Life In West Memphis, Arkansas

A New Chapter for Housing: The Transformation of Forrest Park and Avalon Apartments

The landscape of West Memphis is undergoing a significant transformation as the site of the former Forrest Park Apartments transitions from its past into a modern residential hub. After the demolition of the aging structures that once occupied the space, a new development by Bearden Rentals is rising in its place, promising a fresh start and a higher standard of living for the local community.

Modern Design and Thoughtful Construction

The new development departs from traditional multi-story complexes, focusing instead on a single-story design that emphasizes accessibility and a welcoming street presence. Bearden Rentals highlights that the property is built with "quality craftsmanship and attention to detail," featuring modern exteriors with coordinated siding and attractive rooflines. The architecture focuses on functional layouts that maximize natural light, ensuring that each home feels bright and spacious.

Enhancing the Neighborhood

Curb appeal is a central focus of the new project. The grounds will feature fresh landscaping, manicured green spaces, and well-defined common areas. These additions create a pleasant living environment that integrates seamlessly into the West Memphis community. By opting for a low-maintenance design and energy-efficient materials, the developers are positioning the property as an ideal choice for residents seeking a "hassle-free" lifestyle. The inclusion of private entrances and convenient walkways further enhances the sense of individual residences within a rental community.

A Prime Location Reimagined

The revitalized site remains a convenient choice for renters, offering easy access to West Memphis schools, shopping, dining, and major roadways. For those who remember the old Forrest Park Apartments, the new construction represents more than just a fresh coat of paint; it is a complete reimagining of what quality rental housing can look like in the heart of the city.

As construction progresses, the community eagerly awaits further details regarding floor plans and availability. With "leasing soon" signs on the horizon, this development is set to become a highly desirable option for long-term renters in West Memphis. By the fall of 2026, they expect construction to be completed and ready for tenants. Rental rates start around $1,200 per month.

Contact Information

For more information regarding leasing opportunities and project updates, please contact the management office:

Bearden Rentals

Website: www.rentwithbearden.com

Email: bearden.rlty@yahoo.com

Phone: (870) 735-8877

West Memphis is currently a hub for massive industrial, commercial, and residential growth, with billions of dollars in new projects defining the city's future.

Featured Residential Spotlight: 1503 Oaklawn Drive

A premier example of the city’s residential expansion is the new construction at 1503 Oaklawn Drive, situated in the established Richland subdivision.

Property Details: This 2,687-square-foot, 1.5-story home features 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, currently listed for $383,000.

Key Features: Built in 2025, the residence boasts a brick veneer exterior, a double-wide paved driveway, and an attached two-car garage. Modern efficiencies include double-pane windows and a gas fireplace.

Listing & Builder: The property is listed by Pat Lackey with Crye-Leike Realtors. The home was constructed by her husband, Greg Lackey, of Greg Lackey Construction.

Current Housing Market

The local market remains active with various opportunities for buyers and investors. There are currently 60 homes on the market in West Memphis.

View All Listings: You can view the full inventory of available homes through this MLS Listing Display.

Commercial & Industrial Growth

New Local Flavors: Joining the local scene is Groovy Greyhound Coffee and Creamery on East Broadway, adding a unique local vibe to the city's revitalization.

National Chains: The city's first Starbucks is now officially open for business, and construction continues on the massive 74,000-square-foot Buc-ee’s travel center.

Google Data Center: Google is moving forward with a $4 billion investment to build its first Arkansas data center campus on 1,000 acres, a project expected to drive significant economic activity through 2027.

Public Works: Following a 2024 sales tax increase, the city is initiating over $1 billion in improvements, including a new police department, an aquatics center, and a major sewer infrastructure overhaul.

Industrial Expansion: Coca-Cola Consolidated recently completed a $25 million facility expansion and acquired an additional 50 acres for future development.

If you're looking to learn more about the employer landscape of West Memphis, AR, this Employment Guide is a great place to start. We’ve rounded up many of the region’s top employers and fastest-growing industries to help you get a feel for the local job market and spot opportunities that align with your skills. Click through to explore who’s hiring and what makes West Memphis a strong place to build a career.

See the full Employment Guide here.

Dollar Tree is one of West Memphis’s largest employers and a key part of the city’s logistics and distribution economy. The West Memphis Distribution Center supports Dollar Tree stores across the region, helping keep thousands of locations stocked with everyday essentials.

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The facility offers career opportunities across warehouse operations, logistics, transportation, maintenance, management, and corporate support roles. With a fast-paced environment and large scale operations, the distribution center provides steady employment and pathways for advancement.

Dollar Tree emphasizes efficiency, teamwork, and safety across its operations. Employees benefit from hands on training, growth opportunities, and the stability of working for a nationally recognized retail brand.

Baptist Memorial Hospital – Crittenden is one of West Memphis’s largest and most essential employers, providing high quality healthcare to patients across Crittenden County and the greater Mid-South region. As part of the Baptist Memorial Health Care system, the hospital combines trusted clinical expertise with a strong commitment to compassionate, community focused care.

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The hospital offers a wide range of career opportunities across nursing and clinical care, allied health, patient support services, administration, IT, facilities, and leadership roles. With a full service medical campus and continued investment in patient care and technology, Baptist Memorial Hospital – Crittenden supports both experienced healthcare professionals and those beginning their careers.

Baptist Memorial’s culture emphasizes teamwork, respect, and service. Employees are supported through training, professional development, and a shared mission to deliver exceptional care while improving the health of the communities they serve.