Meet a Local: Paxton Roberts, Executive Director at Downtown Springdale Alliance
Are you a Northwest Arkansas native? Tell us about the journey.Â
I grew up in Gravette but spent four years in Memphis while my father attended dental school, an experience that deepened my appreciation for downtowns and diverse communities. Northwest Arkansas has grown significantly, and Springdale, with its majority Hispanic population and the largest Marshallese community in the country, stands out for its unique cultural landscape. This diversity drives economic growth, rich traditions, and a thriving food and arts scene. Embracing it ensures that revitalization remains inclusive, creating a downtown where everyone feels welcome and engaged.
How would you describe living in Northwest Arkansas? What advice would you have for someone relocating here?
No matter your background or stage in life, Northwest Arkansas offers a welcoming and dynamic community for everyone. I advise anyone moving here to explore all the cities and downtowns because each has its unique charm. If you prefer a more rural setting, there are small towns just outside each major hub that offer that classic small-town feel. As the region grows, fostering a strong sense of community is more important than ever. Now is a great time to find your spot, connect, contribute, and help shape the future of Northwest Arkansas.
What excited you most about working in Downtown Springdale?
The people and the potential. Downtown Springdale brings together longtime residents, newcomers, local entrepreneurs, and regional leaders—all working to shape its future. Springdale’s downtown revitalization is at a pivotal moment, learning from the successes of other cities while forging its own unique path. We approach revitalization with intention— fostering a welcoming, vibrant downtown where businesses thrive, residents feel at home, and new opportunities bring people together.
What are some of your favorite things about the region?
I love that Northwest Arkansas offers the best of both worlds. We have world-class restaurants, museums, and thriving downtowns, but a short bike ride from your front door can take you to a peaceful country setting or deep into the woods to enjoy nature. Whether it’s a morning ride on the trails, a meal at a local food truck, or an afternoon exploring Downtown Springdale, there’s always something to experience.
Someone that has never been to the region is coming for 24 hours, what should they do, where should they go?
Start the day in Downtown Springdale with breakfast at one of its fantastic local spots. Then, rent a bike and explore some of the most scenic sections of the Razorback Greenway or nearby mountain bike trails at Fitzgerald Mountain. Grab street tacos from a food truck before strolling through Luther George Park. In the evening, pick another downtown—Bentonville, Rogers, Siloam Springs, or Fayetteville—enjoy dinner, and attend a live show, concert, or community event. You really can’t go wrong with any itinerary here.
Describe Northwest Arkansas in a few words.
Surprising. Engaging. Comfortable.
What do you do in your free time?
I spend as much time as possible outdoors with my family—usually on bikes, but also paddling, climbing, and occasionally fly fishing. There’s no shortage of adventure here.
Tell us something about yourself folks might not know.
I once spent 24 days trekking through the mountains of Nepal. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, experiencing cultures and landscapes that were only accessible on foot.
What causes are you passionate about? What inspires you?
I’m passionate about creating communities where people feel connected—whether that’s through walkable, bikeable spaces, vibrant local businesses, or events that bring people together. I love working with people who share a vision for making our cities more engaging, accessible, and welcoming.
What is your hope for the future of the region? For Downtown Springdale?Â
I hope Northwest Arkansas preserves the rural landscape and open spaces that make this region unique while still growing in a way that supports a thriving economy and strong communities. Too many metropolitan areas have lost their sense of place by expanding without thoughtful planning. Here, we have the chance to balance growth by increasing density in our downtowns and urban areas while protecting our natural environment.
For Downtown Springdale, I hope it continues to evolve into a dynamic, inclusive place where small businesses thrive, residents feel at home, and visitors leave inspired to return. We’re already seeing major steps in that direction, but there’s still so much potential ahead.
What is something people might not know about Downtown Springdale that sets it apart from other major downtowns in the region?
Downtown Springdale has one of the most diverse restaurant scenes in the region, featuring incredible food from cultures around the world.
It’s also the only downtown in Northwest Arkansas with direct urban access to world-class mountain biking AND rock climbing. Fitzgerald Mountain has already established itself as a popular mountain biking system, but now, combined with the nearby Webber Mountain, there are over 100 climbing and bouldering routes, making it a dream spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Anything notable or newsworthy that you want to put on our radar?
Yes! The grand re-opening of Luther George Park has given Downtown Springdale a world class venue for concerts, events, and festivals. This year, we’ll host Freedom Fest, one of the largest Juneteenth celebrations in a multi-state area, bringing thousands of people to the downtown area.
On the development front, multiple new multi-family projects are underway or breaking ground soon, adding over 1,000 new residents downtown in the next five years. We’re also about to welcome Springdale’s first downtown hotel (120+ rooms), which will bring even more energy to the area. It’s an exciting time to be here!
Final Thoughts?
Northwest Arkansas is growing in incredible ways, but what makes it truly special is the sense of community and possibility. No matter where you’re from or what you’re into, there’s a place for you here. I’m excited to be part of shaping that future.
