http://www.thecitywire.com/index.php?q=node/11245
Feds signed over $10 million in TIGER grants to Arkansas (I assume Missouri is allowing Arkansas to use its $5 million that it never requested in the first place) and Arkansas has committed an additional $43 million for a total of $53 million to begin construction on the Bella Vista Bypass (approximately 20% of $250 million estimated to complete Arkansas portion).
Does anyone know if AHTD has indicated which section it would want to build first?
MODOT said Arkansas told them they are building it as a super two.
Try MODOT Southwest's Facebook page........
I see no reference to a Super 2.
A none super two would be a death trap IMHO.
Well that would be a dead end road for some time....Arkansas has itself in quiet a pickle.
Trying not to get political here but there are considerations that might be pushing Arkansas to move faster. The TIGER grant they got for 10 million said the project must be completed or going by certain date. Maybe they are pushing to get under that timeline. I know Missouri gave them 5 million of the TIGER grant to help.
The first section of the bypass will be built on the southern end, in the area of Hiwasse, AR.
Yes, TIGER does have deadlines for beginning a project.
The first project is scheduled for a February 23rd, 2011, letting.
Right of Way has been acquired for four lanes. The two lanes being built next year will be two of those future four lanes.
I just received an email from AHTD as well:
The first section of the bypass will be built on the southern end, in the area of Hiwasse, AR.
Yes, TIGER does have deadlines for beginning a project.
The first project is scheduled for a February 23rd, 2011, letting.
Right of Way has been acquired for four lanes. The two lanes being built next year will be two of those future four lanes.
We have not decided on a designation yet, but it will be a similar situation as the section south of Texarkana.
I asked your question re temporary designation.
Answer: "We have not decided on a designation yet, but it will be a similar situation as the section south of Texarkana."
Don't rule out recycling of 549. Doddridge to LA state line might be finished before Hiwasse section of Bypass needs to be designated. TIGER just says you have to start project by a certain time; it doesn't say you have to finish it in a timely manner. :biggrin:
I asked your question re temporary designation.
Answer: "We have not decided on a designation yet, but it will be a similar situation as the section south of Texarkana."
Shall we start a betting pool? 149 (NO), 349? 749? 949? :)
I would think 549 would remain until it's all done, unless you redesignate it US 71 (in which case, would 471 return from the dead? ) :hmmm:
Originally, US 71 was going to be rerouted onto what is now AR 549/Future I-49. Current/old US 71 was going to be AR 471. But some locals bitched and moaned, and the current setup was approved.
Regarding the Fort Smith/Fort Chaffee area, a project is underway that will construct 2.7 miles of roadway embankment, two overpass bridges and four box culverts for I-49. The work is located between County Road 8 and Custer Boulevard. Work should be completed in the fall of 2011. A project is also underway that is constructing a new interchange at Highway 22. This job should be completed in a few months. The next step is a project extending from Massard Road to Roberts Boulevard, which is north of the current project. It is scheduled to be let to bids next month.
New report to make case for rural interstate funding
Submitted by The City Wire staff on Fri, 08/27/2010 - 2:43pm.
A study to be released Monday (Aug. 30) is meant to remind federal officials to not forget about rural America when allocating federal highway dollars, said Glenn Bolick, a spokesman with the Arkansas Highway & Transportation Department.
Bolick said the report includes a “brief” mention of Interstate 49.
“Connecting Rural and Urban America” is the title of the third in a series of reports from the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). Officials from AASHTO and the AHTD will present the report at 1:15 p.m., Aug. 30 in the Arkansas Ballroom of the Little Rock Peabody Hotel.
The “Transportation Reboot” series by AASHTO seeks to “identify the need to increase capacity in our transportation system to unlock gridlock, generate jobs, deliver freight, and connect rural and urban America.”
John Horsley, AASHTO executive director, AHTD Director Dan Flowers, Mississippi Department of Transportation Director and AASHTO President Butch Brown, and The Poultry Federation of Arkansas-Missouri-Oklahoma President Marvin Childers will be involved in the report discussion.
“Arkansas is typical Rural America,” Horsley noted in the AHTD statement. “Every American is important to the national economy, whether they raise poultry or cattle, harvest wheat, deliver wind turbines or manufacture goods.”
The report advises that reauthorization of federal transportation legislation should:
- Continue to fund rural portions of the Interstate Highway System and other federal-aid highways that connect America;
- Double federal investment in rural transit systems to meet rising demand; and,
- Expand the existing capacity of the Interstate system, upgrade rural routes to Interstate standards and connect newly urbanized areas to the Interstate system.
“This report reveals the challenges that rural states like Arkansas face,” Flowers said in the statement. “We have many more highway needs than funds to meet those needs. We have over 16,000 highway miles in our system – 12th largest in the nation.
Bolick said the report may be considered another piece of evidence to use in lobbying for more federal dollars for I-49 when Congress gets around to considering the next highway bill.
“It’s not just Arkansas highway officials and the officials on I-49 asking for that (funding). ... It’s a national organization saying, ”˜Hey, don’t forget about projects here (rural America),” Bolick explained.
The I-49 route stretches from Texarkana, up through Dequeen, Mena and Waldron, into Fort Smith and on through Northwest Arkansas. All that stands in the way of this interstate reality is several small segments (Bella Vista bypass) at the Arkansas-Louisiana and Arkansas Missouri borders and a large 185-mile segment between Texarkana and Fort Smith that posts a price tag of around $3 billion.
Of the $352 million Arkansas recently received as part of the federal stimulus package, $71.6 million was dedicated to portions of I-49.
I just noticed that AHTD now has a page devoted to the Bella Vista Bypass (with links):
http://www.arkansashighways.com/BVB/bellavista.aspx
Ahhhh road geeks!!!!!!!
Yes a favorable term I fully use for myself.
Ahhhh road geeks!!!!!!!
Yes a favorable term I fully use for myself.
I prefer Road Scholar ;-)
Checked that Arkansas site on BVB and nothing really new that we didn't already know. Still leaving us guessing on what building will or won't occur.
AASHTO (along with other organizations) will present a report Aug. 30 in Little Rock re interstate funding. I-49 mentioned "briefly"...
Checked that Arkansas site on BVB and nothing really new that we didn't already know. Still leaving us guessing on what building will or won't occur.
How much would a crossing roughly cost?
I've also found some routing plans for I-49 from the Arkansas River to near Waldron (courtesy of Greenwood High School's website)
http://ghsweb.k12.ar.us/Proposed/I49maps.htm
QuoteI've also found some routing plans for I-49 from the Arkansas River to near Waldron (courtesy of Greenwood High School's website)
http://ghsweb.k12.ar.us/Proposed/I49maps.htm
Note their "proposed exits on I-49", and where it came from...
I've also found some routing plans for I-49 from the Arkansas River to near Waldron (courtesy of Greenwood High School's website)
http://ghsweb.k12.ar.us/Proposed/I49maps.htm
Professor emeritus, thank you for the lesson! :sombrero:QuoteI've also found some routing plans for I-49 from the Arkansas River to near Waldron (courtesy of Greenwood High School's website)
http://ghsweb.k12.ar.us/Proposed/I49maps.htm
Note their "proposed exits on I-49", and where it came from...
Great find. To paraphrase the old Smith Barney commercial: "'Road Scholar' finds a nugget the old-fashioned way, he eaarrrrrrns it"
For younger members of the forum, below link helps explain paraphrased quote:
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=smith+barney+commercial&aq=0
[just click the "Bump-out + Smith Barney" video]
Professor emeritus, thank you for the lesson! :sombrero:
John Houseman, "Professor Kingsfield" on The Paper Chase
Ever seen Froggie and Kingsfield in the same room? :hmmm: :hmmm: :hmmm:
No mention of I-49 from I-40 to Texarkana.
... It's an example that could improve under two proposed changes in this report. One targets a four lane expansion of Highway 167 from El Dorado to Little Rock at Interstate 530.
The second idea targets the western part of Arkansas between Texarkana and Fort Smith. It would be part of an extended Interstate 49 traveling from Shreveport to Kansas City. It would overlap Highway 71 and I-540 in the Arkansas part...
Currently Advertised Projects & Announcementshttp://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/notices/040479%20NOTICE%20TO%20CONTRACTORS.doc
Notices for September 29, 2010 Letting
090
040479
040479-A 040479-B
MASSARD RD.-ROBERTS BLVD. (STRS.) (F)
SEBASTIAN
71
10:30 a.m.
Looks like STRAHNET follows I-49 corridor in Arkansas on up to Kansas City. Is there a supplementary pot of money for STRAHNET corridors that could assist in funding I-49 from Fort Smith to Texarkana?
Not since the STRAHNET corridors got rolled into NHS.
How much would a crossing roughly cost?
As of December 2009, it was estimated at $1 Million
http://www.allbusiness.com/government/government-bodies-offices-regional-local/13536201-1.html
There remains, of course, that small matter of a new bridge to cross the Arkansas River - at a cost of upwards of $300 million - to keep the ultimate completion of I-49 in the hazy distance.(http://www.swtimes.com/opinion/we/article_e0908754-b904-11df-acf5-001cc4c03286.html)
“It’s the elephant no one wants to talk about,” said Ken O’Donnell, a former transportation planner with the Western Arkansas Planning and Development District.(http://www.swtimes.com/special_reports/article_83924506-b78d-11df-ab48-001cc4c03286.html)
His “elephant” is a proposed $100 million bridge that would be north of Arkansas 22, span the Arkansas River then connect to I-540 north of Interstate 40.
Until the bridge is finished, I-40 and proposed I-49 cannot cross to form what could one day be the most economically important intersection in the region – one that brings together one major highway that spans the United States from east to west and another that reaches from Winnipeg, Canada, to New Orleans.
What makes the bridge a forbidding subject may be its cost.
Van Buren Mayor Bob Freeman said he’s heard a $150 million estimate of the cost of the bridge structure alone and another $200 million for the ramps and approaches leading up to it.
By 2014, the state highway department will schedule paving work on the section of I-49 between U.S. 71 and Arkansas 22, Flowers said. That should complete the segment through Chaffee Crossing.
Times Record Online is starting a series this week on Fort Smith's future. Brief mention today of cost of Arkansas River bridge:
"There remains, of course, that small matter of a new bridge to cross the Arkansas River - at a cost of upwards of $300 million - to keep the ultimate completion of I-49 in the hazy distance."
(http://www.swtimes.com/opinion/we/article_e0908754-b904-11df-acf5-001cc4c03286.html)
Build it as a toll bridge. Just as long as it gets built.
2020(http://www.swtimes.com/special_reports/article_f81e30ca-b791-11df-aa49-001cc4c03286.html)
Through his job as intermodal manager at the Western Arkansas Planning and Development District, Mat Pitsch does much of the administrative work for RITA.
When RITA celebrates it’s 11th birthday, he hopes it has reached some milestones.
“I would hope our long-term projects have legs,” he said. “... By 2020, we would have I-49 completed through the region. (The I-49 Bella Vista bypass) would be done, and we’d be next on the list. If the (I-49 Arkansas River) bridge isn’t built, then (funding) sources will be identified.”
Build it as a toll bridge. Just as long as it gets built.RITA official hopes (in a Sept. 5, 2010 article), at the very least, funding sources will be identified for the Arkansas Bridge by 2020
CONNECTING I-49(Sept. 8, 2010 The City Wire: http://www.thecitywire.com/index.php?q=node/11713).
Fort Smith City Administrator Dennis Kelly said he sent a letter to Federal Highway Administration officials Tuesday (Sept. 7) reminding them of the regional needs. The primary need has a minimum $330 million price tag and would cover the construction of I-49 from the Alma-Interstate 40 interchange, across the Arkansas River and connect with I-49 sections now under construction through Chaffee Crossing. Kelly said recent trips to Washington and working with Washington D.C.-based Watts Partners – the city’s lobbying group – have served to reinforce the $330 million section.
“With that letter, I wanted to get the word to them (FHA) right away to let them know we are aware of it (funding potential from proposed Obama plan),” Kelly said."
...
[HOWEVER]
...
"WAIT-AND-SEE
The Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department is also reserving judgment, with spokesman Glenn Bolick saying they are “taking a wait-and-see approach” to the plan.
“We would welcome any additional funding and will look forward to seeing what projects we have in Arkansas that might fit the criteria. We don't know any program specifics at this time, but with over $23 billion in anticipated needs projected over the next 10 years and only about $4 billion in expected funds to meet that demand we would certainly expect to have projects that meet any criteria,” Bolick said in an e-mail statement.
RITA official hopes (in a Sept. 5, 2010 article), at the very least, funding sources will be identified for the Arkansas Bridge by 2020
Possibly sooner than 2020 if Obama infrastructure plan implemented:
I'll believe it when I see it.Same here. BUT, I can envision a more likely scenario.
Dan Flowers, Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department director, said the $100 million estimate is based on the cost of similar four-lane bridges recently built elsewhere. It includes only the bridge itself.(http://www.swtimes.com/special_reports/article_83924506-b78d-11df-ab48-001cc4c03286.html)
No design work has been done, so no exact estimate is possible right now.
the $787 billion stimulus contained $28 billion, or just 3.55%, for infrastructure projects nationwide.(http://www.thecitywire.com/index.php?q=node/11713)
I was through there yesterday. The crossbeams are up on the overpasses over AR 22, but the bridge walls are still under construction.Is this a photo of the ongoing AR 22 overpass work?: http://www.kfsm.com/news/rivervalley/kfsm-news-i49funding-obama-infrastructure-plan,0,7266894.story
I was through there yesterday. The crossbeams are up on the overpasses over AR 22, but the bridge walls are still under construction.Is this a photo of the ongoing AR 22 overpass work?: http://www.kfsm.com/news/rivervalley/kfsm-news-i49funding-obama-infrastructure-plan,0,7266894.story
Back in 1998 when OK was looking at the GARVEE bonds, one of the state reps had me look at the cost of building a four-lane interstate from I40 just west of Muldrow south and east to join with the current I540 near the state line. It would have to cross both the Arkansas and the Poteau River as well as a large floodplain. At that time, ODOT made a ballpark guess of $300 million
... Mark Yardley, Alma public works director, says he believes the opportunity for growth the new highway would bring is “significant” – attracting industrial prospects as well as freight haulers and distribution centers – current funding conditions make talk about completing the highway just “pie in the sky.”
Alma Mayor John Ballentine believes the Alma portion is likely to be the last leg of the still-unfunded highway completed because of the costly bridge that must span the Arkansas River.
Ballentine reckons the structure will cost $400 million, but that number is a shape-shifter, changing based on who is speaking and what the cost includes.
Ken O’Donnell, until recently the director of the Bi-State Metropolitan Planning Organization, said the stated cost is a bit lower – $280 million to $320 million. That’s starting with the $100 million for the bridge span itself, then adding approaches, ramps and the other things needed to make it accessible.
Because the route approaching the bridge travels through the Kibler bottoms, a flood plain, it might require building a berm or putting the roadway on supports as it extends to the bridge.
O’Donnell said costs for the highway on-grade are computed on a linear foot basis. If the roadway is elevated, the cost must be computed on a square-foot basis. The cost of a multilane interstate bridge spanning the Arkansas River “jumps off the page at you,” he said.
Last on Alma’s list of concerns is the missing interchange.
Yardley said Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department officials have not included in their plans an interchange routing I-49 to U.S. 64, a key element of getting the highway traffic into central Alma.
Yardley said AHTD planners blamed the proximity of U.S. 64 to I-40 and conflicts with the Union Pacific Railroad corridor, which parallels U.S. 64 and I-40.
"Alma Mayor John Ballentine believes the Alma portion is likely to be the last leg of the still-unfunded highway completed because of the costly bridge that must span the Arkansas River.
I was through there yesterday. The crossbeams are up on the overpasses over AR 22, but the bridge walls are still under construction.Is this a photo of the ongoing AR 22 overpass work?: http://www.kfsm.com/news/rivervalley/kfsm-news-i49funding-obama-infrastructure-plan,0,7266894.story
From maybe a year ago ;)
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2586/3921404861_cf9f133e42_z_d.jpg)
August 2009 (looking south from AR 22)
I need to update my photos... thanks for the reminder :)
BARLING - Although bruised feelings and mistrust linger in some quarters, for the most part Barling, Fort Smith and the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority have settled their disputes over the land now referred to as Chaffee Crossing.(http://www.swtimes.com/week-in-review/news/article_e6090c86-bd89-11df-9aa4-001cc4c002e0.html)
The land - 7,000 acres released by the U.S. Army from Fort Chaffee as part of a Base Closing and Realignment downsizing - was at the heart of a feud between the two northern Sebastian County cities.
Barling, working just ahead of the BRAC Commission, had annexed the land of Fort Chaffee, thinking that if the land were decommissioned it would then become part of Barling.
Fort Smith argued that the land was being released to spur economic development, something the much bigger city thought it could manage better than adjacent Barling.
Ultimately, before the feud could come to fisticuffs or courtrooms, the cities reached an agreement about municipal boundaries on the excess land, an agreement that ceded the lion's share of the land to Fort Smith, but left Barling with desirable acreage along the corridor eventually that will become Interstate 49 and that highway's intersection with Arkansas 22 and Arkansas 59.
The agreement required Barling to show progress on developing the land, and it did.
"With the agreement, we were required to develop the property that we received from the FCRA within an eight-year period," Barling City Administrator Ray Caruthers said recently.
The Redevelopment Authority passed a resolution earlier this year showing Barling has met that requirement.
There also needs to be a western extension of I-540 across the Arkansas River to meet I-40 near Muldrow. And a connector (I-x49?) between I-49 and I-540 on the south end of Ft Smith to provide a freeway connection from Ft Smith to I-49 south...
Re: the southern Fort Smith interstate. Back in 1998 when OK was looking at the GARVEE bonds, one of the state reps had me look at the cost of building a four-lane interstate from I40 just west of Muldrow south and east to join with the current I540 near the state line. It would have to cross both the Arkansas and the Poteau River as well as a large floodplain. At that time, ODOT made a ballpark guess of $300 million
Bruce ... Tabor, a longtime Sequoyah County commissioner, is a member of the Bi-State Metropolitan Planning Organization Board...
When completed, I-49 will run north to south from the Canadian border near Winnipeg to New Orleans.
Tabor said the group considered trying to get a bypass developed - maybe from the Muldrow area to the south side of Fort Smith - for easier access, but he thinks the economy has pushed that far into the future.
Even more photos on 1-49 Coalition's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Interstate-49-BUILD-THE-ROAD/360183234483?ref=ts
$3.4 million to work on I-540
A grant totaling $3,435,000 in U.S. Department of Transportation funds have now been released to continue construction on Interstate 540 between Fayetteville and Bentonville. The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department will use the funding to widen entrance and exit ramps at several interchanges along I-540 between Fayetteville and Bentonville. It will also create additional lanes that will help reduce traffic congestion and support the future Interstate 49, which will run from Kansas City, Mo., to Shreveport, La.
Relatively small Chaffee Crossing bid awarded today with Massard Road-Roberts Blvd. project awarded to Forsgren, Inc. for $14,625,422.88:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/letting/Sep%20'10%20Award%20List.pdf
Also, some fed money released (approximately $3.4 million) to widen entrance and exit ramps on I-540 (Future I-49) between Fayetteville and Bentonville: http://firstarkansasnews.net/2010/09/grant-round-up-for-august-2/
Steve Pruitt ... a lobbyist with Washington D.C.-based Watts Partners, talked about the federal budget and appropriations timetables in coming months, and stressed to the directors the need to be more focused and precise with Congressional funding requests. Watts Partners is the lobbying firm retained by the city of Fort Smith.
Three primary points were made by Pruitt during his update on political realities – as dynamic as those realities are – in Washington:
- The funding process is out of whack because Congress has yet to approve a 2011 budget resolution;
- The funding/earmark process will become more rigorous; and,
- The Obama Administration and Congress may be more focused on funding infrastructure projects that have a better chance of producing jobs.
Pruitt said “signals” in funding priorities suggest a “heightened focus” on special funding and earmark programs going to true infrastructure projects. Just $29 billion of the about $900 billion stimulus plan went for roads and other infrastructure projects, and that didn’t ultimately create enough jobs, Pruitt explained.
“It produced far less than the 1 million jobs they projected,” Pruitt said.
To that end, Pruitt strongly encouraged the city to “determine” and “communicate” a more precise list of funding priorities – preferably with an infrastructure component. He also said the budget timetable dates “are critical” for the city to meet in order to improve chances for funding. Key dates in the timetable include: Sept. 30, federal agencies submit first funding requests to the Office of Management & Budget; Dec. 15, agencies submit revised requests to OMB; Jan. 30, agencies submit final budget requests to OMB.
The city board is expected to formally approve the city’s top 10 funding requests at their Nov. 2 regular meeting. The proposed priority list is as follows.
1. Interstate 49 between Interstate 40 and U.S. 71 South (project would include a bridge across the Arkansas River) ...
On the funding requests, Pruitt advised the city to become “more aggressive” in asking for the full amount of a project, and prioritize with projects that “can be up and running in a quick fashion.” ...
ARKANSAS STATE HIGHWAY AND TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT
JOB 090292
HWY. 72 SOUTH-HWY. 72 NORTH (BELLA VISTA BYPASS) (F)
FEDERAL AID PROJECT NCIIP-HPP2-STDP-STPD-9036(13)
THE PURPOSE OF THIS PROJECT IS TO CONSTRUCT 2 LANES FOR 3.030 MILES OF HWY. 71, CONSTRUCT THE INTERCHANGES AT HWY. 72N AND HWY. 72S WITH RAMPS, RECONSTRUCT HWY. 279, AND CONSTRUCT FRONTAGE ROADS AND COUNTY ROAD CONNECTORS IN BENTON COUNTY. THIS PROJECT CONSISTS OF GRADING, MINOR DRAINAGE STRUCTURES, CEMENT STABILIZED CRUSHED STONE BASE COURSE, AGGREGATE BASE COURSE, ACHM BASE, BINDER AND SURFACE COURSES, PORTLAND CEMENT CONCRETE PAVEMENT, TWO CONTINUOUS COMPOSITE PLATE GIRDER BRIDGES (TOTAL LENGTHS 234.41' & 282.24'), TWO CONTINUOUS COMPOSITE W-BEAM BRIDGES (TOTAL LENGTHS 206.26' & 207.14'), MAINTENANCE OF TRAFFIC, EROSION CONTROL ITEMS AND MISC. ITEMS ... THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER WILL BE REQUIRED TO COMPLETE THIS CONTRACT ON OR BEFORE 04/11/14.
50% on Arkansas portion and nothing on Missouri. It would be cheaper for Missouri to go now with reduced building costs but MODOT is more broke than the state of Illinois now.
The Bella Vista Bypass project in this letting is really thin gruel ...
... The apparent low bidder in Wednesday’s bid opening was APAC Central in Fayetteville, which bid the project $19.854 million. The bid covers dirt work and driving surface and will connect segments of Arkansas 72 in the Hiwasse area of Northwest Arkansas. The first phase of the work is a two-lane road built to interstate standards.
Mat Pitsch, director of the Regional Intermodal Transportation Authority (RITA) in Crawford and Sebastian counties, said the work is a “strategic link” in completing I-49 ... Arkansas has already spent about $20 million on engineering, utility relocation and other preparatory work on the bypass. It is estimated that Arkansas’ share of the project could be as much as $250 million.
The I-49 route stretches from Texarkana, up through Dequeen, Mena and Waldron, into Fort Smith and on through Northwest Arkansas. All that stands in the way of this interstate reality is several small segments at the Arkansas-Louisiana and Arkansas Missouri borders, an Arkansas River bridge east of Barling that could cost up to $350 million, and a large 185-mile segment between Texarkana and Fort Smith that posts a price tag between $3 billion and $3.5 billion.
“That’s what we’ve got to do next,” Pitsch said, referring to the funding and construction of the bridge. “That’s a big elephant to bite. To me, it’s easier to make the case for that when you have interstates on both sides of the river.”
There will soon be interstate on both sides.
Work is progressing on the segment of I-49 through Chaffee Crossing, with the northern terminus at Arkansas 22 in Barling and the southern portion planned to Howard Hill Road. Ivy Owen, executive director of the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority, is lobbying state officials to fund the short segment of I-49 from Howard Hill Road to U.S. 71 north of Greenwood.
Costs of the I-49 work underway and planned through Chaffee Crossing are in the estimated range of $67 million to $100 million.
A House committee made short work Monday of the five proposed constitutional amendments on its agenda, voting in a batch to advance all of them to the joint committee that will make referrals for the 2012 ballot.
The only measure that drew any discussion was a proposed 10-year, half-cent sales tax that would fund up to $1.8 billion for highway construction ...
Rep. Jonathan Barnett, R-Siloam Springs, a former Arkansas Highway Commission member, is the lead sponsor of the proposal, which would devote 70 percent of the temporary sales tax raised to building out a four-lane grid system across the state. The other 30 percent would go to cities and counties for their own road projects ...
Barnett and Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department Director Dan Flowers were on hand at the House committee to describe the proposal. The temporary sales tax would raise $160 million annually for state highways and $34 million each for cities and counties.
Overall, the proposal would make as much as $1.8 billion available for construction over the 10 years. The state would issue bonds, which would be paid down with the sales tax revenue, Barnett said.
The proposal has broad support, including that of the Arkansas Trucking Association, which is also backing a bill by House Speaker Robert Moore that would raise the sales tax on diesel fuel by 5 cents a gallon. Moore, a Democrat, has been having trouble lining up the votes he needs in the majority-Republican Senate Transportation Committee.
Barnett noted that the sales tax would not apply to food purchases, thus it won't run counter to Gov. Mike Beebe's bill to lower the state sales tax on groceries by half a cent, which is expected to pass.
Rep. Johnnie Roebuck, D-Arkadelphia, asked whether Arkansas 7 -- a north-south route in the middle of the state -- would be widened under the amendment. Flowers said it wouldn't because it wasn't part of the grid system.
"However, the utilization of this new revenue for building out those four-lane sections would certainly take the pressure off of our other funding, our normal federal aid and study funding that would be available for such routes as Highway 7 and others," Flowers said.
Flowers noted that U.S. Highway 71, a major connector between Texarkana and Fort Smith is part of the grid system. The highway's path is part of the plan to extend Interstate 49 north-south along the state's western border ...
Page 16 of http://agrtc.com/magazine/4th%20Quarter%2008%5B1%5D.pdf shows the grid.Thanks for the very useful map of the grid ;-). It lead me to wonder about AHTD's prioritization of the projects, which in turn lead me to AHTD's 2006 Needs Study & Highway Improvement Plan that contains a map showing planned work on various Arkansas corridors (http://www.arkansashighways.com/stip/2006_Needs_Study_Highway_Improvement_Plan.pdf)[the map is on page 53 of the document and page 59/73 of the pdf]. This map is color-coded for anticipated work from 2008-2017, 2018-2027, and beyond 2027. The only thing that jumped off the page at me was that I-69 from McGehee/US 65 to the Mississippi River is slated to be worked on by 2017. [this study was probably hashed out by the "long-timers" on MTR a while back, but it is first time I have taken a look at it].
Here's a link to a news report (with a video) regarding Bella Vista Bypass. Ground should be broken in approximately a month. The report also has a brief mention of proposed diesel and sales tax increases:
http://www.5newsonline.com/news/kfsm-bella-vista-bypass-set-to-break-ground-20110321,0,6315691.story
In the report, Arkansas Highway Commissioner Dick Trammel indicates that Arkansas voters will have a specific list of projects that would benefit from the tax increases before they go the polls next year.
The I-49 International Coalition will meet with members and nonmembers to discuss current status and future requirements for completing Interstate 49 in Arkansas, according to a news release.
The meeting is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 18 in the library at Rich Mountain Community College in Mena. Lunch is included.
Reservations are due Thursday and can be made by emailing or calling Bill Beam at b.beam@sbcglobal.net or (479) 243-3804.
An AHTD spokesman was quoted last Friday as saying the contractor is already on site: http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2011/may/16/bella-vista-work-bypass-starts/An illustration (dated Aug. 2010) on the first page of the linked article indicates that the current project includes grading and earthwork from Hiwasse to the AR-MO state line. I emailed AHTD and asked them if the current project includes the grading & earthwork to the state line. The response:
The next phase of work for the Bella Vista Bypass is scheduled to be let in July 2011. That project is for the grading and structures of 4.8 miles from Highway 72 north to the state line. Currently that is the only other project with a scheduled date for letting.
Useless trivia department: When this project begins in late 2011, Arkansas will have ongoing construction projects at three of the four state lines it shares with other states along the route of I-49. At the risk of straying off-topic, a roadgeek challenge: When was the last time in the history of the interstate system, if ever, that one state had simultaneous construction projects at three or more state lines of a single interstate? (I do not have an answer).
3 of 4? Louisiana, Texas, Missouri...who's #4?Three states (LA, MO, TX), but four state line crossings. There are two proposed state line crossings with Texas; (1) current construction just north of Texarkana and (2) distant-future crossing of Red River at north end of Texas section (yeah, one state line, but two separate crossings of that line; sorry for confusion :pan:).
And in light of the I-69 designations in TX and KY, I've just e-mailed LA, AR, and MO about signing stretches of I-49 that are complete and attached to an existing route (Westbank Expressway, AR 549, I-540, and US 71). We'll see what they say if they reply.Above quote from "Louisiana" thread on Southeast page.
Nope...better to wait until 2015 when I-49 is completed in Louisiana from I-220 north.
Or even better, wait until the segment between Texarkana and Fort Smith is at least under construction, and the Inner City Connector in Shreveport is fully committed to..and then sign the whole shebang as I-49 in one fell swoop.
Anthony
Why wait? Do it now. IMO, its a mistake to wait as who knows when the stretch from Ft Smith to DeQueen will be finished.
rte66man
Signing the finished sections early (which I support) keeps the whole project in focus and I think helps to fasttrack funding for the incomplete sections. government: "Gee, what's the deal with this gap?"
I just received an email update from AHTD. Bids for a grading contract for Bella Vista Bypass from Hiwasse to MO state line are expected to be open this October.
Q "I noticed in today's listing of December 14 projects to be let that the second Bella Vista Bypass grading and structures contract was not included. Has that project run into a long term delay?"
A "The next job has changed scope a couple of times, but it is now a turnkey project schedules for May for the section from Highway 72 north to County Road 34."
Q "... in light of Missouri getting AASHTO OK to resign US 71 as I-49, is AHTD considering resigning I-540 as I-49 (with the idea being to demonstrate to members of Congress from non-I-49 states that a lot of work (MO & AR) has been done on I-49, which in turn generates more momentum in getting federal funds to complete I-49)?"
A "We went through the process and applied to the Feds not too long ago about that, but we were turned down and told more construction needed to be completed before reapplying.
Arkansas has a lot on its hands... but they need to focus on I-49/I-540... And not the southern section of I-49. What is with the section south of Texarkana? Why exactly was that constructed? There's no traffic! I'm sick of seeing NW Arkansas being tossed aside in terms of funding. They need to basically re-do I-540 from Exit 62 (Martin Luther King Jr/US 62 west) to Exit 88 (Central Avenue/AR 72) in Bentonville... All from poor planning. I drive it everyday, and it's ridiculous. Accidents are literally daily, and just further tie up traffic. Traffic during peak times can crawl at 30 MPH.
Arkansas has a lot on its hands... but they need to focus on I-49/I-540... And not the southern section of I-49. What is with the section south of Texarkana? Why exactly was that constructed? There's no traffic! I'm sick of seeing NW Arkansas being tossed aside in terms of funding. They need to basically re-do I-540 from Exit 62 (Martin Luther King Jr/US 62 west) to Exit 88 (Central Avenue/AR 72) in Bentonville... All from poor planning. I drive it everyday, and it's ridiculous. Accidents are literally daily, and just further tie up traffic. Traffic during peak times can crawl at 30 MPH.
Arkansas has a lot on its hands... but they need to focus on I-49/I-540... And not the southern section of I-49 ... I'm sick of seeing NW Arkansas being tossed aside in terms of funding. They need to basically re-do I-540 from Exit 62 (Martin Luther King Jr/US 62 west) to Exit 88 (Central Avenue/AR 72) in Bentonville...Last time I checked, there was a plan to widen and upgrade I-540 through NW AK...just awaiting funding.
Interstate 540 is a highly traveled stretch of road, and if voters approve the bonds those who take advantage of Arkansas interstates will reap the benefits.
"We're going to redo eight interchanges to make it easier to get on and get off," Arkansas Highway Commissioner Dick Trammel said. "It lets us do highways now instead of piecing it out over the next 12 or 15 years. We'll add our bonds. It creates a billion dollars -- $575 million in the bonds plus federal." ...
It could also lead to even bigger improvements such as taking four lanes of I-540 and turning it into six lanes.
"Interchange improvements are the first step toward the eventual widening of 540. We need voters to approve this on Tuesday, and if they upgrade our interchanges, then widening is in our future ...
... no additional lanes can be added using these funds.[page 3 of document, page 4/7 of pdf].
The above AHTD link indicates plans to rehabilitate and improve the following I-540 interchanges in Washington and Benton counties: Hwys. 62/180, Hwys. 16/112S, Great House Springs Road, Elm Springs Road, Wagon Wheel Road, Hwy. 264, Hwy. 71B, Hwys. 62/102, and Hwy. 72.
Members of the Frontier Metropolitan Planning Organization’s policy board heard an overview of area highway construction projects during a meeting Monday.
Joe Shipman, area district engineer for the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department, said work continues on the six-mile stretch of highway destined to be part of Interstate 49 that will link Rogers Avenue (Arkansas 22) to U.S. 71 south of Fort Smith at Howard Hill Road.
Shipman said two contracts on the project are in the works and bids will be awarded on another two, in the area of Roberts Road to Massard Road, and between U.S. 71 and Howard Hill, by next summer. Once those are completed, the only remaining work will be the paving, Shipman said ...
... Ivy Owen, executive director of the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority and member of the Western Arkansas Regional Intermodal Transportation Authority, told authority board members Wednesday construction of the interstate crossing at Chaffee Crossing is progressing rapidly. He said earth work and bridge and support work on a portion of the road between Arkansas 22 and Howard Hill is on schedule for completion within a year and a contracts are due to be awarded soon on a portion of the road from Howard Hill to U.S. 71.
Owen said the status of the project has progressed at a rate that his predictions on the highway have changed from "it won't be completed in my lifetime" to "before I retire, I will be driving on I-49 ....
... Progress on several fronts has occurred at Chaffee Crossing, Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority staff member Larry Evans told the board. He said construction of the local portion of the Interstate 49 project at Chaffee Crossing continues, with another two contracts remaining to be let on the seven-mile stretch between Arkansas 22 and U.S. 71 before the road is paved.
Evans said highway officials have indicated local motorists may be traveling on the Chaffee Crossing portion of the highway sometime in 2014 ...
The state Highway and Transportation Department plans to award a contract next year to build a fourth interchange in the Fort Smith area for the long-planned Interstate 49.
The interchange would be at U.S. 71 south of the city, according to Joe Shipman, District 4 engineer for the Highway Department ...
Three other Fort Smith-area interchanges for the new northsouth interstate are nearly finished, according to Shipman.
Highway engineers hope traffic will flow on the 6-mile strip within three to five years. It would be one of the first new stretches of future I-49 to be completed in the state since 2005.Arkansas is spending $57.65 million on I-49 interchanges, roadway and other structuresso far in Fort Smith. Complete or nearly complete are interchanges at Arkansas 22 (Rogers Avenue), Roberts Boulevard and Massard Road.
When the fourth interchange on U.S. 71 is under contract and construction is well under way, the state expects to go forward with the last step, Shipman said. That would be paving the highway and opening it to traffic, perhaps by 2014. That schedule depends on available funding.
The projects in Arkansas don’t yet have an official Interstate 49 designation. The state Highway Department refers to the Fort Smith section as “Highway 71 Relocation (I-49).” ...
US 62 West is being improved now, 16 West was recently "improved", as was Porter Road. I'm not sure what else AHTD can do besides rebuild the bridges & widen 540
It just angers me that such crappy planning was in place, on all levels... Growth or not, plan it out.
Well, that's Arkansas for you: they never seem to plan very well. They never anticipated the growth thanks to Wal-Mart/Tyson/JB Hunt. Are they still "talking" about the Springdale Bypass and the special toll road to the airport (which is something else they need to do: fix 264 to the airport).
If AHTD had planned better, they wouldn't need the Bella Vista Bypass and could go straight up 71...but it got too commercialized, too quickly.
The Springdale Bypass (which is really needed) is still on the books, and has been listed on the latest STIP I found, I believe. But I'm sure it'll be another 40 years (and that's being generous) until it is actually fully built. Although, I think fixing I-540 (widening/interchanges) and the Bella Vista Bypass need to be fixed before the Springdale/US 412 Bypass. I also agree on the airport link... I wasn't aware of a toll road to the airport... Interesting. I'm still scratching my head as to why they put the main airport here in the middle of nowhere. :)
I couldn't find any links for the Joyce Boulevard interchange with I-540... I think it's in the very early stages.
#1 The land was cheap
#2 It was close to Wal-Mart HQ (relatively speaking).
Long story short: Wal-Mart/Tyson/JB Hunt built it and forced everyone to use it.
Joyce Blvd will be a pain to build if they go through with it: very steep terrain in the vicinity of 540.
True... I believe Walmart doesn't utilize XNA as much as the airport in Rogers... Apparently, that's where the corporate hotshots fly in and out of... That's where all of the Walmart corporate jets are... But XNA does have a lot of traffic too. At least this is what my friend is telling me who has lived here for 21 years... :)
Joyce Blvd & College (US 71B) is the most congested intersection in Fayetteville. They are planning a flyover for US 71B (College Ave) to westbound US 71B... since there is no connection... I'm still confused on the US 71 designations in Fayetteville and NWA.
Interesting... I'm not extremely familiar with Fayetteville traffic, but I do know the Jughandle is used by right-turners from College to Joyce. Nice idea, but it's not working as it should :). My friend's sister actually got in a bad accident there, because she thought the jughandle was a shortcut to College, from Joyce. It was her own stupidity, but it goes to show that driver familiarity is an important thing to consider, and signage be more than adequate. You can't stick something that isn't familiar, and expect drivers to figure it out, without adequate signage... and the signage for the jughandle is not adequate.
Advocates for renewing a $575 million highway bond program breezed to victory in a November special election with a simple but effective message to voters: Raise new highway maintenance funds without raising taxes.
Now they’re gearing up for a very “different campaign” next year to pay for a broader highway construction by adding taxes on top of taxes.
The Legislature this year referred to the 2012 general election ballot a proposed constitutional amendment that would raise the state’s 6 percent sales tax to 6 1/2 percent to fund a $1.8 billion program that would connect all corners of the state with four-lane highways ...
“There is no question it will be a tough sell,” even with the prospects for job creation and economic development, said Randy Zook, president and CEO of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce-Associated Industries of Arkansas ...
Under the proposed constitutional amendment, a half-cent sales tax increase would be in effect for 10 years. Highway construction under the plan would focus primarily on a creating a statewide four-lane grid and adding capacity to existing four-lane highways.
The state would receive 70 percent of the proceeds, an estimated $1.1 billion, with cities and counties sharing the remaining 30 percent, about $700 million ...
Scott Bennett, director of the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department ... has said approval of the half-cent sales tax increase would fund a number of large, expensive projects across Arkansas, including replacement of the Interstate 30 bridge over the Arkansas River between Little Rock and North Little Rock, widening I-40 between Little Rock and Conway, and widening U.S. 67-167 between Jacksonville and Cabot.
Two lanes of the proposed Bella Vista bypass also would be completed in northwestern Arkansas, and in the south, U.S. 82 between Magnolia and El Dorado would be widened, as would a number of other heavily traveled highways across the state, Bennett said ...
Crucial to the highway tax increase effort, supporters say, would be the support of Gov. Mike Beebe. The governor was featured in television commercials for the road bond renewal drive but has remained steadfastly noncommittal to the highway tax increase proposal.
