LITTLE ROCK — The Islamic Center for Human Excellence is continuing work on a residential subdivision known as New Africa in the John Barrow neighborhood, a project with roots dating back more than two decades.
City planning records show the Little Rock Planning Commission approved a revised planned development, Z-2502-F, in December 2020 by a 10-0 vote. The plan calls for up to 22 single-family homes on approximately 6 acres, along with two prayer halls totaling nearly 10,000 square feet, an educational building, a health clinic, a community garden and playground. Five homes have been built and sold.
Buyers in the subdivision must sign a recorded Bill of Assurance, a standard property covenant in Arkansas subdivisions. The document states the development’s purpose is “creating a wholly-owned residential Al-Islamic community conforming to the social guidelines given in the Quran” and includes rules on architecture, maintenance and conduct, such as restrictions on alcohol. The homeowners association, linked to the Islamic Center for Human Excellence, holds oversight in perpetuity.
The Islamic Center for Human Excellence, located on Wright Avenue, is one of Little Rock’s oldest Muslim congregations. Officials have described New Africa as an effort to build a model community emphasizing family, education and faith-based living, open to residents of any background though marketed primarily to Muslims. Earlier reporting noted some Christian families among initial homeowners.
One neighbor raised concerns during the approval process about potential impacts on personal lives and social activities. The commission proceeded with approval. No legal challenges to the development have been reported in public records.
Progress on the project has been gradual. Plans for the subdivision were discussed as early as the 1990s and 2000s, with initial homes constructed around 2011-2012. A larger vision including more extensive community facilities was scaled back in later years. The center has conducted fundraising for mosque construction on the site.
In April 2026, Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders issued a proclamation declaring Arab American Heritage Month in Arkansas, recognizing contributions of Arab Americans to the state.
The development operates under standard city zoning and Arkansas property law. Private covenants in residential subdivisions are common and enforced through civil means, subject to federal and state statutes including fair housing regulations. U.S. and Arkansas courts retain authority over all legal matters.
