Officials of FTN Associates, a water resources environmental consultant firm, are donating $135,000 to UALR in the form of 1,500 hours of voluntary service to help jump start the University’s project to beautify Coleman Creek.

The gift is worth $135,000, a value calculated on a median individual billing rate of $90 an hour. It will give UALR a major boost towards its goal of converting Coleman Creek into a 47-acre greenway incorporating bicycle and walking trails, benches, and bridges.

“We are excited about contributing to this project because it gives us an opportunity to contribute to UALR, but also to the surrounding community,” said Dennis Ford, a principal in the firm.

FTN Associates is celebrating its 25 year anniversary this year by asking all principals and co-workers to give 25 hours of service to the community, “in appreciation of the blessings we have experienced over the past 25 years.”

Chancellor Joel E. Anderson and Physical Plant Director Dave Millay, chair of the University’s Coleman Creek Greenway Committee, accepted a check representing the contribution during a ceremony in the chancellor’s office on Nov. 8.

“FTN’s commitment to UALR and to this project in particular is so gratifying,” Anderson said. “The company sees how Coleman Creek, that currently splits the campus, can unify existing green spaces and provide a park-like environment not only for UALR, but for the entire community.”