In this episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast, we sit down with Sam Hanna — a Fort Smith native, entrepreneur, and community leader involved with KW Properties, Hanna Oil and Gas, and the Fort Smith Parks and Recreation Commission. Sam shares his journey from Colorado to Austin and back home to Fort Smith, where he’s helping transform the city through visionary projects like the Bakery District and The Mill co-working space.

We dive into the importance of community buy-in, revitalization of downtown Fort Smith, and how creative use of space can turn an old building into a hub for innovation, culture, and connection. Sam also discusses his role on the Parks and Recreation Commission and his hopes for future projects like the Acme Brick Park and the continued development of green spaces, biking trails, and more.

If you’re curious about where Fort Smith is headed and how local leaders are building a brighter, more inclusive future, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Relevant Links:

• Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-district

• The Mill Co-Working Space: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/the-mill

• Fort Smith Parks & Trails: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/parks-and-trails

• Creekmore Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/creekmore-park

• Ben Geren Regional Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/ben-geren-regional-park

• John Bell Jr. Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/john-bell-jr-park

• Riverfront Trail / Greg Smith River Trail: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/greg-smith-river-trail

• Fort Smith Coffee Co: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-coffee-co

• Fort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museum

• Fort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-site