At Tuesday’s regular meeting, the Lowell City Council took a decisive step to support a new family‑focused entertainment venue. An amended resolution was adopted that cuts the road‑improvement development fee for Ozark Adventure Park by half, lowering the charge from $158,550 to roughly $78,000.
Background on the fee and the deferral request
Earlier this year the council approved a payment deferral that would allow the developer to spread the road‑improvement fee over a period of up to 24 months. The request for deferral stemmed from a misunderstanding about when the fee was due and how it should be applied, according to city officials. Both the municipality and the developer said they acted in good faith, and the original agreement was intended to ensure the city ultimately receives the full amount owed.
Details of the amended resolution
During the Tuesday session, council members discussed and voted on an amendment that reduces the fee by 50 percent. Mayor Chris Moore explained that the reduction is expected to free up roughly $78,000 for the business, which can be redirected toward startup costs and getting the park open more quickly.
“It’ll save them, you know, roughly $78,000 in fees,” Moore said. “Hopefully it’ll help them get open quicker.”
The development fee is tied to required road improvements for new construction. Under Arkansas law, developers may either upgrade the roads adjacent to their property or pay a fee in lieu of those upgrades. Mayor Moore noted that if a road in front of a new development does not meet standards, the developer is responsible for bringing it up to code to handle the additional traffic.
Ozark Adventure Park and its expected impact
Ozark Adventure Park is slated for development at 802 S. Goad Springs Road in Lowell. The project is described as a large indoor entertainment center that will offer rides, games, and other attractions aimed at families and visitors from the surrounding region. Mayor Moore expressed optimism that the park will draw new visitors to Lowell and encourage additional businesses to locate in the area.
“Entertainment draws more entertainment,” Moore said, adding that the city hopes other enterprises will follow the park’s example.
While an official opening date has not yet been announced, the fee reduction is seen as a tangible step toward making the project financially viable and accelerating its timeline.
Community response
Local residents and business owners have voiced general support for the park, citing the potential for job creation and increased tourism. No formal opposition was recorded during the council meeting, and the vote proceeded without notable controversy.
The council’s action reflects a broader municipal strategy of using fee adjustments and flexible financing to attract development that aligns with community and economic goals.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
