1,000-acre local industrial park planned due to major national merger

The approximately 1,000 acres for the industrial park are owned by one family. The city is in the process of acquiring property for the park. >> See the full article here bit.ly/3Sq98lG

Congratulations West Memphis native on being selected for Leadership Arkansas

BAM West Memphis’ Mural Fest

BAM West Memphis’ Big Pitch Contest – Youth Edition

Screenshot

Little Ms. Mathis pitched her new book, Good Manners: Keep Us From Being Bad Monsters.

“My book teaches children that using good manners, showing kindness, and treating others with respect can help us become better people,” Mathis said. “I hope my book encourages kids everywhere to choose good manners every

day.”

A big THANK YOU to our judges!

• Marlon Canady, West Memphis Chamber of Commerce

• Martin Milligan, Fidelity Bank

• Jack Poff, Jr., ASU Mid-South Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center

• Angie Weems, Southern Bancorp

• Dr. Kim Wolfe, Education & Training Solutions, LLC

Congrats go to ALL the young entrepreneurs who were brave and got on stage! Spencer Sullivan with Wonder City Web Development; Aubrey Howard with Aubreyfae Bracelets; Ezra Powell with P3Printz; Dorian Blockman with Pixel Vault Arcade; and Ryder, Ellis, Everleigh, Nora Kate, & Reese with Service Project-Wonders Kids

And a HUGE thanks to our sponsors!

Southland Casino & Hotel

City of West Memphis

Google

WM Utilities

WM Advertising & Promotions Commission

East Arkansas Family Health Center, Inc

Gene Stimson’s Big Star

Sumpter Law Firm

Baptist Memorial Hospital Crittenden County

Coldwell Banker Heritage Homes

Fidelity Bank

Regions Bank

Southern Bancorp

Partners Bank

Quality Flooring & Cleaning, LLC

JR&K Printing

Pafford EMS

TDC Automotive

Summit Utilities

Evolve Bank & Trust

Stewart Title

DCA Reality, LLC

WM Police Department

WM Fire Department

ASU Mid-South

Mr. Keith Ingram

Fred Leonard State Farm

ACME Pest Management

Fenter Physical Therapy

Groovy Greyhound Coffee & Creamery

Fruitful Events

VIP Real Estate 127, LLC

R.G. Realty, LLC

Life Strategies of Arkansas

Ms. Hannah Boothe Roark

Mr. Marvin Steele

Mr. Raymond Whiteside

Ms. Patricia Lark

The Athlete’s Nexus

Education & Training Solutions, LLC

Emerald High Class Technology

Mitchell’s Breakfast Burrito

Franklin and Franklin Investments LLC

Rita Fong-REMAX Arkansas

Carter Realty Co

Ms. Anita Bell

Guaranty Loan & Real Estate Co.

The Post Event Center

Grind City Motors, LLC

Blackberry Molasses

Good Neighbor Love Center

Hall Liquor Store

L.T. Painting & Repairs

Afrika’s Book & Church Supply

Tyrone McWright

DeltaARTS

The Evening Times

West Memphis Chamber of Commerce

Ms. Kendi Ridgell

Ms. Krystal Jackson

Mr. Greg Whitmore

BAM West Memphis Board of Directors

Hudson Hallum, Pres.

Dr. Tywanna Smith, Treas.

Kendra Phillips, Sec.

Chastity Johnston

Monte Hodges

Darrell Anthony

Pam Capps

Rob Mitchell

Patricia Lark

Hannah Beth Roark

Raymond Whiteside, Exec. Dir.

Thank you to 75Strong Arkansas for the idea!

Officials tout West Memphis ‘super project’ site for proposed Daimler Truck factory

West Memphis Connect Unveiling :: 8.4.26

Residents and visitors of West Memphis can request a ride anywhere in the city for $2.

The City of West Memphis announced Tuesday, Aug. 4, the creation of West Memphis Connect, the area’s new on-demand transportation system set to launch Oct. 1 — about eight years after the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) stopped routes in Crittenden County.

“It is a microtransit, on-demand system that’s going to get our people to the places that they need to get to,” West Memphis Mayor Marco McClendon told MBJ. “It’s so important for people to get to work, important to get to school, to get to the grocery stores, wherever they may need to go.”

Similar to Uber and Lyft, the new system is set to allow residents and visitors to request a ride through the West Memphis Connect app for a trip in one of the seven vehicles — five eight-seater vans and two Dodge Durangos. McClendon said the system could expand depending on demand.

Riders can also request a trip by calling the West Memphis Connect service center.

West Memphis Connect is set to initially cost about $1.5 million annually, but McClendon said corporate partners, including Google and Southland Casino Hotel, are backing the program to relieve taxpayers of the cost.

The cost of the transit system is set to go down after initial purchases of vehicles and equipment, West Memphis communications director Nick Coulter told MBJ.

“No public transportation pays totally for itself,” McClendon said. “But we do believe with the $2 fee, and also with some great corporate partners that we have in West Memphis, that it would pretty much be totally free off the backs of our citizens.”

McClendon said Southland also pitched in to pay for rides from October through the end of the year.

McClendon’s administration has worked on bringing a transit system to West Memphis for about four years, and the plan is set to come to fruition in the fall.

The Mayor also said the transit system is important for the economic development of the city.

“Economic development here in West Memphis is really on a boom, and one of the major questions that potential economic development partners ask is, ‘How can we assure that we can get our people to work?'” McClendon said. “They’re now assured that business will continue to keep driving and rolling in West Memphis.”

The new program is set to create up to 20 new jobs and run Monday through Thursday from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 6 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Riders can input their location into the app, then add a destination, and wait for a van or SUV to pick them up.

