Future Forward: Meet our NWA Planners

Get to Know Sharon Tromburg

• Where are you from?

  I’m from Springdale by origin but spent most of my formative years growing up in the majestic Victorian town of Eureka Springs.

• Where did you go to school?

  After graduating High School in Eureka Springs, I went on to earn a B.A. in Sociology with a Minor in Anthropology from University of Central Arkansas (UCA) in Conway, AR. Directly after I embarked on a year long global adventure earning a M.A. in International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs) from Webster University.

• How long have you been working in planning?

  I’m approaching three years in planning. A skilled and experienced professional yet a curious fledgling in the planning world.

• How did you get into city planning?

  My background in the non-profit sector led me to planning. Being mission driven, analyzing societal situations and formulating solutions were qualities that transferred to my personal life. After returning to the Ozarks in 2019 my family settled in downtown Springdale, the heart of Northwest Arkansas, and I was inspired by the revitalization of this vibrant city. Several weeks after becoming a city employee, I knew that the planning world was the right place for me.

• What is one project you are proud of?

  I take great pride in Springdale’s original Downtown Master Plan in 2015 and the update in 2022. I’m grateful to have participated in the update as our resilient community continues to grow and thrive, celebrating local diversity and entrepreneurship. As the plan states “Downton Springdale will once again become the Main Street of Northwest Arkansas”.

• In your own words, what does being a planner mean?

  Ensuring thoughtful development is a primary responsibility of a planner. Following comprehensive plans and holding developers accountable for safe and aesthetically designed development to support residents, businesses, and property owners.

• What is the biggest challenge you face at your job?

  Making communities work for everyone is a challenge, but also an opportunity. Springdale is one of the most diverse cities in the region and that cultural diversity is the basis for a unique and creative ecosystem. Additionally, the city’s School District is the largest in the state, surpassing Little Rock, and we have a responsibility to ensure a child-friendly approach to city design. Our city is also home to many professionals, young and seasoned, so multi-modal transportation options are an important consideration.

• What are some things your department is working on that we should be aware of?

  Now that staff has moved into the newly renovated and expanded city administration building, we have spacious meeting rooms for more collaboration! Springdale’s Downtown Form-Based Code was updated in April of this year and we are excited about some of the projects unfolding. With that update came parking reductions, a cottage court overlay district, and the allowance of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in certain districts, all cultivating creative infill in our downtown. Furthermore, keep your eye out for the regional quarterly Planner’s Happy Hour that our office schedules!

• What is one thing you would like to see happen in NWA in the next 20 years?

  Motion forward - If the current momentum to improve quality of life in NWA continued and strengthened, in 20 years we will be achieving present goals and setting bigger ones. That’s what I would like to see, successes that are still future tense today. For example, abundant and affordable housing options with regional connectivity like enhanced street connections, trails, and public transportation options.

• What is one thing you would like everyone to know about city planning?

  Behind the bureaucracy of public hearings, city ordinances, and sometimes lengthy processes lies the goal of fostering healthy and livable cities. City planners strive for communities to flourish. Springdale has high standards for development because we want our residents to have walkable and bikeable streets, access to green spaces, and options for housing.