Arkansas Code Title 14. Local Government § 14-143-120. Acquisition of property

(a) Whenever it shall be deemed necessary by an authority, in connection with the exercise of its powers conferred in this chapter, to take or acquire any lands, structures, buildings, or other rights, either in fee or as easements, for the purposes set forth in this chapter, the authority may purchase them directly or through its agents from the owners thereof, or failing to agree with the owners, the authority may exercise the power of eminent domain, and these purposes are declared to be public uses for which private property may be taken or damaged.

(b) Should an authority elect to exercise the right of eminent domain, condemnation proceedings shall be maintained by and in the name of the authority, and it may proceed in the manner provided by the general laws of the State of Arkansas for the procedure by any county, municipality, or authority organized under the laws of this state, or by railroad corporations, as the authority may, in its discretion, elect.