McClendon said he is currently in talks with MATA about possibly expanding West Memphis Connect into Downtown Memphis, but a plan has not been finalized.

“I know so many people who need transportation,” McClendon said. “This is going to be major, and our corporate business community has really stepped up … so this service is not going to be a weight on [residents’] shoulders.”

Welcome Back to School, West Memphis!

Calling All Faith Leaders and Faith Based Organizations

Mayor McClendon invites pastors, ministry leaders, and faith based organizations from across West Memphis to join us for the Faith & Fellowship Brunch on Tuesday, August 11.
Whether your congregation is large or small, we want to hear from you, learn more about your ministry, and explore ways we can work together to better serve our community. Let’s come together and strengthen our neighborhoods, support our families, and create new opportunities to make a lasting difference in West Memphis.

WHEN: Tuesday, August 11 • 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: 1250 W. Broadway Ave.

Please RSVP to:
Danielle Glenn
Housing & Community Development Specialist
Email: dglenn@westmemphisar.gov
Phone: 870-732-7521

Remembering Former WMPD Chief

Chief Paudert dedicated many years of service to protecting the people of West Memphis and leading the West Memphis Police Department for over 12 years. His commitment to public safety and our community will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude.

“Chief Bob Paudert gave a significant part of his life to serving West Memphis, he endured heartbreaking loss, but through it all, he remained committed to honoring law enforcement officers and supporting the community he loved. I extend my deepest condolences to the Paudert family, his friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside him.” said Mayor McClendon.

Please keep the Paudert family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Dewayne Rose Arkansas Municipal League’s Appointment

Congratulations to Emergency Management Director, DeWayne Rose, on this outstanding appointment.
The City of West Memphis is proud to announce that Arkansas Municipal League has appointed DeWayne Rose as Chairperson of the Arkansas Municipal League’s Public Safety Advisory Council.
This appointment reflects the outstanding work taking place in West Memphis to strengthen public safety, emergency management, and homeland security. Over the past several years, our city has made significant investments and dramatic improvements in emergency preparedness, disaster response, and public safety capabilities. DeWayne’s leadership has played an important role in our capabilities.
Please join us in congratulating Director Rose on this well deserved recognition. We know he will represent West Memphis and communities across Arkansas with excellence in this important leadership role.

Women in the Workplace Series – Culminating Celebration – Blackberry Molasses – 7.9.26

Education and Training Solutions hosted a culminating celebration on July 9 at Blackberry Molasses for its “Women in the Workplace” 8-week transformational series. Led by Dr. Kimberly Wolfe, PhD, the program empowered participants to strengthen their careers and elevate their workplace impact through focused development in social and emotional intelligence, leadership, adaptability, and career advancement.

Groundswell Community Meeting :: Vanderhall Event Center – 6.30.26

For sanitation issues or to schedule a pickup, contact Public Works at 870-732-7580 or 870-732-7671.

To report power outages, call West Memphis Utilities at 870-735-3355 (option 2).

Emergency services will continue operating on their normal schedules.

Important:

Residential disposal only

No commercial disposal accepted

Mayor McClendon’s Boots on the Ground is back

BAM West Memphis announces 2026 Capture West Memphis Photo Contest Winners

WINNERS of the 2026 Capture West Memphis Photo Contest! Congratulations!
🏆 (alphabetical order)
-Destin Dunlap
-Ashley Henriques
-Adarryll Jackson
-Shawn Martin-Elliott
-Samantha Neal
-Kasey Patterson
-Elizabeth Prince
-Nova Prince
-Matthew Robinson
-Jane Russell
-Bill Simpson
📆 These photos will be made into a 2027 West Memphis Calendar that will be available for purchase at the end of this year!
🖼️ Later this summer, we will have a reception and put these beautiful works on display at Groovygreyhoundcc… Stay Tuned!

 ATTENTION STUDENTS NEW DEADLINE:
Monday, May 18th 
Due to the overwhelming response, the deadline for Mayor McClendon’s Youth Empowerment Summer Jobs Program has been UPDATED!
For more information, contact Theresa Bowe at tbowe@westmemphisar.gov

A GROWING PROJECT Ducks Unlimited Park at Big River Crossing is located in West Memphis, directly connected to downtown Memphis by Big River Crossing. The project covers nearly 1,500 acres of Mississippi River floodplain land that leaders say is being transformed into wetlands, trails and public green space. fox13.tv/4uxhpll

Google hands out money from West Memphis Energy Impact Fund

Google broke ground on a $4 billion data center in West Memphis last year and part of that project was a $25 million fund to help scale energy efficiency in the city and surrounding area. The company announced Tuesday (April 28) the first two recipients of funds from the West Memphis Energy Impact Fund.

About $1.26 million will be allocated from the fund this year.

“The most effective community investments are grounded in true partnership,” said Katie Ottenweller, regional head of energy market development from Google. “We are thrilled to announce our first partners in this important work of lowering energy costs and improving the health and resilience of homes in West Memphis and surrounding communities. We’re grateful to our partners and the inaugural council members for their leadership in creating a sustainable, affordable energy future for West Memphis and the Greater Memphis region.”

Crowley’s Ridge Development Council (CRDC) will help make homes weatherization ready. They will address health and safety barriers such as roof leaks or electrical hazards that often prevent low-income households from qualifying for federal energy programs.

After the homes are repaired using Google funding, CRDC will apply federal Weatherization Assistance Program and LIHEAP funds that they administer to make the homes more energy efficient.

“This partnership represents a transformational opportunity for our region. By working alongside a global innovator like Google, we are not only strengthening infrastructure in West Memphis and Crittenden County; we are also creating long-term economic growth and a stronger future for Northeast Arkansas,” said Jeremy Wooldridge, CEO of Crowley’s Ridge Development Council.

