First Gentleman Bryan Sanders, Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism (ADPHT) Secretary Shea Lewis, Representative Mary Bentley and other key partners, celebrated the dedication of a new playground and pump track at the Lake Sylvia Recreation Area.

The ceremony highlighted the importance of providing accessible and engaging outdoor spaces for Arkansans while supporting the conservation of the state’s natural beauty.

“This is more than just a playground or pump track—it’s an investment in the health, well-being, and joy of Arkansans,” said Lewis, who serves as director of Arkansas State Parks and secretary of ADPHT. “Lake Sylvia is a key part of the Maumelle Pinnacles Conservation Area, and today’s dedication is one step toward achieving a larger vision of interconnected recreation spaces across central Arkansas.”

Riding a bicycle is a rite of passage and can serve as an entry to the outdoors. The modular pump track at the Lake Sylvia Day-Use Area allows cyclists of every age an opportunity for enjoyment and skill-building on this permanent park feature. The pump track is located adjacent to a new accessible playground facility. This playground replaces a deteriorated structure that was present when Arkansas State Parks took over management of the property in 2021.

“The project here at Lake Sylvia showcases the power of collaboration with federal and state partners and what we can accomplish when conservation and recreation work hand-in-hand,” said Jeff King, deputy director of Arkansas State Parks.

“At the Office of Outdoor Recreation, we’re proud to work alongside federal agencies, state partners, and private organizations to enhance outdoor opportunities that not only connect our communities but also celebrate Arkansas ’natural beauty,” said Katherine Andrews, director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation. “These spaces are vital to fostering healthy lifestyles, strengthening local economies, and ensuring every Arkansan can access outdoor experiences that inspire and unite.”

The new facilities are part of the Maumelle Pinnacles Conservation Area (MPCA) Recreation Master Plan, created through a partnership involving Arkansas State Parks, Central Arkansas Water (CAW), the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, The Nature Conservancy, the Office of Outdoor Recreation, Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, Pulaski County, the City of Little Rock and other stakeholders. The MPCA spans 55,000 acres, with the long-term goal of creating connection through recreation in various ways from the Big Dam Bridge to Lake Sylvia.

“I am very excited to see this new edition to the State Park at Lake Syliva. Nothing is more important than providing opportunities for our children to enjoy the great outdoors at our beautiful parks. I am very grateful for the leadership from our Governor, First Gentleman and our state park team,” said Mary Bentley, Arkansas State Representative.

Sanders commended the efforts of the team and the broader vision of the MPCA. “Projects like the Maumelle Pinnacles Conservation Area reinforce the importance of activating natural spaces for both recreational enjoyment and reverence. Here in Arkansas, we are home to some of the nation’s most beautiful places that can be enjoyed year-round. The MPCA provides an opportunity to both improve the quality of life for our citizens while also being an attraction for tourism to our state,” he said.

To view photos from today’s event, visit HERE. For video visit HERE