Crews have demolished two buildings on Main Street in Walnut Ridge after structural issues were discovered during site preparation for Provalus, an Alabama-based tech and business services company. According to Mayor Charles Snapp, the initial plan was to renovate the buildings to house Provalus operations, but structural concerns prompted the decision to demolish them to ensure the safety of surrounding structures. Officials confirmed that the damage remained contained within the demolition area. Provalus announced its intention two years ago to establish a presence in downtown Walnut Ridge. The original plan involved occupying the now-demolished buildings, but the company has adjusted its approach. Mayor Snapp stated that Provalus will construct a steel, seismic-rated facility specifically designed to withstand earthquakes. The city is currently awaiting an extension from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission to finalize its agreement with Provalus. Once operational, the new facility is expected to create between 200 and 250 jobs, with an additional 70 indirect jobs generated from the development. The project is projected to generate an economic impact of $13.4 million annually for the area.