Another organization, Groundswell, is partnering directly with the city of West Memphis to establish a new pipeline for home energy improvements. Like CRDC, Groundswell will focus on the dual-need of repairing homes so they are stable enough to receive high-impact energy efficiency upgrades and then upgrade the energy efficiency of the homes.

Working together, Google ICF, and Entergy Arkansas will support approximately 200 residents whose homes need critical pre-weatherization repairs. By aligning the fund with Entergy Arkansas’ Low-Income Solutions (LIS) program, Google’s investment will fund a combination of pre-weatherization (critical structural repairs) and weatherization (efficiency upgrades). Google and these partners are bridging a critical gap for utility customers who were previously ineligible for energy-saving upgrades due to the condition of their homes, according to a press release.

“Entergy Arkansas is excited to continue to partner with Google and ICF to bring this opportunity to Crittenden County,” said Laura Landreaux, president and CEO of Entergy Arkansas. “The Energy Impact Fund is a direct investment in projects that will have a lasting impact on these communities. We are honored to work with customers who are just as committed as we are to helping build a stronger, more vibrant future for the next generation.”

Pancho’s Sign Has a New Home

 

Pancho’s Mexican restaurant, a West Memphis landmark for decades, has been demolished.  However, the legendary sign has a new home! Thanks to the quick thinking of Mayor Marco McClendon, coordination of B.A.M. Director Raymond Whiteside, and swift work of West Memphis Utilities, the historic sign was saved and relocated to the Broadway Food Park!

https://wreg.com/…/panchos-mexican-restaurant-in-west…/

 

 Empowering Students

via WREG News Channel 3

Dozens of students in West Memphis are embarking on a journey toward a brighter future thanks to one organization’s goal of economically empowering the community.

More details: https://wreg.com/…/west-memphis-organization-teaches…/

Community Dumpsters Return

REMINDER

FREE Community Dumpster Program is back, NOW through Saturday, January 10. thanks to Mayor McClendon and the Crittenden County Quorum Court!

In an effort to help residents reset after the holidays and keep our city clean, Mayor McClendon is launching the Christmas Holiday Clean Up.

Dumpster Locations:

• 1101 N. Missouri St. (West Memphis Christian Parking Lot)

• City Hall Parking Lot, 317 Tyler St.

• Corner of East Barton and West McAuley Dr.

• Corner of S. Walker and Broadway

• Corner of S. 16th and East Jackson

Citywide Curbside Pickup Saturday, January 10

Set items at the curb for pickup, including:

• Empty boxes and packaging

• Wrapping paper

• Christmas trees

• Holiday cleanup items

Let’s clean up, pitch in, and keep #West Memphis on a #Winningstreak!

West Memphis Police Chief

To the Citizens of West Memphis,

Today, Marco McClendon shared his sincere thanks to Robin A. Campbell for his service as Chief of the West Memphis Police Department from January 2022 through December 2025.

Under Chief Campbell’s leadership, the department made strong progress. A Community Engagement Division was created. A K9 Division was launched. Bike Patrols were added to strengthen visibility and access. West Memphis also saw crime decline for three consecutive years during his tenure.

On a personal note, Chief Campbell and I worked closely throughout his time as Chief. I always valued our professional relationship and the trust we built while working together to move this department and this city forward. I am grateful for his commitment to our city, and the way he led with consistency and purpose while serving the people of West Memphis.

Chief Campbell’s leadership strengthened public safety and left a lasting impact on the department and our community. We thank him for his service and dedication to keeping West Memphis safe.

Mayor McClendon also announced the appointment of Harvey W. Taylor III as Interim Chief of Police, effective January 1.

Major Taylor has lived in Crittenden County for 18 years. He began his law enforcement career with the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department in Ripley, Tennessee, and joined the West Memphis Police Department in 2008.

During his service with the department, Major Taylor has worked in Patrol, Street Crimes, Criminal Investigations, and Narcotics. In 2010, he joined the Special Response Team and later served as Team Leader and Commander.

His leadership and performance led to promotions to Sergeant in 2014, Lieutenant in 2019, Captain in 2021, and Major in 2022. As part of the Command Staff, he has overseen CID, Narcotics, and Patrol.

Major Taylor brings experience, continuity, and a steady approach to this role. He is prepared to lead the department forward and maintain a strong focus on public safety.

Mayor McClendon also confirmed Jimbo Presley will remain Assistant Chief and continue overseeing his assigned administrative responsibilities.

Thank you for your continued trust and support of the West Memphis Police Department.

WM Community Outreach Annual Angel Tree

The City of West Memphis and Community Outreach Department is gearing up for it’s Annual Angel Tree!

Two nonprofit organizations families are benefiting from this incredible program this year! We look forward to seeing All the happy faces this Thursday!

Amazing things happened this past Friday through partnerships! Google, Turner Construction, Nickson General Contractors, Fifer & Associates, and Allworld Project Management have joined forces with us here at the City of West Memphis Angel Tree Giving program to make this Christmas unforgettable for local families.

This commitment to giving back has provided with coats, clothes, bikes, educational toys, and a full holiday meal for families to enjoy this holiday season.

So, on behalf of Mayor Marco McClendon and The Community Outreach Director we want to offer our sincere gratitude for your service in sponsoring 25 or our Angels this year!!

May your Holidays Be Merry and Bright!!

Holiday Sanitation Schedule

Holiday Sanitation Schedule for Christmas and New Year’s to help you plan ahead:

Christmas Schedule

• Monday, 12/22: Monday/Tuesday routes

• Tuesday, 12/23: Tuesday/Wednesday routes

• Wednesday, 12/24: No Collection

• Thursday, 12/25: No Collection

• Friday, 12/26: Thursday/Friday routes

New Year’s Schedule

• Monday, 12/29: will run on their normal day.

