Oversight of the Rural Recreational Roads (R3) program recently transitioned from Bentonville-based Runway Group to Bentonville nonprofit Ozark Foundation, positioning the program for statewide expansion, according to a news release.
Runway Group is a diversified holding company led by Steuart Walton and his brother, Tom Walton. They are grandsons of Walmart founders Helen and Sam Walton.
Runway Group launched R3 in late 2022. The program supports the identification and promotion of the state’s “most beautiful gravel roads for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts,” the release shows. Ozark Foundation is expected to continue this mission “with a renewed focus on community engagement, safety and long-term stewardship for growth.”
“We are pleased with the outcome of the R3 pilot in Northwest Arkansas and are excited to see the Ozark Foundation move it forward,” said Katie Parsons, director of community affairs at Runway Group. “We’ve seen interest from communities across the state, and by taking over the program, the Ozark Foundation will see that it expands. Their hands-on experience and knowledge of rural roads in Arkansas from running events, such as the Arkansas Graveler, makes them the ideal organization to manage this program in the state.”
Gravel cycling has become one of the fastest-growing segments of the cycling industry. “The R3 program fostered cooperation with the county government and the agriculture community to develop safe and respectful guidelines for riding in rural areas,” according to the release.
“We are grateful to Runway Group for establishing such a visionary program,” said Michael Spivey, president and CEO of Ozark Foundation. “We look forward to building on this momentum and expanding opportunities for Arkansans and visitors to experience the natural beauty of our rural roads.”
As part of the transition, Bobby Finster of Cave City (Independence and Sharp counties) will serve as the R3 lead for Ozark Foundation.
“Bobby Finster has ridden thousands of miles of Arkansas gravel and is an ideal leader to accelerate the expansion of this program statewide,” Spivey said. “We’re excited to have him on board.”