River Market Food Hall Gets $20 Million Make‑over Plan

Little Rock city leaders have greenlit a $20 million plan to refit the River Market food hall, with the full project cost expected around $25 million. The city will use its own money first, then pay back the amount through bonds that could total up to $20 million. The food hall sits at 400 President Clinton Ave and has been a downtown staple since 1996. It currently hosts food stalls, a barbecue spot, and a farmers market pavilion on its north side. The hall is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a. m. to 2 p. m. , so many evening visitors miss out on its offerings. New + Found, a St. Louis design firm that has turned an old factory into a bustling food hub, will lead the renovation. The company plans to spend $5 million on tenant upgrades and startup costs, while the city and the local Convention & Visitors Bureau will also chip in. The redesign could take up to 18 months of construction inside a 31‑month timeline from planning to opening. The city expects the hall to close during renovations, though no exact date has been set yet. The goal is to create a fresh, lively space that can operate without future city funding and generate tax revenue. This money could then help tackle local issues like homelessness or drainage improvements.City Director Dean Kumpuris, a medical doctor who has long championed downtown projects, said the new food hall will revitalize the area and bring in a steady income stream. He hopes that, once finished, the hall will stand on its own and keep downtown buzzing all year round. The board approved the plan unanimously during a consent agenda meeting, with Director Ken Richardson absent. New + Found’s previous work on the City Foundry development in St. Louis gives it credibility, having attracted over a million visitors annually and supporting more than 20 local vendors. The company’s proposal includes about 15 food stalls, two full‑service restaurants, a large bar, and flexible event space. It also suggests adding a rooftop deck for music and seasonal programs, and enclosing the north pavilions to allow all‑weather use. The vision is to integrate the food hall with nearby parks, trails, and the riverfront for a cohesive downtown experience.