About all Beebe has said about the plan is that in the current economy voters would be hard-pressed to support a tax increase ...
Crucial to the highway tax increase effort, supporters say, would be the support of Gov. Mike Beebe. The governor was featured in television commercials for the road bond renewal drive but has remained steadfastly noncommittal to the highway tax increase proposal.
About all Beebe has said about the plan is that in the current economy voters would be hard-pressed to support a tax increase ..."
They need to do something... The highway funding formula for this state is seriously flawed, by the sounds of it.
For me, the Bella Vista Bypass should be at the top of the list. Missouri is ready to designate US 71 from I-44 to KC as I-49 by the end of 2012. If AR would fast-track the bypass, we could have I-49 from KC to I-40 near Fort Smith.
Other states can do it right, why can't Arkansas?
^ I think the other two lanes will be built later as funding becomes available. I think it will be graded so that there will be room for the other carriageway.
Arkansas has always been backwards. We're also a poor state, so we don't have a lot of money. Then they wait too long and have to start again. It took 30+ years to plan/build 540 north of Alma.
It looks like AHTD has a new director...
Also, I wouldn't call AR a backwards state (although I'd really like to). I see a lot of the southern states with progress when it comes to roads/highways. Alabama and Mississippi come to mind with I-22. Something is seriously flawed in AR with the highway funding, and it needs to be fixed. And the fact that Little Rock has the highest amount of Interstate mileage per capita... I can't find the facts to back this up right now, but I believe it.
I see US 67 with a limited access roadway constructed to Cash, AR... Why? Why, oh why? I've looked at Google StreetView... And I see US 63 from I-55 to Jonesboro. I know the growth in NWA was quick, but why can't we get this type of attention. And AHTD is very, very flawed, because the AR 102 (14th Street) reconstruction in Bentonville took, literally, years to complete.
Reason why Arkansas doesn't have I-22 like progress is Bama has Richard Shelby. Shelby has been one stubborn SOB in pushing I-22. Stories of him holding up Congressional vacations for more funding are legendary.
It's surprising this area doesn't have a big voice for this... In terms of lawmakers... Anyone driving I-540 between Bentonville and Fayetteville, during peak hours, have a lot of venting.
This is a bit off topic, but the 14th Street (AR 102) reconstruction through Bentonville (from US 71 Business to Greenhouse Road) took, literally, years to complete. A simple reconstruction, from a rural 2-lane, to an urban 4-lane. And they didn't even include medians (very do-able... embrace the median!) and roadway lighting. Sigh....
Is there enough support to get a transportation district of all the counties together. That way they could create funding mechanism's to kick up by themselves. Sadly as important as a corridor as it is to America. I don't see much feds money coming Arkansas's way. Arkansas doesn't have the Uncle Sugar Daddies with power in Congress anymore.
I just noticed that AHTD now has a page devoted to the Bella Vista Bypass (with links):DARN IT! How did you find that before me? :spin:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/BVB/bellavista.aspx
An AHTD spokesman was quoted last Friday as saying the contractor is already on site: http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2011/may/16/bella-vista-work-bypass-starts/An illustration (dated Aug. 2010) on the first page of the linked article indicates that the current project includes grading and earthwork from Hiwasse to the AR-MO state line. I emailed AHTD and asked them if the current project includes the grading & earthwork to the state line. The response:
"The next phase of work for the Bella Vista Bypass is scheduled to be let in July 2011.
I just received an email update from AHTD. Bids for a grading contract for Bella Vista Bypass from Hiwasse to MO state line are expected to be open this October.
I just received an email reply from AHTD (my questions and then AHTD answers):Aside from making improvements to I-540, I have to question AHTD's commitment to prioritizing the Bella Vista Bypass ("BVB") and getting it completed. First, the BVB link in the top quote above has been removed from the home page and is now inactive. A small thing, but another project now has a prominent link on the home page: the 430/630 interchange located in, of all places, Little Rock. Not a good signal...
Q "I noticed in today's listing of December 14 projects to be let that the second Bella Vista Bypass grading and structures contract was not included. Has that project run into a long term delay?"
A "The next job has changed scope a couple of times, but it is now a turnkey project schedules for May for the section from Highway 72 north to County Road 34."
Also, petitioning AASHTO for redesignation of I-540 as I-49 should be a no-brainer and should be done immediately. Given what AASHTO has allowed Texas and Kentucky to do with I-69 signage, and Missouri with I-49 signage, AASHTO should approve the change. I don't understand AHTD's apparent reluctance to petition for approval of the change. It would only help get more $$$ over time.
Missouri and Arkansas tried in 2007 to get the I-49 designation approved, but AASHTO said NO. So maybe they are waiting until they get more done?I just get the sense that, in the current economy, AASHTO is being more receptive to back-channel arguments that immediate signage will aid economic development along corridors (why else allow a seven-mile stretch of I-69 to be signed in the middle of Texas's corridor in 2011?). I think 2007 was right before the crash.
Missouri and Arkansas tried in 2007 to get the I-49 designation approved, but AASHTO said NO. So maybe they are waiting until they get more done?I just get the sense that, in the current economy, AASHTO is being more receptive to back-door arguments that immediate signage will aid economic development along corridors (why else allow a seven-mile stretch of I-69 to be signed in the middle of Texas's corridor in 2011?). I think 2007 was right before the crash.
I'm just curious as to why Missouri went back to AASHTO alone in 2011. Huge gap between Pineville, MO and Shreveport, LA but MoDOT received qualified approval. Seems like AHTD would get similar approval for I-540 if they went back to AASHTO. Other than BVB, would make gap between Alma and Shreveport. It can't hurt to ask again; it worked for Missouri.
Missouri showed significant progress. From Pineville to Kansas City, it's already at least partially controlled access. Arkansas has almost nothing south of Ft Smith.Here's a link to a pdf of the 2007 AASHTO's disapprovals of Missouri's I-49 application and the Arkansas I-49 North application:
Missouri has their portion coming due 2014-16 as their long range budget has actual construction money budgeted. I would build it now as Construction Rates are as low as they might be in decades. I know it would be a ghost road and the know nothings would complain about it but it would actually save money over the long term.
Arkansas had John Paul Hammerschmidt who got Arkansas the money to build I-540 north of Alma, but he retired a few years ago.
The people who have held his seat in the House since then talk about completing I-49, but haven't allocated any funds. John Boozman talks the talk about securing more funding, but so far it seems to be all talk.
Arkansas doesn't have the Uncle Sugar Daddies with power in Congress anymore.
The Bella Vista Bypass is very underrated, and needs to be completed ASAP. I drive US 71 often between Bentonville/Rogers and the MO state line... I feel really bad for the truckers... There is so much truck traffic, that have to deal with the traffic signals in Bella Vista, not to mention the regular traffic, both local and regional.Is either one of the senators from Arkansas powerful enough to push construction of the BVB through the halls of the Senate and its various committees? Harry Reid, the very powerful Senator from Nevada, has apparently successfully included funding for Interstate 11 in the current draft of the Senate's version of the highway reauthorization bill (and I suspect he will fight hard to keep it in the bill):
It seems like there is a very real need for the BVB, and that a strong argument can be made for it in terms of national significance. Does Arkansas really have very little senatorial clout?
I-49 should have 6 core Senators in MO, AR and LA delegations. One of those Senators is Roy Blount who got alot of money for work on US-71. I-49 should get support from TX, OK, KS, NB, IA, SD, ND Senators also . All states would have more commerce flowing into them from I-49/I-29 connections.
I-49 should have 6 core Senators in MO, AR and LA delegations. One of those Senators is Roy Blount who got alot of money for work on US-71. I-49 should get support from TX, OK, KS, NB, IA, SD, ND Senators also . All states would have more commerce flowing into them from I-49/I-29 connections.
In theory, yes. But each Senator has their own agenda...often political.
I drove out to Hiawasse to see the progress on the segment they are currently constructing. It's promising. They are working on the BVB, a loop around the small town of Hiawasse (which was plastered with signs saying "No annexation" and "Leave Hiawasse Alone". I'm wondering if Bella Vista or even Centerton is trying to annex them?) Weird.
Anyway, the eastern part of the portion they are building looks good. They have a lot of dirt work done, and it looks like they were starting on bridges. The western portion was just them removing trees, and doing minor dirt work. I wasn't sure what to expect driving out there... but it is progress. The sad thing is I was out there around 3-4 PM and saw no movement at all on the two separate sites off of AR 72. I like to see actively moving, getting stuff done.
I can't remember if I asked this before, but does AHTD do an incentive if the contractors finish early, and a penalty if they finish late?
I-49 should have 6 core Senators in MO, AR and LA delegations. One of those Senators is Roy Blount who got alot of money for work on US-71. I-49 should get support from TX, OK, KS, NB, IA, SD, ND Senators also . All states would have more commerce flowing into them from I-49/I-29 connections.
I-49 should have 6 core Senators in MO, AR and LA delegations. One of those Senators is Roy Blount who got alot of money for work on US-71. I-49 should get support from TX, OK, KS, NB, IA, SD, ND Senators also . All states would have more commerce flowing into them from I-49/I-29 connections.
I-49 should have 6 core Senators in MO, AR and LA delegations. One of those Senators is Roy Blount who got alot of money for work on US-71. I-49 should get support from TX, OK, KS, NB, IA, SD, ND Senators also . All states would have more commerce flowing into them from I-49/I-29 connections.
Why should OK support funding for a road that doesn't touch their border? Canadian traffic already comes down I35. Mexican traffic up 35 as well. "more commerce"? I don't see it at all. OK has way more road/bridge needs than does AR. What little we can chisel from DC needs to stay home.
I just noticed that AHTD now has a page devoted to the Bella Vista Bypass (with links):
http://www.arkansashighways.com/BVB/bellavista.aspxI just received an email reply from AHTD (my questions and then AHTD answers):the BVB link in the top quote above has been removed from the home page and is now inactive. A small thing ... Not a good signal...
Q "I noticed in today's listing of December 14 projects to be let that the second Bella Vista Bypass grading and structures contract was not included. Has that project run into a long term delay?"
A "The next job has changed scope a couple of times, but it is now a turnkey project schedules for May for the section from Highway 72 north to County Road 34."
Q: I recently noticed that the Bella Vista Bypass link that used to be on the AHTD home page has been removed and deactivated. Does this mean that completion of BVB has dropped in the scheme of AHTD priorities?
A: I’ll check on that link, but it doesn’t mean anything. We are undergoing changes to our web page. The BV Bypass job continues and the next scheduled job is for the 5 miles from Hwy 72 north to County Road 34.
Lots of people asking/demanding for I-49, but nothing seems to happen. Boozman says he's trying to get money, but I don't see how he can when he keeps saying we need to slash the federal budget :confused:
Boozman is new as is Womack. Both are pretty much lockstep with the rest of the conservatives. Both talk about Arkansas' needs, but don't do a lot.
Harry Reid, the very powerful Senator from Nevada, has apparently successfully included funding for Interstate 11 in the current draft of the Senate's version of the highway reauthorization bill (and I suspect he will fight hard to keep it in the bill):
http://www.examiner.com/las-vegas-in-national/interstate-from-las-vegas-to-phoenix-plans-move-along-us-senate
...Boozman said he and Rep. Mike Ross, D-Prescott, are working on a highway reauthorization bill and plan to fire up the I-49 Coalition, which has congressional representatives from New Orleans to the Canadian border."
Maybe he and Ross can at least match Reid dollar for dollar in I-49 funding vs. I-11 funding. However, I suspect otherwise ...
Boozman is doing more talking; claims he is working on the reauthorization bill and that he is going to "fire up" the I-49 Coalition:
http://www.swtimes.com/news/article_bd9fa5bc-3c67-11e1-9405-001871e3ce6c.html
"...Boozman said he and Rep. Mike Ross, D-Prescott, are working on a highway reauthorization bill and plan to fire up the I-49 Coalition, which has congressional representatives from New Orleans to the Canadian border."
Maybe he and Ross can at least match Reid dollar for dollar in I-49 funding vs. I-11 funding. However, I suspect otherwise ...
.Lots of people asking/demanding for I-49, but nothing seems to happen. Boozman says he's trying to get money, but I don't see how he can when he keeps saying we need to slash the federal budget :confused:Boozman is new as is Womack. Both are pretty much lockstep with the rest of the conservatives. Both talk about Arkansas' needs, but don't do a lot.Harry Reid, the very powerful Senator from Nevada, has apparently successfully included funding for Interstate 11 in the current draft of the Senate's version of the highway reauthorization bill (and I suspect he will fight hard to keep it in the bill):Boozman is doing more talking; claims he is working on the reauthorization bill and that he is going to "fire up" the I-49 Coalition:
http://www.examiner.com/las-vegas-in-national/interstate-from-las-vegas-to-phoenix-plans-move-along-us-senate
http://www.swtimes.com/news/article_bd9fa5bc-3c67-11e1-9405-001871e3ce6c.html
"...Boozman said he and Rep. Mike Ross, D-Prescott, are working on a highway reauthorization bill and plan to fire up the I-49 Coalition, which has congressional representatives from New Orleans to the Canadian border."
Maybe he and Ross can at least match Reid dollar for dollar in I-49 funding vs. I-11 funding. However, I suspect otherwise ...
Thank you for inquiring about that. The AHTD website is crappy, and needs a upgrade (Hint: Look at MoDOT's webpage!). I still think NWA Arkansas is neglected, and priority is given to the Little Rock area. Yes, I haven't lived here too long, but I've heard that from many people here. But... in my opinion, but the BVB should be at the top of the priority list (#1, in my opinion) for AHTD.I just noticed that AHTD now has a page devoted to the Bella Vista Bypass (with links):I had a recent email Q & A with AHTD regarding the removal of the BVB link from the AHTD homepage and was reassured that they are still proceeding with BVB:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/BVB/bellavista.aspx
Q: I recently noticed that the Bella Vista Bypass link that used to be on the AHTD home page has been removed and deactivated. Does this mean that completion of BVB has dropped in the scheme of AHTD priorities?
A: I’ll check on that link, but it doesn’t mean anything. We are undergoing changes to our web page. The BV Bypass job continues and the next scheduled job is for the 5 miles from Hwy 72 north to County Road 34.
Lived in NW Arkansas in the late 70's and it has always been a step child to Little Rock. Yet NW Arky is almost if not past Little Rock in Economic impact with 3 huge national corporations in the area. Yet NW Arkansas is still a cul de sac on the Interstate highway system (better than nothing but should be better).
The growth here has been very rapid (I've only lived here for a year). There definitely should be more focus here. It's sad that the majority of the interchanges along I-540, in NWA, need reconstruction.
Has anybody had time to read the article in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette about the Highway department and the money going where the cars are? Also the 1/2 cent sales tax vote this fall being critical to pass for expanding 4 lane roads in Arkansas. It starts on the front page.
AHTD officials said they're getting the cables installed along a busy stretch of I-540 ...
The project started last month, and officials said it is expected to be completed by the summer.
"This is a really big project for us. It's a $5 million project, (constructing) 24 miles of cable barriers. It's significantly bigger than most of the cable barrier jobs we've had," Bolick said.
According to AHTD, the cable barrier will be installed in the median from Bentonville all the way to Fayetteville, securing a large part of the interstate, which is well-known for crossover accidents.
I drove out to Hiawasse to see the progress on the segment they are currently constructing. It's promising. They are working on the BVB, a loop around the small town of Hiawasse (which was plastered with signs saying "No annexation" and "Leave Hiawasse Alone". I'm wondering if Bella Vista or even Centerton is trying to annex them?) Weird.
Google maps updated their satellite imagery at Texarkana, here the upcoming interchange of I-30 with I-49 http://maps.google.com/?ll=33.479563,-93.966923&spn=0.055482,0.077162&t=k&z=14&vpsrc=6Actually, I believe it is an update over the link I posted. I don't remember the southern "prong" at N Stateline Ave being paved.
Edit: Looks like I arrived too late at the finish line. :sleep:
https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg129064#msg129064
http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2011/dec/17/fort-smiths-4th-interchange-i-49-get-star-20111217/?f=news-arkansasAnyway, Stephane's post motivated me to check Bing's aerial view of the I-49 work at Chaffee Crossing. (http://www.bing.com/maps/?v=2&cp=35.29965984320673~-94.32473373413086&lvl=13&dir=0&sty=h&where1=Fort%20Smith%2C%20AR&form=LMLTCC) Pretty good progress. I checked Google and Bing for initial signs of construction at Hiwasse, but did not see anything.
The state Highway and Transportation Department plans to award a contract next year to build a fourth interchange in the Fort Smith area for the long-planned Interstate 49.
The interchange would be at U.S. 71 south of the city, according to Joe Shipman, District 4 engineer for the Highway Department ...
Three other Fort Smith-area interchanges for the new northsouth interstate are nearly finished, according to Shipman ...
Complete or nearly complete are interchanges at Arkansas 22 (Rogers Avenue), Roberts Boulevard and Massard Road.
When the fourth interchange on U.S. 71 is under contract and construction is well under way, the state expects to go forward with the last step, Shipman said. That would be paving the highway and opening it to traffic, perhaps by 2014.
Anyway, Stephane's post motivated me to check Bing's aerial view of the I-49 work at Chaffee Crossing. (http://www.bing.com/maps/?v=2&cp=35.29965984320673~-94.32473373413086&lvl=13&dir=0&sty=h&where1=Fort%20Smith%2C%20AR&form=LMLTCC) Pretty good progress. I checked Google and Bing for initial signs of construction at Hiwasse, but did not see anything.
The bridge at AR 22 is done, Frontier Rd/Ft Smith Blvd is done. Rye Hill Rd finished last month. Massard Rd is still a work in progress.Thanks for the offer. My roadgeek budget is tight; my wife and kids don't quite "get it". That said, I am thinking of both 2012 AR I-49 trip and 2013 AR I-49 trip.
C'mon up some time and I'll show you around ;)
It looks like driving on the paved segments of I-49 North is an option if a Texarkana meet comes together. Today, I spoke with Susan Stafford, a LaDOTD Public Information Officer. She gave a tentative OK to the notion of meet attendees driving on the paved I-49 North, but there would be some bureaucratic prerequisites ... Even if I cannot make the meet, I might do a "stealth" drive myself before it opens to the general public. :sombrero:(above from "2012 meets?" thread on General Highway Talk)
You should drive the new road and film it. Nobody would probably even notice and if you did get caught you wouldn't get in that much trouble.(above from "Texarkana; (Future I-49; I-69 Spur)" thread)
Could we make it from Fayetteville to Texarkana and back in a day?(above from "2012 meets?" thread)
Is there still another Bridge left to build between Roberts Road and Massard Road in the Fort Smith project. Shipman says there are 2 jobs left before paving. Job # 40479 was for overpass bridges for Massard Rd. and Custer Blvd., then 2 main lane bridges over Roberts Blvd. Job #40478 is for Grading and structures from Rye Hill to U.S. 71. I don't see another one on the AHTD that he is talking about. http://www.swtimes.com/business/article_f9f4b068-2595-11e1-92b4-001871e3ce6c.html
What will this highway be signed? Will AASHTO get off their high horse and let AHTD sign it as I-49? Or will it be another section of AR 549? It will connect AR 22 to US 71 and probably won't get much traffic until it is extended to I-540 in Alma.I believe the current FHWA guidance is that a freeway built to interstate standards cannot receive an interstate designation until at least one end of the freeway segment connects to a currently existing part of the interstate system (I believe this is the reason I-22 cannot be signed until the I-65/I-22 interchange is completed in 2014). It will probably be a long wait for I-49 designation because Arkansas River bridge will have to be built to connect AR 22 to I-540 at Alma, which would then provide the necessary connection.
This is typical of the signing plans for I-49 North:(above quote from "I49 in LA" thread)
(http://www.sabre-roads.org.uk/wiki/images/b/bd/Sheet_0110.png)
Note I-49 trailblazer assembly.
What do you Guys think about some sections between Barling and I 40 that could could be built so you wouldn't have 300 million plus to have at one time. AHTD couldn't come up with 220 million for Bella Vista Bypass at one time. Could they extend I 540 south closer to Arkansas river and mabe extend from Barling towards the river so it could be broken down and not so much money at one time?
What do you Guys think about some sections between Barling and I 40 that could could be built so you wouldn't have 300 million plus to have at one time. AHTD couldn't come up with 220 million for Bella Vista Bypass at one time. Could they extend I 540 south closer to Arkansas river and mabe extend from Barling towards the river so it could be broken down and not so much money at one time?
In theory, yes, you could extend the road north from Barling, but it would be a road to nowhere. It would likely just sit there doing nothing until the bridge was built, unless locals could use it to access some of the Corp of Engineer parks.
I'm sure the bridge would be a separate project from the I-40/49 interchange, but they would be so close to each other, I think doing one without the other would be a waste of time.
Reason why Arkansas doesn't have I-22 like progress is Bama has Richard Shelby. Shelby has been one stubborn SOB in pushing I-22. Stories of him holding up Congressional vacations for more funding are legendary.Wasn't NC the same way? Seeing that I-73 and I-74 signs have sprung up at a frantic pace (and virtually none elsewhere), there must've been some stubborn SOBs running things in Raleigh too.
Fayetteville Mayor Lioneld Jordan and Fort Smith Mayor Sandy Sanders held joint press conferences Wednesday [Feb. 8] in their respective cities to discuss the new partnership.
“Our initial focus will be on transportation issues, and other areas of mutual interest will be identified in the future. First: The completion of I-49 is a natural topic for joint emphasis,” Sanders said in a statement. “I-49 will have tremendous economic benefit for our two cities. The benefit to Fort Smith is obvious. It would place us at the center of an east/west and north/south interstate intersection in the center of the United States. We will see a transportation and logistic enterprise confluence. Job growth will be substantial. There are tremendous benefits to Fayetteville as well.”
Sanders said the “combined efforts” of the two cities in lobbying Congress for I-49 funding “will be significant.”
The I-49 route stretches from Texarkana, up through Dequeen, Mena and Waldron, into Fort Smith and on through Northwest Arkansas. All that stands in the way of this interstate reality is several small segments at the Arkansas-Louisiana and Arkansas Missouri borders, an Arkansas River bridge east of Barling that could cost up to $350 million, and a large 185-mile segment between Texarkana and Fort Smith that posts a price tag between $3 billion and $3.5 billion.
Work has begun on the Bella Vista Bypass, which will connect Arkansas and Missouri with an interstate highway that will eventually be part of I-49. The proposed bypass is about 20 miles, extending from U.S. 71 just south of Bella Vista to U.S. 71 near Pineville, Mo. Arkansas’ portion is approximately 15 miles in length, while the Missouri section will be about 5 miles.
Arkansas has already spent about $20 million on engineering, utility relocation and other preparatory work on the bypass. It is estimated that Arkansas’ share of the project could be as much as $250 million ...
Fort Smith and Fayetteville are the second and third largest cities in Arkansas. We each have strengths that can benefit and support the other. A closer working relationship has the potential to be the catalyst for creating more vibrant growth and development ....
This article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/20299) reports that the second and third largest cities in Arkansas have joined forces to obtain more funding for the completion of I-49 in Arkansas:Hopefully, once the Missouri portion is completed, then I-49 shields will go up along I-540, at least to the part north of I-40. South of I-40, I see it being signed as Future I-49, until AHTD can figure out a way to connect Fort Smith and Texarkana.QuoteFayetteville Mayor Lioneld Jordan and Fort Smith Mayor Sandy Sanders held joint press conferences Wednesday [Feb. 8] in their respective cities to discuss the new partnership.
“Our initial focus will be on transportation issues, and other areas of mutual interest will be identified in the future. First: The completion of I-49 is a natural topic for joint emphasis,” Sanders said in a statement. “I-49 will have tremendous economic benefit for our two cities. The benefit to Fort Smith is obvious. It would place us at the center of an east/west and north/south interstate intersection in the center of the United States. We will see a transportation and logistic enterprise confluence. Job growth will be substantial. There are tremendous benefits to Fayetteville as well.”
Sanders said the “combined efforts” of the two cities in lobbying Congress for I-49 funding “will be significant.”
The I-49 route stretches from Texarkana, up through Dequeen, Mena and Waldron, into Fort Smith and on through Northwest Arkansas. All that stands in the way of this interstate reality is several small segments at the Arkansas-Louisiana and Arkansas Missouri borders, an Arkansas River bridge east of Barling that could cost up to $350 million, and a large 185-mile segment between Texarkana and Fort Smith that posts a price tag between $3 billion and $3.5 billion.
Work has begun on the Bella Vista Bypass, which will connect Arkansas and Missouri with an interstate highway that will eventually be part of I-49. The proposed bypass is about 20 miles, extending from U.S. 71 just south of Bella Vista to U.S. 71 near Pineville, Mo. Arkansas’ portion is approximately 15 miles in length, while the Missouri section will be about 5 miles.
Arkansas has already spent about $20 million on engineering, utility relocation and other preparatory work on the bypass. It is estimated that Arkansas’ share of the project could be as much as $250 million ...
Fort Smith and Fayetteville are the second and third largest cities in Arkansas. We each have strengths that can benefit and support the other. A closer working relationship has the potential to be the catalyst for creating more vibrant growth and development ....
EDIT
A good place to start would be for the two cities to push AHTD to make the redesignation of I-540 as I-49 happen as soon as possible. :clap:
In yesterday's Arkansas Gazette there was an article about Bridges in Arkansas. Scott Bennett mentioned I 49 Bridge between Alma and Fort Chaffee being in the development stage. He said the environmental was done and I think he was talking about it being in the design stage. Hopefully they will know what the actual bridge and cost will be soon.
Bennett .... cited ... other new bridges in development:
The Interstate 49 bridge over the Arkansas River that would connect Interstate 540 at Alma with a U.S. 71 project under construction on a new location in the area of Fort Chaffee. The environmental impact statement has been approved for the entire I-49 corridor between Texarkana and Fort Smith, but no design work has been done on the bridge.
Wow, I didn't know they selected an alignment already. I'm kinda surprised at the lack of interchanges for all those towns between Grannis and Mena. Also, the SA goes through the Ouchita National Forest. I know it's good for long distance travelers, but if the route isn't going to go closer to those towns, then at least throw them a bone with a couple more interchanges. At the end of the day, it looks like the route will be about 5 miles to the east of the towns.
I just received an email reply from AHTD (my questions and then AHTD answers):QuoteQ "I noticed in today's listing of December 14 projects to be let that the second Bella Vista Bypass grading and structures contract was not included. Has that project run into a long term delay?"
A "The next job has changed scope a couple of times, but it is now a turnkey project schedules for May for the section from Highway 72 north to County Road 34."
Work to convert U.S. 71 in Arkansas is continuing. Glenn Bolick, spokesman for the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department, said work is under way on a two-lane route around Bella Vista that eventually will become a four-lane bypass.
“We’ve completed 25 percent of the first contract, which is almost $20 million, for a three-mile stretch near Highway 72 South at Hiwasse,” he said. “When that stretch of the highway is completed, we will use that piece. It’s a section of what we call independent utility.”
The department will seek bids for a five-mile, two-lane stretch north of Hiwasse in May.
“We’ve completed 25 percent of the first contract, which is almost $20 million, for a three-mile stretch near Highway 72 South at Hiwasse,” he said. “When that stretch of the highway is completed, we will use that piece. It’s a section of what we call independent utility.”
AHTD has asked fpr a grant to help finish the Fort Chaffee Crossing. Hope they get in the 2012 Tiger. grant.http://www.arkansashighways.com/tiger/T4/71.aspx
Good ol' Arkansas... I'm still hoping for a complete Bella Vista Bypass (with I-49 designation from Kansas City to I-40) within my lifetime... and I'm 25.
Good ol' Arkansas... I'm still hoping for a complete Bella Vista Bypass (with I-49 designation from Kansas City to I-40) within my lifetime... and I'm 25.
What is needed is another John Paul Hammerschmidt to bring home the pork ;)
Good ol' Arkansas... I'm still hoping for a complete Bella Vista Bypass (with I-49 designation from Kansas City to I-40) within my lifetime... and I'm 25.
What is needed is another John Paul Hammerschmidt to bring home the pork ;)
We need something. With the recent vote passed for bonds, I'm curious to see what will be done in NWA. I know it won't be widening, but solely on interchange improvements. Considering how a few them need to be totally gutted and reconstructed, I really wonder about what will be done this summer. I've tried to find anything on the AHTD website and Google... and I have found nothing. It's sad. I'm used to the State DOT's websites to provide a ton of information about projects/plans... and Arkansas is just not with it.
I wouldn't list any project in any states on I-49 as "Pork". This Interstate is badly needed for commerce and hurricane evacuation routing. The Commerce stream is already there and we all know the danger that is southern LA for hurricanes.Adding overpasses at minor rural roads in southwestern Missouri is certainly pork.
I wouldn't list any project in any states on I-49 as "Pork". This Interstate is badly needed for commerce and hurricane evacuation routing. The Commerce stream is already there and we all know the danger that is southern LA for hurricanes.
Missouri has almost always been ahead of the curve when it comes to US 71. Most of it has been 4 lanes north of I-44 for at least 30 years.
Missouri has almost always been ahead of the curve when it comes to US 71. Most of it has been 4 lanes north of I-44 for at least 30 years.
It was 2 lanes from Jasper to Carthage when I was a kid. This would have been the early to mid '80s. I also remember that traffic would be forced onto what is now the frontage road where the 4 lanes were open.
With all the corporate influences in NW Arkansas, especially WM, wouldn't it help them to, ummm, help the Bypass' cause a little bit? It's sure not going to help them and other firms with trucks to be waiting around on a slowly-thrown-together not-so-super-2.
I think I need a few of these now... :cheers:
I remember the narrow Center Creek bridges being used for SB traffic for many years. 4 Lane was Hit n Miss to near Jasper. I remember a couple odd switchbacks in that area, too.
I remember the narrow Center Creek bridges being used for SB traffic for many years. 4 Lane was Hit n Miss to near Jasper. I remember a couple odd switchbacks in that area, too.
Switchbacks? Do you mean crossovers where the lanes shifted onto the new roadway?
With all the corporate influences in NW Arkansas, especially WM, wouldn't it help them to, ummm, help the Bypass' cause a little bit? It's sure not going to help them and other firms with trucks to be waiting around on a slowly-thrown-together not-so-super-2.
I think I need a few of these now... :cheers:
With all the corporate influences in NW Arkansas, especially WM, wouldn't it help them to, ummm, help the Bypass' cause a little bit? It's sure not going to help them and other firms with trucks to be waiting around on a slowly-thrown-together not-so-super-2.
I think I need a few of these now... :cheers:
You would think so... As massive as Walmart is, I'm surprised that they haven't done more... Traffic congestion here can get crazy. That being said, Walmart is pushing for an interchange on I-540 at SE 8th Street in Bentonville... It would greatly help the SE 14th Street/Hudson Road interchange... That gets backed up at peak times like crazy. A big part of it is the Walmart home office people trying to get on 540 to go south to Springdale/Fayetteville.
That, and the Waltons (so I've heard) hired an outside source to push the wet/dry county issue in Benton County to a vote... Sorely needed (Time to move to the 21st Century!).
It's a Hiwassee Bypass :rofl:
THE PURPOSE OF THIS PROJECT IS TO CONSTRUCT 2.377 MILES OF TWO LANE ROADWAY FOR HWY. 71 AND THE COUNTY ROAD 34 INTERCHANGE IN BENTON COUNTY. THIS PROJECT CONSISTS OF EARTHWORK, AGGREGATE BASE COURSE, ACHM BASE, BINDER AND SURFACE COURSES, PCC PAVEMENT, MINOR DRAINAGE STRUCTURES, A CONT. COMP. PLATE GIRDER OVERPASS BRIDGE (TOTAL SPAN LENGTH 192.12'), EROSION CONTROL ITEMS, WIRE FENCE, MAINTENANCE OF TRAFFIC AND MISC. ITEMS.
http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2011/dec/17/fort-smiths-4th-interchange-i-49-get-star-20111217/?f=news-arkansasQuoteThe state Highway and Transportation Department plans to award a contract next year to build a fourth interchange in the Fort Smith area for the long-planned Interstate 49.
The interchange would be at U.S. 71 south of the city, according to Joe Shipman, District 4 engineer for the Highway Department ...
Three other Fort Smith-area interchanges for the new northsouth interstate are nearly finished, according to Shipman.
THE PURPOSE OF THIS PROJECT IS TO CONSTRUCT 0.635 MILE OF THE HWY. 71 RELOCATED EMBANKMENT, THE EMBANKMENTS FOR THE RAMPS ALONG WITH THE OVERPASS BRIDGE AND APPROACHES AT THE INTERCHANGE OF HWY. 71 AND COUNTY ROAD 8 IN SEBASTIAN COUNTY NEAR THE FORT CHAFFEE MILITARY RESERVATION. THIS PROJECT CONSISTS OF EARTHWORK, AGGREGATE BASE COURSE, ACHM BINDER AND SURFACE COURSES, MINOR DRAINAGE STRUCTURES, GUARDRAIL, EROSION CONTROL ITEMS, A CONT. COMP. PLATE GIRDER UNIT OVERPASS BRIDGE (329.16 FT.), WIRE FENCE, MAINTENANCE OF TRAFFIC AND MISC. ITEMS.
It's a Hiwassee Bypass :rofl:
THE PURPOSE OF THIS PROJECT IS TO CONSTRUCT 2.377 MILES OF TWO LANE ROADWAY FOR HWY. 71 AND THE COUNTY ROAD 34 INTERCHANGE IN BENTON COUNTY. THIS PROJECT CONSISTS OF EARTHWORK, AGGREGATE BASE COURSE, ACHM BASE, BINDER AND SURFACE COURSES, PCC PAVEMENT, MINOR DRAINAGE STRUCTURES, A CONT. COMP. PLATE GIRDER OVERPASS BRIDGE (TOTAL SPAN LENGTH 192.12'), EROSION CONTROL ITEMS, WIRE FENCE, MAINTENANCE OF TRAFFIC AND MISC. ITEMS.
County Road 8 is also known as Howard Hill Road (http://www.bing.com/maps/?v=2&cp=35.26129840120871~-94.35301494598388&lvl=15&dir=0&sty=h&where1=Fort%20Smith%2C%20AR&form=LMLTCC).
I know there's a big Wet/Dry push in Benton County: doesn't surprise me that the Waltons may be behind it. I know Wal-Mart helped build the regional airport and Alice Walton recently built a museum. Why they don't throw their weight behind I-49 is beyond me. Maybe not sufficiently in their "best interest" ?
I know there's a big Wet/Dry push in Benton County: doesn't surprise me that the Waltons may be behind it. I know Wal-Mart helped build the regional airport and Alice Walton recently built a museum. Why they don't throw their weight behind I-49 is beyond me. Maybe not sufficiently in their "best interest" ?
In my opinion, Walmart Home Office is careful about what it does, which, infrastructure wise, is nothing. They haven't and won't give money to infrastructural improvements... If they did, the traffic issues in Bentonville would be somewhat resolved.. They are advocating them somewhat with the 8th Street interchange. Walmart definitely wants the 8th Street interchange, and the City of Bentonville has plans for it on their website.
It makes me sad that I find zero information on the state website. What purpose does AHTD serve if I can't info on it?
Has anyone taken some pictures of the Hiwasse bypass? I saw where the AHTD said it was about 25% complete. I liked us 71 description of the road.
Has anyone taken some pictures of the Hiwasse bypass? I saw where the AHTD said it was about 25% complete. I liked us 71 description of the road.
I've not had time, but maybe sometime this Spring. I can tell you 49 will go under 72 on the east end and over 279 south of town. BTW: Hiwasse may soon cease to exist, as they have approved a plan to merge with Gravette.
Has anyone taken some pictures of the Hiwasse bypass? I saw where the AHTD said it was about 25% complete. I liked us 71 description of the road.
I've not had time, but maybe sometime this Spring. I can tell you 49 will go under 72 on the east end and over 279 south of town. BTW: Hiwasse may soon cease to exist, as they have approved a plan to merge with Gravette.
That's interesting...
Also, why would the Bentonville 8th Street interchange be a city project? I'm confused! Does AHTD completely step out of it? Weird!
Has anyone taken some pictures of the Hiwasse bypass? I saw where the AHTD said it was about 25% complete. I liked us 71 description of the road.
I've not had time, but maybe sometime this Spring. I can tell you 49 will go under 72 on the east end and over 279 south of town. BTW: Hiwasse may soon cease to exist, as they have approved a plan to merge with Gravette.
That's interesting...
Also, why would the Bentonville 8th Street interchange be a city project? I'm confused! Does AHTD completely step out of it? Weird!
I don't know if something similar has happened in Arkansas, but here in Huntsville, AL the city of Huntsville fully paid for the widening of US 431 through part of the city, so it had little to no involvement from ALDOT.
AHTD may be responsible for the actual interchange, but 8th Street itself isn't a state maintained roadway.
After getting Arkansas voters to approve the bond referendum for interstate maintenance in November, AHTD and the Arkansas legislature will come back in November 2012 and ask Arkansas voters to approve a one-half percent increase in the sales tax for construction of and improvements to four-lane highways (including additional lanes). Completion of two lanes of the Bella Vista Bypass is one of the projects that would be funded by the increase:
http://thecabin.net/news/2011-12-24/highway-improvement-advocates-gearing-sales-tax-hike-campaignQuoteThe Legislature this year referred to the 2012 general election ballot a proposed constitutional amendment that would raise the state’s 6 percent sales tax to 6 1/2 percent to fund a $1.8 billion program that would connect all corners of the state with four-lane highways ...
Scott Bennett, director of the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department ... has said approval of the half-cent sales tax increase would fund a number of large, expensive projects across Arkansas, including ... [t]wo lanes of the proposed Bella Vista bypass ...
Director of the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Commission Scott Bennett oversees the improvements of 16,000 miles of highway, the 12th largest in the country.
He outlined the programs that would begin construction if a half-cent sales tax increase passes in November. The tax would be in effect for 10 years and finance a $1.8 billion bond program for a four-lane highway system linking every part of the state.
In Northwest Arkansas, it would widen the Fayetteville-Bentonville corridor to six lanes and complete the Bella Vista bypass to two lanes. It would also build a bypass from North Springdale, west toward XNA connecting somewhere in the Tonitown vacinity.
“The bond gives you the money up front…under construction in five years and finished in seven and paid in ten years. If you raise the money ... it would take 20 years or more to widen I-540 in Northwest Arkansas,” said Bennett.
Director of the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Commission Scott Bennett oversees the improvements of 16,000 miles of highway, the 12th largest in the country.Sigh... well... He realizes the issues, but he needs to decommission a ton of state highways, and fix the funding formula for transportation funding (Not something he can do). That might help. I do admire his drive. 540 between Fayetteville and Bentonville/Rogers is a death trap... It's sad the amount of accidents I see, and it backs up traffic for miles upon miles. The Bella Vista bypass is very needed... And not with a ridiculous 2 laner.
He outlined the programs that would begin construction if a half-cent sales tax increase passes in November. The tax would be in effect for 10 years and finance a $1.8 billion bond program for a four-lane highway system linking every part of the state.
In Northwest Arkansas, it would widen the Fayetteville-Bentonville corridor to six lanes and complete the Bella Vista bypass to two lanes. It would also build a bypass from North Springdale, west toward XNA connecting somewhere in the Tonitown vacinity.
“The bond gives you the money up front…under construction in five years and finished in seven and paid in ten years. If you raise the money ... it would take 20 years or more to widen I-540 in Northwest Arkansas,” said Bennett.
Head south to Louisiana, and you'll see a state that needs to shed some miles. TONS of highways here end at the state line with Arkansas, changing from a LA hwy to an AR county road. Gravel road on one side, asphalt with striping and shields on the other. It's crazy, really.QuoteDirector of the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Commission Scott Bennett oversees the improvements of 16,000 miles of highway, the 12th largest in the country.Sigh... well... He realizes the issues, but he needs to decommission a ton of state highways, and fix the funding formula for transportation funding (Not something he can do). That might help. I do admire his drive. 540 between Fayetteville and Bentonville/Rogers is a death trap... It's sad the amount of accidents I see, and it backs up traffic for miles upon miles. The Bella Vista bypass is very needed... And not with a ridiculous 2 laner.
