Jonesboro, AR – (Contributed) – How should Jonesboro grow over the next 30 years, and how can the community make sure that growth strengthens what people value most? Those questions are at the heart of Plan Jonesboro, the city’s new comprehensive planning effort.

The plan will combine community input with data on population, housing, infrastructure, and finances to create a clear, practical roadmap for Jonesboro’s future.

“The master planning process is critical in preparing Jonesboro for the projected growth we anticipate over the next three decades,” said Mayor Harold Copenhaver. “This is an excellent opportunity for residents to get involved, be active, and have a say in how we prepare for the future together as a community.”

The City of Jonesboro is working with DPZ CoDesign and Crafton Tull to gather input from residents whose perspectives will form the backbone of the plan. The plan will focus on protecting what the community values most while providing a framework to ensure Jonesboro remains an attractive and resilient place to live for generations to come.

A public open house focusing on the community’s vision for Jonesboro’s future will be held on Feb. 12 from 5-7 p.m. at the Earl Bell Community Center, 1212 S. Church St. From March 30 through April 3, a multi-day community workshop will offer a variety of ways for residents to explore and discuss different approaches to growth, development, and neighborhood investment.

The planning team has already begun collecting valuable information from community stakeholders and city staff as the beginning stages of the process begin, but these in-person opportunities for the community to share their specific insight are an essential part of the process.

“Public engagement isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of a successful comprehensive plan,” said Matt Lambert, partner with DPZ. “Hearing directly from people who live, work, and invest in Jonesboro helps us understand local priorities and create a shared vision that reflects the community’s values.”

The planning process begins with public engagement and information-gathering, giving residents and stakeholders multiple opportunities to share their insights, concerns, and ideas. Input from surveys, public meetings, and interactive work sessions will directly inform a draft plan that will be reviewed publicly before consideration by city leaders. The result will be a plan for Jonesboro’s future, grounded in community values.

Information about Plan Jonesboro, including meeting details, updates, and online engagement opportunities, is available at PlanJonesboro.com. The site will be updated regularly as the planning process moves forward.