Arkansas Tech University President Dr. Robert C. Brown and Russellville Mayor Bill Eaton cut a ceremonial ribbon on Wednesday morning to open the $3 million North Phoenix Avenue extension.
“We are here to cut this ribbon this morning, but from a symbolic standpoint we should be tying a ribbon,” said Eaton (photographed, left). “This represents a significant partnership between Arkansas Tech and the city. This project would not have happened without the concurrence of Dr. Brown and the Tech board. We owe them a great debt of gratitude.”
The project was made possible by a land lease agreement between Arkansas Tech and the City of Russellville. The Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees approved the agreement during a meeting on Aug. 18, 2011.
The lease of approximately 4.53 acres on the west side of the Arkansas Tech campus will cost the City of Russellville $1 per year for 99 years. The initial term of the agreement will expire on June 30, 2110.
“I want to express my gratitude to Mayor Eaton,” said Brown (photographed, right). “This has been a long time coming, but through his leadership this project has reached a successful conclusion. This is a wonderful improvement for our city and for Arkansas Tech from an access and safety standpoint.”
The Phoenix Avenue extension connects West Main Street with North Arkansas Avenue, which among other anticipated benefits will provide quicker access to Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center from the north side of Russellville.
