GAS EXPLORATION
The most recent economic boom to hit our region has been the discovery of the Fayetteville Shale Play. It has brought in an influx of millions of dollars into the region by way of employment, leasing options and royalties. It is estimate that nearly 16 million dollars were paid in royalties last year alone.
COMMERCIAL BUSINESS
As in its early days, Searcy continues to be a major trade center for local residents and others living in outlying areas. There are many shopping areas, a wide range of restaurants and other businesses ready to serve you. Chili’s, McAlister's, JCPenneys, Lowes, Walgreens and Staples are just a few of the national chains that call Searcy home.
With an increase in sales tax revenue of $1.3 million in Searcy for 2008 both independent shop owners and nationally recognized chain stores are reaping the rewards.
There are many local real estate companies, several specializing in commercial real estate. Three employment agencies also operate in Searcy, in addition to ten financial institutions. The downtown area offers a quaint mix of eating establishments, retail stores, business offices and financial institutions.
The Main Street Searcy Program strives to kep businesses in the downtown area and works to secure grants to help maintain the appearance of our downtown.
Searcy’s Municipal Airport is one of the faster growing top general aviation/corporate airports in the state with 100-based aircraft. A recently completed eight million dollar expansion included extending the runway to 6008’ and widening to 100’ with a weight capacity of 80,000 pounds.
The airport is equipped with state of the art instrument approach facilities, FAA computerized, automated weather stations, as well as, runway and approach lighting to meet the latest requirements for all weather operations. A new taxiway has been completed allowing additional space for new hangar construction and a new parking ramp is under construction. This modernization has put Searcy at the forefront of General Aviation airports and better serves the general aviation community.
The airport is capable of accommodating G5 ACFT and serves a variety of corporations and businesses that fly jets, turbo-props and piston ACFT into and out of the airport on a regular basis. The airport is attended from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily and is open to flight operations 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Self serve fuel is available as well as hanger space and maintenance. A total of 46 people are employed at the airport with a total payroll exceeding $ 1,000,000.
LABOR
MANUFACTURING & EXISTING INDUSTRIES
In the winter of 2008, Searcy was fortunate to add Schulze and Burch Biscuit Company to list of manufacturing facilties that call Searcy home. The company produces Toast'em Pop Ups and will be adding a granola bar line shortly. Searcy is also home to Arkansas' only ice cream manufacturer Yarnell's Ice Cream Company. Manufacturing and Distriction comprise approximately 10% 0of the employment in our area.
www.aogc.state.ar.us/Fay_Shale_Data.htm
Chesapeake Energy
www.chk.com
Hallwood Petroleum
www.hallwoodenergy.com
Arkansas Employment Security Division
www.state.ar.us/esd
Arkansas Labor Statistics
www.discoverarkansas.net