Pedaling Progress: How Bentonville’s Active Commuting Culture Fuels Economic Growth

Aug 7

By Jessica Pearson, Bentonville Moves Coalition Manager

In a city known globally as the Mountain Biking Capital of the World, Bentonville is once again proving that forward-thinking investment in infrastructure isn’t just about trails—it’s about creating a thriving economy. While thousands of visitors and residents already own bikes for recreation, a quiet revolution is happening on our streets: more people are choosing bicycles for purpose, not just play.

From commuting to work and school to running errands or meeting friends for lunch, Bentonville’s expanding active transportation network is empowering residents and visitors alike with more choices for how they move around our community. This shift—fueled by public and private investment—is not only good for our health and quality of life; it's good for business.

A Culture in Motion

“What we’re seeing right now is the beginning of something special—a true culture shift,” says Jessica Pearson, Manager of the Bentonville Moves Coalition. “Thanks to years of investment in our trail system and streetscape, biking is no longer just a weekend activity—it’s becoming a practical, everyday transportation choice.”

Grassroots support has played a major role in that shift. Neighborhood groups, local businesses, city leaders, and nonprofits are aligning around a shared vision: a Bentonville where biking is safe, efficient, and accessible for everyone.

“As our network grows, more people are realizing that it’s possible—and enjoyable—to get to work, school, or the grocery store by bike,” Pearson continues. “And as more folks make that choice, we’re seeing a ripple effect: businesses adapt, streets feel more vibrant, and our community becomes more connected.”

Business-Friendly and Bike-Friendly

This momentum isn’t just anecdotal. Bentonville recently saw a notable increase in Bicycle Friendly Business (BFB) designations awarded by the League of American Bicyclists—a reflection of local companies’ growing commitment to supporting employees and customers who travel by bike.

“We’re proud to support programs that help our business community grow in ways that align with Bentonville’s identity,” says Brandom Ganglebach, President and CEO of the Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce. “Bike-friendly infrastructure helps companies recruit talent, boosts tourism, and creates a more resilient and competitive local economy.”

To support even more businesses in embracing this trend, the Chamber, in partnership with the Bentonville Moves Coalition, will host a Bicycle Friendly Business Workshop on August 27 at the Ledger. Open to business owners, managers, and HR professionals, the workshop will provide hands-on guidance on how to earn BFB designation, enhance bike-related amenities, and tap into the economic advantages of supporting active transportation.

🔗Register here: https://business.greaterbentonville.com/events/details/bike-friendly-business-workshop-hosted-by-bentonville-moves-coalition-10098

Expanding the Transportation Toolbox

It’s important to note: this isn’t about replacing cars. It’s about adding options that work for more people and more trips.

“Bentonville is growing, and with that growth comes a need for practical transportation choices,” says Pearson. “When we invest in bikeable infrastructure, we give people more tools to get where they need to go—whether that’s on two wheels, in a car, or on foot. That kind of flexibility is what makes a city truly livable.”

With steady investments from the City of Bentonville, visionary developments like the Ledger, and grassroots energy from residents and business leaders alike, Bentonville is showing the world that bike-friendly can be business-friendly—and that progress often rolls in on two wheels.