Slackwater Harbor Construction to Begin Early 2026

After several years of design, studies, and public anticipation, Van Buren’s Slackwater Harbor is finally ready to move from planning to reality.

 

Officials confirmed that construction will begin in early 2026, marking the start of one of the region’s largest infrastructure projects in decades.

 

Why It Matters

 

The harbor will give Van Buren direct barge access, increasing its industrial capacity and positioning the city as a key hub in Arkansas’s river trade.

 

Officials expect the site to attract manufacturing and logistics companies while relieving pressure on existing river ports.

 

A Long Road to Approval

 

The project took time—nearly a decade of studies, funding rounds, and agency coordination. Now, with grants secured and environmental assessments approved, crews will begin grading and utility installation next spring.

 

Regional Impact

 

Once operational, the harbor could handle millions of tons of freight annually and open opportunities for River Valley businesses. “It’s about connecting our economy to the water again,” said one city official.

 

The Takeaway

 

The Slackwater Harbor is more than a construction project—it’s a symbol of the River Valley’s growth and resilience.

 

When the first barges dock here, Van Buren will officially join the ranks of Arkansas’s key trade cities.