Hazen Arkansas Guide - Everything You Should Know

Hazen, Arkansas is a charming city located in Prairie County. With a population of 1,481 as of the 2020 census, this small town offers a genuine taste of Arkansas’s culture and history. Conveniently positioned at 34°47′47″N 91°34′0″W, Hazen covers a total area of 3.7 square miles, all of which is land. As a traveler or someone interested in exploring, I find this city fascinating for various reasons.

When I visit Hazen, I enjoy exploring its scenic landscapes and local attractions. One must-visit spot in the city is the Railroad Prairie Natural Area, which offers a glimpse of the city’s beautiful surroundings. Additionally, Hazen houses the historic Saint Patrick’s Church, which serves as an impressive point of interest showcasing the town’s rich history.

I also appreciate the sense of community in Hazen. It’s always refreshing to experience the warmth and friendliness of a small town, which makes exploring its hidden gems even more enjoyable. Whether you’re stopping by for a short visit or planning an extended stay, Hazen, Arkansas, offers a unique and unforgettable adventure in the American South.

Overview of Hazen, Arkansas

As a city in Prairie County, Hazen, Arkansas is situated near the center of the county, with a population of 1,481 as of the 2020 census. Located approximately 43 miles east of Little Rock, Hazen can be easily accessed via Highway 70 and Interstate 40. The city itself is a part of the northern region of the Grand Prairie, an area once chiefly used for growing prairie hay and accommodating wild animals.

In my experience, one of the unique features of Hazen is the natural environment. East and west of the city, you can find remnants of the Grand Prairie, which serves as a bird sanctuary and is home to native wildflowers and trees. This area offers visitors a glimpse into what the land was like before the introduction of modern agriculture.

For those interested in outdoor activities, I also recommend the Wattensaw Wildlife Management Area, a remarkable spot for nature lovers.

Being part of the Prairie County, Hazen is located in zip code 72064, and its administration and key information can be found at the Hazen’s City Hall.

Whether you’re here for the rich natural resources or are just passing through on your way to a different Arkansas destination, Hazen has something to offer everyone.

Demographics

In recent years, the population of Hazen, Arkansas has been experiencing a decline. As of 2023, the population of Hazen is 1,394, which is a decrease of about 5.04% since the 2020 census.

Regarding racial demographics, the majority of Hazen’s residents are White, accounting for 80.57% of the population. The city also has a significant Black or African American community, making up 18.45% of the population. Other racial demographics include a small percentage of Native Americans and those identifying as having two or more races. In terms of ethnicity, approximately 1.3% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.

The median age in Hazen is about 41.5 years, which is higher than the median age of 38.3 years in the state of Arkansas. In regard to age distribution, the largest segment of the population falls within the age range of 18-64 years, making up 59% of Hazen’s residents.

Hazen is situated within the Hazen School District, which serves the educational needs of local families.

I hope this information gives you a better understanding of the demographic characteristics of Hazen, Arkansas.

Geographic Location

Hazen, Arkansas, is a city situated in the heart of Prairie County. I am located approximately 43 miles east of Little Rock, near Highway 70 and Interstate 40. My coordinates are 34°47′47″N 91°34′0″W, and I encompass a total area of 3.7 square miles, all of which is land.

I am nestled within the northern part of the Grand Prairie, a region once believed to be suitable only for growing prairie hay and supporting wild animals. Today, however, the Grand Prairie offers a rich ecosystem of flora and fauna, thanks to the efforts of conservationists and landowners. While in the area, you might enjoy exploring the Wattensaw Wildlife Management Area, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. I am also not far from the lively city of Little Rock, which provides additional recreational and cultural opportunities.

Not far from me is the small town of De Valls Bluff, which can be easily reached by car. This quaint community offers visitors a chance to experience life in a more rural and scenic part of Arkansas, where the slower pace and friendly locals make for an ideal getaway. Between these locations, you’ll find a diverse selection of attractions and activities to choose from, whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Overall, I hold an advantageous location, providing easy access to nearby towns and cities while still maintaining the charm and natural beauty for which the region is known. Whether you’re passing through or planning an extended stay, Hazen has plenty of experiences waiting for you to discover.

City Governance

As a resident of Hazen, Arkansas, I can tell you that the city is governed by a Mayor-Council form of government. The City of Hazen City Council acts as the legislative branch, responsible for making policies and decisions that shape the community’s growth, finances, and strategic planning.

The City Council’s primary goal is to represent the residents of Hazen, ensuring that their voices are heard on the most important issues. They evaluate the city’s goals, major projects, and infrastructure improvements, all while aiming to provide the best representation possible.

In order for city officials to be effective leaders, they must understand their duties and responsibilities. One resource at their disposal is the Guidebook for Municipal Officials of Mayor-Council Cities, which helps newly-elected officials in Arkansas learn their statutory duties and the complexities of local government.

As the city’s population grows, the classification of Hazen can change. For example, a town with a population of 1,500 or more may become a city of the first class by enacting an ordinance, according to the Arkansas Code Annotated § 14-37-103.

In conclusion, the governance of Hazen, Arkansas is built on a solid foundation of strong local leaders, excellent resources, and a commitment to engaging with the needs and desires of its residents.

Education in Hazen

Hazen School District serves the Hazen, Arkansas area, with students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 attending the district. I found that Hazen High School is an essential part of the community, providing a comprehensive education for students in the area. According to the Hazen School District website, the district is located at 305 North Hazen Avenue, Hazen, AR 72064.

In my research, I discovered that Hazen School District has a total of 565 students enrolled in the district, with a student-teacher ratio of 12 to 1. The district seems to prioritize academics, with 42% of students being proficient in math and 38% in reading, as shown by state test scores. Although the district’s college prep score is a C minus, the district offers various clubs, activities and admin support which seems to be well-regarded.

Hazen High School is located at 477 N Hazen Ave, Hazen, Arkansas, and serves students from grades 7 to 12. U.S. News ranks Hazen High School at #9,098 in National Rankings with an overall score of 49.01 out of 100.

Regarding finances, the Hazen School District spends $10,874 per student every year and has an annual revenue of $6,946,000. The district’s expenditure is primarily on instruction, amounting to $5,802.7 million.

In summary, Hazen School District and Hazen High School form a key part of the educational landscape in Hazen, Arkansas.