• Tuesday, 12/30: will run on their normal day.

• Wednesday, 12/31: will run on their normal day.

• Thursday, 01/01: No Collection

• Friday, 01/02: Thursday/Friday routes

Please remember to place your trash carts out the evening before your adjusted collection day and pull them back by 7:00 a.m. the following day.

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us keep West Memphis clean this holiday season!

Greater Memphis Chamber Recognizes WM Economic Development and Mayor

This week the Greater Memphis Chamber recognized the City of West Memphis Economic Development and Mayor McClendon at their Annual Chairman’s Luncheon held at the Peabody. A big thank you to the Greater Memphis Chamber for highlighting West Memphis and the #winningstreak our city is building. Google’s investment in West Memphis shows the strength of our growing tech sector. It strengthens our position as America’s Digital Delta.

Google representative Laurel Brown, Regional Head of Data Center Market Development, shared Google’s belief in a “healthy disregard for the impossible”. This phrase has been part of Google’s culture since the early days. It also reflects why Google selected West Memphis to do the impossible.

The Greater Memphis Chamber is committed to promoting regional growth and highlighting how our combined strengths make us more competitive on the national stage. This recognition also showcases the state’s largest economic development investment in history and the major regional wins fueling jobs, investment, and new opportunities across the Greater Memphis region.

Season’s Greetings are up on Broadway

HUGE thank you to the West Memphis Utilities crew for the hard work to get this banner hung over one of our busiest streets. Thanks to the A and P Commission for making it possible and for helping our city look merry and bright this holiday season.

FedEx is Hiring in West Memphis!

This is your chance to step into a strong job with solid pay, benefits, and real growth. FedEx is holding a Hiring Event in West Memphis with full and part time schedules and multiple shifts.

Date. Monday, December 8

Time. 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Location. West Memphis Library, 500 W. Broadway Ave., West Memphis, AR 72301

What you get.

• Multiple positions

• Pay based on location or job title

• 401k after 90 days

• Health benefit options

• Day and night shifts

More opportunities.

• Life program

• Tuition reimbursement

• Career advancement programs

• Mentorship and transition programs

• Self development tools

Your next step is simple. Unbox your potential and meet the FedEx team.

Scan the QR code in the flyer or visit careers.fedex.com for details.

Civic Center Grand Re-Opening

Join Mayor McClendon and the West Memphis Advertising and Promotion Commission on December 19 from 5 to 7 for the re-grand opening of the all new state of the art West Memphis Civic Center at 212 West Polk Ave in West Memphis, a fully remodeled facility with a redesigned lobby and gathering space, enhanced lighting, improved accessibility, and many other upgrades. This project is a key part of the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance quality of life spaces and provide residents with more opportunities for recreation and entertainment.

Congratulations Mayor McClendon!

The City of West Memphis is proud to announce that Mayor McClendon has been appointed by Governor Sanders to serve on the 2030 Arkansas Complete Count Committee.

This committee will lead efforts across the state to ensure an accurate census. A full count helps secure fair representation and funding for communities including ours. The mayor’s involvement means our city will have a strong voice as Arkansas prepares for 2030.

Please join us in congratulating Mayor McClendon on this important role.

https://talkbusiness.net/…/gov-sanders-makes…/

Big Idea Pitch Contest :: West Memphis

Do you have an idea for a new business in West Memphis?
Do you currently have a business with a new idea or desire to expand?
Do you have an idea for a community project?

Then the Big Idea Pitch Contest might be right for you!

At each competition, 3-4 entrepreneurs will have 5 minutes to sell their ideas to a panel of local judges. One lucky winner receives $1,000, free technical assistance, and other special recognitions!

Expect local investors to be in the room!

Applications will open in January and will be available on our website: mainstreetwestmemphis.com. There will be a vetting process.

More details to come

Cecily Wilborn bridges generations with Soul Therapy

The West Memphis artist discusses her new album, the viral success of “Southern Man,” and why her generation is bringing real music back.

Read and watch more here: Cecily Wilborn bridges generations with Soul Therapy

Congratulations Lady Black Knights Volleyball Team

Mayor McClendon recognized the Lady Black Knights Volleyball team for winning the 2025 MAIS 3A Ladies Volleyball State Championship at this week’s City Council meeting. Their discipline and teamwork brought home a title that reflects the strength of your school and community.

The City of West Memphis congratulates you on continuing the #WestMemphis #winningstreak both in sports and academics. West Memphis is proud to be the home of the Black Knights.

West Memphis Mayor Discusses City’s New Projects

WREG NEWS 3 by: Alex Coleman

Click the link below to watch the interview

https://wreg.com/video/west-memphis-mayor-discusses-citys-new-projects/11261022

 

Bridge Closure Alert

BRIDGE CLOSURE NOTICE 
Starting Monday November 17, 2025, at 7:00 a.m., the Avondale Circle bridge will be closed to all traffic to allow for wing wall repairs and removal of debris from the box culvert.
This work is necessary to improve the safety and functionality of the bridge and drainage system. The closure will remain in effect until repairs are completed.
Please plan your travel accordingly and use alternate routes during this time. 

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we complete these important improvements.

Flashback Friday

#FlashbackFriday to Jerry Lawler’s first ever wrestling match right here in West Memphis.

