Discovering Bella Vista: Community, Recreation, and Growth with Tom Judson of the Bella Vista POA
I Am Northwest Arkansas®
From Flyover State to Destination: Discovering Bella Vista's Charms
This chapter explores the speaker's journey from North Carolina to Bella Vista and the valuable lessons learned that helped in their new role. It highlights Arkansas's transformation into a vibrant destination and offers local recommendations for visitors.
About the Show:
“I consider us the Department of Fun. We are in charge of the golf courses, lakes, fitness facilities... our effort is to put smiles on people’s faces.”
– Tom Judson
In this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn chats with Tom Judson, CEO of the Bella Vista Property Owners Association (POA), to explore the transformation of Bella Vista from a quiet retirement community into a thriving, multigenerational hub at the northern tip of the region.
Tom shares his leadership journey—from his roots managing communities in North Carolina to guiding Bella Vista’s evolution through major facility upgrades, fresh amenities, and a renewed focus on inclusivity and recreation for all ages. Whether you're a seasoned resident or a newcomer to NWA, you'll uncover why Bella Vista is rapidly emerging as one of the region's most coveted destinations for living, working, and having fun.
This episode delves into the essence of Bella Vista, highlighting its scenic lakes, miles of trails, community events, and pickleball courts, highlighting why it's a destination worth exploring.
Key Takeaways:
- Bella Vista is one of the largest planned communities in the nation, with more than 16,500 homes and growing fast.
- The POA manages outstanding amenities: seven golf courses, seven lakes, fitness centers, over 100 miles of biking and hiking trails, four restaurants, and more.
- Bella Vista has shifted from being a retirement destination to a lively, multigenerational community—a change seen in the dropping average age of residents.
- The area prides itself on its affordability, community spirit, and outdoor opportunities like cycling the Razorback Greenway, fishing, disc golf, and pickleball.
- Visitors: Most POA attractions are open to the public, including golf, trails, and restaurant dining. Residents enjoy unique perks, such as low-cost activity cards for even more value.
- Community involvement is encouraged—join events, volunteer, be part of local committees, and help shape Bella Vista’s future.
- Bella Vista’s continued growth and new amenities signal a “golden era” for the community—now is the perfect time to explore all it has to offer.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
- Website: Bella Vista Property Owners Association https://www.bellavistapoa.com/
- Email Tom Judson: tomj@bvvpoa.com (make sure to use two v’s!)
- The Gear Garden (trailside beer garden and event space)
- Lakepoint Restaurant (lakefront dining in Bella Vista)
- Razorback Greenway Trail System
- Downtown Bentonville
This episode is sponsored by*
Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"
*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
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Mentioned in this episode:
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
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