Westside Community Guide

2020 West Washington County Directory – 13 By randy rice I n the late 1800s, Ellis Tillman Gravette opened the Chalk Valley Distillery and was also the proprietor of a general merchandise store. In 1891, he moved that store to what is now downtown Gravette. Gravette was incorporated on January 27, 1899. By 1910 the population of Gravette had grown to 569. Today, the city of Gravette is a community in Northwest Arkansas that is growing and grooming itself to be one of the next centers for small business. Gravette has been a hub of development in recent years, and as it continues to grow, it has more to offer its loyal and prospective businesses and residents. Some of the growth is credited to the new Highway 549 by-pass branching off from Interstate 49 and the overflow from Bentonville. But it is clearly the town of Gravette itself that is attracting residents and businesses alike. As Northwest Arkansas grows, more and more people are seeking the quiet, rural atmosphere offered by Gravette, while keeping the ease of access to larger more urban communities like Bentonville or Fayetteville. One of the sought-aer components of Gravette is the fact that for several years the city has earned a position as one of the safest in Arkansas. "We are very proud of Gravette's safe reputation and we intend to keep it intact," said Gravette Mayor Kurt Maddox. . "We have increased our training budgets for both the fire and police departments. We want to make sure that all of our department members are not only up to standards, but above them." is vigilance not only leads to peace of mind for the residents, but also makes Gravette a confident choice for savvy businesses looking to expand and grow. 2019 was an exciting year for the Gravette school system, too. e strategic planning and fundraising executed by the Gravette School Board and the bold vision of School Superintendent Dr. Richard Page all came to fruition with major improvements and expansions of Glenn Duffy Elementary, Gravette Middle School, the Career Center and Gravette High School. e upgrades will make a huge difference for the students and families of Gravette. "e Gravette School District has the best students, staff and community of any school in the state of Arkansas," boasted Superintendent Page. "And with these improvements our students will soar even higher." Finally, Gravette is a town that clearly knows how to have fun. A number of community events throughout the year are always a hit with young and old alike. Westside Eagle Observer/MALLOry WEAvEr A few spectators line the race course to cheer on participants in the Gravette Day 5K run/walk.

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