In April 2014, Vilonia was devastated by an EF4 tornado. With much of the town destroyed, local leaders began a planning the effort to rebuild. This disaster recovery plan addresses the small town's exponential population growth and desire for local commerce and community saferooms. New saferoom typologies from shipping container arrangements are proposed, and the introduction of a town loop organizes public space amenities and new walkable neighborhoods.
Awards
2017 AIA Honor Award for Regional and Urban Design
2016 AR APA Urban Design Award
2015 National Association of Development Organizations Innovation Award
Sponsors
Central Arkansas Planning and Development District
US Economic Development Administration
City of Vilonia, Arkansas
Client
City of Vilonia, Arkansas
