Haag Brown, Roach Manufacturing Corp. to team on Steel Creek development in Trumann
by February 20, 2023 4:39 pm 1,581 views
For years, Haag Brown Development Principal Joshua Brown and his company have worked on development projects in some of Arkansas’ largest cities including Jonesboro, Conway, Fayetteville and others. He told Talk Business & Politics that one of their goals was to start a major mixed-use development in smaller communities in the Delta.
A lifestyle, master planned development is about to start in Trumann.
Haag Brown Development and Roach Manufacturing Corporation will create the Steel Creek development and will feature a warehouse and distribution center for Roach Manufacturing that will anchor the project. The development encompasses more than 100 acres along 1-555 near the Walmart Supercenter.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Plans are in place to develop office and retail space, restaurant outparcels, themed single-family housing, amenity-rich, multi-family housing, and a potential event venue. A hotel-like development is being designed to encompass a small lake. Roach Manufacturing Corporation, also known as Roach Conveyors, is headquartered in Trumann.
“We purchased land where we intend to build a distribution center for Roach Manufacturing, but we had a vision for more than just a warehouse. We really want to help make these amenities available to our community. We are excited to see this project come to life,” said Mike Roach Sr., Roach Manufacturing Corporation President & CEO.
The Sunken Land Trail, a network of trails connecting every lot in the mixed-use development, will be incorporated with water retention and drainage.
“Our ultimate goal is to connect this trail network to the Sunken Lands River Trail. The trail would pass by the most significant sites in the city, such as the Trumann High School, Elementary, and Pre-K schools, Arkansas State Technical Center, the old Singer community center, and downtown,” Brown said.
The entire development will be master planned by Ecological Design Group.
Steel Creek was chosen as the development’s name to pay homage to the city’s heritage. Steel was picked for its significance in the industrial automation industry. Creek was chosen because water and drainage features will be key components within each phase of the project.
“It is always rewarding to help others meet needs and solve problems. Not only does this project and group want to accomplish business, but [Roach Conveyors] are seeking to provide a vision and emphasis on the quality of life aspect that is often neglected. This project is special,” said Jeff Armstrong, Haag Brown industrial agent.
Established in 1953 by Gay Roach, Sr., Roach Manufacturing Corporation has built material handling systems for 70 years. The Roach family has been influential in planning the project with Armstrong and Brown.
“My roots were established in Poinsett County. I am humbled, honored, and eager to be involved in a project that has the potential to reimagine the way Trumann lives, works, and plays. Walking to the coffee shop, taking the golf cart to dinner, biking with your daughter to soccer practice, or walking with the family to the local farmer’s market on the weekend is a life we envision in Nashville, Austin, and other large, wealthier cities. We feel there is a path to creating this lifestyle with the development of Steel Creek and the Sunken Lands Trail System. When completed, the project would promote active living, improve happiness and mental health, foster social interaction, reduce crime, and increase property values. The overall image of Trumann has the potential for positive change. The value to the community is so great,” Brown said.