Lawler tells his story about Aubrey Griffith was the first wrestling promoter at the time that he’d ever met. “I had never even been in a wrestling ring. I was also a D.J. on a radio station, and I told him I would match him some free plugs if he’d let me wrestle,” Jerry Lawler said. “But he was the first promoter to actually have a match in West Memphis, Ar. He was running a promotion over there. He had the old Harlem Theater, which was an old dilapidated rundown movie theater that they didn’t use as a movie theater anymore. So, he set an old wrestling ring in there,” He added. “Every Saturday night in West Memphis, he would have his little matches. That was the first place I ever got a chance to wrestle.” said Lawler.

The Harlem Theater was located at 903 E. Broadway in West Memphis.

I55 BRIDGE CLOSURE AHEAD

Full Closure of Interstate 55 Mississippi River Bridge for Repairs

All lanes of the Interstate 55 (I-55) Mississippi River Bridge will be closed Saturday, November 15, and Sunday, November 16, to allow @myardot crews to perform bridge joint repairs.

Weather permitting, I-55 will be closed beginning at Exit 1 (Bridgeport Road) in Arkansas. Prior to the closure, I-55 will go down to one lane at Exit 4 (Martin Luther King Jr. Drive/Highway 38). The closure will extend through Exit 12 (Crump Boulevard/Riverside Drive) in Tennessee.

While the southbound lanes of I-55 will reopen Sunday evening, the northbound lanes of I-55 will remain closed until Tuesday. Northbound traffic will continue to use the detour during that timeframe.

The dates and times of the closure are as follows:

I-55 South: 12:01 a.m. Saturday, November 15, through 8 p.m. Sunday, November 16

I-55 North: 12:01 a.m. Saturday, November 15, through 6 p.m. Tuesday, November 18

There will be a signed detour in place. Traffic is encouraged to use the Interstate 40 Mississippi River Bridge as an alternate route.

This closure will allow crews to repair the bridge’s finger joints. Finger joints are large bridge joints comprised of metal interlacing “fingers” that allow for the expansion and contraction needed for longer bridge spans.

Message boards will be posted in advance to notify motorists of the closure.

Check IDriveArkansas.com for the latest traffic information.

WMPD Promotion Ceremony

The West Memphis Police Department held a promotional ceremony yesterday to recognize several of our outstanding officers for their hard work, dedication, and leadership within the department.

Congratulations to the following officers on their well-deserved promotions:

Sgt. Johnson → Promoted to Captain

Lt. Hampton → Promoted to Captain

Sgt. Jackson → Promoted to Lieutenant

Sgt. Shelton → Promoted to Lieutenant

Officer Anderson → Promoted to Sergeant

Officer Clay → Promoted to Sergeant

Officer Bowman → Promoted to Sergeant

We’re proud of each of you for your continued service and commitment to the citizens of West Memphis.

Early Voting in West Memphis

Early Voting Reminder – Ward 3, Position 1
It’s time to for voters in Ward 3 to decide who will fill the City Council seat previously held by the late Charles Wheeless.

Early Voting:
November 10–17
8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Lehr Arena – Academies of West Memphis, 503 W. Broadway

Note: No voting on November 11 (Veterans Day).

Election Day:
November 18
7:30 AM – 7:30 PM

Your vote helps continue the work and vision that Councilman Wheeless began for our community. Bring your ID and take part in continuing the future of our city. Every vote matters.

 

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Join us Tuesday, November 25 at 6 PM in Worthington Park for our annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony!

Bring your family and friends for an evening filled with:

• Christmas carols and holiday cheer

• A live petting zoo

• Ornament-making station

• Hot cocoa and treats

• Train rides

• And a special visit from SANTA himself!

This event is FREE and open to everyone. Come celebrate the season with us under the lights!

WM Parks & Recreation Thanksgiving Dinner Giveaway

Thanksgiving Dinner Giveaway!

West Memphis Parks & Recreation is proud to partner with The Hazel and Katie Foundation of Crittenden County to support our community this holiday season!

Join us on:

November 24, 2025

Grimsley Park — 609 Baylor Dr, West Memphis, AR

We will be distributing Thanksgiving Dinner Boxes to West Memphis residents while supplies last.

Important Details:

•Must present a valid ID

•Must be a resident of the City of West Memphis

•One Thanksgiving Dinner Box per vehicle

Let’s come together in the spirit of gratitude and community. We look forward to seeing you there!

Renderings for West Memphis indoor water park revealed

WREG Memphis
by: Alex Coleman

WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. — City leaders and developers in West Memphis are taking another step on a proposed water park resort near Southland Casino Hotel.

Mayor Marco McClendon says both parties are trying to get public input on the West Memphis Epic Center Indoor Water Park.

“Well, definitely we want the public voice to always be here and all around decision makers,” said Mayor McClendon.

The city unveiled several renderings of the proposed year-round water park project.

“We are partnering with Epic, and Epic is if you have been the Dallas sector to the Epic Water Park facility down there and possibly coming right here in West Memphis. And we want to be able to bring it here and see what the people think about it,” said McClendon.

The project would include an aquatic/waterpark component, various retail, a Ferris wheel, restaurants, and a multi-story hotel building, possibly attracting tourists far beyond the Mid-South.

Three years ago, the mayor first pitched his idea for a $34 million initiative to improve safety and quality of life for the people of West Memphis and visitors.

“So, this is the perfect location for it to bring our city together and draw other people to our city so they can spend, hopefully, our tax dollars to help build West Memphis as well,” McClendon stated.

Mayor McClendon said the city will do its homework and hear from the people to help decide the future of this project.

“We are moving forward with this if it’s making dollars and making sense. We are moving forward, and it’s not making dollars and not making sense; we are going to hold back. But we truly believe, why not in West Memphis,” McClendon said.

The mayor says West Memphis will have a town hall meeting this coming Tuesday to be transparent and hear from people who live and work there.