He outlined the programs that would begin construction if a half-cent sales tax increase passes in November. The tax would be in effect for 10 years and finance a $1.8 billion bond program for a four-lane highway system linking every part of the state.
In Northwest Arkansas, it would widen the Fayetteville-Bentonville corridor to six lanes and complete the Bella Vista bypass to two lanes. It would also build a bypass from North Springdale, west toward XNA connecting somewhere in the Tonitown vacinity.
“The bond gives you the money up front…under construction in five years and finished in seven and paid in ten years. If you raise the money ... it would take 20 years or more to widen I-540 in Northwest Arkansas,” said Bennett.
Head south to Louisiana, and you'll see a state that needs to shed some miles. TONS of highways here end at the state line with Arkansas, changing from a LA hwy to an AR county road. Gravel road on one side, asphalt with striping and shields on the other. It's crazy, really.
Any word on if the interstate will change to I-49 completely, or stay dual signed?
Head south to Louisiana, and you'll see a state that needs to shed some miles. TONS of highways here end at the state line with Arkansas, changing from a LA hwy to an AR county road. Gravel road on one side, asphalt with striping and shields on the other. It's crazy, really.
Any word on if the interstate will change to I-49 completely, or stay dual signed?
Knowing Arkansas, 49 and 71 will run concurrent, but 71 will be "invisible" .
In this article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/21425), Scott Bennett reiterates that completion of two lanes of the Bella Vista Bypass would be funded by the bonds. He also mentions that the Fayetteville-Bentonville corridor (I assume I-540) would be widened from four to six lanes
540 between Fayetteville and Bentonville/Rogers is a death trap... It's sad the amount of accidents I see, and it backs up traffic for miles upon miles. The Bella Vista bypass is very needed... And not with a ridiculous 2 laner.
Transportation experts spent Monday morning talking traffic in Bentonville, Arkansas.
State Highway Commissioner Dick Trammel joined Alex Herrgott, the US Chamber of Commerce's Director of Transportation and Infrastructure, and US Senator John Boozeman on a panel to discuss the issues facing northwest Arkansas and the country.
"540 is full," Trammel says. "Every morning you see the congestion."
Herrgott says now is the time to address infrastructure issues, because traffic will increase as the economy continues to recover.
"If you think things are bad now, you should see two years from now," he says. "Failure to adequately address capacity on that road in the next five or ten years will increase congestion, choke out goods and services, and will have substantial negative impacts on the economy."
He says we need to expand highways and interstates across the country.
"It's not just about people getting to and from work," Herrgott says. "It's about competing in the global marketplace."
In November the Arkansas Department of Highway and Transportation plans to ask voters in to approve a half-cent sales tax to pay for the expansion of I-540 to six lanes. Trammel says the tax would last for ten years, and would also pay for the completion of the Bella Vista Bypass and part of a bypass for Springdale.
"We don't have the funding now to do these expensive and highly congested areas," Trammel says."It takes three to five years to finish those projects so I'm just hoping the people give us the opportunity now."
The panel was part of the Rogers-Lowell Chamber of Commerce's "Focus on the Economy" series.
Trammel paints a pretty bleak picture if the sales tax increase is not approved by the voters. Vote aside, I don't understand why the I-540 widening is not already a higher priority at AHTD.
But that's only one highway project underway in Arkansas. Highway 549 is underway as well, which some day will be named I-49 along the western corridor .... It's an international project passing through Arkansas in bits and pieces, but no timeframe .... "Even though we've spent well in excess of a billion dollars to date, it's going to take us about $3 billion more to complete I-49 in Arkansas," Ort says.
"What we're primarily focused on is the connection between Kansas City, Missouri and Shreveport, Louisiana," says Ort.
Not from Arkansas but I thought Arky had permission to toll the BVB to complete? What's the hold up? Construction rates will never be cheaper than now. Plus if they toll when would they come off?
This article (http://www.todaysthv.com/news/article/210471/119/THV-Extra-Ark-transportation-projects) has the latest cost estimate to complete I-49 through Arkansas: $3 billion (with no targeted completion date):QuoteBut that's only one highway project underway in Arkansas. Highway 549 is underway as well, which some day will be named I-49 along the western corridor .... It's an international project passing through Arkansas in bits and pieces, but no timeframe .... "Even though we've spent well in excess of a billion dollars to date, it's going to take us about $3 billion more to complete I-49 in Arkansas," Ort says.
AHTD does not seem to be a team player in terms of keeping Louisiana's I-49 South in the conversation:Quote"What we're primarily focused on is the connection between Kansas City, Missouri and Shreveport, Louisiana," says Ort.
We will have some lane closures probably in the next eight to 12 weeks. Motorists are going to see tremendous benefits of this.
Someone didn't proofread their article apparently:
It's a Hiwassee Bypass :rofl:
It's a Hiwassee Bypass :rofl:
Google Maps imagery now shows construction of the Hiwasse Bypass (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Hiwasse,+AR&hl=en&ll=36.430813,-94.345093&spn=0.049859,0.077162&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=49.844639,79.013672&oq=hiwasse+&t=h&hnear=Hiwasse,+10,+Benton,+Arkansas&z=14); it must be true. :hyper:
It's a Hiwassee Bypass :rofl:
Google Maps imagery now shows construction of the Hiwasse Bypass (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Hiwasse,+AR&hl=en&ll=36.430813,-94.345093&spn=0.049859,0.077162&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=49.844639,79.013672&oq=hiwasse+&t=h&hnear=Hiwasse,+10,+Benton,+Arkansas&z=14); it must be true. :hyper:
It's shocking, isn't it? There is serious issues with the transportation funding in Arkansas.
Arkansas is too busy building US 67 to Walnut Ridge.
It's a Hiwassee Bypass :rofl:
Google Maps imagery now shows construction of the Hiwasse Bypass (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Hiwasse,+AR&hl=en&ll=36.430813,-94.345093&spn=0.049859,0.077162&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=49.844639,79.013672&oq=hiwasse+&t=h&hnear=Hiwasse,+10,+Benton,+Arkansas&z=14); it must be true. :hyper:
It's shocking, isn't it? There is serious issues with the transportation funding in Arkansas.
A combination of limited funds and misplaced priorities. I-530 is getting reconstructed while I-40 is rotting.
40 is horrible through Russellville.
A combination of limited funds and misplaced priorities.
A combination of limited funds and misplaced priorities.
But state Rep. Sam Jones, D-Franklin, noted that I-49 between Shreveport and the Arkansas border was financed without any tolls.(bold emphasis supplied by me)
“We have built ourselves to the cornfields or cotton fields or whatever,” Jones said.
He said that, when the road was being built, there was a “song and dance” about the need to finish the road because Arkansas planned an I-49 link to Fort Smith, Kansas City, Mo. and eventually Canada.
But Jones said when he visited the Arkansas Legislature earlier this year lawmakers there laughed about that notion, which they said would not happen for several lifetimes.
The road plan has been discussed since the 1990s.
Arkansas built most of future I-49 with earmarks from DC.
I have no problems with earmarks like I-540/I-49 that benefit a majority of the people. Now those earmarks that study the mating habits of flying turd squirrels of Eastern Kentucky get me going.Arkansas built most of future I-49 with earmarks from DC.
So was I-540 north of Alma ;)
AHTD has asked fpr a grant to help finish the Fort Chaffee Crossing. Hope they get in the 2012 Tiger. grant.http://www.arkansashighways.com/tiger/T4/71.aspx
JOB /ITEM NUMBER-040376
COUNTY-Sebastian
RTE-071
TERMINI-Hwy. 71-Hwy. 22 (Base & Surf.) (S)
TYPE WORK-New Location
LENGTH-6.04
YEAR-2013
QuoteAlma Mayor John Ballentine believes the Alma portion is likely to be the last leg of the still-unfunded highway completed because of the costly bridge that must span the Arkansas River.
Ballentine reckons the structure will cost $400 million, but that number is a shape-shifter, changing based on who is speaking and what the cost includes.
Ken O’Donnell, until recently the director of the Bi-State Metropolitan Planning Organization, said the stated cost is ... $280 million to $320 million. That’s starting with the $100 million for the bridge span itself, then adding approaches, ramps and the other things needed to make it accessible.
Because the route approaching the bridge travels through the Kibler bottoms, a flood plain, it might require building a berm or putting the roadway on supports as it extends to the bridge.
O’Donnell said costs for the highway on-grade are computed on a linear foot basis. If the roadway is elevated, the cost must be computed on a square-foot basis
The entire article, Some imagine Chester Street for new bridge (http://beta.arkansasonline.com/news/2012/feb/13/some-imagine-chester-street-new-bridge-20120213/), is behind a pay wall (curiosity led me to pay 99 cents for a one-day subscription). The good news is that a FEIS has been approved for the entire Texarkana-Fort Smith corridor, but no design work has been done on the bridge:QuoteBennett .... cited ... other new bridges in development:Maybe Bennett describing it as "in development" means the design work on it is at least on the radar screen.
The Interstate 49 bridge over the Arkansas River that would connect Interstate 540 at Alma with a U.S. 71 project under construction on a new location in the area of Fort Chaffee. The environmental impact statement has been approved for the entire I-49 corridor between Texarkana and Fort Smith, but no design work has been done on the bridge.
I asked the AHTD bridge department when do they plan to design the I 49 Arkansas River Bridge In the Fort Smith areaQuoteOur bridge program through 2016 does not include that structure.
Carl J. Fuselier, P.E.
Division Head - Bridge
Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department
In looking at the Preliminary STIP, I'm mildly disappointed that a relatively small amount of money was not set aside for the design work on the Arkansas River Bridge. Maybe AHTD is waiting to see if the half-cent sales tax passes, which would provide for widening of I-540 and two-lane Bella Vista Bypass, before it even thinks about initiating the design work for the bridge.AHTD is the most ridiculous government (and non gov for that matter) department that I have ever come across.
So 2 interchanges in a row on I-49 will be for AR 72?
That will be as silly as all the AR 282 interchanges from I-540.
That will be as silly as all the AR 282 interchanges from I-540.
At least each of the 282's go someplace different (sort of).
Nice to see some progress... As much as I hate AHTD.
I just hope they don't f*&^ it up like they did with I-540 in NWA... Meh, too late.
US71, do you feel these will be frontage roads? I don't see that.
There were 2 articles in the Arkansas Gazette today about promoting the state wide 1/2 cent sales tax. They have 3 projects in Northwest Arkansas area that will be on the list to get money. 1- 125 million to widening stretches of I 540 in Washington and Benton counties to 6 lanes. 2- 100 million for completion of the Bella Vista Bypass of 2 lanes. 3- 150 million to help build a 4 lane section of U.S. 412 Bypass north of Springdale. Maybe Little Rock want get all of the money if voted in. Although it said Little Rock would 300 million for a new bridge at the Arkansas river on I 30.
There were 2 articles in the Arkansas Gazette today about promoting the state wide 1/2 cent sales tax. They have 3 projects in Northwest Arkansas area that will be on the list to get money. 1- 125 million to widening stretches of I 540 in Washington and Benton counties to 6 lanes. 2- 100 million for completion of the Bella Vista Bypass of 2 lanes. 3- 150 million to help build a 4 lane section of U.S. 412 Bypass north of Springdale. Maybe Little Rock want get all of the money if voted in. Although it said Little Rock would 300 million for a new bridge at the Arkansas river on I 30.
I-30? I figured they would go for the new Broadway Bridge. I think finishing I-440 should be a priority in the Little Rock area.
As others have pointed out, AHTD doesn't prioritize very well.
Is the existing bridge not wide enough to handle the traffic? Or is the existing bridge falling apart?
Is the existing bridge not wide enough to handle the traffic? Or is the existing bridge falling apart?
The I-30 bridge is considered substandard and is starting to age and need repairs. I think AHTD wants wider shoulders and the Corps of Engineers says the piers are too closely spaced for barge traffic.
This is probably the only Arkansas I-49 shield, and likely the first one ever made:(above quote from I-49 Coming to Missouri (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3239.msg155386#msg155386) thread)
(http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u126/bugo348/sinez/routemarkerI-49.jpg)
Is the existing bridge not wide enough to handle the traffic? Or is the existing bridge falling apart?
The I-30 bridge is considered substandard and is starting to age and need repairs. I think AHTD wants wider shoulders and the Corps of Engineers says the piers are too closely spaced for barge traffic.
Was that bridge built before the river was "upgraded" to the McClellan-Kerr Navigation System?
rte66man
Is the existing bridge not wide enough to handle the traffic? Or is the existing bridge falling apart?
The I-30 bridge is considered substandard and is starting to age and need repairs. I think AHTD wants wider shoulders and the Corps of Engineers says the piers are too closely spaced for barge traffic.
Was that bridge built before the river was "upgraded" to the McClellan-Kerr Navigation System?
rte66man
I believe it was. The I-30 bridge was built circa 1960 and the Little Rock section of McClellan-Kerr project was finished around 1968.
There were 2 articles in the Arkansas Gazette today about promoting the state wide 1/2 cent sales tax. They have 3 projects in Northwest Arkansas area that will be on the list to get money. 1- 125 million to widening stretches of I 540 in Washington and Benton counties to 6 lanes. 2- 100 million for completion of the Bella Vista Bypass of 2 lanes. 3- 150 million to help build a 4 lane section of U.S. 412 Bypass north of Springdale. Maybe Little Rock want get all of the money if voted in. Although it said Little Rock would 300 million for a new bridge at the Arkansas river on I 30.
This is probably the only Arkansas I-49 shield, and likely the first one ever made(above quote from I-49 Coming to Missouri (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3239.msg155386#msg155386) thread)
We are completing an application to have I-540 (I-40 to Missouri State Line ) redesignated as I-49 and plan to submit to AASHTO for consideration at the fall meeting.
Last Friday, I drove to Booneville, AR. Along the way, I spotted another section of Future 49 under construction (yellow line)That's the "Chaffee Crossing" segment; it's been under construction for several years. The Arkansas River crossing to the north is on hold.
http://goo.gl/maps/GHDV5
Last Friday, I drove to Booneville, AR. Along the way, I spotted another section of Future 49 under construction (yellow line)That's the "Chaffee Crossing" segment; it's been under construction for several years. The Arkansas River crossing to the north is on hold.
http://goo.gl/maps/GHDV5
http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2011/dec/17/fort-smiths-4th-interchange-i-49-get-star-20111217/?f=news-arkansasQuoteThe state Highway and Transportation Department plans to award a contract next year to build a fourth interchange in the Fort Smith area for the long-planned Interstate 49..... in the May 2 letting, I believe this is the "fourth interchange" project ... Here is AHTD's description of the project:
The interchange would be at U.S. 71 south of the city, according to Joe Shipman, District 4 engineer for the Highway Department ...
Three other Fort Smith-area interchanges for the new northsouth interstate are nearly finished, according to Shipman.QuoteTHE PURPOSE OF THIS PROJECT IS TO CONSTRUCT 0.635 MILE OF THE HWY. 71 RELOCATED EMBANKMENT, THE EMBANKMENTS FOR THE RAMPS ALONG WITH THE OVERPASS BRIDGE AND APPROACHES AT THE INTERCHANGE OF HWY. 71 AND COUNTY ROAD 8 IN SEBASTIAN COUNTY NEAR THE FORT CHAFFEE MILITARY RESERVATION. THIS PROJECT CONSISTS OF EARTHWORK, AGGREGATE BASE COURSE, ACHM BINDER AND SURFACE COURSES, MINOR DRAINAGE STRUCTURES, GUARDRAIL, EROSION CONTROL ITEMS, A CONT. COMP. PLATE GIRDER UNIT OVERPASS BRIDGE (329.16 FT.), WIRE FENCE, MAINTENANCE OF TRAFFIC AND MISC. ITEMS.
Last Friday ... I spotted another section of Future 49 under construction (yellow line)The section in yellow is a new segment (less than 6 months old).
http://goo.gl/maps/GHDV5
(above quote from I-49 in AR (Bella Vista, Fort Smith) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg141534#msg141534) thread)http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2011/dec/17/fort-smiths-4th-interchange-i-49-get-star-20111217/?f=news-arkansasQuoteThe state Highway and Transportation Department plans to award a contract next year to build a fourth interchange in the Fort Smith area for the long-planned Interstate 49..... in the May 2 letting, I believe this is the "fourth interchange" project ... Here is AHTD's description of the project:
The interchange would be at U.S. 71 south of the city, according to Joe Shipman, District 4 engineer for the Highway Department ...
Three other Fort Smith-area interchanges for the new northsouth interstate are nearly finished, according to Shipman.QuoteTHE PURPOSE OF THIS PROJECT IS TO CONSTRUCT 0.635 MILE OF THE HWY. 71 RELOCATED EMBANKMENT, THE EMBANKMENTS FOR THE RAMPS ALONG WITH THE OVERPASS BRIDGE AND APPROACHES AT THE INTERCHANGE OF HWY. 71 AND COUNTY ROAD 8 IN SEBASTIAN COUNTY NEAR THE FORT CHAFFEE MILITARY RESERVATION. THIS PROJECT CONSISTS OF EARTHWORK, AGGREGATE BASE COURSE, ACHM BINDER AND SURFACE COURSES, MINOR DRAINAGE STRUCTURES, GUARDRAIL, EROSION CONTROL ITEMS, A CONT. COMP. PLATE GIRDER UNIT OVERPASS BRIDGE (329.16 FT.), WIRE FENCE, MAINTENANCE OF TRAFFIC AND MISC. ITEMS.Last Friday ... I spotted another section of Future 49 under construction (yellow line)The section in yellow is a new segment (less than 6 months old).
http://goo.gl/maps/GHDV5
Given the time frame and the length of the yellow line, it looks like the "fourth interchange" project.
The second half of this July 15 KTBS-Shreveport TV video report (http://www.ktbs.com/news/I-49-Louisiana-and-Arkansas-Projects/-/144844/15565946/-/sollgtz/-/index.html) focuses on the I-49 funding challenges for the Fort Smith to Texarkana section.
First six-lane section of the Interstate in NWA expected to open by year's end. (pay) (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2012/sep/06/i-540-6-lane-section-opening-set-20120906/)
QuoteThe state Highway and Transportation Department plans to award a contract next year to build a fourth interchange in the Fort Smith area for the long-planned Interstate 49.
The interchange would be at U.S. 71 south of the city, according to Joe Shipman, District 4 engineer for the Highway Department ...
Three other Fort Smith-area interchanges for the new northsouth interstate are nearly finished, according to Shipman ... Complete or nearly complete are interchanges at Arkansas 22 (Rogers Avenue), Roberts Boulevard and Massard Road.
When the fourth interchange on U.S. 71 is under contract and construction is well under way, the state expects to go forward with the last step, Shipman said. That would be paving the highway and opening it to traffic, perhaps by 2014 ...
Given the time frame and the length of the yellow line, it looks like the "fourth interchange" project.Yes, quite likely. CR 8 is Howard Hill Rd, which is just SW of where the last project ended (Rye Hill Rd). Judging from the grading, I would say the dirt work will probably end just before 71. Lots of traffic in the area, so there really isn't a good place to stop for actual photos.
The Rye Hill-Barling stretch of I-49 will be pretty much worthless when it is first opened. It will be useful for Barling residents going south on 71, but I doubt it gets 2000 cars a day until it is extended.
Probably a second Highway 549.
Take a closer look at the schematic posted above. US71B????? I thought it was AR255.
rte66man
49 is the only number that makes sense. Call it AR 49, I don't care. Just don't give it a number that is planned to become obsolete in a few years.
471 was meant to be permanent. It was the idiot business owners along the road that caused it to be changed back. To be honest, 71B is the better number for the road. But it should revert to 71 and the spur between 71 and 540 in south Fayetteville could become 471.
71S? It's mainline US 71. Once there was a 71S sign on 540 south but it was an error and was replaced.
Probably a second Highway 549.
The Low bid for HWY. 71 , HWY. 22 (base and surface) at Fort Chaffee crossing was 22,649,692.08 from APAC- Tennessee, Inc.
The Low bid for HWY. 71 , HWY. 22 (base and surface) at Fort Chaffee crossing was 22,649,692.08 from APAC- Tennessee, Inc.
Plans are in the works to build a major interstate right through the heart of the River Valley. The state Highway Commission chose bids this week for a portion of road that is expected to become part of Interstate 49.
A portion of I-49 will run right through Chaffee Crossing. The state expects construction to begin in a couple of months ....
The new seven mile stretch will run through Chaffee Crossing .... new portion of highway that will connect Highway 71 with Highway 22 near Central City ....
“We are extremely excited,” said Stephanie Malone, Marketing Director for Chaffee Crossing. “It’s gonna relieve some traffic and send some traffic our way, close to 43,000 trips a day.” ....
Construction should take about two years.
The Low bid for HWY. 71 , HWY. 22 (base and surface) at Fort Chaffee crossing was 22,649,692.08 from APAC- Tennessee, Inc.
On October 28, AHTD awarded the contract to APAC-Tennessee, Inc. (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/letting/Oct%20'12%20Award%20List.pdf) Also, this Oct. 25 TV video report (http://5newsonline.com/2012/10/25/officials-hope-new-highway-improves-area/) has some footage of Future I-49 construction through Chaffee Crossing and projects that construction should be completed in about two years:QuotePlans are in the works to build a major interstate right through the heart of the River Valley. The state Highway Commission chose bids this week for a portion of road that is expected to become part of Interstate 49.
A portion of I-49 will run right through Chaffee Crossing. The state expects construction to begin in a couple of months ....
The new seven mile stretch will run through Chaffee Crossing .... new portion of highway that will connect Highway 71 with Highway 22 near Central City ....
“We are extremely excited,” said Stephanie Malone, Marketing Director for Chaffee Crossing. “It’s gonna relieve some traffic and send some traffic our way, close to 43,000 trips a day.” ....
Construction should take about two years.
(quote from Arkansas (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=6952.msg183504#msg183504) thread)Move Arkansas Forward has a Proposed Constitutional Fact Sheet #1 (http://www.movearkansasforward.com/pdf/TurnbackBooklet.pdf) that lists by region the four-lane highway projects that would be supported by the half-cent sales tax to be voted on in November (pages 6-7/88 of pdf; pages 4-5 of document):This article (http://ozarksfirst.com/fulltext?nxd_id=725282) reports that Issue No.1 was approved by the votersQuoteFour-Lane Projects of Regional Significance
Northwest Arkansas
Completion of the initial two lanes of the ultimate four lanes of the Bella Vista bypass
... the outcome of a vote last week in Arkansas, when residents imposed a half-cent sales tax to raise money for transportation projects around the state.
Among those projects that will be funded with the new tax revenue are the first two lanes of the Bella Vista bypass. Missouri officials have committed to matching what Arkansas does, meaning the long-awaited project is on the road to becoming a reality.
“The good news is that the Bella Vista bypass will be one of the earliest projects in this program,” Randy Ort, spokesperson for the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department.
Last night driving south through Anderson past McDonald County High School, the blue covering had been removed off one of the signs and it said "Interstate" in the red area.
Last night driving south through Anderson past McDonald County High School, the blue covering had been removed off one of the signs and it said "Interstate" in the red area.
They ALL do. The state name is usually in the blue area above the number (Interstate State XX).
is it just me or does that shield lack the state name? Missouri is usually quite fastidious about this.
is it just me or does that shield lack the state name? Missouri is usually quite fastidious about this.
(above quote from AASHTO Committee on Route Numbering (Nov. 2012) Actions (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8157.msg187410#msg187410) thread)I thought there was to be a decision made for Arkansas regarding redesignating Interstate 540 north from I-40 as I-49. Did not see that covered in the notes document.I received an early August email from AHTD (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg166650#msg166650) to that effect. I was surprised that it was not included in the notes document. I will follow up with AHTD.
Was it postponed for a future meeting?
The short answer is that we can’t apply for I-49 designation unless we can get some kind of exceptions. Here are the reasons.
1. AASHTO’s US Route Numbering Policies state that there will be no Interstate Route bearing the same number designation as a US Numbered Route in any State (see Attachment, Item 3 on Page 8 of 11 and a similar discussion on Page 4, Item 4).
2. US Highway 49 exists in Arkansas and Mississippi. It begins in Piggott, Arkansas and travels through the State to Helena/West Helena and then crosses the Mississippi River to Gulfport, MS.
3. Both Missouri and Louisiana have portions of I-49. Missouri’s portion travels between Kansas City and the Arkansas State Line. The portion in Louisiana is not yet complete to the Arkansas State Line.
4. For Arkansas to be able to rename I-540 to I-49 (and Arkansas Highway 549 to I‑49), US 49 will have to be either renumbered or changed from a US Highway to a State Highway.
5. AASHTO designation guidelines allow for a US Highway contained within a single State, but the highway must be at least 300 miles long (see Attachment, Page 5 of 11). US 49 is only 235.6 miles long in Mississippi meaning that it could not be a stand-alone segment of US Highway based on the guidelines.
.. we continue to work on a resolution for this.
Actually I-24/US 24 in Illinois is a better example. Tell them that Illinois has no problems with it.Missouri renumbered MO 57 as 171 after I-57 was built, yet now they have TWO 64's (MO 64 and I-64) and TWO 72's (MO 72 and I-72).
I recently received a response from AHTD and, surprisingly, the reason lies with the presence of US 49:QuoteThe short answer is that we can’t apply for I-49 designation unless we can get some kind of exceptions. Here are the reasons.
1. AASHTO’s US Route Numbering Policies state that there will be no Interstate Route bearing the same number designation as a US Numbered Route in any State (see Attachment, Item 3 on Page 8 of 11 and a similar discussion on Page 4, Item 4).
2. US Highway 49 exists in Arkansas and Mississippi. It begins in Piggott, Arkansas and travels through the State to Helena/West Helena and then crosses the Mississippi River to Gulfport, MS.
3. Both Missouri and Louisiana have portions of I-49. Missouri’s portion travels between Kansas City and the Arkansas State Line. The portion in Louisiana is not yet complete to the Arkansas State Line.
4. For Arkansas to be able to rename I-540 to I-49 (and Arkansas Highway 549 to I‑49), US 49 will have to be either renumbered or changed from a US Highway to a State Highway.
5. AASHTO designation guidelines allow for a US Highway contained within a single State, but the highway must be at least 300 miles long (see Attachment, Page 5 of 11). US 49 is only 235.6 miles long in Mississippi meaning that it could not be a stand-alone segment of US Highway based on the guidelines.
.. we continue to work on a resolution for this.
Very interesting that US 49 in Mississippi is a large part of the problem.
Some good pics........If you can get the pictures to open correctly :(
http://www.joplinglobe.com/local/x2082769768/Bella-Vista-bypass-going-forward-following-passage-of-half-cent-sales-tax-in-Arkansas
I-49 is mainly new construction in Arkansas, with the cost to complete a stretch between Interstates 30 and 40 through the Ouachita mountains estimated at $2 billion, said Randy Ort, spokesman for the Arkansas Department of Transportation. Even with the state's new highway sales tax, he said Arkansas doesn't have much to put toward the I-49 projects because of other transportation needs.
"There's about $2.8 billion needed to complete I-49 in Arkansas," Ort said. "Basically we've identified $23 billion in needs over the next 10 years, but only $4 billion to address those needs. So money is a big issue."
Ort said Arkansas has the nation's 12th-largest highway system but ranks 43rd in revenue to pay for it.
"It's a priority and we want to get it done," Ort said. "We understand there are advantages, not just for Arkansas but for the whole region."
This article (http://www.sfgate.com/news/article/US-71-in-Mo-south-of-Kansas-City-turned-into-I-49-4108657.php) sets forth some sobering numbers for the completion of I-49 in Arkansas - $2.8 billion to complete I-49, with only $4 billion currently available for overall needs in Arkansas over the next ten years
Many say I-49 will connect Missouri to the rest of the country and the world.
"If you look at the stretch of I-49 from Louisiana up to Canada, it's an amazing opportunity here that, as a nation, we cannot miss," said Mendez.
SEC. 1116. PRIORITIZATION OF PROJECTS TO IMPROVE FREIGHT MOVEMENT.
(a) IN GENERAL.–Notwithstanding section 120 of title 23, United States Code, the Secretary may increase the Federal share payable for any project to 95 percent for projects on the Interstate System and 90 percent for any other project if the Secretary certifies that the project meets the requirements of this section.
(b) INCREASED FUNDING.–To be eligible for the increased Federal funding share under this section, a project shall–
(1) demonstrate the improvement made by the project to the efficient movement of freight, including making progress towards meeting performance targets for freight movement established under section 150(d) of title 23, United States Code; and (2) be identified in a State freight plan developed pursuant to section 1118.
(c) ELIGIBLE PROJECTS.–Eligible projects to improve the movement of freight under this section may include, but are not limited to–
(1) construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, and operational improvements directly relating to improving freight
movement ...
did that article say when Missouri is actually going to start digging on their side?
Information contained in this post (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3239.msg183602#msg183602)
I assume that that is contingent upon AR commiting to a full 4-lane BVB, and not just a temporary Super-2 as is presently proposed??
I spoke with a MoDOT individual today and he confirmed that the above 2015 project in the Draft STIP is for the Bella Vista Bypass. However, it is contingent on whether Arkansas will have construction under way to the state line by that time. As he put it, there is no need to build it to a dead-end and have it sit for a long time. MoDOT already has the money set aside and will build the entire four lanes even if Arkansas has to stay at two lanes for a while.
Thanks, gang.
I can assure you, that stretch north of the highway I saw they're building will go to NOWHERE if it doesn't go to the state line...it may head straight to the Bella Vista western city limits. Don't know. BTW, I'll be curious if they build an exit for BV at that point, for either Glasgow and/or Highlands (I forget the east/west street there which loops northward and turns into Glasgow heading back east.)
Crews expect all work along 71 to be wrapped up by the end of 2014 or early in 2015 ....
“We have three projects that are complete on the northern portion,” Joe Shipman, District Engineer for the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department, said. “We have one project that will be complete basically in the next few weeks. We have a project at the interchange at Highway 71 in the Jenny Lind community that is well underway. It’s expected to wrap up by the end of the year.”
This TV video report (http://5newsonline.com/2013/01/24/i-49-corridor-to-be-finished-in-2014/) has footage of construction in the Chaffee Crossing area:QuoteCrews expect all work along 71 to be wrapped up by the end of 2014 or early in 2015 ....
“We have three projects that are complete on the northern portion,” Joe Shipman, District Engineer for the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department, said. “We have one project that will be complete basically in the next few weeks. We have a project at the interchange at Highway 71 in the Jenny Lind community that is well underway. It’s expected to wrap up by the end of the year.”
(above quote from AASHTO Committee on Route Numbering (Nov. 2012) Actions (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8157.msg187410#msg187410) thread)I thought there was to be a decision made for Arkansas regarding redesignating Interstate 540 north from I-40 as I-49. Did not see that covered in the notes document.I received an early August email from AHTD (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg166650#msg166650) to that effect. I was surprised that it was not included in the notes document. I will follow up with AHTD.
Was it postponed for a future meeting?
I recently received a response from AHTD and, surprisingly, the reason lies with the presence of US 49:QuoteThe short answer is that we can’t apply for I-49 designation unless we can get some kind of exceptions. Here are the reasons.
1. AASHTO’s US Route Numbering Policies state that there will be no Interstate Route bearing the same number designation as a US Numbered Route in any State (see Attachment, Item 3 on Page 8 of 11 and a similar discussion on Page 4, Item 4).
2. US Highway 49 exists in Arkansas and Mississippi. It begins in Piggott, Arkansas and travels through the State to Helena/West Helena and then crosses the Mississippi River to Gulfport, MS.
3. Both Missouri and Louisiana have portions of I-49. Missouri’s portion travels between Kansas City and the Arkansas State Line. The portion in Louisiana is not yet complete to the Arkansas State Line.
4. For Arkansas to be able to rename I-540 to I-49 (and Arkansas Highway 549 to I‑49), US 49 will have to be either renumbered or changed from a US Highway to a State Highway.
5. AASHTO designation guidelines allow for a US Highway contained within a single State, but the highway must be at least 300 miles long (see Attachment, Page 5 of 11). US 49 is only 235.6 miles long in Mississippi meaning that it could not be a stand-alone segment of US Highway based on the guidelines.
.. we continue to work on a resolution for this.
Very interesting that US 49 in Mississippi is a large part of the problem.
edit
As previously posted in the Improving I-540 at Fort Smith thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8430.msg196166#msg196166), AHTD apparently intends to dually designate I-49 with I-540 instead of redesignating I-540 as I-49.
^ I-41 and I-74 in NC are precedents against that reasoning...
Actually I-24/US 24 in Illinois is a better example. Tell them that Illinois has no problems with it.Missouri renumbered MO 57 as 171 after I-57 was built, yet now they have TWO 64's (MO 64 and I-64) and TWO 72's (MO 72 and I-72).
The colors aren't great on this one, but this was one shot I had...Apparently it didn't matter to Louisiana either. They also have LA 59 VERY close to I-59, which should have been a no-no according to AASHTO.
(http://www.formulanone.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Int10LA-US61-US61signs.jpg)
Through acquisitions the KCS got the Louisiana and Arkansas and a railroad which runs pretty much parallel to I-49 (current, plus I-10 and future) all the way to New Orleans, and now with their still developing Mexico line they're running parallel to a future Kansas City/Mexico corridor via I-49 and I-69 .... Shows me just how critical this emerging dual I-69 and I-49 corridor is as well.(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg167179#msg167179) thread)
This TV video report (http://www.ky3.com/news/ky3-interstate-49-i49-missouri-joplin-unveiling-ceremony-economic-opportunity-20121212,0,5111997.story) is primarily about the I-49 unveiling in Missouri, but it includes Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez making the following comment:QuoteMany say I-49 will connect Missouri to the rest of the country and the world.
"If you look at the stretch of I-49 from Louisiana up to Canada, it's an amazing opportunity here that, as a nation, we cannot miss," said Mendez.
At approximately the 1:00 mark of this TV video report (http://www.ktbs.com/news/Officials-Meet-in-Austin-for-I-69-Update/-/144844/18435332/-/1142dc0z/-/index.html), the following map caught my eye:(bottom quote from I-69 in LA (and LA 3132/Shreveport Inner Loop Extension) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=4510.msg202233#msg202233) thread)
(http://i.imgur.com/JHFlRzp.jpg)
I recently received a response from AHTD and, surprisingly, the reason lies with the presence of US 49:QuoteThe short answer is that we can’t apply for I-49 designation unless we can get some kind of exceptions. Here are the reasons.
1. AASHTO’s US Route Numbering Policies state that there will be no Interstate Route bearing the same number designation as a US Numbered Route in any State (see Attachment, Item 3 on Page 8 of 11 and a similar discussion on Page 4, Item 4).
2. US Highway 49 exists in Arkansas and Mississippi. It begins in Piggott, Arkansas and travels through the State to Helena/West Helena and then crosses the Mississippi River to Gulfport, MS.
3. Both Missouri and Louisiana have portions of I-49. Missouri’s portion travels between Kansas City and the Arkansas State Line. The portion in Louisiana is not yet complete to the Arkansas State Line.
4. For Arkansas to be able to rename I-540 to I-49 (and Arkansas Highway 549 to I‑49), US 49 will have to be either renumbered or changed from a US Highway to a State Highway.
5. AASHTO designation guidelines allow for a US Highway contained within a single State, but the highway must be at least 300 miles long (see Attachment, Page 5 of 11). US 49 is only 235.6 miles long in Mississippi meaning that it could not be a stand-alone segment of US Highway based on the guidelines.
.. we continue to work on a resolution for this.
Very interesting that US 49 in Mississippi is a large part of the problem.
Thank you Grzrd for looking into this!
The people at AASHTO really need to have better communications across their committee. Seriously, this is the rational given to prevent I-49 in AR? The precedent of Interstate/U.S. number duplication within a state has been broken on a number of occasions now. Why should it matter in this instance, especially when the two routes in question are across the state from one another and never come close to meeting. Do the people that approve things for NC or WI never talk to the people in charge of the Arkansas applications? Even next door in Texas you have IH 69 and US 69 signed in the same state, and they will eventually also intersect...
I just thought of a reason why this has come up, and it isn't an AASHTO problem, but an Arkansas problem. I think internally Arkansas only refers to the route number and makes no distinction between whether it is a Interstate, US, or State Route. With that said, I don't see why they can't just put up I-49 signs but still refer to it internally as 549 until they can come up with a different system internally for referring to state routes.Oh please. If http://www.openstreetmap.org/?relation=1714635 can have a single number (159), so can US 49 and I-49.
In regard to Arkansas I-49, in this month's advertisements (for the April 17 letting) AHTD has a contract (030313) for bridges and surfacing on what it calls US 71 Section 1--Louisiana state line north to Doddridge. This is a full freeway and is the continuation of I-49 North into Arkansas. It is, however, fairly short, and neither the plans nor the bid items include any signing.
As far as the numbering: Arkansas already has US 59 and AR 59, so I don't see why US 49 and I-49 would be a problem.
I was through there yesterday: bridge girders are finally up at Doddridge, though approach work is still under construction. Signage is going up in the Texarkana area. Along I-30, signs appear complete. Along AR 549/Future I-49, there is still work to be done. AR 245 will be Exit 35, I-30 appears to be Exit 37A-B.
As far as the numbering: Arkansas already has US 59 and AR 59, so I don't see why US 49 and I-49 would be a problem.
I was through there yesterday: bridge girders are finally up at Doddridge, though approach work is still under construction. Signage is going up in the Texarkana area. Along I-30, signs appear complete. Along AR 549/Future I-49, there is still work to be done. AR 245 will be Exit 35, I-30 appears to be Exit 37A-B.
Have any signs been replaced along the AR 245 freeway yet changing it to AR 549 or AR 151?
The AR72 overpass south of Hiwassee is complete. It was made for 4 lanes, but only two were paved on either side.
Two on either side makes 4 total, doesn't it?
If I understand the email Grzrd quotes correctly, the obstacle is AASHTO, which gets involved in both legs of a US and Interstate number duplication rather than just one leg as in the case of a state and US number duplication. But the email implies that Arkansas has not yet applied, so the real problem could be that the AHTD personnel responsible for overseeing a route numbering application are reading just the AASHTO policy without being aware of exceptions that have been made elsewhere, including in a neighboring state.
We are unaware of any resolution to the issue related to the I-49 signage.
The Low bid for HWY. 71 , HWY. 22 (base and surface) at Fort Chaffee crossing was 22,649,692.08 from APAC- Tennessee, Inc.On October 28, AHTD awarded the contract to APAC-Tennessee, Inc. (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/letting/Oct%20'12%20Award%20List.pdf) Also, this Oct. 25 TV video report (http://5newsonline.com/2012/10/25/officials-hope-new-highway-improves-area/) has some footage of Future I-49 construction through Chaffee Crossing and projects that construction should be completed in about two years
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rte66man/
Go to the "March 2013 Road Trip" set.
rte66man
Here's a link to a pdf of the 2007 AASHTO's disapprovals of Missouri's I-49 application and the Arkansas I-49 North application:
http://route.transportation.org/Documents/AM2007_USRN_ReporttoSCOH.pdf
Try asking them about how they refer to everything as simply "Highway" in their bid lettings, for example, and if that has anything to do with why I-49 can't be signed.
The half-cent sales tax that was approved by voters in November 2012 starts being collected July 1 and will last for 10 years. The projects that will be funded with the largest portion of that money have already been decided, planned and are ready to move forward when the money starts to roll in.
“Revenue will start to pour in around August because there is about a two-month delay between the time Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration collects the money and allocates the money,” said Danny Straessle, assistant public information office for the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD). ....
