History

The concept of regional planning and cooperation in Arkansas began in the 1950's as the first organized efforts were made to attract industry to the many communities throughout the State. WCAPDD was established as one of eight economic development districts which encompass all of Arkansas' seventy-five counties.

Actual formation and implementation of these districts was made possible when Congress passed the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965. This Act defined the requirements under which regional planning Districts were to be formed. The Act was designed to enable and assist economically depressed areas establish stable and diversified local economies through the creation of long term employment opportunities. The act provides for assistance to the communities in the District by furnishing grant funds for regionally coordinated planning and development efforts. These funds provided by the Economic Development Administration (EDA) are the primary source of strategic planning assistance to the principally rural areas of the District.