Google Announces $4B Investment in West Memphis

Google Chooses West Memphis for State’s Largest-Ever Investment

West Memphis is now home to the largest private investment in Arkansas history. Google announced today that it would establish a new data center in the city. This 1,300-acre project signals a milestone for the state and a defining moment for West Memphis.

Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet and Google, made the official announcement alongside Mayor McClendon and Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders. Google is investing $4 billion in Arkansas through 2027, Porat said. “The West Memphis data center is our company’s first project in the state and will create thousands of construction jobs and eventually employ hundreds.“

“This is a proud day for the city of West Memphis and the entire Delta,” said Mayor Marco McClendon. “Google’s decision to invest here proves that our city is ready to lead in the AI and digital revolution. This project is about more than buildings and technology, it’s about opportunity and the future of our people. We’re on a winning streak, and this is one of our biggest wins yet.”

The announcement underscores West Memphis’ transformation from a city once known only for agriculture and transportation to a hub for advanced technology. Google is stepping in as a true partner, the project will provide millions of dollars annually to the City of West Memphis. Those dollars will be reinvested directly into priorities that matter to residents, from public safety improvements to new workforce and education opportunities. In addition, Google is launching a $25 million Energy Impact Fund to help low-income families in West Memphis manage their utility bills, putting more money back into their pockets.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who joined the event, noted the importance of this record-setting investment for Arkansas and praised West Memphis’ leadership in bringing it to fruition. “I can’t think of a better town and a better place for this investment to take place,” she said. For West Memphis, the project means more than economic impact. It represents a shift in identity and future direction, reinforcing the city’s competitive strategy in the digital age.

Mayor McClendon emphasized that the win belongs to the entire community. “Our people deserve this, and we’re not stopping here. West Memphis is ready for what comes next.”

“This win belongs to our people,” McClendon said. “West Memphis is ready to compete. We’re making it happen. And together, we will keep the West Memphis winning streak moving forward.”

 

Eugene Woods Civic Center Under Construction

The Eugene Woods Civic Center will be closed for renovations starting September 1st as we embark on an exciting project to enhance the facility.

In the meantime, the West Memphis Civic Auditorium will still be available for event rentals. For more information or to book your event, please contact Kimberly Hamilton at 870-732-7597.

Thank you for your understanding and stay tuned for updates on the renovation progress!

FedEx Aviation Technology Center (Expansion) – Ribbon Cutting 9.6.24

 

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Sid Eudy, Wrestler Known as ‘Sid Vicious’ and ‘Sycho Sid,’ Dies at 63

The 6-foot-9 wrestling champion faced off against some of the industry’s biggest names, including Shawn Michaels and Hulk Hogan.

Sid Eudy, a professional wrestler known as Sid Justice, Sid Vicious and Sycho Sid, who rose to fame in the 1990s and won multiple championships, died on Monday. He was 63.

The cause was cancer, his son Gunnar Eudy wrote on Facebook.

Mr. Eudy was one of his generation’s “most imposing and terrifying competitors,” the World Wrestling Entertainment said in a statement. Listed at 6-foot-9 and 317 pounds, he was one of the biggest of what are known in the industry as big men, who often play supporting roles because they don’t perform the high-flying moves that thrill fans.

Mr. Eudy was a very big man who became a star in his own right. He headlined Wrestlemania twice and became champion of both the W.W.F., as it was then known, and its 1990s rival, the W.C.W., a rare trifecta.

Mr. Eudy first entered the world of wrestling in 1989, when he signed with World Championship Wrestling, then an upstart circuit. Sid Eudy and Hulk Hogan at Madison Square Garden in 1992.Credit…Daily Mirror/Mirrorpix, via Getty Images

In 1991, Mr. Eudy debuted as Sid Justice in W.W.E., the organization said, as the special guest referee at SummerSlam 1991.

Wrestlemania featured Mr. Eudy in its main event twice, in 1992 against Hulk Hogan, and again in 1997, against the Undertaker. Mr. Eudy was both a two-time W.W.F. champion and two-time W.C.W. champion. He was also a two-time U.S.W.A. champion.

“One of the most brutal Superstars to ever terrorize W.W.E., the sadistic Sid brought an intensity that few could ever hope to contain,” the organization wrote. “Just ask the litany of ring legends who have incurred his wrath — a hit list that includes Shawn Michaels, Hulk Hogan, Bret ‘Hit Man’ Hart and many more.”

Sidney Raymond Eudy was born in West Memphis, Ark., on Dec. 16, 1960. He is survived by his wife, Sabrina Estes Eudy, his sons Frank and Gunnar, as well as his grandchildren.

Amber Rae Dunn Is Giving It Her All

If you heard Amber Rae Dunn sing for the first time at the recent “A Tribute to the King,” you might want to know more about her.

The captivating singer filled the stage of Lafayette’s Music Room with her voice and personality at the event held August 11th, featuring headliner Ronnie McDowell as well as The Royal Blues Band with Wyly Bigger on keyboards.

“I am from Schererville, Arkansas,” Dunn says. “I grew up with six siblings and my dad was just a barber and my mom was a stay-at-home mom who took care of all of us. There was not a lot to do, but we had a three-acre garden. Just about every memory of my life, I have it in the garden. My favorite animal is a turtle, and I loved that I got to collect worms off tomato plants to feed to my turtle.”

Dunn also sang. “All the time. Everywhere around the house. I was definitely the loudest kid my parents have.”

If she wasn’t singing “This Little Light of Mine” in church, Dunn was listening to her mother’s Al Green, Michael Jackson, and Prince albums and her dad’s ’90s country music. “So, I’m sure I was singing those songs as well.”

Like she still does, Dunn worked at her dad’s barbershop, Larry’s Hair Design, in West Memphis, Arkansas. She learned how to cut and style hair when she was in high school. “Other kids go to soccer practice or others take acting. I enrolled in hair school.”

