Arvest invests in ‘major’ renovation of Fort Smith tower

A dominant landmark for the tens of thousands of residents and city visitors who travel along Rogers Avenue in Fort Smith is the almost 100-foot tall, nine-floor structure.

The building was constructed by Superior Federal Bank more than 30 years ago, and was acquired in Arvest’s $211 million purchase of Superior Federal Bank in late 2003.

The building has several tenants other than the bank, with a little more than 200 people work in the building, according to Craig Rivaldo, Arvest Bank President and CEO of the Fort Smith/River Valley region.

Work to renovate the outside of the structure began several weeks ago, and is expected to be finished in late December or early 2014. Other than to note that it was “major renovation,” Rivaldo declined to provide an estimate of the renovation costs.

Renovation work includes:
• Resurfacing the parking lot and making parking more customer friendly in front of the building;
• A second enter/exit lane for Rogers Avenue will be added;
• Improved exterior lighting;
• Fencing along the northwest side for improved security;
• Installation of canopies over entrances and awnings over windows;
• Cosmetic improvements will include larger “ARVEST” letters on top of the building and the addition of accent colors to the building; and
• New landscaping will be added to improve the building’s presentation toward the busy Rogers Avenue.

“The Arvest Tower building is more than 30 years old and needs an extensive update and renovation, Rivaldo said in a statement. “I have been amazed at the number of people that have asked me about the project. With all the questions I have received, it completely supports the notion that the Arvest Tower, located in the center of Fort Smith, is a highly visible icon for this city. When we are done with construction, I believe the citizens of Fort Smith will be proud of the renovations.”

Construction is staged in phases to avoid where possible interruptions during normal business hours. The building is open during the renovation work.

Based in Bentonville, Arvest Bank operates more than 260 bank branches in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma through a network of 16 locally managed banks, each with its own board and management team.