Anyone who travels to Bella Vista knows that traffic on U.S. 71 can be snarly at best. This project’s purpose is to make traffic safer and more efficient by moving traffic from the Missouri state line to I-540 south of Bella Vista.
Although no official timeline has been established, this project is essentially ready to go, Straessle said. The design work is already complete.
“Initially we are only constructing the two northbound lanes of what will ultimately become a four-lane, access-controlled (Interstate-type) facility,” he said. “No funding has been identified for the southbound lanes. When the northbound lanes are open, we will run traffic in both directions- similar to a two-lane highway.”
I had a chance today to check out the "Hiwasse Bypass" (tm)
There are also two related construction projects underway in conjunction with this project that are funded with STIP money. Those projects include a bypass around Hiwasse and construction will complete interchanges with Highway 72 as well as the two northbound lanes between the north and south interchanges.
Another project picks up where the other ends and extends the bypass to Benton County Road 34.
MAP-21 (http://www.rules.house.gov/Media/file/PDF_112_2/LegislativeText/CRPT-112hrpt-HR4348.pdf) might provide a 95% federal funding opportunity for significant sections of I-49 in Arkansas (page 70/599 of pdf; page 70 of document):QuoteSEC. 1116. PRIORITIZATION OF PROJECTS TO IMPROVE FREIGHT MOVEMENT.At the very least, AHTD should investigate the possibility.
Section 1116 of MAP‐21 includes provisions for development of a freight plan .... the Secretary may increase the Federal share payable for any project to 95 percent for projects on the Interstate System and 90 percent for any other project if the Secretary certifies that the project meets the requirements of this section .... The potential for increased Federal participation could be beneficial for all I‐69 segments, but particularly bridge segments that are high cost and for which funding for the entire segment must be available before any construction can be initiated ... the states should coordinate with FHWA to ensure that I‐69 is included in the Freight Plan to better position themselves for a reduced State match under MAP‐21 and future funding programs.
(above quote from Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg199304#msg199304) thread)(above quote from I-69 Ohio River Bridge (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3245.msg198385#msg198385) thread)QuoteProjects of National and Regional Significance [1120]
MAP-21 authorizes $500 million from the General Fund (subject to appropriation) in FY 2013 only
This Jan. 23 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/01/23/miller-county-quorum-court-approves-meas-573189.php) reports that the Miller County Quorum Court will ask for support from the National Association of Counties and the Arkansas congressional delegation to support I-49 funding for rural Arkansas .... Since the Doddridge-to-Louisiana state line paving project is already funded and slated to be let in 2013 (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg155771#msg155771), and will complete the final Miller County I-49 segment, I wonder if this an initial step of a multi-state (and possibly national) coordinated effort to get I-49 throughout rural Arkansas designated as a Project of National and Regional Significance and become eligible for related funding in future years?
Section 1120 of MAP‐21 states the following:
“Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of the MAP‐21, the Secretary shall submit a report to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate regarding projects of national and regional significance.”
The report must include a comprehensive list of each project of national and regional significance that has been compiled through a survey of State DOTs .... to improve the opportunity for Federal funding of I‐69 segments under both the current and future versions of this program, each state represented in this study should contact FHWA to ensure that they are involved in the process and provide the documentation necessary to support FHWA’s determination that I‐69 warrants a position on the list based on the requirements identified above.
Paving has started on both the east and west Hiwasse exits of future I-49. Asphalt. *sigh* :-/ X-(
(quote from Arkansas (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=6952.msg183504#msg183504) thread)Move Arkansas Forward has a Proposed Constitutional Fact Sheet #1 (http://www.movearkansasforward.com/pdf/TurnbackBooklet.pdf) that lists by region the four-lane highway projects that would be supported by the half-cent sales tax to be voted on in November (pages 6-7/88 of pdf; pages 4-5 of document):This article (http://ozarksfirst.com/fulltext?nxd_id=725282) reports that Issue No.1 was approved by the votersQuoteFour-Lane Projects of Regional Significance
Northwest Arkansas
- Completion of the initial two lanes of the ultimate four lanes of the Bella Vista bypass
Are you only looking at this section of Interstate 40? No, the Department is currently investigating tolling potential in two other corridors (Northbelt Freeway, in conjunction with Metroplan, and the Bella Vista Bypass).
Tolls on top of a sales tax increase; interesting.
As far as I know, tolls in Arkansas have never existed except for a couple of long-discontinued ferries. Don't know of any newly-built roads in the state that can support a toll. Maybe the North Belt as long as that area grows.
Very, very bad news out of Scott County, Arkansas just south of Fort Smith and Greenwood.
U.S. 71 at Y City (near the junction of the highway that goes to Hot Springs) and Parks was completely flooded by yesterday's storms with homes washed away. The Scott County sheriff was apparently killed alongside possibly others.
This article says the there was a 24 foot flash flood that hit the Fourche la Favre river on Thursday and "temporarily swamped" the Highway 71 bridge. (http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/A/AP_US_SEVERE_WEATHER?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2013-05-31-21-22-15) I guess that's one thing the engineers of future I-49 will have to, er, seriously consider.
Wow.
This article says the there was a 24 foot flash flood that hit the Fourche la Favre river on Thursday and "temporarily swamped" the Highway 71 bridge. (http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/A/AP_US_SEVERE_WEATHER?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2013-05-31-21-22-15) I guess that's one thing the engineers of future I-49 will have to, er, seriously consider.
Wow.
One would think that is obvious, but given Arkansas it might not be.
Fortunately, the bridge appears to be undamaged.
(above quote from AASHTO Committee on Route Numbering (Nov. 2012) Actions (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8157.msg187410#msg187410) thread)I thought there was to be a decision made for Arkansas regarding redesignating Interstate 540 north from I-40 as I-49. Did not see that covered in the notes document.I received an early August email from AHTD (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg166650#msg166650) to that effect. I was surprised that it was not included in the notes document. I will follow up with AHTD.
Was it postponed for a future meeting?
I recently received a response from AHTD and, surprisingly, the reason lies with the presence of US 49
I was just looking at the Interstates FAQ page and read the answer to the question of why there is no Interstate 50. I can think of several exceptions to this rule, including an I-74/US 74 overlap in North Carolina and a future interchange between I-69 and US 69 in Texas. What factors does FHWA consider in granting an exception to the rule? In particular, I am thinking about the possibility of I-49 and US 49 in Arkansas. It seems like an exception to the rule would make a lot of sense in the Arkansas scenario.
Thank you for your inquiry on FHWA’s Interstate numbering policies. FHWA generally bases our review of proposed Interstate numbering requests on the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials’ (AASHTO) numbering policies in their Transportation Policy Book. Most Interstate numbering requests are consistent with these policies, but these policies are neither law nor regulation. We are not required to adhere to them in exercising our authority over Interstate numbering.
You mentioned several exceptions to the policy, “that a State should not have an Interstate route and US route with the same number” . In each case, Congress chose the number ( I-74, I-69 and I-49 ) and wrote it into law. These statutory numbering designations supersede the authority of FHWA, which is required to implement Federal law, and also AASHTO, a voluntary association with no enforcement authority. If a State requests a designation using the congressionally set number, FHWA is required by law to approve that request even if it is inconsistent with AASHTO’s numbering policies used for the remainder of the System. In fact, if a State requested a number that differs from the number in the statute, FHWA would turn it down.
Because the Interstate and U.S. numbering plans are mirror images of each other, the central States could be faced with requesting an Interstate number that coincides with a US route designation. In those rare cases, FHWA and AASHTO have been committed to working with the requesting States to ensure the numbering adequately meets their needs and the integrity of the Interstate System. Through this process, both organizations are able to work with States on developing an Interstate System that is representative of the States’ and country’s needs.
One additional point is that few motorists are aware of AASHTO’s Interstate numbering plan or that the numbers follow a pattern. In general, motorists are not confused when numbering inconsistencies occur as they navigate around the country not by the numbering plan but by maps, directions, GPS, the guide signs on the highways, or other means. Thank you for your inquiry and continued interest in the Interstate System.
72.The North-South corridor, along Interstate Route 49 North, from Kansas City, Missouri, to Shreveport, Louisiana.
I just thought of a reason why this has come up, and it isn't an AASHTO problem, but an Arkansas problem. I think internally Arkansas only refers to the route number and makes no distinction between whether it is a Interstate, US, or State Route. With that said, I don't see why they can't just put up I-49 signs but still refer to it internally as 549 until they can come up with a different system internally for referring to state routes.
Someone correct me if I am wrong, but I don't think there are any state and US routes in Arkansas that have the same number.
... at the FHWA Statutory Listing of Corridor Descriptions (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/planning/national_highway_system/high_priority_corridors/hpcor.cfm) page, High Priority Corridor 72 is described as follows:Quote72.The North-South corridor, along Interstate Route 49 North, from Kansas City, Missouri, to Shreveport, Louisiana.
in this case, 49 is not a bad number
that said: there goes Congress meddling in things it does not understand.
I emailed AHTD and asked if MAP-21 might encourage them to reapply to AASHTO for I-49 designations. The response:QuoteWe are completing an application to have I-540 (I-40 to Missouri State Line ) redesignated as I-49 and plan to submit to AASHTO for consideration at the fall meeting.
I recently indirectly asked FHWA about the I-49/US 49 situation, and (I have asked for clarification about where "I-49" was written into law) I was surprised to find out that FHWA's position appears to be that Congressional action mandates the use of "I-49" in the I-49 corridor .... If this is indeed a Congressional mandate, then FHWA (and AASHTO) would be powerless to deny an AHTD I-49 numbering request (FHWA approval would still be needed as to whether a certain section meets current interstate-grade standards).(above quote from AASHTO Committee on Route Numbering (Nov. 2012) Actions (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8157.msg187410#msg187410) thread)I thought there was to be a decision made for Arkansas regarding redesignating Interstate 540 north from I-40 as I-49. Did not see that covered in the notes document.I received an early August email from AHTD (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg166650#msg166650) to that effect. I was surprised that it was not included in the notes document. I will follow up with AHTD.
Was it postponed for a future meeting?
I recently received a response from AHTD and, surprisingly, the reason lies with the presence of US 49
Our planning division tells me that they are submitting again this fall and that they are using the same justification that you mention.
There's still the chance that they will be denied again, as the part in the middle still needs to be constructed; hopefully we'll see at least AR 549 converted into I-49 once the Shreveport link is completed.I emailed AHTD and asked if MAP-21 might encourage them to reapply to AASHTO for I-49 designations. The response:QuoteWe are completing an application to have I-540 (I-40 to Missouri State Line ) redesignated as I-49 and plan to submit to AASHTO for consideration at the fall meeting.I recently indirectly asked FHWA about the I-49/US 49 situation, and (I have asked for clarification about where "I-49" was written into law) I was surprised to find out that FHWA's position appears to be that Congressional action mandates the use of "I-49" in the I-49 corridor .... If this is indeed a Congressional mandate, then FHWA (and AASHTO) would be powerless to deny an AHTD I-49 numbering request (FHWA approval would still be needed as to whether a certain section meets current interstate-grade standards).(above quote from AASHTO Committee on Route Numbering (Nov. 2012) Actions (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8157.msg187410#msg187410) thread)I thought there was to be a decision made for Arkansas regarding redesignating Interstate 540 north from I-40 as I-49. Did not see that covered in the notes document.I received an early August email from AHTD (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg166650#msg166650) to that effect. I was surprised that it was not included in the notes document. I will follow up with AHTD.
Was it postponed for a future meeting?
I recently received a response from AHTD and, surprisingly, the reason lies with the presence of US 49
After having I-49 North (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg128594#msg128594) and I-49 South (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg128609#msg128609) designation applications denied in 2007, and the 2012 decision to not submit designation applications because of the apparent US 49 problem, it now appears that AHTD will try again at the October, 2013 AASHTO meeting. I emailed AHTD and asked them if they had considered that the language designating High Priority Corridor 72 would make FHWA and AASHTO powerless to deny an I-49 numbering request (assuming respective segments are interstate-grade). The reply:QuoteOur planning division tells me that they are submitting again this fall and that they are using the same justification that you mention.
I do not know if they will try for both I-540 north of Alma and AR 549 in SW Arkansas; I will wait to be surprised.
There's still the chance that they will be denied again, as the part in the middle still needs to be constructed; hopefully we'll see at least AR 549 converted into I-49 once the Shreveport link is completed.I emailed AHTD and asked if MAP-21 might encourage them to reapply to AASHTO for I-49 designations. The response:QuoteWe are completing an application to have I-540 (I-40 to Missouri State Line ) redesignated as I-49 and plan to submit to AASHTO for consideration at the fall meeting.I recently indirectly asked FHWA about the I-49/US 49 situation, and (I have asked for clarification about where "I-49" was written into law) I was surprised to find out that FHWA's position appears to be that Congressional action mandates the use of "I-49" in the I-49 corridor .... If this is indeed a Congressional mandate, then FHWA (and AASHTO) would be powerless to deny an AHTD I-49 numbering request (FHWA approval would still be needed as to whether a certain section meets current interstate-grade standards).(above quote from AASHTO Committee on Route Numbering (Nov. 2012) Actions (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8157.msg187410#msg187410) thread)I thought there was to be a decision made for Arkansas regarding redesignating Interstate 540 north from I-40 as I-49. Did not see that covered in the notes document.I received an early August email from AHTD (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg166650#msg166650) to that effect. I was surprised that it was not included in the notes document. I will follow up with AHTD.
Was it postponed for a future meeting?
I recently received a response from AHTD and, surprisingly, the reason lies with the presence of US 49
After having I-49 North (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg128594#msg128594) and I-49 South (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg128609#msg128609) designation applications denied in 2007, and the 2012 decision to not submit designation applications because of the apparent US 49 problem, it now appears that AHTD will try again at the October, 2013 AASHTO meeting. I emailed AHTD and asked them if they had considered that the language designating High Priority Corridor 72 would make FHWA and AASHTO powerless to deny an I-49 numbering request (assuming respective segments are interstate-grade). The reply:QuoteOur planning division tells me that they are submitting again this fall and that they are using the same justification that you mention.
I do not know if they will try for both I-540 north of Alma and AR 549 in SW Arkansas; I will wait to be surprised.
Which is precisely why I would expect I-540 to be dually signed with Future I-49 shields until the Bella Vista gap is fully closed.There's still the chance that they will be denied again, as the part in the middle still needs to be constructed; hopefully we'll see at least AR 549 converted into I-49 once the Shreveport link is completed.I emailed AHTD and asked if MAP-21 might encourage them to reapply to AASHTO for I-49 designations. The response:QuoteWe are completing an application to have I-540 (I-40 to Missouri State Line ) redesignated as I-49 and plan to submit to AASHTO for consideration at the fall meeting.I recently indirectly asked FHWA about the I-49/US 49 situation, and (I have asked for clarification about where "I-49" was written into law) I was surprised to find out that FHWA's position appears to be that Congressional action mandates the use of "I-49" in the I-49 corridor .... If this is indeed a Congressional mandate, then FHWA (and AASHTO) would be powerless to deny an AHTD I-49 numbering request (FHWA approval would still be needed as to whether a certain section meets current interstate-grade standards).(above quote from AASHTO Committee on Route Numbering (Nov. 2012) Actions (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8157.msg187410#msg187410) thread)I thought there was to be a decision made for Arkansas regarding redesignating Interstate 540 north from I-40 as I-49. Did not see that covered in the notes document.I received an early August email from AHTD (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg166650#msg166650) to that effect. I was surprised that it was not included in the notes document. I will follow up with AHTD.
Was it postponed for a future meeting?
I recently received a response from AHTD and, surprisingly, the reason lies with the presence of US 49
After having I-49 North (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg128594#msg128594) and I-49 South (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg128609#msg128609) designation applications denied in 2007, and the 2012 decision to not submit designation applications because of the apparent US 49 problem, it now appears that AHTD will try again at the October, 2013 AASHTO meeting. I emailed AHTD and asked them if they had considered that the language designating High Priority Corridor 72 would make FHWA and AASHTO powerless to deny an I-49 numbering request (assuming respective segments are interstate-grade). The reply:QuoteOur planning division tells me that they are submitting again this fall and that they are using the same justification that you mention.
I do not know if they will try for both I-540 north of Alma and AR 549 in SW Arkansas; I will wait to be surprised.
Henry, with that logic (not bad logic at that) I-540 has just as much of a shot given that A) I-49 now is actually as far south as the official Northwest Arkansas metropolitan statistical area (south of Pineville, MO in McDonald County) and; B) like with Texarkana, there are only a few more miles left to be built to link the "orphan" section with the current I-49 and those connecting miles are in the process of being built out, albeit with not as much ground plowed yet on the north side.
As previously posted in the Improving I-540 at Fort Smith thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8430.msg196166#msg196166), AHTD apparently intends to dually designate I-49 with I-540 instead of redesignating I-540 as I-49.
I recently indirectly asked FHWA about the I-49/US 49 situation, and (I have asked for clarification about where "I-49" was written into law) I was surprised to find out that FHWA's position appears to be that Congressional action mandates the use of "I-49" in the I-49 corridor.
Thank you for your follow-up questions and correspondence. Please note, I am also copying Marty Vitale with AASHTO, for their records and information. As far as the designation of the Arkansas segments of the North-South Corridor as I-49, FHWA is required by law to approve future Intestate route designation request once: the segment meets Interstate Standard; connects or plans to connect to the existing System, by October 1, 2037. Once those two requirements are met the designation request must be initiated by the State.
High Priority Corridor (HPC) #1 is identified as a future Intestate route in Section 1105 of ISTEA, as amended. HPC #1 is described as the North-South Corridor from Kansas City, Mo to Shreveport, LA. HPC # 72 also described as the North-South Corridor between Kansas City, MO and Shreveport, LA. HPC #72 reads, “The North-South corridor, along Interstate 49 North, from Kansas City, Missouri, to Shreveport, Louisiana” . HPC # 72 was added to Section 1105 of ISTEA, as amended by Section 1304 of SAFETEA-LU. This amendment, establishes the numbering for the North-South Corridor between Kansas City and Shreveport.
I see where M0DOT has moved up there STIP for the Bella Vista Bypass to Start in the Fall of 2014. Job # 7PO601 has construction money to start there part. So Arkansas has made them feel they will work on the 2 lanes early in the 1/2 cent sales tax construction.
AHTD has released the 2013 Arkansas Highway map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/mapping_graphics/2013%20AR%20State%20Highway%20Map%20-%20State%20Side.pdf) and the 2013 map does not have the projected route through Texas(above quote from Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg228335#msg228335) thread)
FWIW, by that map above the first layer of pavement has been laid (though probably not in all lanes) from the east 72 bridge over this new highway to the west 72 bridge over future I-49, a distance of around 2-3 miles. They're grading on the north side of the west 72 crossing, but also building a bridge over it and won't be able to link the two segments until the bridge is complete and they can reroute traffic from the old section of the highway over it.
Weird thing's already happened. Right before that west crossing, a new subdivision has popped up, largely made up of homes that were moved from other locations. The subdivision was started in the mid-2000s but was abandoned with only one house built. Now with one-two other new builds plus the "move-ins", there are at least six. Gonna be interesting to see what happens with the town formerly known as "Hiwasse", where the aforementioned (total of three) crossings are.
Grzrd,
I can't get onto the arkansashighways.com site...what does the Fort Smith map look like? (Gotta be frank, I'm astounded how much FSM people and/or investors are betting on I-49 there with all the construction in the Barling area. There is building going on EVERYWHERE west of the future I-49 right-of-way.)
In other words, I-540 south of I-40 will remain just that, as I-49 is being built further east.Grzrd,
I can't get onto the arkansashighways.com site...what does the Fort Smith map look like? (Gotta be frank, I'm astounded how much FSM people and/or investors are betting on I-49 there with all the construction in the Barling area. There is building going on EVERYWHERE west of the future I-49 right-of-way.)
Future 49 doesn't show on the Ft Smith inset at all.
The land is relatively cheap in Barling considering it's mostly Ft Chaffee property. There's a new fire station going up on Massard Rd near I-49, plus a museum going up next to the nature center. AHTD just moved their shop out that way and there is talk of a third High School for Ft Smith in the area, as well. There's also a Mitsubishi wind turbine plant built with major tax incentives that never opened. There are several other businesses promising to build, but I don't remember who they are, off-hand.
In other words, I-540 south of I-40 will remain just that, as I-49 is being built further east.Grzrd,
I can't get onto the arkansashighways.com site...what does the Fort Smith map look like? (Gotta be frank, I'm astounded how much FSM people and/or investors are betting on I-49 there with all the construction in the Barling area. There is building going on EVERYWHERE west of the future I-49 right-of-way.)
Future 49 doesn't show on the Ft Smith inset at all.
The land is relatively cheap in Barling considering it's mostly Ft Chaffee property. There's a new fire station going up on Massard Rd near I-49, plus a museum going up next to the nature center. AHTD just moved their shop out that way and there is talk of a third High School for Ft Smith in the area, as well. There's also a Mitsubishi wind turbine plant built with major tax incentives that never opened. There are several other businesses promising to build, but I don't remember who they are, off-hand.
I see where M0DOT has moved up there STIP for the Bella Vista Bypass to Start in the Fall of 2014. Job # 7PO601 has construction money to start there part. So Arkansas has made them feel they will work on the 2 lanes early in the 1/2 cent sales tax construction.
This article (http://www.theconstructionindex.co.uk/news/view/atkins-wins-us-transport-contracts) reports that, instead of Garver, Atkins, in partnership with Brown & Gay Engineers and Fugro Consultants, has been selected to provide on-call construction services for AHTD:(bottom quote from Arkansas (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=6952.msg228305#msg228305) thread)QuoteThe contract specifically calls for Atkins to support a new programme that will use a temporary sales tax to fund a US$1.8bn, ten-year project to build and improve four-lane highways throughout the state.Now the wait begins to see which project will be first .....
The schedule has not been finalized, but unofficially it looks like that the Bella Vista job would be the first one and it could happened before the end of the year even though 2014 is more likely. We have some tentative plans to host a kickoff event and that one seems to be the most likely one.
the Future I-49 corridor is east of this section of I-540. A map on page 23/36 of the Executive Summary of the US 71 Relocation From Dequeen to I-40 Final Environmental Impact Statement pdf (http://www.aaroads.com/forum_images/southeast/001747_FEIS_Executive_Summary.pdf) shows the location of this section of I-540 relative to the proposed route of Future I-49. If I interpret the map correctly, it looks like the long-range plan is to build a "spur" from the southern section of I-540 to connect with Future I-49 just south of the current US 71 (which, along with I-40, would create a possible I-x49 loop)(above quote from Improving I-540 at Fort Smith (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8430.msg195657#msg195657) thread)
there is a proposed spur off 540 (in the vicinity of Greenwood Rd/AR 45) that will eventually connect to I-49
Gotta be frank, I'm astounded how much FSM people and/or investors are betting on I-49 there with all the construction in the Barling area. There is building going on EVERYWHERE west of the future I-49 right-of-way.
FWIW, by that map above the first layer of pavement has been laid (though probably not in all lanes) from the east 72 bridge over this new highway to the west 72 bridge over future I-49, a distance of around 2-3 miles. They're grading on the north side of the west 72 crossing, but also building a bridge over it and won't be able to link the two segments until the bridge is complete and they can reroute traffic from the old section of the highway over it.
Weird thing's already happened. Right before that west crossing, a new subdivision has popped up, largely made up of homes that were moved from other locations. The subdivision was started in the mid-2000s but was abandoned with only one house built. Now with one-two other new builds plus the "move-ins", there are at least six. Gonna be interesting to see what happens with the town formerly known as "Hiwasse", where the aforementioned (total of three) crossings are.
I think there are only 2 interchanges: 72East and 72West. IIRC, AR 279 is only a grade separation. I need to get back up there and investigate it further.
It's still unofficial, but I just received an AHTD email indicating that the Bella Vista Bypass project is first in line and that there may be a kickoff event for it in late 2013/early 2014
Shortly after July 4, the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department should know the order of projects that will be completed with the half-cent sales tax that will start being collected July 1 with money to start flowing in August, said Danny Straessle, assistant public information officer with ASHTD. While not confirmed for a few more weeks, it’s assumed that the Bella Vista Bypass will probably be the first project.
“The purpose of this project is safe and efficient movement of traffic from the Missouri state line to I-540 south of Bella Vista,” he said. “Volume has necessitated this work as the current route on U.S. Highway 71 is loaded with traffic and is not conducive to free-flow movement like an Interstate-type facility would be.”
Another major Northwest Arkansas development will be later in July, he said. The July 24 bid letting with the Arkansas Highway Commission will award a contract to widen Interstate 540 from Highway 16 to Porter Road to three lanes at an estimated cost of $9 million.
Another major Northwest Arkansas development will be later in July, he said. The July 24 bid letting with the Arkansas Highway Commission will award a contract to widen Interstate 540 from Highway 16 to Porter Road to three lanes at an estimated cost of $9 million.
Can someone tell me if (as I believe I saw today) "Rocky Dell Hollow" is going to be a future ramp off future I-49? I saw grading work done to this road with what appeared to be an exit ramp grade. That's going to be fascinating...that road goes, like the neck of a tuning fork, straight into a curve from where the two main roads of west Bella Vista (Glasgow Road to the north, Highlands Road to the south) split.
The County Road 34 (Ferrell Road) interchange was enlarged to meet current design standards, County Road 34 was realigned west of the interchange to reconnect the local road network, and a frontage road was added to maintain property access.
I think there are only 2 interchanges: 72East and 72West. IIRC, AR 279 is only a grade separation.
Can someone tell me if (as I believe I saw today) "Rocky Dell Hollow" is going to be a future ramp off future I-49? I saw grading work done to this road with what appeared to be an exit ramp grade. That's going to be fascinating...that road goes, like the neck of a tuning fork, straight into a curve from where the two main roads of west Bella Vista (Glasgow Road to the north, Highlands Road to the south) split.
Looking at the June 2007 Design Reassessment (http://www.arkansashighways.com/BVB/Reassessment_june07.pdf), it's possible that you are looking at grading for a frontage road that will maintain property access for a relocated farm (page 10/91 of pdf):
(http://i.imgur.com/DLkC5bG.jpg)
The changes to this interchange are summarized on page 12/91 of the pdf:QuoteThe County Road 34 (Ferrell Road) interchange was enlarged to meet current design standards, County Road 34 was realigned west of the interchange to reconnect the local road network, and a frontage road was added to maintain property access.I think there are only 2 interchanges: 72East and 72West. IIRC, AR 279 is only a grade separation.
A map on page 8/91 of the above Design Reassessment pdf confirms that there is no interchange at AR 279, but it is interesting to note that the 1998 plans had included an interchange at AR 279:
(http://i.imgur.com/H6OejTR.jpg)
As previously posted in the Improving I-540 at Fort Smith thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8430.msg196166#msg196166), AHTD apparently intends to dually designate I-49 with I-540 instead of redesignating I-540 as I-49.I recently indirectly asked FHWA about the I-49/US 49 situation, and (I have asked for clarification about where "I-49" was written into law) I was surprised to find out that FHWA's position appears to be that Congressional action mandates the use of "I-49" in the I-49 corridor.
I received a clarification from FHWA today and it looks like FHWA will not resist an AHTD I-49 numbering request and that FHWA is further ordering AASHTO to stand down because of HPC 72:QuoteThank you for your follow-up questions and correspondence. Please note, I am also copying Marty Vitale with AASHTO, for their records and information. As far as the designation of the Arkansas segments of the North-South Corridor as I-49, FHWA is required by law to approve future Intestate route designation request once: the segment meets Interstate Standard; connects or plans to connect to the existing System, by October 1, 2037. Once those two requirements are met the designation request must be initiated by the State.
High Priority Corridor (HPC) #1 is identified as a future Intestate route in Section 1105 of ISTEA, as amended. HPC #1 is described as the North-South Corridor from Kansas City, Mo to Shreveport, LA. HPC # 72 also described as the North-South Corridor between Kansas City, MO and Shreveport, LA. HPC #72 reads, "The North-South corridor, along Interstate 49 North, from Kansas City, Missouri, to Shreveport, Louisiana. HPC # 72 was added to Section 1105 of ISTEA, as amended by Section 1304 of SAFETEA-LU. This amendment, establishes the numbering for the North-South Corridor between Kansas City and Shreveport.
All AHTD has to do now is ask ..............
I think there are only 2 interchanges: 72East and 72West. IIRC, AR 279 is only a grade separation.the June 2007 Design Reassessment (http://www.arkansashighways.com/BVB/Reassessment_june07.pdf) .... A map on page 8/91 of the above Design Reassessment pdf confirms that there is no interchange at AR 279, but it is interesting to note that the 1998 plans had included an interchange at AR 279:
(http://i.imgur.com/H6OejTR.jpg)
Redesignation of I-540 to "49" makes more sense, less confusing to the drivers using the route and transportation officials in charge of the project. The I-540 is an extension of the 49 - same route - however to change the number will confuse long-time residents at first used to the "540". Actually, I-49 ends in Kansas City, MO where another north-south freeway: the I-29 also ends.
There is a beautiful Arkansas Welcome Center on I-35 east of Texarkana.
There is a beautiful Arkansas Welcome Center on I-35 east of Texarkana.When I traveled US 71 from Northern Missouri to Shreveport in 01, there was a Welcome Center just south of the MO/ AR line. I would imagine there would have to be one on the new interstate as well, unless Arkansas closed the one I visited as it has been know for states to have been closing State Line Welcome Centers such as NJ for US 22 prior to I-78 being completed or PennDOT closing the I-95 SB one near Scudder's Falls Bridge.
Wouldn't be surprised to see one either at the future interchange on the map Grzrd posted above (of the interchange at west Bella Vista, AR) or to the north of it in the current woody hills at the state line.
There is a beautiful Arkansas Welcome Center on I-35 east of Texarkana.
I'm guessing you mean I-30. Otherwise, that's one part of I-35 I've *never* been on :D
There is a beautiful Arkansas Welcome Center on I-35 east of Texarkana.
I'm guessing you mean I-30. Otherwise, that's one part of I-35 I've *never* been on :D
It's less than 5 years old. Replaced an older one between Exits 1 and 2. The one in Bella Vista is a bit older, but it replaced one at the state line.
I think the current one in Bella Vista is a LOT older. And given all that's happening in northwest Arkansas (in less than a year, USA Today has run an article (two days ago, actually) called 'Mayberry' goes Manhattan (http://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/destinations/2013/06/27/bentonville-broadens-its-palette/2466567/) about Bentonville; the "Amazeum" plans have been announced (http://amazeum.org/), Bentonville and its dining scene made the Washington Post's "In/out list" (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/artsandliving/features/2012/year-in-review/the-list.html) (dumping the dining scene of Charleston, SC) and Southern Living asked if Bentonville is "the south's next cultural 'Mecca'?" (http://thedailysouth.southernliving.com/2012/10/06/is-bentonville-the-souths-next-cultural-mecca/)).
Off I-30 (thanks for the correction on my goof :-P ) near Texarkana Arkansas is wanting to put its best foot forward for Texas and Texas-bound visitors. Gut feeling is that near that west Bella Vista interchange Grzrd put the map for above Arkansas will want to put its best foot forward also for northwest Arkansas and Fort Smith (got some things happening there as well even without considering Chaffee Crossing) (http://www.usmarshalsmuseum.com/). They need to replace the (excuse me) dump that's on the west side of U.S. 71 in Bella Vista right now.
Looks like there will be an interchange at or near Rocky Dell Hollow: http://bellavistaarkansas.org/bella-vista-bypass.html
The November 2007 Design Reassessment (http://www.arkansashighways.com/BVB/Reassessment_nov07.pdf) ... (page 4/16 of pdf) ....
(http://i.imgur.com/e0XUPIJ.jpg)
Why two interchanges at AR 72 but none at AR 279?
However, the frontage road was incuded in the design to shorten the travel time between AR 279 and AR 72 East. Also, in anticipation of possible great increases in traffic volumes, the AR 72 East interchange and the frontage road have been designed so that an AR 279/ AR 72 East "split" interchange, with the frontage road being incorporated into a system of collector/ distributor roads, can be built.
Renumber US-49 in AR and MS to US-47 or even a 3-digit number. Problem solved!!
There's no problem except Arkansas's misinterpretation of AASHTO's anality.
Looks like the bridge over Hwy. 72 West between Gravette and Hiwasse is near completion. What's fascinating about this location is that there's a "berm" that's been built by moving earth for future I-49 north of here, which also blocks the view of construction to the north (toward that future west Bella Vista interchanges Grzrd had the map of earlier). The berm is right next to the section of the current highway which will have to be demolished to make way for I-49 once the aforementioned bridge is finished. Once that's done and the old highway/berm are removed drivers will have a clear view right and left of the future interstate.
BTW, Grzrd, I've made an e-mail inquiry into the Arkansas Visitor's Bureau to ask about any available information for plans for a future I-49/Bella Vista-NWA area Welcome Center. It's inevitable there will be a new one with an Interstate...just "where", "manned/unmanned" and "how big".
Water lines are also being laid east of Gravette (which is west of the previously mentioned bridge) but I'm not sure if that's for expected development along the interchange or just for the nice houses (not as big a developments as near Bentonville, but nice homes nonetheless) being built along Hwy. 72 east of G-town.
TIMELINE
The Projects
Bid schedules for the first six half-cent sales tax projects are:
- Bella Vista Bypass (I-540 interchange): Late 2013
- Bella Vista Bypass (U.S. 71 to Arkansas 72): Late 2013
- Bella Vista Bypass (Benton County 34 to Missouri line): Early 2014
- Springdale Northern Bypass (I-540 to Arkansas 112): Late 2014
- I-540 Widening (Southeast 14th Street to East Central Avenue): Early 2015
- I-540 Widening (Fulbright Expressway to Sunset Avenue): Mid-2015
Source: Arkansas Highway And Transportation Department
The first six highway construction projects funded by the “Connecting Arkansas Program” (CAP) are in Benton and Washington counties ....AHTD Spokesman Randy Ort said the six projects made the top of the list because “they were much further along in the process.” .... Those projects aren’t the end of the line for Northwest Arkansas work. A bid on work for I-540 (Highway 264 and New Hope Road) should be let in mid 2015. A bid for U.S. 412 work between Highways 67 and 141, and work for I-540 (U.S. 412 and Wagon Wheel Road) is expected to be let in mid 2017.
does this snip graphic you placed above mean they're working to have the BV bypass complete at year 2016's end on the Arkansas side? (That seems reasonable...granted, Missouri has to have their section complete).
right now it's estimated that Northwest Arkansas/Fort Smith has a combined metro population, right now, of 784,000 people (http://www.urbanplanet.org/forums/index.php/topic/45620-population-trends-of-northwest-arkansas/page-4) .... In addition, in 30 years Northwest Arkansas alone is predicted (without Fort Smith) to have 1,000,000 people. (http://www.bizjournals.com/bizjournals/on-numbers/scott-thomas/2013/01/28-metros-have-a-shot-at-joining-the.html)(above quote from Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg236619#msg236619) thread)
The November 2007 Design Reassessment (http://www.arkansashighways.com/BVB/Reassessment_nov07.pdf) ... (page 4/16 of pdf) ....By the time 2006 rolled around, the 0.75 mile length from AR 279 to AR 72 East was deemed too close for two interchanges and the decision was made to choose either AR 279 or AR 72 East as an interchange location ... The AR 72 East location was chosen because of the higher traffic volumes.
(http://i.imgur.com/e0XUPIJ.jpg)
However, the frontage road was incuded in the design to shorten the travel time between AR 279 and AR 72 East. Also, in anticipation of possible great increases in traffic volumes, the AR 72 East interchange and the frontage road have been designed so that an AR 279/ AR 72 East "split" interchange, with the frontage road being incorporated into a system of collector/ distributor roads, can be built.
“The design of the highway is complete,” he said. “The acquisition of property is complete. All we have been waiting on is the funding. It is basically ready to go.’’
Rob Smith, communications and policy specialist for the Northwest Arkansas Council, which supported the Connecting Arkansas Program, said, “The importance of the Bella Vista bypass project and the other two major highway projects in Northwest Arkansas that will occur because voters approved Issue No. 1 cannot be overstated.
“Research commissioned by the NAC and conducted by the Texas A&M Transportation Institute last year showed our two-county area of Northwest Arkansas loses $103 million annually due to traffic congestion,’’ he said in an email statement. “The researchers told us major projects, such as the Bella Vista bypass, will help reduce that figure.”
The council is a private, nonprofit organization that was founded in 1990 to work on issues, such as infrastructure, education, economic development and community vitality. The council has about 100 members.
Said Smith: “For Northwest Arkansas and for Southwest Missouri, there’s no highway project more important than the Bella Vista bypass.’’
http://www.joplinglobe.com/local/x1664877140/Arkansas-to-seek-bids-for-initial-two-lanes-of-Bella-Vista-bypass/?state=taberU
^^ Here's the Wiki listed by US port volume: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ports_in_the_United_States
Construction of the bypass around Hiwasse began March 2011 and connects a portion of Arkansas Highway 72 back on itself, creating a bypass of the Hiwasse area of Gravette. Two interchanges are being constructed, on the southeast and northwest sides of Hiwasse. The interchanges and roadway connecting the two is epxected to be completed next spring.
The price of that project is $19.8 million, (Danny) Straessle (of the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department) said.
The second project already in the works is an interchange at Rocky Del (sic) Hollow Road, west of the Highlands in Bella Vista.
Construction on the interchange and the road to connect to the Arkansas 72 interchange began in the summer of 2012. Straessle said the project should wrap up late in the summer of 2014. This will create a continuous two-lane state highway from Hiwasse nearing the Missouri state line.
A third project will also go to bid early next year to complete the highway from Rocky Del (sic) Hollow Road to the state line.
"The Bella Vista Bypass project has been ready to go for some time; we just needed the money. Overpasses at interchanges are being built to full interchanges, they just won't have southbound lanes," Straessle said.
There is a plan for a future four-land highway to become I-49 running from Louisiana to Canada. But the money isn't there yet, Straessle said, and the completion date for that is an unknown at this time.
"Ideas are being kicked around. One is a toll study, but that is in its infancy," he said. A toll-road study was completed once before, he added, but at the time was not feasible to support the bypass.
"We're taking a look at that again," he said.
Beautiful serene property on the west side of one of the proposed Bella Vista bypass interchanges. Mostly pasture (about 30% wooded). Close to the Bella Vista gun range. Public water at the site. Owner is willing to subdivide.,There is also additional acreage available on the east side of the planned interchange. Cattle on property. Okay to drive by property to see, but do not enter property. Call listing agent to arrange for access to property.
Any estimates on how much a upgrade from super two to four lanes would cost?
For a citation of this area's population growth (and the now-being-addressed need for a through interstate), to anyone who remembers driving through Bentonville, Arkansas 20-30 years ago (or even 50 years ago when the one stop light was said to be a "blinker") Bentonville High School is set to have 4,200 students this year, 5,000 in 3 years if a new high school isn't built (http://nwahomepage.com/fulltext?nxd_id=451592) according to a story by KNWA-TV yesterday.
And that's not counting six other high schools in neighboring cities (Rogers, Springdale, Fayetteville, Siloam Springs) that have an average of 2,400 students each.
For a citation of this area's population growth (and the now-being-addressed need for a through interstate), to anyone who remembers driving through Bentonville, Arkansas 20-30 years ago (or even 50 years ago when the one stop light was said to be a "blinker") Bentonville High School is set to have 4,200 students this year, 5,000 in 3 years if a new high school isn't built (http://nwahomepage.com/fulltext?nxd_id=451592) according to a story by KNWA-TV yesterday.
And that's not counting six other high schools in neighboring cities (Rogers, Springdale, Fayetteville, Siloam Springs) that have an average of 2,400 students each.
Link didn't work.
It's worse than I thought, actually. By the time Bentonville builds its second high school, the two separate schools will still be among the 10 biggest in the state. Springdale split several years ago and SHS is still No. 2 in enrollment (Har-Ber is No. 9).
