In what’s become an annual tradition, the Arkansas Times recently solicited suggestions from readers and experts from across the spectrum on how to make Arkansas a better place to live. In keeping with the results of the past two years, the suggestions have been downright inspirational. Ideas range from pragmatic policy considerations (consider racial disparity in the criminal justice system, stop tearing down old buildings) to the visionary (build an iconic performing arts center, reconnect the Old State House to the Arkansas River). See them all here.
Separately, we’ve highlighted two big ideas that already have juice behind them: new University of Arkansas System President Donald Bobbitt’s vision for expanding online education throughout the system and consultant and venture capitalist Kristian Andersen’s plan to keep talented Arkansas university graduates in the state.
Utilize holistic defense in the justice system
By Cory Biggs
Rethink the Arkansas Highway Commission
By Tim McKuin
Memorialize racial atrocities
By Guy Lancaster
Consider racial disparity in the criminal justice system
By Adjoa A. Aiyetoro
Close off Clinton Avenue in the River Market on weekend nights and create a health care program for Little Rock artists and musicians
By Grayson Shelton
Reconnect the Old State House to the Riverfront
By Mason Ellis
Embrace naturism
By John Bryant
Make registering to vote easier
By Gary Phillips
Build an iconic performing arts center
By Philip Mann
Encourage a gap year between high school and college for travel
By Nikki Beard
Volunteer
By Fernando Cutz
Stop tearing down old buildings
By Vanessa Norton McKuin
Replace stairs with slides at every school
By Max Green
No more buyouts
By Eric Francis