national average of 6.7%. With beautiful neighborhoods and affordable housing options, from large historic homes and modern new builds to apartment and multi-family units, or trendy downtown lofts, Texarkana has the perfect home for every taste. As housing costs make up a large portion of every budget, Texarkana can boast housing rates at just over half the national average. You can find beautiful farmland for quiet country living, take advantage of the charms of suburbia near neighborhood schools and churches, or experience the excitement of nightlife right outside your door with downtown living. Communities of friendly neighbors and the safety of our police patrolled streets, Texarkana, Arkansas or Texas is a great place to call home. HOUSING AND COST OF LIVING

The Texarkana Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Council is powered by community

volunteers that have a passion to see growth in the regional economy. Communities grow when business activity expands, and it is the existing businesses that drive that economic expansion. The goal of the Business Retention & Expansion program is to assist businesses by removing any roadblocks in the way of business growth and to elevate the ability of businesses to grow exponentially. We would like to thank each business and individual that financially supports the Chamber EDC [Economic Development Council] and rest assured we are putting the funds to good use. We would also like to thank the EDC Board for all their hard work and dedication in seeing the BR&E program come to fruition and for all their efforts to make it a strong asset for the business community in the Texarkana Region.

Scott Norton, Chair, Economic Development Executive Committee

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The new terminal will contribute to positive economic development in Texarkana and will benefit the entire Ark-La-Tex region. It is a crucial investment in Texarkana Regional Airport’s infrastructure and comprehensive goal to provide an overall better airport experience for our passengers.”

TEXARKANA REGIONAL AIRPORT

The Texarkana Regional Airport Authority recently broke ground on a new 40,000 square-foot passenger terminal at a cost of $36 million. The existing passenger terminal was constructed in 1960 and was last renovated in 1992. Over time, aviation travel has increased and prompted the need for a larger facility to meet the travel demand of the flying public. With expansion in progress, a more modern and appealing facility for passengers will be brought to life. The location of the new passenger terminal will be across the airfield from the existing facility and adjacent to the airport’s Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Station. This location allows for a more streamlined entryway and direct access to Interstate 49. Amenities will include room for concessions, expansion opportunities for more airlines/destinations, and opportunities for facility growth. The new passenger terminal will also contain two enclosed passenger boarding bridges, something the airport has never had. In addition to an updated modern look, the aesthetics of the new passenger terminal were designed to complement the natural state of its location by showcasing many timber finishes and giving the public a relaxing experience. While the COVID-19 pandemic presented some unprecedented challenges for the airport, passenger travel has returned with a boom for the airport in 2021, recovering around 92% of its pre-pandemic levels. Enplanements in 2019 hit record highs, and airport management is encouraged to see high airport utilization from the Texarkana community. Moving forward with the new terminal shows the airport is committed to providing first-class service for our leisure and business community as they continue to support the airport. Economic growth of the surrounding area has continued to increase substantially over the past decade, and the Texarkana Regional Airport Authority has committed the airport’s agenda to expanding its operation to keep up with demand. By having state-of-the-art facilities that can expand in the future, the Texarkana Regional Airport Authority is confident airport users will increase, and more businesses will be drawn to the area who trust in the airport to meet their needs and help them succeed. The terminal project is being funded by federal grants, the cities of Texarkana, Arkansas and Texarkana, Texas, the Texas Department of Transportation, Arkansas Department of Aeronautics, and passenger facility charges. Construction is projected to be completed in the Spring of 2024.

Paul Mehrlich, Executive Director, Texarkana Regional Airport

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The cornerstone of the ACT ® Work Ready Communities are the ACT® WorkKeys® Assessments that consist of applied math, graphic literacy, and workplace documents. Students who successfully complete the three WorkKeys® Assessments earn the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC). The WorkKeys NCRC is designed to complement other traditional credentials, such as a high school diploma, community college degree, or technical certificate using the results of the WorkKeys Assessments. The NCRC is a portable credential with no expiration date; it verifies to employers that a student possesses the workplace skills needed to be successful. Texarkana Arkansas School District (TASD) is proud to be a part of the process of helping to create a talent pipeline in our region to support economic development by utilizing the ACT WorkKeys curriculum and the NCRC certification so students can be job ready upon graduation from high school.” Dr. Robin Hickerson, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education, TASD

WORK READY COMMUNITIES The Texarkana USA Chamber of Commerce has joined forces with Miller and Bowie County, regional economic developers, employers and educational institutions to become certified ACT® Work Ready Communities (ACT® WRC). To begin the Work Ready Communities process, community leaders attended the ACT® Work Ready Communities Boot Camp, an executive leadership and training program designed and led by ACT to initiate, deploy, and drive carefully tailored efforts to improve the county’s work readiness. Leaders meet with local employers, policymakers, educators, and economic developers to reach established goals and build a sustainable WRC model to fit community needs. Work Ready Communities are those in which economic developers, employers, and educational institutions partner to determine skill gaps and use the ACT® WorkKeys® Assessments to help close the gaps in workforce. Employers and Educators are the fuel to drive successful state and county Work Ready Communities initiatives simply by recognizing the ACT® WorkKeys® National Career Readiness Certificate®. And in doing so, they will have a more qualified workforce ready to fill their jobs. SHOW YOUR SUPPORT Register your company on the ACT Work Ready Communities website. www.workreadycommunities.org/employers RECOGNIZE Your company acknowledges WorkKeys as a valuable indicator of workforce skills.

RECOMMEND Your company gives preference in hiring/promotions to candidates who have attained the ACT® WorkKeys® NCRC®.

This initiative empowers regions and counties with >Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76 Page 77 Page 78 Page 79 Page 80 Page 81 Page 82 Page 83 Page 84

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