I'm looking at Arkansas Activities Association enrollment numbers, but those only count grades 10-12 and use average numbers from the past 3 years.
I wonder, though, if the desire is still pretty strong to keep Bentonville a one-school town. They're winning state championships by the ton with their numbers advantage and the whole town supports one program. Same dynamic is in play in Texas, in places like Allen and Southlake.
End of sports thread-jack. Back to roads.
I asked about the cost from a super two to a true Interstate as we can all see the need. Not a resident of Arkansas but do the local residents seem willing to take a higher tax rate to help support four lanes (like NE Missouri did with US-36/I-72)? This tax would be on top of the new statewide tax but would speed I-49 and yes 6 lanes ahead quicker plus the US-420 project.
In the above news it said Arkansas was looking at tolls again for the south bound lanes of Bella Vista Bypass. I read back in the summer that I 40 and this project would be hard to make a toll road because they cannot toll fees on existing roads that Federal money has been spent on. For instance AHTD said if they add another lane to I 40 from Little Rock to Memphis, they could toll that lane only so if you got over in the far left lane, you have to pay. But if you drove the distance in the 2 inside lanes you would not have to pay. On the Bella Vista Bypass the North bound lanes have had federal money involved so the south bound lanes would not If tolled. Missouri said when they build there part it would be all 4 lanes because of expense and they have the money set aside. Looks like that would be a mess.
Any updates on the Arkansas River bridge and the connection to I-40/current I-540?
Any updates on the Arkansas River bridge and the connection to I-40/current I-540?
Q: With the opening of the Chaffee Crossing section of I-49 scheduled for late 2014, does AHTD plan to begin design work on the Future I-49 Arkansas River bridge at any time in the foreseeable future?
A: Not at this time. There isn’t any funding identified for that river crossing.
Any updates on the Arkansas River bridge and the connection to I-40/current I-540?
I recently had an email Q & A exchange with AHTD and the short answer is that AHTD does not even have plans to begin the design work for the Arkansas River bridge:QuoteQ: With the opening of the Chaffee Crossing section of I-49 scheduled for late 2014, does AHTD plan to begin design work on the Future I-49 Arkansas River bridge at any time in the foreseeable future?
A: Not at this time. There isn’t any funding identified for that river crossing.
(EDIT...didn't see it before, but here's the newspaper article on the shopping mall (http://swtimes.com/sections/business/fcra-close-barling-mall-property.html), again, bear in mind there is virtually NOTHING here right now save a convenience store, woods, and a sparkling new bridge-and-interstate-to-nowhere. Amazingly, this is such an in-plain-sight-huge-secret that there aren't even any comments in the newspaper article on it, pro or con):
A former Mena mayor wants AHTD to build the section around Mena before the rest of the highway. He said that AHTD claimed they didn't have the money to build it. Sounds like an excuse to me.
A former Mena mayor wants AHTD to build the section around Mena before the rest of the highway. He said that AHTD claimed they didn't have the money to build it. Sounds like an excuse to me.
It makes sense to build the segments around towns first as bypasses (Mena, Waldron, etc.) and then connect them as you go.
A former Mena mayor wants AHTD to build the section around Mena before the rest of the highway. He said that AHTD claimed they didn't have the money to build it. Sounds like an excuse to me.
It makes sense to build the segments around towns first as bypasses (Mena, Waldron, etc.) and then connect them as you go.
This article (http://www.thv11.com/news/article/266323/2/Arkansas-highway-officials-considering-tolls-on-I-40), primarily about the possibility of tolling I-40 (and previously discussed in the 6 Laning I-40 (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=6548.msg223076#msg223076) thread), reports that, even though Arkansas voters approved the one-half cent sales tax to fund the initial two lanes of the BVB, AHTD is currently investigating the tolling potential of the BVB:QuoteAre you only looking at this section of Interstate 40? No, the Department is currently investigating tolling potential in two other corridors (Northbelt Freeway, in conjunction with Metroplan, and the Bella Vista Bypass).
AHTD Public Information Officer Randy Ort said while Missouri was struggling to secure the funding necessary to finish its portion of the Bella Vista Bypass, Arkansas had secured enough to install two of the highway's planned four lanes. To complete the other four lanes, AHTD would have to figure out a way to raise an additional $50 million.
One way to possibly pay for the Arkansas portion of not only the Bella Vista Bypass, but other sections of the interstate, would be the creation of Arkansas' first ever toll road, which Ort said was being studied for feasibility.
"It's a candidate to be a toll road, but we need to get the results of this study," he said. "Another reason the results of this study are so important, no only will that show us whether or not it's feasible as a toll road, it will provide us a great amount of data and information as to what it will take to complete the final two lanes to make it the ultimate four lanes that both states want. So by getting the results of the toll study, we think there is a possibility, and a realistic possibility, whether it's a toll road or not a toll road that we will be able to complete this as a four lane facility in the time frame that we committed to only committed to build the two lanes."
“We still have a pretty sizable gap in Arkansas from Texarkana to Fort Smith,” Ort said. ” It’s going to be about 180 miles and about a 2.5 billion dollars. That’s very hard to fund a project of that size.”
“That’s a very expensive project,” explained Dick Trammel, Now I think in the future, everyone’s going to work towards trying to make that possible. I think the funding is going to be the problem.”
The Highway Department says they’re committed to completing the I49 corridor across the state. However, they estimate it could be 20 years before Texarkana connects to Fort Smith and up through Bella Vista.
"And today, we have the plans done. They've been done for many years. We would have to go in and refresh those plans, but that would be a relatively minor task. We purchased the land but we have one challenge," he said. "Considering all the work we did north of there, we no longer have enough money to complete that. So at this time, we can't commit to a schedule in Missouri to do that."
The shortfall in funding amounts to about $25 million, though he said Missouri transportation officials were working to find a funding source to complete the state's portion of the project.
Gard Wayt, the Shreveport, La.-based executive director of the I-49 International Coalition, said having officials like Whitaker and others from the city and county level on up to the federal level participate in today's meeting was designed to get all sides thinking and working together to figure out how to finish I-49 at an accelerated rate, a rate at which the interstate could be done in less than a decade.
"If I were going to be safe, I'd say (the Arkansas portion would be complete in) 10 years," ( :wow: ) Wayt said. "But what we're trying to do is cut that in half." ( :wow: :wow: )
This article (http://www.kansascity.com/2012/09/02/3793979/us-71-south-to-become-i-49.html) .... MoDOT also makes it clear that they are waiting on Arkansas before they build Missouri's section of the Bella Vista Bypass:(above quote from I-49 Coming to Missouri (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3239.msg171905#msg171905) thread)Quote“We do not want to build a four-lane freeway that dead-ends at the state line,” said Sean Matlock, MoDOT’s manager for the I-49 project.
This article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/29319) reports that MoDOT is currently approximately $25 million short of having its section of the Bella Vista Bypass fully funded:(above quote from I-49 Coming to Missouri (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3239.msg243628#msg243628) thread)QuoteDan Salisbury, the assistant director of the southwest district of the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDoT) ... said ... funding to complete the state's I-49 corridor in a section known as the Bella Vista Bypass was not currently in place .... "we no longer have enough money to complete that. So at this time, we can't commit to a schedule in Missouri to do that."
The shortfall in funding amounts to about $25 million.
Randy Ort, public information officer for the Arkansas Highway Department, said ....
the original timeline for Arkansas and Missouri to complete the project was 2017. He said officials with the Arkansas Highway Department first learned that Missouri was unable to complete its section in that time frame in recent weeks.
A new schedule for completion of the bypass has been developed, Ort said.
The portion of the bypass from Benton County Road 34 to the Missouri state line was to be bid in January, Ort said. But now, a document from the department listing dates of future projects does not list a time frame for that project.
“We have the money, but it does not make sense to continue that portion,” Ort said. “Do we want to continue a road if it is not usable?”
The stretch of road will be completed when Missouri is ready, Ort said.
He said the section of the bypass from U.S. 71 in Bentonville to Arkansas 72 west of Hiwasse will have a bid released in January. The department will delay construction of a full interchange at that location so the road can open sooner, Ort said.
A stretch of the bypass from Arkansas 72 west of Hiwasse to Benton County Road 34 is already underway, Ort said. An estimated completion date for that portion was not provided.
This article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/29319) reports that ... there is a "realistic possibility" that the entire four lanes of the BVB might be completed within the current time frame for two lane construction, even in the absence of tolling:QuoteAHTD Public Information Officer Randy Ort said ... "we think there is a possibility, and a realistic possibility, whether it's a toll road or not a toll road that we will be able to complete this as a four lane facility in the time frame that we committed to only committed to build the two lanes."
The Arkansas Highway Department is building the Bella Vista bypass as a two lane road but has plans to expand it later to four lanes, said Ort.
He said officials believe it will cost another $50 million to expand the road to four lanes. He said there is a possibility that the road will be expanded to four lanes sooner than previously thought. He said that is very preliminary, and no official information is available regarding it.
Dan Salisbury, Missouri assistant district engineer for the southwest district said ... Missouri Department of Transportation plans to complete the road as four lanes when funding becomes available. He added that officials also want the Arkansas section to be four lanes.
“That is because we save very little by doing two lanes,” Salisbury said.
It will cost Missouri $40 million to complete its portion of the bypass, Salisbury said. He said at this time “roughly” $15 million is available for the project.
Is it certain that the Bella Vista Bypass will not be tolled?
This article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/29319) reports that AHTD is investigating the possibility of tolling not only the Bella Vista Bypass, but also "other sections of the interstate":QuoteOne way to possibly pay for the Arkansas portion of not only the Bella Vista Bypass, but other sections of the interstate, would be the creation of Arkansas' first ever toll road, which Ort said was being studied for feasibility
I tried to weed through the past replies on this thread.
Any updates on the Arkansas River bridge and the connection to I-40/current I-540?
Members of the Fort Smith Board of Directors met for nearly three hours on Monday night (Sept. 9) to discuss and try to narrow the focus of priorities identified during a strategic planning retreat on July 19 and 20 at Mt. Magazine State Park ....
Director Mike Lorenz .... said annexation of land surrounding what will become Interstate 49 would be essential as the city looks not only five or 10 years down the road, but decades or even 100 years into the future.
"That's something Ron said at the end looking 50 or 200 years in the future. While we're talking 20 plus years to get I-49 finished, it won't be that long before it's connected to Interstate 40 … That's going to happen first. That's going to happen before down south happens. But that gives you connection from that intersection to Joplin, basically, and I think that defines the entire area right there. And I think that has to be a major priority."
Any updates on the Arkansas River bridge and the connection to I-40/current I-540?
This article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/29466) reports on a consultant making a presentation to the Fort Smith Board of Directors and quotes one of the Directors as saying that the connection to I-40 will be "first" (apparently after the Chaffee Crossing, BVB, and LA state line sections):QuoteMembers of the Fort Smith Board of Directors met for nearly three hours on Monday night (Sept. 9) to discuss and try to narrow the focus of priorities identified during a strategic planning retreat on July 19 and 20 at Mt. Magazine State Park ....
Director Mike Lorenz .... said annexation of land surrounding what will become Interstate 49 would be essential as the city looks not only five or 10 years down the road, but decades or even 100 years into the future.
"That's something Ron said at the end looking 50 or 200 years in the future. While we're talking 20 plus years to get I-49 finished, it won't be that long before it's connected to Interstate 40 … That's going to happen first. That's going to happen before down south happens. But that gives you connection from that intersection to Joplin, basically, and I think that defines the entire area right there. And I think that has to be a major priority."
Is it certain that the Bella Vista Bypass will not be tolled?
Other changes include the mainstreaming of tolling new Interstates and added lanes on existing Interstates, which was previously allowed only under the Interstate System Construction Toll Pilot Program and the Express Lanes Demonstration Program
Is it certain that the Bella Vista Bypass will not be tolled?
http://arkansasnews.com/sections/news/highway-commission-postpones-part-bella-vista-bypass-project.html
Highway Commission postpones part of Bella Vista Bypass project
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Highway Commission endorsed a proposal Wednesday to postpone construction of a section of the Bella Vista Bypass in Northwest Arkansas at the Missouri border until that state can find funding for its six-mile portion of the project.
The commission also selected a firm to handle the sale of the first round of bonds – $469 million – that will fund construction of a system of a four-lane highways connecting all parts of the state. Voters last November approved a 10-year half-cent state sales tax increase to pay for the $1.8 billion project.
---
So Arkansas is waiting on Missouri who is waiting on Arkansas.
http://arkansasnews.com/sections/news/highway-commission-postpones-part-bella-vista-bypass-project.html
Highway Commission postpones part of Bella Vista Bypass project
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Highway Commission endorsed a proposal Wednesday to postpone construction of a section of the Bella Vista Bypass in Northwest Arkansas at the Missouri border until that state can find funding for its six-mile portion of the project.
The commission also selected a firm to handle the sale of the first round of bonds – $469 million – that will fund construction of a system of a four-lane highways connecting all parts of the state. Voters last November approved a 10-year half-cent state sales tax increase to pay for the $1.8 billion project.
---
So Arkansas is waiting on Missouri who is waiting on Arkansas.
I hate this state.
http://arkansasnews.com/sections/news/highway-commission-postpones-part-bella-vista-bypass-project.html
Highway Commission postpones part of Bella Vista Bypass project
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Highway Commission endorsed a proposal Wednesday to postpone construction of a section of the Bella Vista Bypass in Northwest Arkansas at the Missouri border until that state can find funding for its six-mile portion of the project.
The commission also selected a firm to handle the sale of the first round of bonds – $469 million – that will fund construction of a system of a four-lane highways connecting all parts of the state. Voters last November approved a 10-year half-cent state sales tax increase to pay for the $1.8 billion project.
---
So Arkansas is waiting on Missouri who is waiting on Arkansas.
I hate this state.
Better than Texas or Mississippi :/
Any updates on the Arkansas River bridge and the connection to I-40/current I-540?
It has been a little less than nine months since Interstate 540 through Fort Smith and Van Buren was reduced to one lane in both directions, causing traffic nightmares not normally seen in the area.
For commuters looking for a status update on the construction project, Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department District 4 Engineer Chad Adams has good news.
"We're still looking at them being on schedule," he said. "We still have an estimated completion of late spring 2014."
The nearly $79 million project, the largest single-project contract awarded in AHTD history, has seen the demolition of six bridges, with more to come as the months go on ....
While many bridges along the interstate are being replaced, or in some cases raised to allow for higher clearances, one bridge that will not have much if any work done to it is the Arkansas River Bridge.
According to Adams, widening the bridge to conform with current federal highway standards, which is what the contractors are doing with many of the bridges along I-540, is not financially feasible, especially considering that the AHTD is attempting to secure funding for a river bridge along the I-49 route. He said rehab work on the Arkansas River Bridge on I-540 could total more than $100 million, which would then make it the largest single highway construction contract awarded in state history ....
This article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/29787#.UkR0HL7D-M8), primarily an update about the (non-Future I-49) I-540 construction work in Fort Smith, notes that the I-540 Arkansas River bridge is not being upgraded, primarily because funding for the Future I-49 Arkansas River bridge is a higher priority:
Really? Is this the first time that such signs have been used? (I've never seen them anywhere in all my 43 years of traveling.)
This article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/29787#.UkR0HL7D-M8), primarily an update about the (non-Future I-49) I-540 construction work in Fort Smith, notes that the I-540 Arkansas River bridge is not being upgraded, primarily because funding for the Future I-49 Arkansas River bridge is a higher priority:
I was beginning to wonder about that. The construction crews have signs all around saying "DO NOT DAMAGE BRIDGE".
Still, it's disappointing the roadway is being rebuilt with asphalt instead of concrete. :(
Really? Is this the first time that such signs have been used? (I've never seen them anywhere in all my 43 years of traveling.)
This article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/29787#.UkR0HL7D-M8), primarily an update about the (non-Future I-49) I-540 construction work in Fort Smith, notes that the I-540 Arkansas River bridge is not being upgraded, primarily because funding for the Future I-49 Arkansas River bridge is a higher priority:
I was beginning to wonder about that. The construction crews have signs all around saying "DO NOT DAMAGE BRIDGE".
Still, it's disappointing the roadway is being rebuilt with asphalt instead of concrete. :(
As you can see from the attached map, we have recently requested route designation changes for several sections of the Highway 71/State Highway 549/I-540 corridor in western Arkansas.
why October 17th?
Next Meeting of the Special Committee on US Route Number will meet in Denver, CO, October 17, 2013 - Applications due no later than September 9, 2013
why October 17th?
http://route.transportation.org/Pages/default.aspxQuoteNext Meeting of the Special Committee on US Route Number will meet in Denver, CO, October 17, 2013 - Applications due no later than September 9, 2013
It looks like they have asked for the I-49 designation along I-540 from Alma to Bentonville. October 17 should be a big I-49 day!
It looks like they have asked for the I-49 designation along I-540 from Alma to Bentonville. October 17 should be a big I-49 day!
AHTD has posted its September 30 presentation to the Springdale Rotary Club (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2013/093013_Trammel_SpringdaleRotary.pdf) and it has numerous slides about costs and timetables for individual segments of the Bella Vista Bypass and I-540 (I-49 in less than two weeks?) improvements under the Connecting Arkansas Program and the Interstate Rehabilitation Program.
Arkansas would be well-served to go to a two-tiered state system like adjacent states Tennessee, Missouri and Texas. But the problem is the state would still have to maintain the secondary system. Maybe at a slightly lesser priority, but a wholesale turnover to counties would never fly.The problem is the amount/mileage of state highways in Arkansas. I drove on one recently, AR 127, between Clifty and AR 12. I passed 2 cars (the stretch was 8 miles). They really need to cut the fat, so to speak.
They really need to cut the fat, so to speak.Why? Especially as admin costs per mile are so low.
They really need to cut the fat, so to speak.Why? Especially as admin costs per mile are so low.
Who says Arkansas doesn't have something like Missouri's system, where minor state highways get less maintenance (despite having numbers rather than letters)?To my knowledge, they don't, and quite frankly, AHTD is miles behind MoDOT. But that was my point, minor state highways could have letters. I really like MO's system.
I thought more "gee, California's network is rather sparse". The other states are all smaller in area than AR.
What you didn't spot was how efficient their admin process is - their admin costs are the 49% lowest, and haven't hockey sticked in the last few years.
AHTD has posted its September 30 presentation to the Springdale Rotary Club (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2013/093013_Trammel_SpringdaleRotary.pdf) and it has numerous slides about costs and timetables for individual segments of the Bella Vista Bypass and I-540 (I-49 in less than two weeks?) improvements under the Connecting Arkansas Program and the Interstate Rehabilitation Program.The map on page 17 of that PDF seems to show a proposed eastern bypass of Rogers. Do we know anything about this proposal?
September 30 presentation to the Springdale Rotary Club (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2013/093013_Trammel_SpringdaleRotary.pdf)The map on page 17 of that PDF seems to show a proposed eastern bypass of Rogers. Do we know anything about this proposal?
Purpose of the Proposed Project
The purpose of the proposed project is to improve north-south connectivity in the eastern portions of Springdale, Lowell, Bethel Heights and Rogers and to continue the eastern north-south corridor route of Highway 265 from Highway 264 north to Highway 94. The proposed connectivity improvements would provide another avenue for motorists to travel north and south without having to access Highway 71B and Interstate 540 in the Northwest Arkansas metro area.
September 30 presentation to the Springdale Rotary Club (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2013/093013_Trammel_SpringdaleRotary.pdf)The map on page 17 of that PDF seems to show a proposed eastern bypass of Rogers. Do we know anything about this proposal?
Purpose of the Proposed Project
The purpose of the proposed project is to improve north-south connectivity in the eastern portions of Springdale, Lowell, Bethel Heights and Rogers and to continue the eastern north-south corridor route of Highway 265 from Highway 264 north to Highway 94. The proposed connectivity improvements would provide another avenue for motorists to travel north and south without having to access Highway 71B and Interstate 540 in the Northwest Arkansas metro area.
Don't get your hopes up! This being AR, they most likely will.September 30 presentation to the Springdale Rotary Club (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2013/093013_Trammel_SpringdaleRotary.pdf)The map on page 17 of that PDF seems to show a proposed eastern bypass of Rogers. Do we know anything about this proposal?QuotePurpose of the Proposed Project
The purpose of the proposed project is to improve north-south connectivity in the eastern portions of Springdale, Lowell, Bethel Heights and Rogers and to continue the eastern north-south corridor route of Highway 265 from Highway 264 north to Highway 94. The proposed connectivity improvements would provide another avenue for motorists to travel north and south without having to access Highway 71B and Interstate 540 in the Northwest Arkansas metro area.
This won't be a bypass by any means. It's just a widening project, really... but could be considered a bypass, if they do it right. I just hope that AHTD will not make it 2 lanes in each direction, with the dreaded center left turn lane.
So related to the whole issue of conflict with US 49: how the hell did I-41 get approved?
So related to the whole issue of conflict with US 49: how the hell did I-41 get approved?
what you should be asking is "how the hell did I-74 get approved in North Carolina". there, we have a 74/74 junction.Congress set that number (as they did with I-49 and I-69).
why October 17th?
http://route.transportation.org/Pages/default.aspxQuoteNext Meeting of the Special Committee on US Route Number will meet in Denver, CO, October 17, 2013 - Applications due no later than September 9, 2013
any word on Arkansas I-49?
any word on Arkansas I-49?
The final step of the AASHTO approval process is Board approval of the Committee recommendations. The Board is pretty much meeting all day today, and should take action on the route applications today.
When will the results be posted? I'm guessing that it could be as early as tomorrow, but past experience indicates that it may be several days past that time.
I recently received an email update from AHTD regarding the designation of I-49 in Arkansas:QuoteAs you can see from the attached map, we have recently requested route designation changes for several sections of the Highway 71/State Highway 549/I-540 corridor in western Arkansas.From the attached map (SW Arkansas image posted in Texarkana thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg249676#msg249676)):
(http://i.imgur.com/1mvAXCO.png)
Dig the man with the I-49 necktie toward the report's end!
So, there are no Missouri-style upgrades/changes they have to do, or any timeframe (you-can't-do-this-until) issues (except, of course, the future construction/completion of the unbuilt parts) listed in the approval breakdown...are there any, or is it solely an "I-49 as soon as we can make the signs" situation?
So, there are no Missouri-style upgrades/changes they have to do, or any timeframe (you-can't-do-this-until) issues (except, of course, the future construction/completion of the unbuilt parts) listed in the approval breakdown...are there any, or is it solely an "I-49 as soon as we can make the signs" situation?
^ I mentioned that it might take several days for AASHTO to post their decision. As for AHTD, they may wait until they clear up any remaining formalities, if any, with FHWA before they issue a news release. I currently have an email in to AHTD and I will post if the reply provides good information.
it might be several days before the AHTD formally announces this? (And it's reported by Arkansas media outlets?)
The Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department has gotten initial approval to designate two sections of highway as Interstate 49 ....
The approved sections include 73 miles of Interstate 540 from Alma north to Bella Vista and 42 miles of Arkansas 549 from Texarkana south to the Louisiana state line, said Randy Ort, a spokesmanfor the Highway Department.
The approval came from the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials at an Oct. 18 meeting in Denver ....
But final approval must come from the Federal Highway Administration, which received the state’s application last month.
“They have the information,” said Ort. “We’re just waiting to hear back from them. We don’t foresee any problems.”
Scott Bennett, director of the Arkansas Highway Department, said he’d like to have final approval by Christmas, but that may be too optimistic.
Doug Hecox, a spokesman for the Federal Highway Administration, said Christmas is possible.
“I think that sounds like a very reasonable goal,” he said.
“The proposal from the state is still being reviewed, so we don’t have any way to ballpark how long it’ll take.”
After the I-49 designation is approved on the federal level, it will take a while longer before the new signs go up and the old ones come down, Ort said. The process requires educating the public, making new signs and installing them, he said.
Besides the I-49 signs, the application the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials approved included “future I-49 signs” for two sections that are still under construction.
Those segments are the 14-mile Bella Vista bypass and a 6-mile section of U.S. 71 on the south side of Fort Smith to Arkansas 22 at Barling.
The section near Fort Smith is scheduled to be completed in June.
A 5-mile section from Doddridge to the Louisiana state line is to be done in May. Ort said it would likely be completed before the Highway Department is ready to put I-49 signs up along the route, so it has been approved for the I-49 signs.
“It just doesn’t make sense to have to keep renumbering things when it’s clear it’s part of the interstate system,” said Bennett, referring to Arkansas 549 south of Texarkana.
BTW, I've been out of state the past three weeks, but another key part of the Bella Vista bypass is now in place - they've opened the new west 102 bridge between Gravette and the community formerly known as "Hiwasse". The new east bridge east/southeast of "Hiwasse" has been open for months.
This new bridge will allow the two current "under construction" segments of the BV bypass on the Arkansas side to be connected to one another. A berm had been plowed north of the old highway right next to where this bridge was built. They're now removing the pavement of the old highway section, and will later push down the berm and start connecting the segment of I-49 that's being plowed north from the bridge to the road (forget its name) just west of Bella Vista near where the B.V. gun range has been.
* AHTD asked for redesignations of I-540 ("as Interstate 49") and part of US 71 (I assume "as Interstate 49") in NWA. I had thought that they were going to ask for concurrent designations in order to allow for a transition period.
* AHTD asked for redesignations of I-540 ("as Interstate 49") and part of US 71 (I assume "as Interstate 49") in NWA. I had thought that they were going to ask for concurrent designations in order to allow for a transition period.
They might do it the same way PennDOT did when they changed a segment of I-279 into I-376. For a few weeks, have both I-279 & I-376 shields posted along the side of the road (not @ the exit on-ramps, just the mainline) and then remove the I-279 shields when they updated the BGS's.
* AHTD asked for redesignations of I-540 ("as Interstate 49") and part of US 71 (I assume "as Interstate 49") in NWA. I had thought that they were going to ask for concurrent designations in order to allow for a transition period.
They might do it the same way PennDOT did when they changed a segment of I-279 into I-376. For a few weeks, have both I-279 & I-376 shields posted along the side of the road (not @ the exit on-ramps, just the mainline) and then remove the I-279 shields when they updated the BGS's.
There is precedence: when AR 68 became US 412, there was a transition period. Also when AR 471 became US 71B.
In their quest to be intuitive, google does some odd things. Today when looking to see what other media outlets are reporting on Grzrd's news, I typed in "Arkansas I-49". Atop the results was this, which is a map that shows exactly where construction has taken place so far on the Bella Vista bypass. Where the green arrow is denotes where the new bridge I wrote about has just been opened on west Hwy. 72 toward Gravette. The area below the bridge is significantly more built than the area above:
(https://www.google.com/maps/vt/data=VLHX1wd2Cgu8wR6jwyh-km8JBWAkEzU4,p8P4pzJTzOp5UvTEgX5yAW1c3nBPwkTRBDteZ4oWzLjOoa-CrQZSra_AcwGRmSsSPlcWL6UQtgUIIcc2Fknt4xaXxZ_60nxzGBIFbXL56gzedBO51Uyj71MXTt4LlOXY7jHxDxJAA2-kZXa9tfwY-KPpm3n2uOBGGsWS9Kro0Wim2ZCPQE3Io1lp7PpcV-D02XZEZVui3PmW4eH-eeBYAK5Y)
The head of a coalition that supports the construction of a controlled access highway through western Arkansas says the roadway should be built soon so travelers can be safer and the region can enjoy greater economic development.
Curt Green ....
said that current work on Interstate 69 and U.S. 59 in Texas will turn Texarkana into more of an economic hub and that I-49 is needed to move goods farther north.
"Having 69 ending right here in Texarkana will mean cargo coming in from Harlingen and Corpus Christi," he said. "This will mean that we are going to be dumping a tremendous amount of traffic and cargo to Texarkana."
Who says Arkansas doesn't have something like Missouri's system, where minor state highways get less maintenance (despite having numbers rather than letters)?To my knowledge, they don't, and quite frankly, AHTD is miles behind MoDOT. But that was my point, minor state highways could have letters. I really like MO's system.
I spoke with Scott Bennett, AHTD Director, about this issue directly. He is well aware of the size of the system and says they basically have an informal primary-secondary network internally.Probably a rough continuation of the old federal aid primary/secondary systems.
I'm not sure why you say AHTD is miles behind MoDOT, because currently it is MoDOT that is holding up the completion of the Bella Vista Bypass since they lost their funding they promised to Arkansas. Missouri needs to get their house in order, Arkansas is moving forward (despite your comments about Arkansas's "intelligence"...)
What does he think about 159? http://www.openstreetmap.org/?relation=1714635
Don't forget AR 74 ;)Eh, that one could be a continuous route if the gaps were filled: http://www.openstreetmap.org/?relation=1715519
FWIW, my research seems to indicate these 159's are mostly (if not all) old alignments of US 65.I see 3 likely old alignments (Lake Village, McGehee, Dumas) and 5 that are probably not.
Don't forget AR 74 ;)Eh, that one could be a continuous route if the gaps were filled: http://www.openstreetmap.org/?relation=1715519
Not the case for 159 at McGehee.FWIW, my research seems to indicate these 159's are mostly (if not all) old alignments of US 65.I see 3 likely old alignments (Lake Village, McGehee, Dumas) and 5 that are probably not.
73-226 IN DESHA COUNTY, in accordance with the provisions of Act 9 of 1973, IT IS ORDERED that the county road beginning at the junction of State Highway 4 west of McGehee, thence running south and east to the Missouri Pacific Railroad at Masonville, a length of approximately 3.2 miles, as shown on the attached map, is hereby made a part of the State Highway System, to be designated as State Highway No. 159, Section 5.
73-227 IN DESHA COUNTY, in accordance with the provisions of Act 9 of 1973, IT IS ORDERED that the county road beginning at the junction of State Highway 4 west of McGehee, thence running north through Sections 29 and 20, T12S, R3W, to a county road junction on the north line of Section 20, T12S, R3W, a length of approximately 1.5 miles, as shown on the attached map, is hereby made a part of the State Highway System, to be designated as State Highway No. 159, Section 6.
73-228 IN DESHA COUNTY, in accordance with the provisions of Act 9 of 1973, IT IS ORDERED that the county road beginning at the junction of U. S. 65 north of McGehee, thence westerly across the Missouri Pacific Railroad to old U. S. 65, thence southerly along old U. S. 65 to the north corporate limits of McGehee, a length of approximately 0.8 miles, as shown on the attached map, is hereby made a part of the State Highway System, to be designated as State Highway No.159, Section 7.
73-229 IN DESHA COUNTY, in accordance with the provisions of Act 9 of 1973, IT IS ORDERED that the county road known as the Griff Leek Road beginning at the junction of State Highway 138 in Section 31, T10S, R3W, thence running northerly to the west side of Canal No. 19 in Section 19, T10S, R3W, a length of approximately 2.4 miles, as shown on the attached map, is hereby made a part of the State Highway System, to be designated as State Highway No. 159, Section 8.
73-230 IN DESHA COUNTY, in accordance with the provisions of Act 9 of 1973, IT IS ORDERED that the county road beginning at the junction of U.S. 65 at the northwest corner of Mitchellville, thence running south along the west corporate limits of Mitchellville to old U. S. 65, thence running southeasterly along old U. S. 65 to the north corporate limits of Dumas at East Dante Street, a length of approximately 1.2 miles, as shown on the attached map, is hereby made a part of the State Highway System, to be designated as State Highway No. 159, Section 9.
I'm not sure why you say AHTD is miles behind MoDOT, because currently it is MoDOT that is holding up the completion of the Bella Vista Bypass since they lost their funding they promised to Arkansas. Missouri needs to get their house in order, Arkansas is moving forward (despite your comments about Arkansas's "intelligence"...)Seriously? MoDOT got tired of Arkansas's ridiculous ignorance to the Bella Vista Bypass, whether it be by funding or AHTDs too much focus on the Little Rock region.
Completed as promised!! Not so much, MoDOT...
I spoke with Scott Bennett, AHTD Director, about this issue directly. He is well aware of the size of the system and says they basically have an informal primary-secondary network internally.Probably a rough continuation of the old federal aid primary/secondary systems.
They may also be old AR 59 (there was a 59 in southern Arkansas before US 59 was formed).
AHTD's website has a LOT of useful material. From historic bridge listings to historical maps to meeting minutes to old copies of Arkansas Highways magazine, the AHTD website is a great resource.It may be great for a roadgeek interested in historic value... And I am, but it needs more. I work in IT and AHTDs website needs a huge overhaul, along with ODOTs. And, now that I look at it, ODOTs website is worse than AHTDs.
I spoke with Scott Bennett, AHTD Director, about this issue directly. He is well aware of the size of the system and says they basically have an informal primary-secondary network internally.Probably a rough continuation of the old federal aid primary/secondary systems.
Probably not. AR 8 east of Mena was FAP while AR 8 west of town was FAS, for one example. Some state highways had FAP and FAS segments and some segments that were neither. Most US highways were FAP except for where they paralleled an interstate.
AHTD's website has a LOT of useful material. From historic bridge listings to historical maps to meeting minutes to old copies of Arkansas Highways magazine, the AHTD website is a great resource.It may be great for a roadgeek interested in historic value... And I am, but it needs more. I work in IT and AHTDs website needs a huge overhaul, along with ODOTs. And, now that I look at it, ODOTs website is worse than AHTDs.
I spoke with Scott Bennett, AHTD Director, about this issue directly. He is well aware of the size of the system and says they basically have an informal primary-secondary network internally.Probably a rough continuation of the old federal aid primary/secondary systems.
Probably not. AR 8 east of Mena was FAP while AR 8 west of town was FAS, for one example. Some state highways had FAP and FAS segments and some segments that were neither. Most US highways were FAP except for where they paralleled an interstate.
What does this have to do with anything? 159 has segments that are relatively major (such as to Louisiana) and chickenshit segments. The former should be maintained to a higher standard than the latter. This may or may not correspond to the FAP/FAS divide (or the FA/non-FA divide).
They may also be old AR 59 (there was a 59 in southern Arkansas before US 59 was formed).
Where?
Indeed you did. I said "implied" not "stated".You're putting implications in my poo.
I will never understand why AHTD is so against providing roadway lighting.
Eudora to Louisiana was 59, renumbered 159 when the deliberately confusing 59 was created in northwest Arkansas. Thanks, AHTD! (http://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/mapping_graphics/archived_tourist_maps/archived_tourist_maps.aspx)They may also be old AR 59 (there was a 59 in southern Arkansas before US 59 was formed).
Where?
I'll have to go back and verify, but I believe in the Eudora area
Indeed you did. I said "implied" not "stated".You're putting implications in my poo.
Why was AR 99 renumbered as AR 43? (Possibly to match MO 43.)
Why was AR 13 renumbered as AR 81 (and later US 425)?
Why was AR 13 renumbered as AR 81 (and later US 425)?I don't know. That one's fuckin weird, since a new 13 was created north from Carlisle at about the same time (1942-1945).
MoDOT's completion of Interstate 49 is not comparable to Arkansas's inability to fund I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana, and everyone knows it. Have you ever driven US 71 through the Ouachitas? Its going to be a little more expensive than MoDOT's lay-two-more-lanes-on-flat-prairie.
I have found everything I have ever wanted on AHTD's website. Sure it isn't the world's most user friendly website, but pretty much all the information is there.
I'm glad you like the little reminders to drive safe, but that is a pretty expensive reminder, and I don't blame AHTD one bit for not putting up a sign that says "Look twice for motorcycles" during 90% of its usage. Especially if they funded real safety projects, like cable median barrier, with the savings.
MoDOT's completion of Interstate 49 is not comparable to Arkansas's inability to fund I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana, and everyone knows it. Have you ever driven US 71 through the Ouachitas? Its going to be a little more expensive than MoDOT's lay-two-more-lanes-on-flat-prairie.
Also AHTD is implementing access management in Northwest Arkansas, including on Highway 265 and Highway 112 improvement projects. Highway 12 will also likely contain access management.
And so you know, I don't care for much of AHTD's approach, but the avenues you seem to be attacking just simply aren't true.
If I may be bold enough to offer a suggestion to the geographic difficulties of building through western Arkansas, why not simply build I-49 from Texarkana to Fort Smith through eastern Oklahoma and link the new roadway at the southern current end of I-540? It seems to me to be a way to save money and to build the road quicker (if Oklahoma is amenable to the prospect of the new interstate in their territory). Oklahoma's hills are smaller and their terrain easier to surmount. Go west young man...
Can someone tell me what major city-to-city corridor I-49 is supposed to serve? Houston-KC traffic is better off going via Dallas and US 75-69, picking up I-49 at Joplin, and New Orleans-KC traffic can save distance and stick to mostly four-lanes by going to Memphis and then up US 63-60-13.
I want to see actual plans on AHTD's website. For instance, the SPUI that will be constructed at Exit 85 on I-540 in NWA. I just want to view the documents online. I had to email a district engineer to view them.
How is that an answer? Mexican traffic will go via Houston, and Canadian traffic needs somewhere to go to.Can someone tell me what major city-to-city corridor I-49 is supposed to serve? Houston-KC traffic is better off going via Dallas and US 75-69, picking up I-49 at Joplin, and New Orleans-KC traffic can save distance and stick to mostly four-lanes by going to Memphis and then up US 63-60-13.
NAFTA.
Worse (from the standpoint that two same-numbered routes at opposite ends of the state are supposedly a problem): http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arkansas_Highway_37I just thought of a reason why this has come up, and it isn't an AASHTO problem, but an Arkansas problem. I think internally Arkansas only refers to the route number and makes no distinction between whether it is a Interstate, US, or State Route. With that said, I don't see why they can't just put up I-49 signs but still refer to it internally as 549 until they can come up with a different system internally for referring to state routes.Oh please. If http://www.openstreetmap.org/?relation=1714635 can have a single number (159), so can US 49 and I-49.
Can someone tell me what major city-to-city corridor I-49 is supposed to serve? Houston-KC traffic is better off going via Dallas and US 75-69, picking up I-49 at Joplin, and New Orleans-KC traffic can save distance and stick to mostly four-lanes by going to Memphis and then up US 63-60-13.
Can someone tell me what major city-to-city corridor I-49 is supposed to serve? Houston-KC traffic is better off going via Dallas and US 75-69, picking up I-49 at Joplin, and New Orleans-KC traffic can save distance and stick to mostly four-lanes by going to Memphis and then up US 63-60-13.
New Orleans is still a major city....and Louisiana has four of the busiest seaports in the nation.
My previous post was deleted... and it probably should have been.
I'll stand by my "nag" Missouri dynamic message signs... Those signs will display Amber Alerts, Road Closures, Weather Conditions, etc. I just said that I like MoDOT's extra messages on those signs. And most every other state that I've visited have implemented those signs, and most don't display those extra messages. To each their own.
And those signs are an essential part of ITS strategies.
Can someone tell me what major city-to-city corridor I-49 is supposed to serve? Houston-KC traffic is better off going via Dallas and US 75-69, picking up I-49 at Joplin, and New Orleans-KC traffic can save distance and stick to mostly four-lanes by going to Memphis and then up US 63-60-13.
New Orleans is still a major city....and Louisiana has four of the busiest seaports in the nation.
Bold added.
And the terrain's flatter via Memphis, another benefit for trucks. The money would be better spent completing the four-laning of US 63, something AHTD probably plans anyway.
Why was AR 13 renumbered as AR 81 (and later US 425)?I don't know. That one's fuckin weird, since a new 13 was created north from Carlisle at about the same time (1942-1945).
Why was AR 47 renumbered as AR 37? (Possibly to match MO 37?)
I want to see actual plans on AHTD's website. For instance, the SPUI that will be constructed at Exit 85 on I-540 in NWA. I just want to view the documents online. I had to email a district engineer to view them. More can be done with AHTD's website, but it's not horrible. That's the least of the problems.
Those signs that you are referring to will also broadcast Amber Alerts, weather alerts, road closures, and civil emergencies... Every other state has them along Interstates. If they are not included in the reconstruction of 540 in NWA, then we have a big problem.