She began singing on stage while attending Memphis College of Art for a degree in sculpture. Yubu Kazungu, a fellow student, invited her to join him at an open mic. She asked Kazungu, who heads Yubu and the Africans, why he thought she could sing. She says he told her, “I can hear you humming in the sculpture room working on a pot. You hum on key, and I feel like you can sing on key.”

Dunn joined Kazungu’s band and appeared with the group at open mics around town.

Kazungu “had been pestering” her to write a song, so Dunn came up with “Arkansas Line.” After some persuading from Kazungu one night at a soul food restaurant, Dunn sang the song in front of an audience while keeping the beat by snapping her fingers.

People at the show told her she was really good, but that she needed to go to Nashville because “that’s not really the type of music we have in Memphis.”

So Dunn got a job at Wayne’s Unisex, a Nashville barbershop. She went to clubs at night to “work tips for the band.” She did whatever she could, whether it was “do handstands” or “pinch cheeks,” to get customers to put money in the tip jars. “Then, finally, at the end of the night when everyone was good and drunk and half the people were gone, they would let me get up and sing two or three songs at 3 in the morning.”

Dunn was realistic about living in Nashville. “My plan was five years. If nothing happened, I was like, ‘Okay, I guess this isn’t the path I’m supposed to get on.’”

But nine months after she got to Nashville, one of her brothers was killed in a motorcycle accident, so she returned home to comfort her parents. “I’m a sucker for family.”

Starting at an open mic at Earnestine & Hazel’s, Dunn thought, “I need to meet people. If you build it, they’ll come.”

Mark Parsell stopped in one night and invited Dunn to check out his venue, South Main Sounds. Singing at one of Parsell’s Friday night shows, Dunn met Andrew Cabigao, who helped her get a job as social media representative at Mark Goodman’s MGP The Studio. While there, Dunn recorded her first album, Arkansas Line. Attending a songwriters workshop at Visible Music College, Dunn met Billy Smiley, founding member of White Heart, a Dove Award-nominated Christian rock group. He invited her to come to Nashville and maybe do an album at his studio, Sound Kitchen Studios.

She was two songs into the album when Covid hit. She released a couple of singles, but the album, I Guess That’s Life, wasn’t released until March 2023.

One of those songs, her popular “Barbershop,” is “just kind of talking about my dad’s barbershop and the type of customers we have. It’s just nostalgic.”

She also began going to workshops in and outside of Memphis in addition to bartending on Friday nights at South Main Sounds and performing with her band, Amber Rae Dunn and the Mulberries.

Dunn is thinking about a new album, but it might go in another direction. “Vocally, there’s a lot of soul and blues to my voice. But there’s also a lot of country. So, I don’t know. I feel like there’s a way to navigate the two.”

She’d like to mix “a Memphis sound” with her “traditional country sound.”

When she’s not cutting records or cutting hair, Dunn, who is married to Justin Craven, is performing with her band around town. She’s also a guest host with Leon Griffin on Memphis Sounds on WYPL.

Not forgetting her visual art chops, Dunn, who recently got into mosaics, currently is working on a mural at the Super 8 motel in West Memphis.

But Dunn is primarily sticking with songwriting, which she decided at 25 was going to be her journey. She told herself, “I don’t know what the outcome is, but I’m going to give it my all.”

See Amber Rae Dunn live at Momma’s, 855 Kentucky Street, Wednesday, August 28th, 7 p.m., with Mario Monterosso.

THE NIGHT ELVIS WALKED HOME ACROSS THE I-55 BRIDGE :: THE EVENING TIMES

WMPD BIKE PATROL UNIT

 

Have you signed up for the City of West Memphis TextMyGov text alerts yet? Text My Gov is new text messaging service that will provide our residents with important information and updates.

HOW TO SIGN UP:

Text “West Memphis”

to 91896

You will then receive a confirmation message asking you to reply YES to verify opt-in.

Sign up to receive text message notifications on things such as:

• Community Events

• Road Closures

• Power Outages

• Emergency Alerts

• Sanitation Notifications

And More!

Find out more information on how to subscribe in the link below

https://www.westmemphisar.gov/501/Text-My-Gov

West Memphis chosen for federal Thriving Communities Program to boost economic development

WEST MEMPHIS, Arkansas — The City of West Memphis has been selected to participate in the federal Thriving Communities Program, which provides two years of no-cost technical assistance to aid in economic development.

The city is hoping to partner with state-based Southern Bancorp in constructing low-cost homes. City leaders said that the population has slowly been on the decline over the past two decades due to the lack of new home construction.

The city recently began work on its first new housing development in decades and has hosted classes to promote home ownership.

MAJOR FEDERAL INVESTMENT COMING TO DUCKS UNLIMITED PARK AT BIG RIVER CROSSING

$16.2 million awarded to restore Mississippi River floodplains near downtown Memphis

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – April 11, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) awarded $16,155,550 to the City of West Memphis, Arkansas to restore hundreds of acres of Mississippi River floodplain with wetlands and riparian forest at Ducks Unlimited Park at Big River Crossing. The park is a 1,500-acre project led by Big River Park Conservancy and Ducks Unlimited (DU).

The park, which may be accessed from Downtown Memphis via Big River Crossing, currently holds a 7-mile paved trail loop and a half-mile out-and-back trail. It also connects to the Big River Levee Trail System, which includes more than 110 miles of riverside trails atop the Mississippi River’s levee system.

