Unprecedented growth during the past decade has expanded Little Rock westward, and there’s no sign of that growth slowing anytime soon.

Numerous neighborhoods exist in the western part of the city, including the sprawling Chenal Valley and The Ranch, which is situated off Highway 10.

Luxury Neighborhoods

Chenal Valley, a growing area that appeals to single professionals, families and retirees, offers expansive homes and the Chenal Country Club. The club features two 18-hole championship golf courses, including one by famed golf course designer Robert Trent Jones Jr. Chenal Valley has several gated neighborhoods popular with residents looking for privacy.

Nearby restaurants and retailers provide convenient services, and with a collection of office buildings close at hand, many residents enjoy a quick commute to work.

South of this popular area is a region that still houses a remaining horse stable or two. These can be found near Brodie Creek, a neighborhood with homes reminiscent of Seaside in Florida or Harbortown in Memphis. This award-winning subdivision was designed to bring back a simpler time. Homes have porches that invite neighbors to stop for a chat and a glass of sweet tea. More conventional subdivisions, such as Woodlands Edge, feature protected natural areas.

Nearby are the St. Michael, St. Charles and Wellington Place neighborhoods. Families are often attracted to these locales because of their convenient proximity to practically any want or need. Zero-lot homes are also available in these areas.

Retail

Two new developments, Shackleford Crossing and The Promenade at Chenal, have recently sprung up in west Little Rock, bringing with them a plethora of new stores, attractions and restaurants. Shackleford Crossing is located at Interstate 430 and Shackleford Road and is a mixed-use development featuring Wal-Mart, J.C. Penney, Babies “R” Us and Cracker Barrel. The shopping center began to open in phases in fall 2007.

The Promenade at Chenal, a 340,000 square-foot open-air lifestyle center, is located in Chenal Valley. The French Gothic-style shopping center is built to house a variety of upscale national, regional and local retailers; restaurant and entertainment venues. The Promenade began opening in phases in spring 2008.

The Chenal 9 IMAX Theatre opened in June 2008 and offers moviegoers a complete digital experience plus stadium-style rocking-recliner seats. Businesses slated to fill the shopping complex include Bebe, Victoria’s Secret, Designer Shoe Warehouse and Ann Taylor Loft.