Why was AR 47 renumbered as AR 37? (Possibly to match MO 37?)
Duh.
Why 1930? Missouri had 37 there back in 1922, and Arkansas designated 47 (from Rogers, replacing the non-US 71 part of A-4) in 1926. Arkansas numbered 25 to match Missouri, and could have easily done the same with 37.Why was AR 47 renumbered as AR 37? (Possibly to match MO 37?)
Duh.
Should have been done in 1930.
Why 1930? Missouri had 37 there back in 1922, and Arkansas designated 47 (from Rogers, replacing the non-US 71 part of A-4) in 1926. Arkansas numbered 25 to match Missouri, and could have easily done the same with 37.Why was AR 47 renumbered as AR 37? (Possibly to match MO 37?)
Duh.
Should have been done in 1930.
Why was AR 13 renumbered as AR 81 (and later US 425)?I don't know. That one's fuckin weird, since a new 13 was created north from Carlisle at about the same time (1942-1945).
If I may be bold enough to offer a suggestion to the geographic difficulties of building through western Arkansas, why not simply build I-49 from Texarkana to Fort Smith through eastern Oklahoma and link the new roadway at the southern current end of I-540? It seems to me to be a way to save money and to build the road quicker (if Oklahoma is amenable to the prospect of the new interstate in their territory). Oklahoma's hills are smaller and their terrain easier to surmount. Go west young man...
If I may be bold enough to offer a suggestion to the geographic difficulties of building through western Arkansas, why not simply build I-49 from Texarkana to Fort Smith through eastern Oklahoma and link the new roadway at the southern current end of I-540? It seems to me to be a way to save money and to build the road quicker (if Oklahoma is amenable to the prospect of the new interstate in their territory). Oklahoma's hills are smaller and their terrain easier to surmount. Go west young man...
If I may be bold enough to offer a suggestion to the geographic difficulties of building through western Arkansas, why not simply build I-49 from Texarkana to Fort Smith through eastern Oklahoma and link the new roadway at the southern current end of I-540? It seems to me to be a way to save money and to build the road quicker (if Oklahoma is amenable to the prospect of the new interstate in their territory). Oklahoma's hills are smaller and their terrain easier to surmount. Go west young man...
Once upon a time, there was a proposal to extend I-540 into Oklahoma, but that seems to have fallen by the wayside.
There is already a section of I-49 set to open next year between Barling and south of Ft Smith. There is also a proposal to reroute I-540 near exit 12 to connect to I-49, so having having 49 connect to 540 near the OK/AR Line seems a moot point.
If I may be bold enough to offer a suggestion to the geographic difficulties of building through western Arkansas, why not simply build I-49 from Texarkana to Fort Smith through eastern Oklahoma and link the new roadway at the southern current end of I-540? It seems to me to be a way to save money and to build the road quicker (if Oklahoma is amenable to the prospect of the new interstate in their territory). Oklahoma's hills are smaller and their terrain easier to surmount. Go west young man...
Once upon a time, there was a proposal to extend I-540 into Oklahoma, but that seems to have fallen by the wayside.
There is already a section of I-49 set to open next year between Barling and south of Ft Smith. There is also a proposal to reroute I-540 near exit 12 to connect to I-49, so having having 49 connect to 540 near the OK/AR Line seems a moot point.
Hoo, boy...I thought the same thing too, until I drove up and down the Oklahoma 59 stretch between the Talimena Scenic Drive access, the JFK memorial (interesting story behind that, and timely for this past month, too) and the "three sticks". I can't imagine them building an interstate along that roadway unless it was like that one (I-24? don't have time to look it up) between Manchester and Chattanooga, TN that has the tunnel. SHEESH, that makes building the Arkansas FSM-Texarkana stretch look easy contemplating that.
I want to see actual plans on AHTD's website. For instance, the SPUI that will be constructed at Exit 85 on I-540 in NWA. I just want to view the documents online. I had to email a district engineer to view them. More can be done with AHTD's website, but it's not horrible. That's the least of the problems.
Those signs that you are referring to will also broadcast Amber Alerts, weather alerts, road closures, and civil emergencies... Every other state has them along Interstates. If they are not included in the reconstruction of 540 in NWA, then we have a big problem.
AHTD doesn't even anticipate funding the SPUI project you referenced until 2015. I recently did some work related to the project and am somewhat familiar with it.
So you want to view plans of projects in the works in addition to bid projects, essentially? I suppose I wasn't aware that lots of DOTs upload plans during intermediate review submittals even prior to the finalized construction set.
I am not affiliated with AHTD, so I cannot speak to their hatred of street lights
And yes, I want the basic information, and any plans should be on AHTD's website... Public meetings, etc. If I-540 is being widened, or a certain interchange is going to be upgraded, I expect to see it on the state transportation site, with info... Where else would I go for info?
Yeah, well, I will forever drive in the dark here! :)
540 in Ft Smith is getting new exit signs, I can tell you that much ;)
540 in Ft Smith is getting new exit signs, I can tell you that much ;)
So, Fort Smith will get their first taste of Clearview?
If this was posted earlier on this thread, my apologies. The Kansas City Southern is building a new concrete bridge over the Red River above Texarkana to replace one of those "Jimi Hendrix bridges" (named by me as when I see an old iron bridge with metal code wire poles atop it I think of this scene (0:58 mark of the video, sorry you have to wade through a stupid song to get to it) from "Easy Rider" (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0C3EPTOuBJ4) with Hendrix singing "If six was nine") on the railroad. The person on the Facebook group who posted the new/old KCS bridge pictures said that a group is wanting to put a lock and dam on the Red right above or near Texarkana to make that river navigable for barges to that point, largely as a result of future I-49. (I've seen how dry and small the Red can get in west Bowie County, TX so it seems to me that is pushing it, but given that the Little River flows into the Red a few miles downriver in Arkansas I can see where it could happen.)
Don't know if that will happen but if so, another feather in the cap potentially for TXK and I-49.
I received this reply back from AHTD, concerning the I-540 widening in Northwest Arkansas:
The study you reference recommends I-540 to be widened to four lanes in each direction in select areas only. At this time we are not proceeding with that and will widen to three lanes. The study will probably be revisited once the current improvements are in place.
You would think that AHTD would have learned their lesson with current I-540, and the Bella Vista Bypass. Do it right the first time, and you'll save money in the long run.
The Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department said it could be years before the Intestate 49 project is completed through the River Valley. As construction continues, the department is seeking funds to complete a bridge over the Arkansas River and to connect I-49 to Interstate 40. “I know there are several leaders here in Fort Smith pushing for funding to be identified,” said Chad Adams, district engineer for the state highway department. Adams said six jobs have been added to complete construction of the section of I-49 between U.S. 71 and Arkansas 22. That section should be opened by mid-2014, he said. Adams said project cost estimates for Arkansas’ portion of I-49 come in at about $96 million. Adams said once the project is completed, motorists will see big improvements.
Also AHTD is looking for funding to complete the Bella Vista Bypass. They said about 50 million is needed with the 1/2 cent tax money they are to spend on it. Doesn't look good for quick progress.
The Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department said it could be years before the Intestate 49 project is completed through the River Valley. As construction continues, the department is seeking funds to complete a bridge over the Arkansas River and to connect I-49 to Interstate 40. “I know there are several leaders here in Fort Smith pushing for funding to be identified,” said Chad Adams, district engineer for the state highway department. Adams said six jobs have been added to complete construction of the section of I-49 between U.S. 71 and Arkansas 22. That section should be opened by mid-2014, he said. Adams said project cost estimates for Arkansas’ portion of I-49 come in at about $96 million. Adams said once the project is completed, motorists will see big improvements.
Also AHTD is looking for funding to complete the Bella Vista Bypass. They said about 50 million is needed with the 1/2 cent tax money they are to spend on it. Doesn't look good for quick progress.
I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana won't be completed in my lifetime, and I'm 27. I guarantee it. Who wants to place bets? :)
AHTD needs to focus on the population areas (outside of Little Rock), like the Bella Vista Bypass. This bypass should have been done years ago.
Also, *cough* Clean house *cough* comes to mind. I've always sensed a "good ol' boy network" within AHTD. I know that Dick Trammel needs to go. He has done NOTHING for this area.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/commission.aspx (http://www.arkansashighways.com/commission.aspx) Why is it 10 year terms? No wonder our highway system is the way it is.
Sorry. It was good to vent.
this article (behind paywall) (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2013/oct/27/i-49-designation-clears-roadblock-20131027/) reports that AHTD has already submitted its application to FHWA, FHWA has signaled that approval should be effective by Christmas, and that, after approval, "it will take a while longer before the new signs go up and the old ones come down":QuoteDoug Hecox, a spokesman for the Federal Highway Administration, said Christmas is possible.
“I think that sounds like a very reasonable goal,” he said.
“The proposal from the state is still being reviewed, so we don’t have any way to ballpark how long it’ll take.”
As you are probably aware, the redesignations of I-540 and AR 549 as I-49 were conditionally approved by AASHTO this Fall (2013), however the Federal Highway Administrator has not formally received a redesignation request. Once an official request is submitted for the Administrator’s determination through our Arkansas Federal-Aid Division Office it will be reviewed and processed accordingly.
We can now ask AHTD! They're on the forum!this article (behind paywall) (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2013/oct/27/i-49-designation-clears-roadblock-20131027/) reports that AHTD has already submitted its application to FHWA, FHWA has signaled that approval should be effective by Christmas, and that, after approval, "it will take a while longer before the new signs go up and the old ones come down":QuoteDoug Hecox, a spokesman for the Federal Highway Administration, said Christmas is possible.
“I think that sounds like a very reasonable goal,” he said.
“The proposal from the state is still being reviewed, so we don’t have any way to ballpark how long it’ll take.”
A recent email Q & A with FHWA's Washington office indicates that the above information may be incorrect and that AHTD has not even submitted an application to FHWA:QuoteAs you are probably aware, the redesignations of I-540 and AR 549 as I-49 were conditionally approved by AASHTO this Fall (2013), however the Federal Highway Administrator has not formally received a redesignation request. Once an official request is submitted for the Administrator’s determination through our Arkansas Federal-Aid Division Office it will be reviewed and processed accordingly.
I wonder if AHTD even realizes that it has not properly submitted an application to FHWA?
edit
Or, maybe FHWA's Arkansas Federal-Aid Division Office is still reviewing it. Glacial progress.
I would like to say that its awesome AHTD is on this forum
:cheers:
I would like to say that its awesome AHTD is on this forum
:cheers:
Will they answer the hard questions from us on the forum? We'll see. They didn't respond to mine.
You have questions?
Please feel free to ask anything, we are here to provide the answers.
You have questions?
Please feel free to ask anything, we are here to provide the answers.
I've noticed new exit signs going up on I-540 in Ft Smith. but no exit numbers yet. Is the rumor true that the exit numbers are being shifted to match the Alma-Bentonville segment (ie Exit 1 will now be Hwy 271 instead of I-40 West? I am guessing that won't officially happen until the 540 rebuild is finished this Spring?
Now for some interesting trivia! When I-540 in Crawford and Sebastian Counties was constructed, it was originally done so and signed as U.S. Highway 271. This is a west to east route and as such, the log miles begin at the state line and proceed the distance to I-40. Eventually this section of U.S. Highway 271 was re-designated as Interstate spur 540. What resulted is exit numbers that went one direction and log miles that go another.
OK, *if* the $$ was there right now for AR to finish I-49, how soon could what's left to do (Fort Smith-Texarkana, Ark. River bridge, Red River bridge, full 4-laning of the Bella Vista bypass) be built and opened?
AHTD, when the 'Northern' segment of I-540 is re-designated as I-49, will it get new exit numbers at the same time? If it does, it is possible to post the list here?
Also, will you be submitting an application to the AASHTO for removal of I-540 north of I-40 (and also along I-40) in the Spring '14 meeting since you now have I-49 approval from the AASHTO, and hopefully soon the FHWA?
Currently we are working with the FHWA local division office to formally submit the application to that agency. We submitted an initial application to the local division office late last year and continue to work with this office to finalize the document. Essentially, the local division office is helping to guide AHTD through the application process.
Also, will you be submitting an application to the AASHTO for removal of I-540 north of I-40 (and also along I-40) in the Spring '14 meeting since you now have I-49 approval from the AASHTO, and hopefully soon the FHWA?
See our earlier post regarding application for re-designation: https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg270962#msg270962 (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg270962#msg270962)
Does this answer your question? Please advise otherwise.
Also, will you be submitting an application to the AASHTO for removal of I-540 north of I-40 (and also along I-40) in the Spring '14 meeting since you now have I-49 approval from the AASHTO, and hopefully soon the FHWA?
See our earlier post regarding application for re-designation: https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg270962#msg270962 (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg270962#msg270962)
Does this answer your question? Please advise otherwise.
For the 1st question, yes, it does. However, for the second question it doesn't.
The PDF link you provided in the post you linked to is just the same map that you submitted to the AASHTO for the Fall '13 meeting for the creation of I-49 in the state. What I was trying to get at, is that I think you still need to submit another application to the AASHTO to eliminate I-540 along and above I-40. The reason I'm saying this is because of what Indiana did in the Fall '13 meeting to redesignate I-164 as I-69. They submitted two separate applications to do that, one to eliminate I-164, and then another to establish I-69 along the same route.
All you've done right now is just ask to add I-49 along I-540, but not eliminate I-540 along that section of highway (including the I-40 co-sign) since no application was submitted for that segment of I-540 to be removed. So, in the eyes of the AASHTO at least, they might think you're going to keep I-540 signed with I-49. Thus, I think you need to get an application ready for the Spring '14 meeting asking for the elimination of I-540 along and above I-40. I know that the FHWA has control of the Interstate #'s, but it's still good to have all the i's are dotted and t's are crossed when it comes to the logs and everything else.
I hope you understand what I was trying to get at in my previous post now. :)
Speaking of spurs.... I-540 does not share alignment with I-40 and thus is not co-signed as such. Both stretches of I-540 are spurs that originate from I-40 separately. There is no continuity. Google Maps show this stretch of I-40 to be co-signed - implying there is a shared alignment.Sigh. There is a shared alignment, since Interstate numbers cannot be repeated within a state. And it is signed as such:
Currently we are working with the FHWA local division office to formally submit the application to that agency. We submitted an initial application to the local division office late last year and continue to work with this office to finalize the document. Essentially, the local division office is helping to guide AHTD through the application process.
AHTD, welcome to the Forum!
Does the application include a request for FHWA to make a determination as to whether I-540 north of I-40 and AR 549 meet current interstate standards? Or, is it simply a numbering redesignation request?
Speaking of spurs.... I-540 does not share alignment with I-40 and thus is not co-signed as such. Both stretches of I-540 are spurs that originate from I-40 separately. There is no continuity. Google Maps show this stretch of I-40 to be co-signed - implying there is a shared alignment.Sigh. There is a shared alignment, since Interstate numbers cannot be repeated within a state. And it is signed as such:
(http://www.interstate-guide.com/images540/i-540_ar_hst_01.jpg)
Now for some interesting trivia! When I-540 in Crawford and Sebastian Counties was constructed, it was originally done so and signed as U.S. Highway 271. This is a west to east route and as such, the log miles begin at the state line and proceed the distance to I-40. Eventually this section of U.S. Highway 271 was re-designated as Interstate spur 540. What resulted is exit numbers that went one direction and log miles that go another.
Too early to tell if re-designation of I-49 will yield new exit numbers, and yes we can post those here when they are available. There will be a public information campaign necessary to ensure everyone knows about the change. Businesses will need to change letterhead, etc.
Now for some interesting trivia! When I-540 in Crawford and Sebastian Counties was constructed, it was originally done so and signed as U.S. Highway 271. This is a west to east route and as such, the log miles begin at the state line and proceed the distance to I-40. Eventually this section of U.S. Highway 271 was re-designated as Interstate spur 540. What resulted is exit numbers that went one direction and log miles that go another.
Whaaaaa? What years were I-540 signed as US 71. I'm having a hard time buying this because I have maps that show I-540 ending at AR 22 and continuing to US 71 as AR 540. The connection between US 71 and US 271 was the last portion completed, and at that time the entire road was signed as I-540 (I assume).
What was the number of 271 north of 540?
Sorry for the confusion. We can upload a copy of the minute order with a graphic illustrating the above if someone can tell us how to paste photos in the thread. Have tried it but cannot seem to make it work.
Thanks!
Too early to tell if re-designation of I-49 will yield new exit numbers, and yes we can post those here when they are available. There will be a public information campaign necessary to ensure everyone knows about the change. Businesses will need to change letterhead, etc.
Well, of course they will have to be renumbered. There is no question of this. Milepost 0 will be at the Arkansas/Louisiana line. It would be confusing to have two Exit 62s off of I-49.
What initial number will the Bella Vista Bypass have? It obviously won't be I-49 if it is 2 lanes.
Speaking of spurs.... I-540 does not share alignment with I-40 and thus is not co-signed as such. Both stretches of I-540 are spurs that originate from I-40 separately. There is no continuity. Google Maps show this stretch of I-40 to be co-signed - implying there is a shared alignment. As we have stated previously in this forum, Google Maps contains several errors concerning the highway system in Arkansas. We are working with them to become a preferred ground truth provider to help make their product more accurate.
Speaking of spurs.... I-540 does not share alignment with I-40 and thus is not co-signed as such. Both stretches of I-540 are spurs that originate from I-40 separately. There is no continuity. Google Maps show this stretch of I-40 to be co-signed - implying there is a shared alignment.Sigh. There is a shared alignment, since Interstate numbers cannot be repeated within a state. And it is signed as such:
(http://www.interstate-guide.com/images540/i-540_ar_hst_01.jpg)
AASHTO even approved the overlap. Peep and weep:
(http://imgur.com/tZkuAUX.png)
Speaking of spurs.... I-540 does not share alignment with I-40 and thus is not co-signed as such. Both stretches of I-540 are spurs that originate from I-40 separately. There is no continuity. Google Maps show this stretch of I-40 to be co-signed - implying there is a shared alignment. As we have stated previously in this forum, Google Maps contains several errors concerning the highway system in Arkansas. We are working with them to become a preferred ground truth provider to help make their product more accurate.
Sorry for the confusion. We can upload a copy of the minute order with a graphic illustrating the above if someone can tell us how to paste photos in the thread. Have tried it but cannot seem to make it work.
Thanks!
You can't post it directly, but use
Now for some interesting trivia! When I-540 in Crawford and Sebastian Counties was constructed, it was originally done so and signed as U.S. Highway 271. This is a west to east route and as such, the log miles begin at the state line and proceed the distance to I-40. Eventually this section of U.S. Highway 271 was re-designated as Interstate spur 540. What resulted is exit numbers that went one direction and log miles that go another.
Whaaaaa? What years were I-540 signed as US 71. I'm having a hard time buying this because I have maps that show I-540 ending at AR 22 and continuing to US 71 as AR 540. The connection between US 71 and US 271 was the last portion completed, and at that time the entire road was signed as I-540 (I assume).
What was the number of 271 north of 540?
Yeah we had to go back and look at that one too.
The route wasn't signed U.S. Highway 271, it originated FROM U.S. Highway 271. First section was constructed from U.S. 271 to State Highway 22. Minute order 4469 on January 31, 1962 approves the naming of this first section as State Highway 540. Since it progresses west to east (or actually south to north?), the log mile numbering began where it does.
Sorry for the confusion. We can upload a copy of the minute order with a graphic illustrating the above if someone can tell us how to paste photos in the thread. Have tried it but cannot seem to make it work.
Thanks!
4469 In SEBASTIAN COUNTY, a proposed highway route is hereby established between State Highway No. US 271 south of Fort Smith and the proposed State Highway No. 22 Interchange of Interstate Route No. 540 in Fort Smith, a distance of approximately 6.0 miles, generally along the location shown on the attached sketch, and said route is hereby made a part of the State Highway System, subject to approval by the Bureau of Public Roads as part of the Federal-Aid Primary System.
Not at this time but that doesn't mean it won't happen.
Sorry for the confusion. We can upload a copy of the minute order with a graphic illustrating the above if someone can tell us how to paste photos in the thread. Have tried it but cannot seem to make it work.
Thanks!
You can't post it directly, but use
No need to use
because it's already OCRed at http://www.arkansashighways.com/minute_orders/minute_orders.aspx (http://www.arkansashighways.com/minute_orders/minute_orders.aspx). (Any plans to put up actual images? There is the occasional OCR error.)
Now for some interesting trivia! When I-540 in Crawford and Sebastian Counties was constructed, it was originally done so and signed as U.S. Highway 271. This is a west to east route and as such, the log miles begin at the state line and proceed the distance to I-40. Eventually this section of U.S. Highway 271 was re-designated as Interstate spur 540. What resulted is exit numbers that went one direction and log miles that go another.
Whaaaaa? What years were I-540 signed as US 71. I'm having a hard time buying this because I have maps that show I-540 ending at AR 22 and continuing to US 71 as AR 540. The connection between US 71 and US 271 was the last portion completed, and at that time the entire road was signed as I-540 (I assume).
What was the number of 271 north of 540?
Yeah we had to go back and look at that one too.
The route wasn't signed U.S. Highway 271, it originated FROM U.S. Highway 271. First section was constructed from U.S. 271 to State Highway 22. Minute order 4469 on January 31, 1962 approves the naming of this first section as State Highway 540. Since it progresses west to east (or actually south to north?), the log mile numbering began where it does.
Sorry for the confusion. We can upload a copy of the minute order with a graphic illustrating the above if someone can tell us how to paste photos in the thread. Have tried it but cannot seem to make it work.
Thanks!
Here is the minute order in question:Quote4469 In SEBASTIAN COUNTY, a proposed highway route is hereby established between State Highway No. US 271 south of Fort Smith and the proposed State Highway No. 22 Interchange of Interstate Route No. 540 in Fort Smith, a distance of approximately 6.0 miles, generally along the location shown on the attached sketch, and said route is hereby made a part of the State Highway System, subject to approval by the Bureau of Public Roads as part of the Federal-Aid Primary System.
This says nothing about US 271 following I-540. It just gave a number for the proposed highway.
There was, however, a plan to extend US 271 north along AR 59 into Missouri but it was denied by AASHTO (or AASHO).
The link below will display a PDF copy of the graphic associated with MO4469. It illustrates how I-540 progressed from U.S. 271.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/minute_order_4469.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/minute_order_4469.pdf)
Now for some interesting trivia! When I-540 in Crawford and Sebastian Counties was constructed, it was originally done so and signed as U.S. Highway 271. This is a west to east route and as such, the log miles begin at the state line and proceed the distance to I-40. Eventually this section of U.S. Highway 271 was re-designated as Interstate spur 540. What resulted is exit numbers that went one direction and log miles that go another.
Whaaaaa? What years were I-540 signed as US 71. I'm having a hard time buying this because I have maps that show I-540 ending at AR 22 and continuing to US 71 as AR 540. The connection between US 71 and US 271 was the last portion completed, and at that time the entire road was signed as I-540 (I assume).
What was the number of 271 north of 540?
Yeah we had to go back and look at that one too.
The route wasn't signed U.S. Highway 271, it originated FROM U.S. Highway 271. First section was constructed from U.S. 271 to State Highway 22. Minute order 4469 on January 31, 1962 approves the naming of this first section as State Highway 540. Since it progresses west to east (or actually south to north?), the log mile numbering began where it does.
Sorry for the confusion. We can upload a copy of the minute order with a graphic illustrating the above if someone can tell us how to paste photos in the thread. Have tried it but cannot seem to make it work.
Thanks!
Here is the minute order in question:Quote4469 In SEBASTIAN COUNTY, a proposed highway route is hereby established between State Highway No. US 271 south of Fort Smith and the proposed State Highway No. 22 Interchange of Interstate Route No. 540 in Fort Smith, a distance of approximately 6.0 miles, generally along the location shown on the attached sketch, and said route is hereby made a part of the State Highway System, subject to approval by the Bureau of Public Roads as part of the Federal-Aid Primary System.
This says nothing about US 271 following I-540. It just gave a number for the proposed highway.
There was, however, a plan to extend US 271 north along AR 59 into Missouri but it was denied by AASHTO (or AASHO).
The link below will display a PDF copy of the graphic associated with MO4469. It illustrates how I-540 progressed from U.S. 271.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/minute_order_4469.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/minute_order_4469.pdf)
The link below will display a PDF copy of the graphic associated with MO4469. It illustrates how I-540 progressed from U.S. 271.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/minute_order_4469.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/minute_order_4469.pdf)
AH! This makes more sense .
The link below will display a PDF copy of the graphic associated with MO4469. It illustrates how I-540 progressed from U.S. 271.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/minute_order_4469.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/minute_order_4469.pdf)
AH! This makes more sense .
No, it doesn't. The map, for some reason, shows completed I-540 north of AR 22 as proposed while it shows the proposed section of AR 540 as complete. The map is wrong. Compare it to the 1971 Sebastian County map or the state highway maps from the '70s.
Besides, why would they build that section first?
I think one of the old Arkansas Highways magazines has a photo of a Ar 22/Ar 540 sign assembly at the exit.
The link below will display a PDF copy of the graphic associated with MO4469. It illustrates how I-540 progressed from U.S. 271.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/minute_order_4469.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/minute_order_4469.pdf)
AH! This makes more sense .
No, it doesn't. The map, for some reason, shows completed I-540 north of AR 22 as proposed while it shows the proposed section of AR 540 as complete. The map is wrong. Compare it to the 1971 Sebastian County map or the state highway maps from the '70s.
Besides, why would they build that section first?
As for the mileage distance signs, do you mean mile markers or information signs that state: Fayetteville 23 miles, etc.????Mileage Distance Signs like right at the MO/AR state line on US 71, there should be a sign that states the distance to future points. And again at the interchange with US 71 and AR 340. Both north and south bound.
(above quote from Question for AHTD: SPUI / DDI (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=11388.msg273068#msg273068) thread)the modified connector (similar to a roundabout) is designed in such a way to ALLOW traffic on U.S. 71/I-540 to flow unimpeded as it does now (except for backups during peak times). The modiifed connector simply allows access to usable parts of the Bella Vista Bypass so that folks in Hiwassee, Gravette and those that live in west Bella Vista can use it.I can see how this would be appropriate, as ridiculous as it sounds. Thank you, AHTD.
I would love to see the plans, as others have stated.
(above quote from Question for AHTD: SPUI / DDI (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=11388.msg273068#msg273068) thread)the modified connector (similar to a roundabout) is designed in such a way to ALLOW traffic on U.S. 71/I-540 to flow unimpeded as it does now (except for backups during peak times). The modiifed connector simply allows access to usable parts of the Bella Vista Bypass so that folks in Hiwassee, Gravette and those that live in west Bella Vista can use it.I can see how this would be appropriate, as ridiculous as it sounds. Thank you, AHTD.
I would love to see the plans, as others have stated.
The January 21 AHTD Presentation to the Siloam Springs Rotary Club (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2014/012114_Trammel_SiloamSpringsRotary.pdf) has been posted and it includes this depiction of the initial connection between Highway 71 and the Bella Vista Bypass:
(http://i.imgur.com/mpx7nhe.png)
AHTD, I assume this the concept that you have mentioned?
AHTD, do you work with Parks and Tourism at all on the visitor welcome centers? Just wondering if you've heard whether a new visitor's center would be opened along I-49 (when it's eventually completed) at the Arkansas/Missouri border, given how big the combined Northwest Arkansas/Fort Smith area has now become, and how small the existing on at Bella Vista on U.S. 71 is?
Sorry if this is out of your agency's scope. Just curious on it. Thank you in advance for anything you can post.
Oh that, that's no hassle at all.
I expected from the doom and gloom on here that the trumpet would be replaced by a roundabout while the SPUI was built.
I would disagree. If you are northbound on 540, you would have to take the trumpet back under 540, then make a sharp right to get on the bypass. Cars will do OK, but semis will have some trouble getting the acceleration needed to make it if they have to yield first.And where does the bypass go for now? Suburban nowhere.
I would disagree. If you are northbound on 540, you would have to take the trumpet back under 540, then make a sharp right to get on the bypass. Cars will do OK, but semis will have some trouble getting the acceleration needed to make it if they have to yield first.And what would you put instead? Some sort of signalised junction where semis would need to stop, and then make a tighter turn? That roundabout doesn't look small or tight.
Well, Missouri needs another $25 million and Arkansas needs another $50 million to finish a four-lane BVB.
I would disagree. If you are northbound on 540, you would have to take the trumpet back under 540, then make a sharp right to get on the bypass. Cars will do OK, but semis will have some trouble getting the acceleration needed to make it if they have to yield first.And what would you put instead? Some sort of signalised junction where semis would need to stop, and then make a tighter turn? That roundabout doesn't look small or tight.
And what NE2 said about it going nowhere...
I would disagree. If you are northbound on 540, you would have to take the trumpet back under 540, then make a sharp right to get on the bypass. Cars will do OK, but semis will have some trouble getting the acceleration needed to make it if they have to yield first.And what would you put instead? Some sort of signalised junction where semis would need to stop, and then make a tighter turn? That roundabout doesn't look small or tight.
And what NE2 said about it going nowhere...
IIRC, Smithfield has a very large plant south of Gravette. That is why I thought there would be more than a trickle of trucks. Someone who is more familiar with the area can confirm or deny.
As promised, see link below to view the animated traffic model of the Bella Vista modified connector.
http://vimeo.com/85181840 (http://vimeo.com/85181840)
Normally this wouldn't really merit a mention on this forum alongside the genuine highway/lighting/signage etc. issues but given this is Bentonville it could be very germane...I'm hearing that it's been reported (no link yet) that Walmart has bought 125 acres next to Lowe's on the Bentonville/Bella Vista border. That will put it right where the BV bypass meets the current north end of I-540.
If this has happened I may not be around to see what comes to fruition with this but that's said to be a very large tract for just a Supercenter or even a distribution center. New office space? Or something more significant? Time will tell, but interesting that its essentially at this particular junction.
Normally this wouldn't really merit a mention on this forum alongside the genuine highway/lighting/signage etc. issues but given this is Bentonville it could be very germane...I'm hearing that it's been reported (no link yet) that Walmart has bought 125 acres next to Lowe's on the Bentonville/Bella Vista border. That will put it right where the BV bypass meets the current north end of I-540.
If this has happened I may not be around to see what comes to fruition with this but that's said to be a very large tract for just a Supercenter or even a distribution center. New office space? Or something more significant? Time will tell, but interesting that its essentially at this particular junction.
Normally this wouldn't really merit a mention on this forum alongside the genuine highway/lighting/signage etc. issues but given this is Bentonville it could be very germane...I'm hearing that it's been reported (no link yet) that Walmart has bought 125 acres next to Lowe's on the Bentonville/Bella Vista border. That will put it right where the BV bypass meets the current north end of I-540.
If this has happened I may not be around to see what comes to fruition with this but that's said to be a very large tract for just a Supercenter or even a distribution center. New office space? Or something more significant? Time will tell, but interesting that its essentially at this particular junction.
Even though I despise Walmart with every fiber of my being (and I live in NWA), they'd be smart to start a Walmart Truck Stop. They've already started on a Walmart Convenience Store at 14th & Walton. I doubt that is what they're doing. I've always though that NWA needs a decent truck stop... I-540 is pretty much filled up. And NWA needs a decent grocery chain! :)
Normally this wouldn't really merit a mention on this forum alongside the genuine highway/lighting/signage etc. issues but given this is Bentonville it could be very germane...I'm hearing that it's been reported (no link yet) that Walmart has bought 125 acres next to Lowe's on the Bentonville/Bella Vista border. That will put it right where the BV bypass meets the current north end of I-540.
If this has happened I may not be around to see what comes to fruition with this but that's said to be a very large tract for just a Supercenter or even a distribution center. New office space? Or something more significant? Time will tell, but interesting that its essentially at this particular junction.
There is already a distribution center at the State Line off 71. It's possible they could move to a better location or maybe just buy up the land so someone else doesn't move in.
(http://s3.amazonaws.com/nwabj/955/wal-mart-land-deal--2-7-14.jpg)
Link about the land purchase by Walmart off future I-49 Bentonville/Bella Vista: http://www.nwabusinessjournal.com/13066/walmart-buys-1261-acres-for-4-million
(http://s3.amazonaws.com/nwabj/955/wal-mart-land-deal--2-7-14.jpg)
Link about the land purchase by Walmart off future I-49 Bentonville/Bella Vista: http://www.nwabusinessjournal.com/13066/walmart-buys-1261-acres-for-4-million
...and I'll go ahead and say it.
I wonder if Walmart has designs on building a new corporate HQ someday there?
- It was said Walmart was thinking about doing so off I-540 near Northwest Arkansas Community college right before "the" 9/11 happened, but scuttled plans because they thought a big building would be a potential target.
- Walmart's current headquarters, er, likely leave something to be desired for the crop of Ivy League MBAs who are hitting that company now. The building also had asbestos issues at one point, according to a woman I once worked with whose husband had to help remove said mineral insulation.
- Bentonville is developing a significant arts district nearby, and the Walmart HQ building (if it's ever fully abandoned, which I very much doubt) would be prime property.
- Sam's Club has a big, nice HQ fairly close to the Interstate. Walmart doesn't.
- Though employees come from all over at HQ, most of them live in Bentonville and Bella Vista...where this property is right in the middle of.
I know it's fairly dangerous to speculate with this company. But anything (earthly) is pretty much possible with them as well.
I don't know if there were any "Bud's" in NWS that the old Walmart buildings were converted to. I remember some of them in the mid 90's in Jasper, AL and Cullman, AL.
Wal-Mart used to like their old building as part of their illusion about being a small "aw shucks" company. That illusion died with Sam.
I don't think anyone has actually bought into that illusion since at least the 1990s. I have never known Walmart as anything other than the canonical example of global capitalism–Walmart is the big business.
In its January 23 Comment regarding the Draft Primary Freight Network (http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FHWA-2013-0050-0139), AHTD contends that I-540/Future I-49 from I-40 to US 71B should be included in the draft network (http://www.ops.fhwa.dot.gov/freight/infrastructure/pfn/index.htm):
(http://i.imgur.com/6NRxCkz.jpg)
Previous discussion about the Draft Primary Freight Network can be found in this thread:
https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=11125.0
I don't know if there were any "Bud's" in NWS that the old Walmart buildings were converted to. I remember some of them in the mid 90's in Jasper, AL and Cullman, AL.Alma, AR had a Bud's
In its January 23 Comment regarding the Draft Primary Freight Network (http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FHWA-2013-0050-0139), AHTD contends that I-540/Future I-49 from I-40 to US 71B should be included in the draft network (http://www.ops.fhwa.dot.gov/freight/infrastructure/pfn/index.htm):
(http://i.imgur.com/6NRxCkz.jpg)
Previous discussion about the Draft Primary Freight Network can be found in this thread:
https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=11125.0
I asked the AHTD bridge department when do they plan to design the I 49 Arkansas River Bridge In the Fort Smith area ...QuoteOur bridge program through 2016 does not include that structure.
Carl J. Fuselier, P.E.
Division Head - Bridge
Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department
This article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/29787#.UkR0HL7D-M8), primarily an update about the (non-Future I-49) I-540 construction work in Fort Smith, notes that the I-540 Arkansas River bridge is not being upgraded, primarily because funding for the Future I-49 Arkansas River bridge is a higher priority:QuoteArkansas Highway and Transportation Department District 4 Engineer Chad Adams ....
According to Adams, widening the bridge to conform with current federal highway standards, which is what the contractors are doing with many of the bridges along I-540, is not financially feasible, especially considering that the AHTD is attempting to secure funding for a river bridge along the I-49 route.
the river crossings (Arkansas River estimated around $500 million)
Let me guess: It will be a humpback concrete span with no superstructure and Jersey barriers, just like virtually every bridge AHTD has built in the last 70 years.
Let me guess: It will be a humpback concrete span with no superstructure and Jersey barriers, just like virtually every bridge AHTD has built in the last 70 years.
“The announcement is wonderful news for Fort Smith and Barling,” Fort Smith Mayor Sandy Sanders said. “Not only will it provide a needed influx of physicians for this region, it will also provide a significant economic impact for all of this area.”
The Fort Smith Regional Healthcare Foundation intends to build what it calls the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine on 200 acres near Chad Colley Boulevard at Chaffee Crossing.
“We are committing $58 million to this project,” foundation board chairman Kyle Parker said during a meeting of the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority’s Board of Trustees. “The proposed medical school will enrollarrow-10x10.png 150 students per year for a total of 600 students that will be attending.”
Parker added that current plans place the first crop of students in class by August 2017.
“There have been a lot of good days at Chaffee Crossing, but I think this one tops them all,” FCRA executive director Ivy Owen said. “This fits perfectly in our land reuse plan.”
The acreage, located in both Fort Smith and Barling, was donated by the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority on Tuesday.
“For us to give away $4 million worth of land doesn’t come easy,” FCRA Board of Trustees chairman Dean Gibson said.
The foundation estimates an annual economic impact on the community of $75 million to $100 million.
“The impact of this besides the $75 million a year is just immeasurable in my opinion,” Owen said.
Mercy System, Sparks, Cooper Clinic, the Choctaw Nation Health Services Authority and Community Health Centers of Arkansas have indicated their desire to play integral roles in the clinical rotations and residency education of the proposed college, according to Parker.
“What we fully anticipate doing is continuing to build a medical university,” he said. “We will look at a dental school, a physician’s assistant school, physical therapy schools.”
Parker said the college will employ 65 teachers with annual salaries of at least $103,000. Owen said 60 percent of the graduating doctors will become family practice physicians, “but they can go specialized.”
“I think they’ve come up with the right idea,” Barling Mayor Jerry Barling said. “Everybody is going to be a winner on this one.”
http://swtimes.com/news/plans-unveiled-regional-medical-school
Did you know we recently located our new District 04 HQ at Chaffee Crossing?
http://swtimes.com/sections/news/new-district-office-state-highway-department-open-barling.html (http://swtimes.com/sections/news/new-district-office-state-highway-department-open-barling.html)
Indeed this is very good news!
Did you know we recently located our new District 04 HQ at Chaffee Crossing?
http://swtimes.com/sections/news/new-district-office-state-highway-department-open-barling.html (http://swtimes.com/sections/news/new-district-office-state-highway-department-open-barling.html)
Planning is currently working on revised estimates for the Arkansas River crossing, once that is available we will post in this forum.
Did you know we recently located our new District 04 HQ at Chaffee Crossing?
http://swtimes.com/sections/news/new-district-office-state-highway-department-open-barling.html (http://swtimes.com/sections/news/new-district-office-state-highway-department-open-barling.html)
Did you know we recently located our new District 04 HQ at Chaffee Crossing?
http://swtimes.com/sections/news/new-district-office-state-highway-department-open-barling.html (http://swtimes.com/sections/news/new-district-office-state-highway-department-open-barling.html)
I've driven by a couple times on my way to the nature center or to check on 49 ;)
Did you know we recently located our new District 04 HQ at Chaffee Crossing?
http://swtimes.com/sections/news/new-district-office-state-highway-department-open-barling.html (http://swtimes.com/sections/news/new-district-office-state-highway-department-open-barling.html)
I've driven by a couple times on my way to the nature center or to check on 49 ;)
US 71, I know AHTD (the poster and the entity) are working as hard as they can to make a completed I-49 a reality, likely starting from east Fort Smith to the Missouri border for obvious necessary reasons.
But, MAN, I hope that somewhere along future I-49 in Arkansas some restaurateur who "makes the perfect pizza" comes along and successfully sets up shop, and that I'm alive and able to eat pizza when you make the announcement of your discovery of the same. :D
But, MAN, I hope that somewhere along future I-49 in Arkansas some restaurateur who "makes the perfect pizza" comes along and successfully sets up shop, and that I'm alive and able to eat pizza when you make the announcement of your discovery of the same. :D
But, MAN, I hope that somewhere along future I-49 in Arkansas some restaurateur who "makes the perfect pizza" comes along and successfully sets up shop, and that I'm alive and able to eat pizza when you make the announcement of your discovery of the same. :D
Next time you're in Mena try Il Primo Pizza. It's on hwy 71 on the "north" (really east) side of town in the strip mall that has Atwoods and a gas station in it. When I was last there they didn't even have the sign up yet, but it's 2 or 3 doors down from Atwoods on the right hand side. Best pizza I've ever had. The owner is a real Italian guy from Chicago, and the nicest guy you'll ever meet.
