In 2019, the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas contracted with White & Smith, LLC and Benchmark Planning to develop a Joint Land Use Study for the Little Rock Air Force Base. The Joint Land Use Study is important to the entire region impacted by the Little Rock Air Force Base (AFB) operations – including its over $1.2 billion annual economic impact. The study encouraged local governments, together with the state, to work closely with the AFB to implement measures that promote compatible development in the areas surrounding the installation, but also to preserve and enhance the public health, safety, and welfare of those living and working nearby. The three primary objectives of the plan included to increase awareness, encourage collaboration, and maintain land use compatibility.
In 2021, following the adoption of the Joint Land Use Study, White & Smith and Benchmark developed Implementation Plans for each of the communities in the region and assisted with their adoption processes.