ArDOT to receive $91 million in federal funding for highway projects

Arkansas Transportation ReportNews Briefs

by Jeff Della Rosa ([email protected]) March 13, 2024 11:07 am 628 views 

The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ArDOT) will receive an additional $91 million for six projects, according to a Wednesday (March 13) news release. The money comprises congressionally directed spending and community project funding.

According to the release, the money was secured by members of the state’s congressional delegation, including U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark.; U.S. Reps. Rick Crawford, R-Jonesboro; Bruce Westerman, R-Hot Springs; and Steve Womack, R-Rogers. The money was included in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriation for federal fiscal year 2024, which started Oct. 1.

Following are the amounts and projects the money will support:

  • $67 million for Interstate 49 between Barling and Alma.
  • $6 million for the future Interstate 57 from Walnut Ridge to the Missouri state line.
  • $5 million for the Highway 10 Greenwood Bypass.
  • $5 million for Highway 82 corridor improvements in Ashley, Chicot, Columbia and Union counties.
  • $5 million for U.S. Highway 412 corridor improvements at Interstate 49.
  • $3 million for Highway 412 corridor improvements in northern Arkansas.

“Our Congressional Delegation works hard for the citizens of Arkansas,” ArDOT Director Lorie Tudor said. “We are thankful that Sen. Boozman and Reps. Crawford, Westerman and Womack support Arkansas’ transportation infrastructure. Not only will these investments enhance economic potential, they will also improve safety and mobility for all of Arkansas’ road users.”

Alec Farmer, chairman of the Arkansas Highway Commission, thanked the Congressional Delegation on the commission’s behalf.

“These projects will have a lasting impact on transportation in Arkansas,” Farmer said. “Moving us toward completion of future interstates, be it Interstate 57 or Interstate 49; or east-west corridors like Highway 412 in northern Arkansas and Highway 82 in southern Arkansas; or investing in a bypass that will provide congestion relief and safe travel alternatives in and around Greenwood, are strong commitments to our future.”