But, MAN, I hope that somewhere along future I-49 in Arkansas some restaurateur who "makes the perfect pizza" comes along and successfully sets up shop, and that I'm alive and able to eat pizza when you make the announcement of your discovery of the same. :D
Next time you're in Mena try Il Primo Pizza. It's on hwy 71 on the "north" (really east) side of town in the strip mall that has Atwoods and a gas station in it. When I was last there they didn't even have the sign up yet, but it's 2 or 3 doors down from Atwoods on the right hand side. Best pizza I've ever had. The owner is a real Italian guy from Chicago, and the nicest guy you'll ever meet.
Did you know we recently located our new District 04 HQ at Chaffee Crossing?
http://swtimes.com/sections/news/new-district-office-state-highway-department-open-barling.html (http://swtimes.com/sections/news/new-district-office-state-highway-department-open-barling.html)
Any chance you can rework Districts 4 and 9? District 9 has their headquarters in Harrison. The NWA metro is nearing half of a million people. Why would Benton County's district headquarters be almost 2 hours away? It's makes no sense, and is clearly creating issues here.
Remember- the function of these offices is maintenance - not construction. That is to say AHTD does not construct the projects and the presence of the district office would not make any project happen faster. We do have a construction engineer in each district who oversees the REs and the inspectors to ensure construction is completed as it should be.
This needs to be on the rebuild on I-540/Future I-49 in NWA:
http://goo.gl/maps/JkLHu
Seems like they have those prongs on the I-40 rebuild in Conway as well
The January 21 AHTD Presentation to the Siloam Springs Rotary Club (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2014/012114_Trammel_SiloamSpringsRotary.pdf) has been posted and it includes this depiction of the initial connection between Highway 71 and the Bella Vista Bypass [page 25/44 of pdf]
The January 21 AHTD Presentation to the Siloam Springs Rotary Club (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2014/012114_Trammel_SiloamSpringsRotary.pdf) has been posted and it includes this depiction of the initial connection between Highway 71 and the Bella Vista Bypass [page 25/44 of pdf]
AHTD's March 5 ASCE Day of Training (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2014/030514_SEB_ASCENWA_Fayetteville3.pdf) powerpoint includes a slide that provides a good visual of the current construction schedule for the Bella Vista Bypass (page 27/64 of pdf):
(http://i.imgur.com/blVe8cf.jpg)
Spring 2014 is not too far off .... Fall 2014 is really not too far off, either.
Ah, Gravette annexed Hiwasse in 2012: http://www.eagleobserver.com/news/2012/feb/29/hiwasse-move-annex-gravette-okd-20120229/ http://www.cityofgravette-ar.gov/ord.%2012-03%20annex..pdf
Hiwasse will now go the way of Brooklyn.
AHTD's March 5 ASCE Day of Training (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2014/030514_SEB_ASCENWA_Fayetteville3.pdf) powerpoint includes a slide that provides a good visual of the current construction schedule for the Bella Vista Bypass (page 27/64 of pdf):
Did you attend the day of training?
Seems like they have those prongs on the I-40 rebuild in Conway as well
Or maybe they are message boards (aka "Nag signs"):
Buckle up! State Law.
Don't Drink & Drive.
Don't Talk & Text
Don't Pick Your Nose.
;)
AHTD, I was looking at the Benton County construction map and it looks to me that the BVB sections being constructed are showing up as frontage roads for I-49, not as the main lanes. Is this the case? Hopefully the map is in error.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/programs_contracts_division/gis/Current_JobStatusMaps/job_status_benton.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/programs_contracts_division/gis/Current_JobStatusMaps/job_status_benton.pdf)
I looked at the construction set for Hwy 72 north-Co. Rd. 34 (job 090293) and there is a (F) at the end of the job title. Does this indicate "frontage road"?
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/PREVIOUS%20LETTING%20PLANS/2012/May%202012/090293.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/PREVIOUS%20LETTING%20PLANS/2012/May%202012/090293.pdf)
(warning y'all, huge file)
AHTD, I was looking at the Benton County construction map and it looks to me that the BVB sections being constructed are showing up as frontage roads for I-49, not as the main lanes. Is this the case? Hopefully the map is in error.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/programs_contracts_division/gis/Current_JobStatusMaps/job_status_benton.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/programs_contracts_division/gis/Current_JobStatusMaps/job_status_benton.pdf)
I looked at the construction set for Hwy 72 north-Co. Rd. 34 (job 090293) and there is a (F) at the end of the job title. Does this indicate "frontage road"?
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/PREVIOUS%20LETTING%20PLANS/2012/May%202012/090293.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/PREVIOUS%20LETTING%20PLANS/2012/May%202012/090293.pdf)
(warning y'all, huge file)
And speaking of I-49....(above quote from Arkansas State Highway 245 Removed from System (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=11956.msg288805#msg288805) thread)
The local FHWA Division Office approved our application for submittal to the FHWA in Washington, D.C.
This is not an approval of our request, only an authorization to proceed with official submittal to FHWA. This happened in the last week or so.
Interesting. There are now "bagged up" (I don't know what the technical term the highway departments use for that :spin: ) "Arkansas 549" signs installed on the new west Highway 72 bridge between Gravette and Hiwasse, even though no pavement whatsoever has yet been laid from just south of the bridge to (as far as I can tell) the dirt work's current northern terminus at Rocky Dell Hollow Road.
AHTD, I'm keeping an eye out for the fleet of equipment surely to descend around the new east Highway 72 bridge in Hiwasse in preparation for the Hiwasse-to-I-540 segment. :nod:
Interesting. There are now "bagged up" (I don't know what the technical term the highway departments use for that :spin: ) "Arkansas 549" signs installed on the new west Highway 72 bridge between Gravette and Hiwasse, even though no pavement whatsoever has yet been laid from just south of the bridge to (as far as I can tell) the dirt work's current northern terminus at Rocky Dell Hollow Road.
AHTD, I'm keeping an eye out for the fleet of equipment surely to descend around the new east Highway 72 bridge in Hiwasse in preparation for the Hiwasse-to-I-540 segment. :nod:
Ooh! Ooh! I'll have to go look :)
Interesting. There are now "bagged up" (I don't know what the technical term the highway departments use for that :spin: ) "Arkansas 549" signs installed on the new west Highway 72 bridge between Gravette and Hiwasse, even though no pavement whatsoever has yet been laid from just south of the bridge to (as far as I can tell) the dirt work's current northern terminus at Rocky Dell Hollow Road.
AHTD, I'm keeping an eye out for the fleet of equipment surely to descend around the new east Highway 72 bridge in Hiwasse in preparation for the Hiwasse-to-I-540 segment. :nod:
Interesting. There are now "bagged up" (I don't know what the technical term the highway departments use for that :spin: ) "Arkansas 549" signs installed on the new west Highway 72 bridge between Gravette and Hiwasse, even though no pavement whatsoever has yet been laid from just south of the bridge to (as far as I can tell) the dirt work's current northern terminus at Rocky Dell Hollow Road.
AHTD, I'm keeping an eye out for the fleet of equipment surely to descend around the new east Highway 72 bridge in Hiwasse in preparation for the Hiwasse-to-I-540 segment. :nod:
Ooh! Ooh! I'll have to go look :)
Hiwasse needs a pizza parlor.
Interesting. There are now "bagged up" (I don't know what the technical term the highway departments use for that :spin: ) "Arkansas 549" signs installed on the new west Highway 72 bridge between Gravette and Hiwasse, even though no pavement whatsoever has yet been laid from just south of the bridge to (as far as I can tell) the dirt work's current northern terminus at Rocky Dell Hollow Road.
AHTD, I'm keeping an eye out for the fleet of equipment surely to descend around the new east Highway 72 bridge in Hiwasse in preparation for the Hiwasse-to-I-540 segment. :nod:
Ooh! Ooh! I'll have to go look :)
Hiwasse needs a pizza parlor.
Actually, Hiwasse is about to go the way of Baldwin, Arkansas (ie cease to exist as an independent entity). BUT there's a c-store at 59/72 in Gravette that has Hunt Brothers (blarg!) Once 49 (or 549) becomes some semblance of reality, I'm sure Kum & Go or Casey's will set up shop... not that their pizza is much better.
Interesting. There are now "bagged up" (I don't know what the technical term the highway departments use for that :spin: ) "Arkansas 549" signs installed on the new west Highway 72 bridge between Gravette and Hiwasse, even though no pavement whatsoever has yet been laid from just south of the bridge to (as far as I can tell) the dirt work's current northern terminus at Rocky Dell Hollow Road.
AHTD, I'm keeping an eye out for the fleet of equipment surely to descend around the new east Highway 72 bridge in Hiwasse in preparation for the Hiwasse-to-I-540 segment. :nod:
Interesting. There are now "bagged up" (I don't know what the technical term the highway departments use for that :spin: ) "Arkansas 549" signs installed on the new west Highway 72 bridge between Gravette and Hiwasse, even though no pavement whatsoever has yet been laid from just south of the bridge to (as far as I can tell) the dirt work's current northern terminus at Rocky Dell Hollow Road.
AHTD, I'm keeping an eye out for the fleet of equipment surely to descend around the new east Highway 72 bridge in Hiwasse in preparation for the Hiwasse-to-I-540 segment. :nod:
Shouldn't be long. The same contractor constructing the segment between State Highway 72 north of (the city formerly known as) Hiwasse to Benton County Road 34, will construct the part to I-540. We are working on putting together a "dirt turning" ceremony for this project in May to signify its importance as the first project under construction funded by the half-cent sales tax program.
The request for I-49 designation in Arkansas has been submitted to the FHWA. We will post relevant documents in this thread as well as the thread for the Texarkana area.
Application Submitted to AASHTO (09-09-13)
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-AASHTO.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-AASHTO.pdf)
Application Submitted to FHWA for I-49 in Northwest Arkansas (02-03-14)
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-north.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-north.pdf)
Application Submitted to FHWA for I-49 in Southwest Arkansas (03-31-14)
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-south.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-south.pdf)
Application Submitted to FHWA for I-49 in Northwest Arkansas (02-03-14)
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-north.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-north.pdf)
Removal of the Interstate 540 designation from Interstate 40
(currently dual signed) between Van Buren and Alma
The request for I-49 designation in Arkansas has been submitted to the FHWA. We will post relevant documents in this thread as well as the thread for the Texarkana area.
Application Submitted to AASHTO (09-09-13)
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-AASHTO.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-AASHTO.pdf)
Application Submitted to FHWA for I-49 in Northwest Arkansas (02-03-14)
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-north.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-north.pdf)
Application Submitted to FHWA for I-49 in Southwest Arkansas (03-31-14)
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-south.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Request-south.pdf)
I love how Scott Bennett crosses out the formal name of the recipient in the letter and writes their first name. Props for that!
ARKANSAS RECEIVES APPROVAL FOR I-49 ROUTE DESIGNATION
It’s official!
We received approval from FHWA for a new Interstate in Arkansas. Here are a few facts:
The approval is for renaming I-540 from I-40 to U.S. 62/State Highway 102 (Exit 86) as I-49; and removal of the co-designation of I-540 from I-40 between Van Buren and Alma.
U.S. Highway 71 from U.S. Highway 62/State Highway 102 (Exit 86) to U.S. 71-B (Exit 93) has been ADDED to the Interstate system and is approved for designation as I-49. This increases Arkansas’ Interstate mileage by 5.72 miles for a total of 661.23 miles.
The completed portion of the Bella Vista Bypass (from State Highway 72 south of Hiwasse to State Highway 72 north of Hiwasse) is approved for designation as Future I-49. This stretch of road will actually open to traffic next week and will be co-signed as State Highway 549/Future I-49.
We will begin swapping route markers on I-540 next week. The first will be in the southbound direction at the northern most end of the route. There are approximately 697 new signs to erect. The I-540 signs will come down as the I-49 signs go up. We estimate one month to get this done.
New exit numbers for the ENTIRE I-49 corridor in Arkansas have already been logged, however these will not be signed until after the I-49 route has been approved and opened to traffic from U.S. Highway 71 North of Texarkana to the Louisiana state line.
Here is the approval letter from FHWA:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-north.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-north.pdf)
Here is our news release about it:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-announcement-north.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-announcement-north.pdf)
Anyone catch that our request (to FHWA) didn't include the new location at Barling? It will be a separate request.
ARKANSAS RECEIVES APPROVAL FOR I-49 ROUTE DESIGNATION
It’s official! ....
Here is our news release about it:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-announcement-north.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-announcement-north.pdf)
... the new route across Fort Chaffee near Fort Smith that [is] currently under construction will have dual designation as Highway 549 and Future Interstate 49,” Bennett added.
Congrats on the redesignation. Hopefully this will make the political situation for the remaining segments easier since it will be more obvious that they represent a gap in a long Interstate route. I'm sure David will have some photos when the new signs go up; I'm looking forward to seeing those.Most often, the ones in good condition are reused: they have a machine that will scrape off the old markings before applying new ones. (I read that in an Arkansas Highways once) . Years ago, I ran into the sign crew replacing AR 471 with US 71B and no amount of begging would persuade them to let me have a souvenir. :thumbdown:
Suppose you guys already have plans of what to do with the old I-540 signs? :P I'm sure there's a few people on here who would like to have one!
The completed portion of the Bella Vista Bypass (from State Highway 72 south of Hiwasse to State Highway 72 north of Hiwasse) is approved for designation as Future I-49. This stretch of road will actually open to traffic next week and will be co-signed as State Highway 549/Future I-49.
I hope you'll do the 'Future I-49' shields in the same style as NCDOT has in the past. ;)
I hope you'll do the 'Future I-49' shields in the same style as NCDOT has in the past. ;)
I hope you don't. Arkansas still uses '57 spec for its two-digit interstates, so I'm hoping 49 shows up that way.
I hope you'll do the 'Future I-49' shields in the same style as NCDOT has in the past. ;)
I hope you don't. Arkansas still uses '57 spec for its two-digit interstates, so I'm hoping 49 shows up that way.
What I meant was how NC added the 'Future' text to the shield, just to be clear.
Locally, people are freaking out via social media. But they're just not informed... And I blame the local media somewhat.
"$70,000 for the changing of signs?! This should have gone to fixing roads!"
Bah... I wish the exit numbers would be changed with the conversion. That's just going to create more madness.
This TV video report (http://5newsonline.com/2014/04/16/some-road-projects-still-up-in-the-air-after-i-540-name-change/) provides a preliminary indication from the announcement ceremony that "Arkansas" will be missing from the I-49 shields that will be installed in the near future:
(http://i.imgur.com/yi9Vgs4.png)
My gosh Arkansas's Interstate signage seems inconsistentHonestly? It has been for a long time.
Honestly? It has been for a long time.
This TV video report (http://5newsonline.com/2014/04/16/some-road-projects-still-up-in-the-air-after-i-540-name-change/) provides a preliminary indication from the announcement ceremony that "Arkansas" will be missing from the I-49 shields that will be installed in the near future:
(http://i.imgur.com/yi9Vgs4.png)
I'm guessing (not that I know as much as others closer to the action) that all this flurry of change-out activity won't include any missing overlap signage for the US routes?
(oh well, why did I ask :-/ )
They are already printed. I-540 signs that are taken down will be recycled as I-49 signs for the southern route.
They are already printed. I-540 signs that are taken down will be recycled as I-49 signs for the southern route.
Although I can understand that this saves on material costs. putting a 2 digit interstate number inside of a 3 digit interstate shield will look strange.
Don't mind me..I'm just watching all this and wondering why LADOTD doesn't do the same thing for US 90/Future I-49 South...
Don't mind me..I'm just watching all this and wondering why LADOTD doesn't do the same thing for US 90/Future I-49 South...
There are already Future Corridor signs along US 90
(https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2718/4502458165_1b4185bec6_z_d.jpg)
What about Miller County? Will Arkansas change its signs from AR 549 to I-49? It seems now that would be the feasible thing to do because if they duplicate the number 49 in NW Arkansas they now can do it here.
Primary route markers at this time only.
Primary route markers at this time only.
US 71 isn't a "primary route"?
Primary route markers at this time only.I'm sure adding U.S. 71/62 shields to the newly-minted I-49 shields in NWA takes a back seat to, say, figuring out whether U.S. 67 follows I-30 or U.S. 70 thru central LR/NLR, or figuring out how to tell folks on I-55 SB approaching West Memphis that U.S. 63 turns west on I-40. (Not to mention the University Avenue exit signs on I-30 still say U.S. 70B even though the surface-street signs thru LR/NLR are all back to U.S. 70.) But then, what about all the extra hardware needed to add two, three or even four U.S. highway shields (I-55 going to the Memphis & Arkansas Bridge carries U.S. 61, 64, 70 and 79) to interstate sign poles?
For you who know these things, why is there a type of green hay scattered on the future carriageways?
Pictures I took today from north of the west side (brand new) Arkansas 72 bridge between "Hiwasse Gravette" and "Gravette Gravette". :wave:
Major road construction to continue in Benton County (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/32746#.U1KQlfldWWY) (Arkansas - fascinating tidbits about future interchanges in this article for Bentonville area folks).
I hope to go there next week (the next day I have off after the 24th) and get some pictures and a video of the Hiwasee Bypass in each direction. I don't want to go too soon and risk the signage not being up, so I'm going to wait a few days.Signage appears to be up, unless they're adding "Future I-49" signs.
Why isn't the Hiwasee bypass going to be a rerouting of AR 72? It ends at AR 72 on each end and seems to be a superior routing for the highway. Or name it Bypass AR 72 until I-49 comes along. I'm sure if this happened, once I-49 gets signed that AR 72 would disappear along I-49 because AHTD (the organization, not the poster) are lazy idiots who don't know how to properly sign highways. If the Oklafuckinghoma Department of Transportation can do it, then AHTD can do it too. Even OK 66, which is worthless in Tulsa between the turnpikes, is fully signed along I-44. Why can't major highways like US 71 and (especially) US 62 be signed along I-49? It's two extra signs. I know AHTD is not hurting for money because they waste money on "TO" signs where they are unnecessary and confusing. Arkansas used to be excellent at cosigning roads, now they're the worst state in the country. Show some pride, AHTD, and quit being "poor widdle Arkiesaw".
I have a question for some of you that has seen the new Bella Vista Bypass. Are they doing the dirt work for both north and south lanes and just paving one side? So when they get the money to pave the other lane it will be paving only.
I want to say the plans for the MO portion of the Bella Vista Bypass have been posted to the forum at some point in the last few years.
What about Miller County? Will Arkansas change its signs from AR 549 to I-49? It seems now that would be the feasible thing to do because if they duplicate the number 49 in NW Arkansas they now can do it here.
I think they will once 549 connects to Louisiana. (June?)
For you who know these things, why is there a type of green hay scattered on the future carriageways?
I'm not 'in the know' so to speak, but a guess would be that they want to preserve the way the dirt and base has been prepared up to now (until full construction commences) and not let wind or rain erode any of it in the meantime. Also as an aside, it may keep any local dirt-bikers/ATVers from getting any off-road-while-the-road-isn't-built-yet ideas. Either way, my uneducated theory is preservation, for now. I've actually not seen this done before; maybe TxDOT does it a different way or feels like they don't have to do it at all.
Pictures I took today from north of the west side (brand new) Arkansas 72 bridge between "Hiwasse Gravette" and "Gravette Gravette". :wave:
Standing in future southbound lanes of Bella Vista bypass/I-49. A year ago old highway 72 ran right by that bridge almost as high as the bridge. The mound of earth left over from where the old highway was was finally removed at least 1-2 months ago. Access lanes are carved out either side out of my little phone camera's view.
(http://brazil.com.bz/images/0419_sfar.jpg)
Closer view of the bridge. For you who know these things, why is there a type of green hay scattered on the future carriageways? BTW, the section of future I-49 just south of this bridge to the new east Hiwasse Highway 72 bridge is set to open next week.
(http://brazil.com.bz/images/0419_sclose.jpg)
Looking northbound. Rocky Dell Hollow Road (current northbound end of construction) is about 1-2 miles north. This is set to be opened in the fall of this year, they say. When it is, this is when the under-assembly Bella Vista bypass will start to get useful. Bella Vista is the widest of all the northwest Arkansas metro cities. Most of the west half of BV has to rely on Glasgow (to the north) and Highlands (to the south) as its main arteries, both running east to west and very curvy and hilly, particularly for the latter. Glasgow runs through much heavier residential area. When this section from Rocky Dell Hollow (whose east end is where Glasgow and Highland both meet forming the left side of a large half-oval shape) to the bridge is finished, west Bella Vista residents can hop straight on it to go a ways down to 73, then onto Bentonville. When the third segment (outlined in the City Wire article above from today) is finished, they'll just drive straight from Rocky Dell Hollow to I-540.
(http://brazil.com.bz/images/0419_nfar.jpg)
Had to give a friend a ride from Bentonville to Gravette this morning, just in time to travel the new future section of I-49 on its first day open. Given that it's a workday I only had time to snap one picture, 1/4 east of the new Highway 72 west-of-Hiwasse bridge:
I-49 signs now going up on I-540.
http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2014/apr/23/first-section-of-bella-vista-bypass-ope/?news-arkansas-nwa-fayetteville (paywall)
Had to give a friend a ride from Bentonville to Gravette this morning, just in time to travel the new future section of I-49 on its first day open. Given that it's a workday I only had time to snap one picture, 1/4 east of the new Highway 72 west-of-Hiwasse bridge:
No worries. I've got a bunch of photos I'll probably have on Flickr by the end of the week ;)
Question for AHTD:
Now that all of I-540 north of I-40 is transferred over to I-49. What is the official mileage of I-540 south into Fort Smith, and what is the total official mileage of I-49 in Arkansas presently?
Had to give a friend a ride from Bentonville to Gravette this morning, just in time to travel the new future section of I-49 on its first day open. Given that it's a workday I only had time to snap one picture, 1/4 east of the new Highway 72 west-of-Hiwasse bridge:
(http://www.brazil.com.bz/images/0422_new.jpg)
AHTD,
I know it's got to be frustrating to you and your colleagues to only be able to open two lanes of a future major U.S. interstate corridor under your agency's jurisdiction. I'm not interested (or educated enough) about the process as so many are here...I'm interested in the progress.
And with that said, I loved driving this even as I was the only one on the entire brand new stretch. (I'm reminded of an original Star Trek episode "The Tholian Web", where Captain Kirk (to his dismay) talked about briefly having an entire (alternate) universe to himself (that he was temporarily trapped in).
It was weird having an entire stretch of future interstate to myself today. But it was a beaut to drive. And when your next section opens (Rocky Dell Hollow Rd to AR 72) and the one after that (AR 72 east new bridge to I-49 north current terminus at Bentonville/Bella Vista line) people are going to be amazed at what a travel blessing this will be from a time-saving standpoint. And a bunch of us are going to be wondering why this wasn't done sooner (gazing to the southeast in the direction of the Arkansas legislature).
Good job...excellent first step on this, IMO.
Is there any timeline on the Crawford County portion to be started? Will this section be at grade at any point or will it be all bridge?
This is a question for AHTD concerning the Wagon Wheel Rd exit.
The city of Springdale, AR was allowed to create a 5-lane Rd and end it at there city limits. This has increased traffic over the years and the traffic congestion on the bridge is very heavy during peak hours. The south bound exit ramp dumps onto a county road with no form of traffic control and therefore the traffic trying to get onto the interstate has to sit and wait. The city has informed me that this is an AHTD issue. My question is either "why did the AHTD allow the city to create such a juggernaut with the traffic pattern with no consideration to increased traffic flow? or "Does AHTD have any plans to at least cooperate with the City to either sit a Stop light or at least Stop Signs to allow for a more controlled traffic pattern? Thanks for you time.
And in the meantime, countless people who don't give a shit will get lost.
And in the meantime, countless people who don't give a shit will get lost.
How cool would it be to find an I-440 sign in Oklahoma City? An I-244 sign in Saint Louis? I don't want to deny future road enthusiasts the chance to stumble across such a sign just because some anal geeks whined to the DOT.
And in the meantime, countless people who don't give a shit will get lost.
How cool would it be to find an I-440 sign in Oklahoma City? An I-244 sign in Saint Louis? I don't want to deny future road enthusiasts the chance to stumble across such a sign just because some anal geeks whined to the DOT.
I think you've said that before. What would you call Named vs Neutered signs or posting of route overlaps?
Fear not, Jeremy...the vast length of highway being renumbered means that it is near certain that at least one shield will be missed. And we probably won't discover it for a long while.
Fear not, Jeremy...the vast length of highway being renumbered means that it is near certain that at least one shield will be missed. And we probably won't discover it for a long while.
As soon as its location is publicized, some anal roadgeek will go whining to AHTD and it will be changed.
If I ever find an I-540 shield in NWA, I'm not revealing the location to anybody I don't trust.
Fear not, Jeremy...the vast length of highway being renumbered means that it is near certain that at least one shield will be missed. And we probably won't discover it for a long while.
As soon as its location is publicized, some anal roadgeek will go whining to AHTD and it will be changed.
If I ever find an I-540 shield in NWA, I'm not revealing the location to anybody I don't trust.
But if I find it, it'll be on my living room wall. :p
Fear not, Jeremy...the vast length of highway being renumbered means that it is near certain that at least one shield will be missed. And we probably won't discover it for a long while.
As soon as its location is publicized, some anal roadgeek will go whining to AHTD and it will be changed.
If I ever find an I-540 shield in NWA, I'm not revealing the location to anybody I don't trust.
But if I find it, it'll be on my living room wall. :p
More like it.
The Toyota relocation to North Texas is one of the largest such corporate relocations in recent memory. As others have mentioned, the move was about business climate factors, such as taxes and regulations.
I think that there is another reason for businesses leaving the West Coast and moving to our side of the country, i.e. the expansion of the Panama Canal!
In the next ten years, large ships will be able to cross the Canal and go to Houston, a port in "a right to work state" and with quicker access to much of the country. New Orleans and other Gulf of Mexico ports will also benefit.
An estimated $5.25 billion is now being spent to deepen and widen the Panama Canal’s Pacific and Atlantic entrance channels, to raise the water level of Gatun Lake – through which all ships must pass – and to install new locks on both sides of the waterway. It’s due to open in April 2015.
The project is a response to a problem.
The canal is reaching its maximum capacity.
It’s carrying more traffic than it was designed for and is unable to handle the Fabiolas of the world. Termed “post-Panamax” vessels, these huge ships carry more than a quarter of the world’s containerized maritime shipments.
Today, cargo crossing the Pacific bound for the Midwest and Eastern United States must offload at a U.S. Pacific Coast port if the ship carrying it is too large to pass through the canal’s 50-mile waterway.
These goods are then routed across the country using the U.S. “land bridge,” the network of highways and railways linking East and West.
Once the widened canal is navigable, many megaships will no longer need the land bridge.
Instead, they will pass through the canal’s wider locks to offload their cargo at a Gulf or East coast port, such as Houston, New Orleans or New York.
“Trade will shift,” Bachkar said. “Instead of coming to the West Coast, it will go directly to the East Coast and on to Europe.”
These eastern ports are hoping the canal expansion will signal the end of an era – the end of the so-called West Coast Empire.
Yet this still tells me there's a LOT more interest in a completed I-49 (which will link to America's top Great Lakes port, Duluth, as well) than there ever has been...
Yet this still tells me there's a LOT more interest in a completed I-49 (which will link to America's top Great Lakes port, Duluth, as well) than there ever has been...
OK, but does 'interest' = $$$$ enough to finish what's left?
Political mindsets are going to have to shift notably and much quicker if the money will be in the transportation fund to do projects like I-49's remainder (among others that could use or need attention).
Which reminds me that Jeremy already has what is apparently going to be the only state-name Arkansas I-49 shield ever made on his wall.
Wouldn't that confuse the sign collectors on eBay if it ended up there in 40 years...?
Yet this still tells me there's a LOT more interest in a completed I-49 (which will link to America's top Great Lakes port, Duluth, as well) than there ever has been...
OK, but does 'interest' = $$$$ enough to finish what's left?
Political mindsets are going to have to shift notably and much quicker if the money will be in the transportation fund to do projects like I-49's remainder (among others that could use or need attention).
That's a very good question. I stand by my contention that there's a lot more interest now...anyone wise enough to connect the dots can see multiple benefits for a completed I-49 that honestly were not there 40, 30, 20 or even perhaps 15 years ago. As for the $$$$ and "political mindsets"...well-said. I got in trouble the last time I said something about that, so for the sake of peace and quiet I'll abstain from further comment, for now at least.
This really could go in the Texas I-69 thread below, but given I-49 links up (indirectly now, directly in the future) with New Orleans and Baton Rouge I think it's appropriate here:
The Panama Canal expansion will make it more difficult for California to compete with Texas (http://www.americanthinker.com/blog/2014/05/the_panama_canal_expansion_will_make_it_more_difficult_for_california_to_compete_with_texas.html)Quote
The Toyota relocation to North Texas is one of the largest such corporate relocations in recent memory. As others have mentioned, the move was about business climate factors, such as taxes and regulations.
I think that there is another reason for businesses leaving the West Coast and moving to our side of the country, i.e. the expansion of the Panama Canal!
In the next ten years, large ships will be able to cross the Canal and go to Houston, a port in "a right to work state" and with quicker access to much of the country. New Orleans and other Gulf of Mexico ports will also benefit.
and;QuoteAn estimated $5.25 billion is now being spent to deepen and widen the Panama Canal’s Pacific and Atlantic entrance channels, to raise the water level of Gatun Lake – through which all ships must pass – and to install new locks on both sides of the waterway. It’s due to open in April 2015.
The project is a response to a problem.
The canal is reaching its maximum capacity.
It’s carrying more traffic than it was designed for and is unable to handle the Fabiolas of the world. Termed “post-Panamax” vessels, these huge ships carry more than a quarter of the world’s containerized maritime shipments.
Today, cargo crossing the Pacific bound for the Midwest and Eastern United States must offload at a U.S. Pacific Coast port if the ship carrying it is too large to pass through the canal’s 50-mile waterway.
These goods are then routed across the country using the U.S. “land bridge,” the network of highways and railways linking East and West.
Once the widened canal is navigable, many megaships will no longer need the land bridge.
Instead, they will pass through the canal’s wider locks to offload their cargo at a Gulf or East coast port, such as Houston, New Orleans or New York.
“Trade will shift,” Bachkar said. “Instead of coming to the West Coast, it will go directly to the East Coast and on to Europe.”
These eastern ports are hoping the canal expansion will signal the end of an era – the end of the so-called West Coast Empire.
NOTE: while New York has continued to be a major port, team this story with one also in the American Thinker last year about how Houston has supplanted NYC as the America's #1 goods exporting region. (http://www.americanthinker.com/blog/2013/07/houston_supplants_new_york.html) Now, that being said, much of HOU's exports are petrochemical and likely won't traverse I-69 or I-49.
Yet this still tells me there's a LOT more interest in a completed I-49 (which will link to America's top Great Lakes port, Duluth, as well) than there ever has been...
This wouldn't be a good time to note that 4 of the top 10 shipping portals in the US are in South Louisiana (Port Fourchon, Port of South Louisiana, Avondale/New Orleans, Port of Iberia), right??
How is the I 49 section in Fort Smith coming along? Is the paving about finished except for the shoulders. Also the tie end with Hwy. 71 is it about complete? I haven't been up to that area sense last fall.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/09/y4a8aga8.jpg)
AHTD, I saw a LOT of construction / support vehicles off Peach Orchard Rd., S/SW of Lowe's Bentonville/Bella Vista today. There's scraping going on there right now, and that is close to where the future roundabout/interchange will be. The trucks were from a Brookline, MO firm (which is near Springfield, not St. Louis). Yours?
And do we know yet when the shovel-turning ceremony for the east Hwy 72 to north I-49 at the Bentonville/Bella Vista line will be?
Thank you in advance as always.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/09/y4a8aga8.jpg)
Making progress, I see. As of last weekend, they had only made it as far as Chester, but left half of Collum Lane unchanged.
I heard a rumor that part of US 71 north of the 71B junction (where 49 ends for now) was also signed as I-49. Have you heard or seen anything on that? I may be up that way in a few days, so I may check it myself ;)
Making progress, I see. As of last weekend, they had only made it as far as Chester, but left half of Collum Lane unchanged.
I heard a rumor that part of US 71 north of the 71B junction (where 49 ends for now) was also signed as I-49. Have you heard or seen anything on that? I may be up that way in a few days, so I may check it myself ;)
If it was, that is a mistake.
Someone may have confused the fact that I-540 ended at Exit 86 and continued as U.S. 71 past Exit 93 where the freeway ends. The section between Exits 86 and 93 was officially designated an Interstate and thus the first sign we changed out was the first U.S. 71 South route confirmation marker that appears just after you get on the freeway from U.S. 71-B.
GREAT progress has been made in the I-49 sign swap. Apparently we will do the overheads on I-40 last.
Once we proclaim here on AAROADS the sign swap is done, we'll rely on the road geek ground-truth squad to point out any that we missed.
I'll drive the entire old 540 corridor if I can keep a 540 sign they missed :)
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AHTD, I saw a LOT of construction / support vehicles off Peach Orchard Rd., S/SW of Lowe's Bentonville/Bella Vista today. There's scraping going on there right now, and that is close to where the future roundabout/interchange will be. The trucks were from a Brookline, MO firm (which is near Springfield, not St. Louis). Yours?
And do we know yet when the shovel-turning ceremony for the east Hwy 72 to north I-49 at the Bentonville/Bella Vista line will be?
Thank you in advance as always.
You are correct!
Kolb Grading mobilized this week and has begun moving dirt on the next phase of the BVB.
The groundbreaking ceremony for this project did not materialize. But you can bet on a ribbon-cutting when it's complete!
If it was, that is a mistake.
Someone may have confused the fact that I-540 ended at Exit 86 and continued as U.S. 71 past Exit 93 where the freeway ends. The section between Exits 86 and 93 was officially designated an Interstate and thus the first sign we changed out was the first U.S. 71 South route confirmation marker that appears just after you get on the freeway from U.S. 71-B.
GREAT progress has been made in the I-49 sign swap. Apparently we will do the overheads on I-40 last.
Once we proclaim here on AAROADS the sign swap is done, we'll rely on the road geek ground-truth squad to point out any that we missed.
I know this is slightly off-topic, but oh how I wished you could convince other DOT's, such as Alabama DOT, Tennessee DOT, or Mississippi DOT, to participate on these forums and work with us like you have to move things forward!
I already know two they missed I'm just wondering if they will get then
I already know two they missed I'm just wondering if they will get then
I lost count at 15 ;)
I see the overhead signs are in the process of being changed.
40/540 still signed...
Small story on desired relocation of route of AR 255 due to increased growth at Chaffee Crossing: http://swtimes.com/news/fort-smith-barling-leaders-renew-push-relocation-arkansas-255
Just curious, but what ever happened to no US 49/I-49 in Arkansas? I remember a while back that someone posted that until US 49 was removed, I-49 would not be allowed as a number.
AHTD,
There are a few through trucks must take 540 that need to be updated. I'm looking at the one at the south side of 40 and 71 in Alma. If i knew how to post pics on here I would show it.
AHTD,
There are a few through trucks must take 540 that need to be updated. I'm looking at the one at the south side of 40 and 71 in Alma. If i knew how to post pics on here I would show it.
I've counted 10 north of west forkMountainburg: 6
I've counted 10 north of west forkMountainburg: 6
Chester: 4
New Hope Rd: 3+
Got to find my notes for the others ;)
I've counted 10 north of west forkMountainburg: 6
Chester: 4
New Hope Rd: 3+
Got to find my notes for the others ;)
Lots between 49 and XNA
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I've counted 10 north of west forkMountainburg: 6
Chester: 4
New Hope Rd: 3+
Got to find my notes for the others ;)
Lots between 49 and XNA
iPhone
You think we should start a list? ;)
(Nah, Bugo would kill us)
ACTUALLY - if everyone will sit tight, we'll let you know when the sign crew thinks it's done. Then we'll start the AARoads Scavenger Hunt to locate the rest.
Should be fun!
I've counted 10 north of west forkMountainburg: 6
Chester: 4
New Hope Rd: 3+
Got to find my notes for the others ;)
Lots between 49 and XNA
iPhone
You think we should start a list? ;)
(Nah, Bugo would kill us)
ACTUALLY - if everyone will sit tight, we'll let you know when the sign crew thinks it's done. Then we'll start the AARoads Scavenger Hunt to locate the rest.
Should be fun!
Just came up to NWA from Star City. The mileage signs that used to have I-540 shields have all been changed (westbound, anyway)
AHTD,
There are a few through trucks must take 540 that need to be updated. I'm looking at the one at the south side of 40 and 71 in Alma. If i knew how to post pics on here I would show it.
AHTD,
There are a few through trucks must take 540 that need to be updated. I'm looking at the one at the south side of 40 and 71 in Alma. If i knew how to post pics on here I would show it.
Thanks for the tip robbones. I snagged a photo today
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5565/14215423344_da0c3b7811_d.jpg)
Looks like all the overheads have been changed out now, except along 540 at Van Buren. Oh, and this one:
(https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2902/14215601805_7e6bf463a5_d.jpg)
But if you add a TO above South 540, you wouldn't have to replace this sign ;)
Alternately the whole South I-540 block could be greened out.
I tried using street view on my phone, but won't let me view alma. A sign that has been wrong for MANY YEARS:
exit 13 should say North US 71 since it runs cocurrent with 40 and 540 from Alma to Fort Smith. If I'm correct, exit 7 is signed as I 540/US 71 South.
AHTD,
There are a few through trucks must take 540 that need to be updated. I'm looking at the one at the south side of 40 and 71 in Alma. If i knew how to post pics on here I would show it.
Thanks for the tip robbones. I snagged a photo today
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5565/14215423344_da0c3b7811_d.jpg)
Looks like all the overheads have been changed out now, except along 540 at Van Buren. Oh, and this one:
(https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2902/14215601805_7e6bf463a5_d.jpg)
But if you add a TO above South 540, you wouldn't have to replace this sign ;)
When the Alma connector is ever finished, will the new section be exit 12A and the existing 12B or will it be the opposite?Likely depends on how things are built. My guess is SB will be 12A, NB will be 12B.
We are still projecting a fall completion for this project AND have discussed a "ride before you drive" event to give folks a preview of the facility before it opens to traffic. We will be coordinating this with the Ft. Chaffee Redevelopment Authority. More info as it becomes available!
Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department District 4 Engineer Chad Adams ....
also said the future I-49 corridor from U.S. 71 up to Arkansas 22 near Barling should be ready for traffic by the end of the year.
Just realized that Fayetteville is indirectly named after Gen. Lafayette so I-49 passes thru two cities; the other being Lafayette, LA.If we can allow for "near" cities, I-49 passes through Pineville, MO, and comes within under a mile of Pineville, LA.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fayetteville,_Arkansas#Settlement_through_Antebellum_period
Are there any other Interstates that pass thru two cities with the same name or named after the same person?
How big is the Miami met area? Clearly over 500k. That doesn't have a through Interstate!
District Of Columbia doesn't technically have a through interstate I don't think...
iPhone
District Of Columbia doesn't technically have a through interstate I don't think...
iPhone
One can drive through the D.C. metro area on a through interstate, though, can't they, even while not driving through "the District" proper? (Not trying to sound sarcastic...just always thought the D.C. metro area did have through interstates.)