“DU is proud to call Memphis home, and our staff live, work and play on both sides of the Mississippi River,” said DU CEO Adam Putnam. “Ducks Unlimited Park at Big River Crossing not only supports the historic floodplain, it supports our people and our communities in both states. This investment will help DU, Big River Park Conservancy and our partners to restore wetlands and wildlife habitat using natural infrastructure that improves water quality, provides outdoor recreation opportunities, and makes our communities more flood resilient.”

The funding is being awarded to the City of West Memphis through DOT’s Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-Saving Transportation (PROTECT) program.

“This is a big win for our community, environment, and Ducks Unlimited Park at Big River Crossing,” said West Memphis Mayor Marco McClendon. “Thanks to the Department of Transportation’s PROTECT program, this project will create a destination space for outdoor enthusiasts and our families to play, learn, and grow together. Our partnership with Ducks Unlimited, Big River Park Conservancy, and other key stakeholders showcases what we can do when we come together for the greater good of our communities and our planet. It’s a proud moment for all of us in West Memphis and our entire region.”

The increasing severity and frequency of flooding in recent years has threatened important bridges and other infrastructure while causing significant floodplain degradation. This project represents a unique, collaborative opportunity to restore resilience to the area between Memphis, Tennessee and West Memphis, Arkansas using natural infrastructure. The project will restore functional bottomland hardwood wetlands, which are paramount to the area’s wildlife, water quality and healthy ecosystem.

“Today, thanks to this federal investment, we can fulfill the promise of Big River Crossing by improving our infrastructure and activating a riverfront with not only recreation but also conservation,” said Dow McVean, President of Big River Park Conservancy. “Ducks Unlimited Park will be a cutting-edge example of the intersection of ecotourism, economic development, and environmental protection.”

When completed, the restored wetlands will strengthen the floodplain and help deter a new chute of the Mississippi River from forming through the area, which would be catastrophic to critical surface transportation systems.

Ducks Unlimited is leading the conservation strategy, returning the land to its natural habitat and introducing further options for outdoor recreation, including new trails, a welcome pavilion with an outdoor classroom and restrooms, and an off-leash retriever training dog park over the coming years.

DU would also like to recognize the many individuals, organizations and entities that have supported the grant application for this project, including:

Sen. Boozman (AR), Sen. Cotton (AR), Rep. Steve Cohen (TN), Rep. Crawford (AR), Rep. Kustoff (TN), US Army Corps of Engineers, Arkansas Gov. Huckabee Sanders, State Sen. Tucker (AR), State Rep. Nicks (AR), State Rep. Ferguson (AR), State Sen. Murdock (AR), State Rep. Moody (TN), State Rep. Leatherwood (TN), State Sen. Rose (TN), State Sen. Clarke Tucker (AR), State Sen. Jeff Yarbro (TN), Arkansas Department of Transportation, Tennessee Department of Transportation, Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris, Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner, Memphis Mayor Strickland, Memphis City Councilmember Ford Canale, Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative, Crittenden County, City of Southaven, City of Lakeland TN, City of Marion, City of Hernando, City of Olive Branch, Town of Atoka, Town of Collierville, Union Pacific, Lower Mississippi River Conservation Committee, Big River Park Conservancy, Memphis Hightailers Bicycle Club, Greater Memphis Chamber, TennGreen Land Conservancy, Start2Finish Event Management, West Memphis School District, Memphis Tourism, Memphis and Shelby County TN Division of Planning and Development, AutoZone, FedEx, Regional One Health, Memphis Runners Track Club, Downtown Memphis Commission, The Armstrong Company, St Francis Levee District, West Memphis Chamber of Commerce, Major Taylor Memphis, University of Memphis, Arkansas State University

Grant: FY22/23 Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-Saving Transportation (PROTECT) Discretionary Grant Program
Project: Mississippi River Bridges: Resilience of Multimodal Infrastructure through Floodplain Restoration and Protection
Locality: West Memphis, AR
Applicant: West Memphis, City of
Grant Amount: $16,155,550

For more information, visit www.ducks.org, and be sure to Follow DU’s Twitter feed – @DucksUnlimited and @DUConserve – to get the most up-to-date news from Ducks Unlimited.

Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing wetlands, grasslands and other waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has restored or protected more than 18 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science, DU’s projects benefit waterfowl, wildlife and people in all 50 states. DU is growing its mission through a historic $3 billion Conservation For A Continent comprehensive campaign. Learn more at www.ducks.org.

Big River Park Conservancy is a 501(c)3 committed to ensuring a sustainable future for the Mississippi River wetlands and serving the ever-growing recreational and outdoor needs of the region. Its collection of projects activate and celebrate the Mississippi River and its surrounding landscape, including the Big River Crossing, an active biking and pedestrian bridge over the Mississippi River connecting Tennessee and Arkansas, and the Big River Trail System, a mixed-use trail network spanning over 110 miles with 7 miles of established trails in Big River Park.

Family Dollar looking to fill hundreds of positions at West Memphis Distribution Center

WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. (WMC) – The Family Dollar Distribution Warehouse in West Memphis, Arkansas, is looking to fill hundreds of positions after it was recently announced that the facility is re-opening. The distribution center was shut down in 2022 by the FDA due to a rat infestation.

A hiring event was hosted by the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services on Wednesday. The starting wage for some positions is $20/hour.

Officials at Wednesday’s event say the amount of people that came shows the need for jobs in the area. 600 positions are open and officials say more than 100 people were interviewed at Wednesday’s job fair.

“They are supposed to open in August. After this, the first 100 people, they are supposed to host another job fair in June or July,” said Dominique Euell, area operations chief with Arkansas Workforce Services.

“The date has not been set yet, but we are just moving forward day by day and whatever they need we are here to help them,” Euell continued.

The next job fair will be in the next few months.

The warehouse in West Memphis has been cleaned, renovated, and modernized.