Miami's a good answer...guess I should have qualified my question as "Are there any metro areas of 500,000 or more that don't have a through interstate and don't have their metro boundary end either at a large body of water or an international border". :sombrero:
Just realized that Fayetteville is indirectly named after Gen. Lafayette so I-49 passes thru two cities; the other being Lafayette, LA.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fayetteville,_Arkansas#Settlement_through_Antebellum_period
Are there any other Interstates that pass thru two cities with the same name or named after the same person?
Just realized that Fayetteville is indirectly named after Gen. Lafayette so I-49 passes thru two cities; the other being Lafayette, LA.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fayetteville,_Arkansas#Settlement_through_Antebellum_period
Are there any other Interstates that pass thru two cities with the same name or named after the same person?
I-64 travels through St. Louis and Louisville.
I-55 passes through Jackson, MO and Jackson, MS.
No offense, but I think St. Louis, Louisville and Louisiana (for that matter) are all named for different kings/rulers.St Louis IX, Louis XIV and Louis XIV respectively. The last two are the same king (they are both kings), obviously...
No offense, but I think St. Louis, Louisville and Louisiana (for that matter) are all named for different kings/rulers.St Louis IX, Louis XIV and Louis XIV respectively. The last two are the same king (they are both kings), obviously...
DC itself doesn't have interstates except 395 but the entire metropolitan area does 66 and 95). Long Island is another but it's an island lol. I think your point is extremely valid, NWA is probably the highest populated area without a through interstate.
The District line is the termini for 66 and 295. 395 is the only one that has exits in DC. 95/495 (695 is in Baltimore) may cross the boundary but they have no exits.Quote from: ArkansastravelguyDC itself doesn't have interstates except 395 but the entire metropolitan area does 66 and 95). Long Island is another but it's an island lol. I think your point is extremely valid, NWA is probably the highest populated area without a through interstate.
Technically, DC is the start/end point for I-295, I-395, I-695 and I-66, even though all those routes have fairly short distances within DC. The Southern-most point of the DC border slices into about 400 feet of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge (and I-95/I-495). I-295 is about the nearest thing to a "through" Interstate, although some of it turns into DC-295 and MD-295 before rejoining I-95.
Anchorage is another large American city without a fully "through" Interstate highway.
Albuquerque is one of the largest cities in the United States without any sort of limited access loop highway, be it an Interstate, toll road or other limited access freeway with a US or state highway designation.
Anchorage, Albuquerque, D.C., Miami (though the latter has geographic considerations).XNA is overpriced for flying. I know many people who will drive to Tulsa to catch a plane. XNA primarily serves people flying in to see Wal-Mart, Tyson, and JB Hunt. Not bad for a cargo airport (as it was first envisioned).
Gang, thanks. I think I have my answer, as I was asking about metro areas 500,000 people or larger that didn't have a through interstate. NWA (Northwest Arkansas) hits that mark "officially" today, and it doesn't yet have a through interstate and won't until A) they finish the Bella Vista bypass and said work is four-laned, and B) Missouri (McDonald County, MO is in this metro) finishes its portion of the bypass, four-laned.
It appears that NWA is the biggest such metropolitan area with this situation. Interestingly (as said here at least once before) NWA's main airport "XNA" (Northwest Arkansas Regional) is right now served by two-lane roads, no low-cost carriers. And Fort Smith, which is separated by the highest hills of the Ozarks from NWA but whose metro area abuts the latter, has 300,000 in its metro, many of whom would likely come to XNA to fly were that airport to land a Southwest, etc. I know someone at the airport who's told me the situation. I get the feeling the airport management thinks they have bargaining chips, while the low cost air carriers (who are in business to make money, as they should be) may not be interested in playing with them. We will see.
The District line is the termini for 66 and 295. 395 is the only one that has exits in DC. 95/495 (695 is in Baltimore) may cross the boundary but they have no exits.
According to Wikipedia (taking with a grain of salt), the metro population for the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission metropolitan statisical area had a 774,769 population as of the 2010 census, a 200,000+ person gain since the 2000 census. Add to this the Brownsville-Harlingen-Raymondville MSA popluation of 415,557 (2012 census estimate). That's nearly 1.2 million people living in the far South end of Texas. There's even more people living just on the other side of the Rio Grande in Mexico. Of couse, Texas DOT is working on connecting Interstates 69E and 69C to the rest of the Interstate highway system.
The Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers MSA has a 2012 US Census estimated population of 482,200. It isn't as highly populated at the far South end of Texas, but it probably has much better income demographics.Quote from: ArkansastravelguyThe District line is the termini for 66 and 295. 395 is the only one that has exits in DC. 95/495 (695 is in Baltimore) may cross the boundary but they have no exits.
Imagery in Google Street View contradicts this. Interstate 295 enters DC just North of its terminus at the Capitol Beltway. I-295 is signed at a handful of exits in DC, including one for the Naval Research Laboratory, Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling and Suitland Parkway. That's all in DC, not Maryland. DC doesn't end at the Anacostia River.
Interstate 295 doesn't cross the Anacostia River. It becomes DC-295 at the Interchange for the 11th Street Bridge, which is signed on at least a couple BGSes as I-695. One of the overhead signs on the Anacostia Freeway has Capitol Hill as the legend and I-695 and To I-395 as route markers. Google Earth has the freeway connecting I-295 and I-395 signed as I-695.
Interstate 66 doesn't extend far into DC, but it doesn't terminate on the Arlington Memorial Bridge either. It ends at the interchange of K Street and the Whitehurst Freeway. It has exits for Constitution Ave., E Street before it ends. I-66 isn't signed in the best way within DC, but there are signs for it in a few places. I've personally seen them when I lived in Northern Virginia.
I believe right now as of today NWA is the only inland (not ending at either an international border or ocean/great lake) metro of 500,000 people where the metro area isn't served by a through interstate.Fresno? I guess I-5 enters the Metro area though.
I believe right now as of today NWA is the only inland (not ending at either an international border or ocean/great lake) metro of 500,000 people where the metro area isn't served by a through interstate.Fresno? I guess I-5 enters the Metro area though.
Met Fresno is over 1 million and the city itself (certainly no interstate, let alone a through one) is over half a million.
Go to www.idrivearkansas.com (http://www.idrivearkansas.com) and you can zoom into the construction route BVB is taking and get a good look at how this route will shape up.
The Missouri governor has set a special election in August for their transportation funding. Keep an eye on this. Success might mean they will meet us at the border sooner rather than later. Failure will make it anyone's guess.
FINGERS CROSSED!
Missouri to Create Transportation Tax Project List
http://www.stltoday.com/news/state-and-regional/missouri/missouri-to-create-transportation-tax-project-list/article_8047f003-f9b6-5234-a381-5032807085d4.html (http://www.stltoday.com/news/state-and-regional/missouri/missouri-to-create-transportation-tax-project-list/article_8047f003-f9b6-5234-a381-5032807085d4.html)
you want us to do your work for you? and our reward is that we got some shields bent into guardrails instead of being sold off to willing collectors?
yeah, no.
Okay, AARoads Forum members- it's the moment for which you have all been waiting...
Time for the I-540 signage scavenger hunt!
Our AHTD sign crews think they have replaced and/or removed all of the I-540 signs in relation to the redesignation of the route north of Alma as I-49. Time for you to let us know if they got 'em all. Here are the rules:
HELPFUL HINTS:
Be sure to check I-40 - it was dual-signed with I-540 from Van Buren to Alma.
So is the Bella Vista bypass to be a "Super Two?" I would be pissed if I bought a "Mountain Vista" only to have a highway in view of my piece of property. You know that Eric Estrada sold peaceful mountain vistas on infomercials.If memory serves correct, it will be a "Super 2" until there is enough money to widen it.
All it will take is an estimated $50 million.
according to this Joplin Globe article, there will be public comment on the transporation priority lists for the proposed transportation tax up for a vote in August. (http://www.joplinglobe.com/topstories/x1760096084/MoDOT-to-accept-public-comment-on-priority-lists) It looks like there will be both "open house" meetings and a public web site to be announced ....
Here is a link to the sales tax improvement program guide page they have for Missouri's Southwest District. (http://www.modot.org/plansandprojects/construction_program/STIP2015-2019/documents/Sec04f1cSWmap.pdf)
(http://www.brazil.com.bz/images/060914_modotstip.jpg)
according to this Joplin Globe article, there will be public comment on the transporation priority lists for the proposed transportation tax up for a vote in August. (http://www.joplinglobe.com/topstories/x1760096084/MoDOT-to-accept-public-comment-on-priority-lists) It looks like there will be both "open house" meetings and a public web site to be announced ....
Here is a link to the sales tax improvement program guide page they have for Missouri's Southwest District. (http://www.modot.org/plansandprojects/construction_program/STIP2015-2019/documents/Sec04f1cSWmap.pdf)
(http://www.brazil.com.bz/images/060914_modotstip.jpg)
O Tamadua, thanks for posting the map. It's a great visual!
The good news is that if the sales tax fails at the ballot, then the 2018 timetable for the BVB is in the STIP that you posted and which is reflected in the map.
There will soon be two concurrent public comment periods in Missouri: one for the STIP, and one, beginning June 13, for the sales tax transportation projects. As recently posted in the I-49 Coming to Missouri thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3239.msg304347#msg304347), it has been reported that the BVB will be included in the sales tax project list. MoDOT will probably post that list on June 13 (last week MoDOT had posted a link for regional priority lists that had no projects, but recently removed it, presumably because they are waiting for all of the lists to be completed). I'm guessing that the better news might be that, if the sales tax is approved by the voters, then the 2018 date for the BVB will be accelerated to perhaps 2015 or 2016 (it's worth mentioning that the BVB is one of only 25 "new" projects in the STIP because of the current budgetary constraints, which strongly suggests it is a high priority project for MoDOT).
FWIW that's simply my read on the situation in Missouri.
(http://www.brazil.com.bz/images/060914_modotstip.jpg)
(http://www.brazil.com.bz/images/060914_modotstip.jpg)
About the green section south of I-49, if it's supposed to represent the Bella Vista Bypass, the coloring went the way of US 71's current route into Bella Vista instead.
About the green section south of I-49, if it's supposed to represent the Bella Vista Bypass, the coloring went the way of US 71's current route into Bella Vista instead.
In looking at MoDOT's 2013-17 Draft STIP (http://contribute.modot.mo.gov/plansandprojects/construction_program/STIP2013-2017/districtconstruct/documents/1_Projects_006.pdf), I noticed what appears to be a Bella Vista Bypass project slated for the 7/2014 to 6/2015 time period (page 11/27 of pdf)I spoke with a MoDOT individual today and he confirmed that the above 2015 project in the Draft STIP is for the Bella Vista Bypass.
Only four landowners – Hunt Ventures, Joe Whisenhunt, Chad Hatfield and the LaFrance family – have property in the immediate area, and all four of them know what they’re doing.
“Everyone is well-funded and positioned to build when the time is right,” Ball said. “This is going to be rational, not speculative, development. There’s a long cycle of demand.”
Like George, Ball would not disclose the names of potential tenants, but he did say that moving forward the Pinnacle area would continue to attract companies of the highest caliber, and increasingly companies that do not yet have a presence in Northwest Arkansas.
The end result, Ball predicts, is that in about 10 years the Pauline Whitaker intersection will be completely built out. Looking at current and future indicators, it all makes sense, Ball said.
The Pinnacle Hills Promenade is essentially full, but the public’s appetite for retail has not yet been satisfied. In terms of offices, as long as Walmart is located here, there will always be a demand for both Class A and Class B space, and companies are now demanding floor plates of 10,000 SF and up.
And in terms of sheer growth, both the public and private sectors are trying to keep pace with the population. The Northwest Arkansas Council, using figures from the U.S. Census Bureau, estimates that as many as 23 people move to the region each day. Pinnacle and Pauline Whitaker, as well as places across the region, will have to grow to meet the pressure of that influx, Ball said.
http://www.nwabusinessjournal.com/13334/pinnacle-matures-poised-for-most-ambitious-building-yet
While there are several things fueling NWA's growth (mainly, a few big things) Pauline Whitaker Drive wouldn't have existed without former I-540 coming to the area, and that area was quite sparse 12 years ago (at least 2 years after I-540 opened up). I'm guessing these owners see a completed I-49 (at least in the metro area) in NWA's future 10 years down...maybe more completion elsewhere.
Walmart isn't going anywhere. They have too much money invested in Bentonville. If you've never been there, it's basically Walmartville.
FWIW: Northwest Arkansas Metropolitan Area: Benton, Washington, Madison Counties in Arkansas, McDonald County in Missouri.
FWIW: Northwest Arkansas Metropolitan Area: Benton, Washington, Madison Counties in Arkansas, McDonald County in Missouri.
Also: Fort Smith Metropolitan Area: Sebastian, Crawford, Franklin Counties in Arkansas, LeFlore and Sequoyah Counties in Oklahoma. With a completed I-49 (between NWA and FSM) I don't expect a combined Metro, but I do expect a Combined Statistical Area (like Little Rock and Pine Bluff currently have). Between Northwest Arkansas and Fort Smith right now, they have right at 800,000 people.
FWIW: Northwest Arkansas Metropolitan Area: Benton, Washington, Madison Counties in Arkansas, McDonald County in Missouri.
Also: Fort Smith Metropolitan Area: Sebastian, Crawford, Franklin Counties in Arkansas, LeFlore and Sequoyah Counties in Oklahoma. With a completed I-49 (between NWA and FSM) I don't expect a combined Metro, but I do expect a Combined Statistical Area (like Little Rock and Pine Bluff currently have). Between Northwest Arkansas and Fort Smith right now, they have right at 800,000 people.
Most of the TV News in Fort Smith these days comes from Fayetteville/NWA with less emphasis on Fort Smith. 20 years ago, it was the opposite until they decided they needed to report more from "Piggy Land".
...and then there's Tyson Foods in Springdale, which just apparently was successful in bidding for the Hillshire Farms brands. Given Tyson's earnings reports this year coupled with Hillshire's annual sales, that would put Tyson Foods at #78 in this year's Fortune 500 to Walmarts #1 position. As a comparison, here are some American states that have either only one or zero corporate headquarters in the 1 to 78 spots on that list (and I'm not including NWA company J.B. Hunt which is somewhere around 470 on the list):
Massachusetts (Boston)
Maryland (Baltimore)
Wisconsin (Milwaukee)
Oklahoma (Tulsa, Oklahoma City)
Louisiana (New Orleans)
Utah (Salt Lake City)
Oregon (Portland)
Missouri (St. Louis, Kansas City)
Florida (Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa/St. Petersburg, Jacksonville, Orlando)
Colorado (Denver)
Indiana (Indianapolis)
Arizona (Phoenix)
Tennessee (Memphis, Nashville)
All but one of those cities has an NFL, NBA and/or MLB franchise (many with two or all three) and the one which doesn't, Tulsa, has a WNBA team. Amazing. I just don't see an NFL, NBA, MLB or WNBA team for Arkansas in the future...too close to other successful franchises and I"m not sure the state needs one, though I'll be cheering along if it ever happens in my lifetime.) Rather, I see a metro area where some unbelievable things are happening, and which will grow even more with a completed I-49.
(BTW, Road Hog, there are multiple counties bordering Benton County, AR which aren't yet in the NWA metro area but could be added...Adair and Delaware Counties in Oklahoma have been mentioned as candidates, for example. Those two combined are 62,000 folks, which would be a big jump right there.)
FWIW: Northwest Arkansas Metropolitan Area: Benton, Washington, Madison Counties in Arkansas, McDonald County in Missouri.
Also: Fort Smith Metropolitan Area: Sebastian, Crawford, Franklin Counties in Arkansas, LeFlore and Sequoyah Counties in Oklahoma. With a completed I-49 (between NWA and FSM) I don't expect a combined Metro, but I do expect a Combined Statistical Area (like Little Rock and Pine Bluff currently have). Between Northwest Arkansas and Fort Smith right now, they have right at 800,000 people.
FWIW: Northwest Arkansas Metropolitan Area: Benton, Washington, Madison Counties in Arkansas, McDonald County in Missouri.
Also: Fort Smith Metropolitan Area: Sebastian, Crawford, Franklin Counties in Arkansas, LeFlore and Sequoyah Counties in Oklahoma. With a completed I-49 (between NWA and FSM) I don't expect a combined Metro, but I do expect a Combined Statistical Area (like Little Rock and Pine Bluff currently have). Between Northwest Arkansas and Fort Smith right now, they have right at 800,000 people.
That's funny that LeFlore county is part of a metro area, as the southern part of the county is extremely secluded and unpopulated.
Now back to I-49, which when fully completed in Arkansas will be this state's (and especially northwest Arkansas') "second 'Walmart' "...
Now back to I-49, which when fully completed in Arkansas will be this state's (and especially northwest Arkansas') "second 'Walmart' "...
I thought that was Tyson Foods, especially considering they just bought Hillshire Farms. I can see I-49 benefiting Wal_Mart or Tyson, but I don't see the highway as a new industry.
It wasn't built mostly due to money. Getting FtChaffee land for cheap helped. Plus Ft Smith as a whole is sort of a closed society...they don't like strangers.
Now back to I-49, which when fully completed in Arkansas will be this state's (and especially northwest Arkansas') "second 'Walmart' "...
I thought that was Tyson Foods, especially considering they just bought Hillshire Farms. I can see I-49 benefiting Wal_Mart or Tyson, but I don't see the highway as a new industry.
1. That map Grzrd furnished yesterday from Texas, on "their" I-69, empties out into Arkansas. Yes, it will go to Shreveport, too (and then crisscross across Arkansas, too, if that ever gets built). The main route from Arkansas from East Texas/Houston, the three Mexican interstate points closest to Mexico City to the upper south, midwest and upper east coast from Richmond north will be through Arkansas.
2. The "Minnie/Winnie/New/Hou" corridor is not a funnel, but an hourglass. Hate to talk about "hourglass-shaped figures", but if we were Northwest Arkansas will be the "belly button of the hourglass", not only between the "upper funnel" out of Kansas City and the "lower funnel" out of Shreveport/Texarkana, but also between I-44 and I-40. No, not every route is feasible (doubt traffic would suddenly switch from Oklahoma City off I-44 to I-40/I-49/I-44, for example) but this completed route is going to see traffic from multiple areas converge on the state, much of it through NWA.
3. It's been chronicled ad infinitum, but there's A) the biggest ports in America (Texas/Louisiana gulf coasts), B) now biggest goods export area in the country (Houston), C) Panama Canal Widening (will move much though certainly not all existing california traffic to the aforementioned ports), D) biggest port on the great lakes (Duluth/Superior) and a whole bunch of other things that are putting an economic bullseye squarely on Arkansas with this completed corridor.
U S 71, I remember a newspaper story on how Fort Smith is projected alone to grow as big as NWA with a completed I-49. And yes, we can make surveys and studies say whatever we want. But frankly, I fail to understand why this particular corridor wasn't built as an interstate a long time ago. I really don't.
And I do think there is the potential for so many benefits economically that, yes, this could be Arkansas' "second Walmart".
Time for the I-540 signage scavenger hunt!
It wasn't built mostly due to money. Getting FtChaffee land for cheap helped. Plus Ft Smith as a whole is sort of a closed society...they don't like strangers.
Now back to I-49, which when fully completed in Arkansas will be this state's (and especially northwest Arkansas') "second 'Walmart' "...
I thought that was Tyson Foods, especially considering they just bought Hillshire Farms. I can see I-49 benefiting Wal_Mart or Tyson, but I don't see the highway as a new industry.
1. That map Grzrd furnished yesterday from Texas, on "their" I-69, empties out into Arkansas. Yes, it will go to Shreveport, too (and then crisscross across Arkansas, too, if that ever gets built). The main route from Arkansas from East Texas/Houston, the three Mexican interstate points closest to Mexico City to the upper south, midwest and upper east coast from Richmond north will be through Arkansas.
2. The "Minnie/Winnie/New/Hou" corridor is not a funnel, but an hourglass. Hate to talk about "hourglass-shaped figures", but if we were Northwest Arkansas will be the "belly button of the hourglass", not only between the "upper funnel" out of Kansas City and the "lower funnel" out of Shreveport/Texarkana, but also between I-44 and I-40. No, not every route is feasible (doubt traffic would suddenly switch from Oklahoma City off I-44 to I-40/I-49/I-44, for example) but this completed route is going to see traffic from multiple areas converge on the state, much of it through NWA.
3. It's been chronicled ad infinitum, but there's A) the biggest ports in America (Texas/Louisiana gulf coasts), B) now biggest goods export area in the country (Houston), C) Panama Canal Widening (will move much though certainly not all existing california traffic to the aforementioned ports), D) biggest port on the great lakes (Duluth/Superior) and a whole bunch of other things that are putting an economic bullseye squarely on Arkansas with this completed corridor.
U S 71, I remember a newspaper story on how Fort Smith is projected alone to grow as big as NWA with a completed I-49. And yes, we can make surveys and studies say whatever we want. But frankly, I fail to understand why this particular corridor wasn't built as an interstate a long time ago. I really don't.
And I do think there is the potential for so many benefits economically that, yes, this could be Arkansas' "second Walmart".
Maybe they expected 71 to be upgraded eventually, but Arkansas is always short on money. If Mr Hammerschmidt had stayed around longer, maybe something would have been done sooner.
Those TO I-540 signs are still technically correct, because that is the way you would go if you wanted to get to I-540.I wonder if those are AHTD signs or owned by the city or county
Time for the I-540 signage scavenger hunt!Story about it in the local news: http://www.4029tv.com/news/Old-I-540-signs-create-confusion/26488828
Grzrd, among other things, with this sales tax in August the State of Missouri is proposing 6-laning I-70 between St. Louis and Kansas City (http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article543391/Proposed-Missouri-sales-tax-would-finance-a-three-lane-I-70-and-other-projects.html). Shee-yeesh.
I-49 isn't mentioned in the above story (which is pretty much the same one I read in the Springfield News-Leader today, too), but maybe it's because compared with the aforementioned project finishing a few-mile stretch of I-49 from south of Pineville down to the state line seems like a piece of cake.
Does anybody know what section of 49 going to be constructed when Barling to Greenwood is complete?
IMO they should just work on the Crawford County section next to have a 540 detour and possibly relieve some traffic off of there.
Does anybody know what section of 49 going to be constructed when Barling to Greenwood is complete?
IMO they should just work on the Crawford County section next to have a 540 detour and possibly relieve some traffic off of there.
I would be in favor of them starting work on parts bypassing the towns along the route – Waldron, Mena, DeQueen, etc. It would improve drive times and show that AHTD is somewhat serious about completing I-49 through the Ouachitas.
Does anybody know what section of 49 going to be constructed when Barling to Greenwood is complete?should be open sometime this Fall. AHTD is working on the approaches at the south end
IMO they should just work on the Crawford County section next to have a 540 detour and possibly relieve some traffic off of there.
Does anybody know what section of 49 going to be constructed when Barling to Greenwood is complete?
IMO they should just work on the Crawford County section next to have a 540 detour and possibly relieve some traffic off of there.
Constructing the Bella Vista bypass is on the draft list
iPhone
So if the sales tax is approved and MODOT start their section, will AHTD scrap the roundabout at 71 and start constructing the entire bypass to Interstate grade instead of continuing the super two?
iPhone
The highway department has been known to change the terms of the contract. the original contract for the i-540 rebuild called for replacing the Arkansas River Bridge, which was changed to repair only.So if the sales tax is approved and MODOT start their section, will AHTD scrap the roundabout at 71 and start constructing the entire bypass to Interstate grade instead of continuing the super two?
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My understanding is that they will build the BVB as a super-2 regardless at first, but if Missouri passes the sales tax hike, then I could see where AHTD would consider building their portion of the BVB to connect with Missouri. I'm not sure if they would still do the roundabout, but I would think they would since the contract has already been let to do the work.
So if the sales tax is approved and MODOT start their section, will AHTD scrap the roundabout at 71 and start constructing the entire bypass to Interstate grade instead of continuing the super two?
iPhone
My understanding is that they will build the BVB as a super-2 regardless at first, but if Missouri passes the sales tax hike, then I could see where AHTD would consider building their portion of the BVB to connect with Missouri. I'm not sure if they would still do the roundabout, but I would think they would since the contract has already been let to do the work.
Currently we are estimating 24 months for the U.S. Highway 70 (Broadway) bridge over the Arkansas River at Little Rock to be out of service while the old structure is demolished and the new one constructed. That is an estimate based on a fast-track schedule. A bridge over the Arkansas and Red Rivers on new location is not likely to be fast-tracked.
So how would this all play out if the money were available? While nothing is written in stone, it’s reasonable to assume that as money does come available, we would start by constructing bypasses around several of the communities along the route — Mena, DeQueen, Waldron, etc. Then as more money becomes available, we would begin to link those bypasses. Eventually we would have a highway.
I have a feeling that the Alma-Barling section of I-49 will be the final piece of the puzzle if not next to last with the river bridge costing so much money.
It was announced Thursday that a dedication ceremony for Interstate 49, “the future for the next generation,” will be held next week in Alma.
The ceremony will celebrate the U.S. Department of Transportation officially designating Interstate 540 from Alma north to the Missouri border as Interstate 49, according to a joint news release from the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority and Alma Area Chamber of Commerce.
The dedication ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. Wednesday in the parking lot of Grace Church of Alma at 330 Rudy Road.
“That parking lot there has a great view of I-49,” FCRA Executive Director Ivy Owen said Thursday. “What’s so important about this is that it puts the onus now on the (Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department) to get the rest of this done. It’s I-49 all the way to Bella Vista until you get to Alma. This section will be I-549, our 6.5 miles, until it connects to I-49.” ....
Expected at next week’s ceremony is AHTD Commissioner Dick Trammel and a number of local leaders. Trammel, former state Rep. Ed Thicksten, Owen and I-49 International Coalition executive director Gard Wayt will speak. Following their remarks, AHTD workers will unveil a new I-49 sign on the Rudy Road Interstate 40 overpass. ....
Wednesday’s ceremony is also touted as the launch of an “I-49 Build the Bridge” campaign.
“Representatives of cities, counties, chambers of commerce and other public works entities across the western Arkansas region are banding together to show a concerted, cohesive push to secure funding for the 13-mile stretch of I-49 south of Alma that will connect at Chaffee Crossing, including a new bridge across the Arkansas River,” the news release states.
This section will be I-549, our 6.5 miles, until it connects to I-49.”
Does anyone know what segment of I-49 in Arkansas will be constructed after the Bella Vista Bypass is finished?
Does anyone know what segment of I-49 in Arkansas will be constructed after the Bella Vista Bypass is finished?
None I hope. What a huge waste of money.
I'm glad I'm taking vacation next week. Might have to attend the ceremony.Doubtful I will be there. Work has me in Missouri until at least Tuesday.
BLU STAR4.0
Does anyone know what segment of I-49 in Arkansas will be constructed after the Bella Vista Bypass is finished?
None I hope. What a huge waste of money.
Mountainburg was notorious for auto wrecks before 49 was built. There used to be a sign right before you went down the grade saying 7 people were killed in the past year or something along those lines. 49 is not only good economically, but its a safer route to get through Western Arkansas once its completed.Does anyone know what segment of I-49 in Arkansas will be constructed after the Bella Vista Bypass is finished?
None I hope. What a huge waste of money.
Maybe if you or a family member were killed on the deathtrap that is US 71 you would feel differently.
QuoteThis section will be I-549, our 6.5 miles, until it connects to I-49.”I-549? Are they referring to the Chaffee Crossing portion? I assume this was a typo and they meant AR 549?
A 6½ -mile section of the highway through Chaffee Crossing is scheduled to open in October. It will initially be designated Highway 549.
You are obviously not from Arkansas. That would be like saying I-40 through Tennessee is a huge waste of money.Does anyone know what segment of I-49 in Arkansas will be constructed after the Bella Vista Bypass is finished?
None I hope. What a huge waste of money.
Actually, Winslow to south of Mountainburg was bad. The area just below Artists Point was/is especially bad with the steep grades and nasty curves and has been poorly maintained for years.Mountainburg was notorious for auto wrecks before 49 was built. There used to be a sign right before you went down the grade saying 7 people were killed in the past year or something along those lines. 49 is not only good economically, but its a safer route to get through Western Arkansas once its completed.Does anyone know what segment of I-49 in Arkansas will be constructed after the Bella Vista Bypass is finished?
None I hope. What a huge waste of money.
Maybe if you or a family member were killed on the deathtrap that is US 71 you would feel differently.
BLU STAR4.0
There is usually a wreck when I drive that way. Which is surprising considering how lightly the road is traveled
iPhone
Three Sticks is on US 259.
Three Sticks is on US 259.
Thanks for the correction...that's the route I meant to say.
This article (http://swtimes.com/news/interstate-dedication-slated-wednesday) reports on a dedication ceremony celebrating the redesignation of I-540 as I-49 and that the ceremony is being touted as the beginning of an "I-49 Build the Bridge" campaign
By the yard, undoubtedly the most expensive and challenging piece of the I-49 puzzle remaining undone is that new bridge across the Arkansas River.
Thus, on Wednesday, community leaders will celebrate the signage that renames Interstate 540 from Alma north as Interstate 49. And they will grab that opportunity and all the media attention it garners to begin the I-49 Build the Bridge campaign.
And before you decide that’s a fool’s errand, take note of the guy heading up the effort: former state Rep. Ed Thicksten. Folks from Crawford County will tell you, that’s a force to be reckoned with. He knows how to get it done from his time in the Legislature, when funding for that newly renamed stretch of highway was appropriated.
And he knows the stakes: “I think we have boundless opportunities here to move the river valley forward just like northwest Arkansas, and that bridge across the Arkansas River can be the key to our success.”
Planning is currently working on revised estimates for the Arkansas River crossing, once that is available we will post in this forum.
This editorial (http://swtimes.com/opinion/how-we-see-it/editorial-i-49-builds-bridge-future) mentions that former state Rep. Ed Thicksten will head up the "I-49 Build the Bridge" campaign and that he apparently has a track record of success in obtaining funding for major highway projects
Arkansas Highway Commissioner Dick Trammel ....
said while he can't promise anything, he is confident the designation of I-49 in Benton, Crawford and Washington Counties is just the beginning of what will eventually be an interstate that stretches through all of Arkansas and brings a non-stop flow of traffic from Canada to the ports in New Orleans.
Former Rep. Ed Thicksten of Alma said all of that starts with the bridge over the Arkansas River, and urged residents from across the region to visit Interstate49BuildtheRoad.org to sign a petition urging funding and construction of the bridge.
Previous estimates to build the I-49 connection from Alma, across the Arkansas River and connect to the I-49 route in Barling have been around $350 million. The City Wire has requested from the Arkansas Highway & Transportation Department an update on the estimate.
Thicksten said the highway department soon will begin a feasibility study to develop cost estimates to build the bridge.
Planning is currently working on revised estimates for the Arkansas River crossing, once that is available we will post in this forum.This editorial (http://swtimes.com/opinion/how-we-see-it/editorial-i-49-builds-bridge-future) mentions that former state Rep. Ed Thicksten will head up the "I-49 Build the Bridge" campaign and that he apparently has a track record of success in obtaining funding for major highway projects
This article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/33618#.U6tab5RdWSo) includes some photos from today's I-49 dedication in Alma, including one of a "Build the Bridge" banner:
(http://i.imgur.com/OL8Fz7h.jpg)
The article also reports that Thicksten has started his efforts on behalf of the bridge and that The City Wire has joined the members of this Forum in waiting for the new cost estimate for the Arkansas River bridge:QuoteArkansas Highway Commissioner Dick Trammel ....
said while he can't promise anything, he is confident the designation of I-49 in Benton, Crawford and Washington Counties is just the beginning of what will eventually be an interstate that stretches through all of Arkansas and brings a non-stop flow of traffic from Canada to the ports in New Orleans.
Former Rep. Ed Thicksten of Alma said all of that starts with the bridge over the Arkansas River, and urged residents from across the region to visit Interstate49BuildtheRoad.org to sign a petition urging funding and construction of the bridge.
Previous estimates to build the I-49 connection from Alma, across the Arkansas River and connect to the I-49 route in Barling have been around $350 million. The City Wire has requested from the Arkansas Highway & Transportation Department an update on the estimate.
Another article about the Alma I-49 dedication (http://swtimes.com/news/officials-celebrate-interstate-49-designation-launch-bridge-campaign) quotes Thicksten as saying that AHTD "soon will begin" a feasibility study for the bridge:QuoteThicksten said the highway department soon will begin a feasibility study to develop cost estimates to build the bridge.
He said without the interstate development taking place, large projects like the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine and ArcBest were unlikely to have located out on the far eastern edge of Fort Smith.
Go to www.idrivearkansas.com (http://www.idrivearkansas.com) and you can zoom into the construction route BVB is taking and get a good look at how this route will shape up.
The Missouri governor has set a special election in August for their transportation funding. Keep an eye on this. Success might mean they will meet us at the border sooner rather than later. Failure will make it anyone's guess.
@MaxConcrete: Looks like the completed section is just the one lane, with no construction yet on the second lane. But both lanes seem to be under construction the farther along you go. That seems odd.To my recollection ,yes. They acquired Right of Way for all 4 lanes, but are currently only building 2 due to lack of funding.
Did AHTD just intend intitally to build a Super 2 and decide later to go ahead and add the second lane?
Planning is currently working on revised estimates for the Arkansas River crossing, once that is available we will post in this forum.This editorial (http://swtimes.com/opinion/how-we-see-it/editorial-i-49-builds-bridge-future) mentions that former state Rep. Ed Thicksten will head up the "I-49 Build the Bridge" campaign and that he apparently has a track record of success in obtaining funding for major highway projects
This article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/33618#.U6tab5RdWSo) includes some photos from today's I-49 dedication in Alma, including one of a "Build the Bridge" banner:
(http://i.imgur.com/OL8Fz7h.jpg)
The article also reports that Thicksten has started his efforts on behalf of the bridge and that The City Wire has joined the members of this Forum in waiting for the new cost estimate for the Arkansas River bridge:QuoteArkansas Highway Commissioner Dick Trammel ....
said while he can't promise anything, he is confident the designation of I-49 in Benton, Crawford and Washington Counties is just the beginning of what will eventually be an interstate that stretches through all of Arkansas and brings a non-stop flow of traffic from Canada to the ports in New Orleans.
Former Rep. Ed Thicksten of Alma said all of that starts with the bridge over the Arkansas River, and urged residents from across the region to visit Interstate49BuildtheRoad.org to sign a petition urging funding and construction of the bridge.
Previous estimates to build the I-49 connection from Alma, across the Arkansas River and connect to the I-49 route in Barling have been around $350 million. The City Wire has requested from the Arkansas Highway & Transportation Department an update on the estimate.
Another article about the Alma I-49 dedication (http://swtimes.com/news/officials-celebrate-interstate-49-designation-launch-bridge-campaign) quotes Thicksten as saying that AHTD "soon will begin" a feasibility study for the bridge:QuoteThicksten said the highway department soon will begin a feasibility study to develop cost estimates to build the bridge.
Just saw the City WIre article, Grzrd, with this quote (not unexpected, just confirming the near obvious):Quote
He said without the interstate development taking place, large projects like the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine and ArcBest were unlikely to have located out on the far eastern edge of Fort Smith.
Honestly, the spacing issues with neutered shields are so bad that the FHWA ought to consider mandating Series C numerals for all Interstate shields lacking state names, whether they're 2 digit or 3 digit routes. Series D numerals on neutered shields usually sucks. It's horrible graphic design. And it does nothing to improve legibility. The only exception to this is single digit routes or 2 digit routes with a "1" in them. Series D can work on a neutered shield then, but not often otherwise.
That explains why so much of it seemed like they were patting each other on the back. I noticed Mr Bennett was missing, but assumed he was busy elsewhere. Personally, I thought the "unveiling" was kind of silly, but maybe I'm just cynical. :(
It is important to note that yesterday's ceremony in Alma was not an AHTD event. We were asked to participate by unveiling an I-49 sign.
One of the articles incorrectly states that AHTD has launched its "build the bridge campaign." This is not correct. That campaign is a local effort.
Looks like the I-540 shield is still there. Shouldn't AHTD at least add a "To", if not outright remove it?
The 540 signs are hit and miss, I've seen several I-540s on mileage signs and at exit 61 it still has the thru trucks to I 40 use 540 sign. Yet in Farmington the milage sign says I-49This one still remains, as well, though it's probably City of Rogers' sign (but I'd love to have it for my collection ;) )
iPhone
The 540 signs are hit and miss, I've seen several I-540s on mileage signs and at exit 61 it still has the thru trucks to I 40 use 540 sign. Yet in Farmington the milage sign says I-49This one still remains, as well, though it's probably City of Rogers' sign (but I'd love to have it for my collection ;) )
iPhone
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3086/2626563973_3f3f51ebcd_z_d.jpg)
The 540 signs are hit and miss, I've seen several I-540s on mileage signs and at exit 61 it still has the thru trucks to I 40 use 540 sign. Yet in Farmington the milage sign says I-49This one still remains, as well, though it's probably City of Rogers' sign (but I'd love to have it for my collection ;) )
iPhone
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3086/2626563973_3f3f51ebcd_z_d.jpg)
I disagree. if we're gonna have the truncated-crown, narrow-margin shields (70 spec), then the height of the number should be diminished. on the 24" blank, the 12" numbers look terrible, while the 10" look passable.
I don't think you understand my point. The bureaucrats seem to insist on squeezing 12" Series D numerals onto 24" Interstate highway shields when they clearly do not fit properly. If having the letters 12" tall is the top priority then they need to change them to Series C numerals.
Basically, the Interstate highway shields looked fine from the 1950's and through the 1970's until some bureaucrat in recent years decided we need to squeeze the same size numerals used on US Highway and State Highway markers onto existing Interstate shield designs. I wonder if the person who made this decision flunked geometry in high school.
Congrats on the four year New York art school degree, but this rant seems to be unrelated to I-49
and this is at the Greenland exit
(http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/y405/porkerface/20140620_135653_zpsa996559a.jpg)
Congrats on the four year New York art school degree, but this rant seems to be unrelated to I-49
congrats on the anti-intellectualism. your anti-intellectualism also seems to be unrelated to I-49.
Since we're talking about signs:
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8084/8268947069_7c0ec25419_z_d.jpg)
MODOT
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7319/13998205735_168b1d2b62_d.jpg)
AHTD
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3741/10927102465_d5be4c8b00_z_d.jpg)
LADOTD
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/28/e7y7uqad.jpg)Glad I didn't make any bets: I was expecting Exit 71 :thumbdown:
While we're still talking about signs: Don Tyson is getting signed
iPhone
Since we're talking about signs:
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8084/8268947069_7c0ec25419_z_d.jpg)
MODOT
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7319/13998205735_168b1d2b62_d.jpg)
AHTD
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3741/10927102465_d5be4c8b00_z_d.jpg)
LADOTD
Looks like the I-540 shield is still there. Shouldn't AHTD at least add a "To", if not outright remove it?
They HAVE removed the 540 shields approaching I-40. They also removed the free-standing 540 along WB I-40.
I agree that it should be changed to "TO 540" . It would seem to be the easiest solution.
I don't think you understand my point. The bureaucrats seem to insist on squeezing 12" Series D numerals onto 24" Interstate highway shields when they clearly do not fit properly. If having the letters 12" tall is the top priority then they need to change them to Series C numerals.
Note: last time I checked the MUTCD SHS, there was no spec explicitly allowing these 120% larger numerals onto an Interstate highway shield. A 24" shield is supposed to have 10" Series D numerals, not 12". Proportionately it scales on up from there for 36" and 48" shields.
I agree 10" numerals do work better on Interstate shields, even set in Series D. Aesthetically, I prefer the look of state names on Interstate shields. But if the FHWA wants a neutered look on Interstate shields the 10" tall characters are going to work better. I would even be willing to bet the more generous spacing around the numerals would actually make these shields more legible than the current, very ugly shields with stupidly over-sized numerals.
Since we're talking about signs:
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8084/8268947069_7c0ec25419_z_d.jpg)
MODOT
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7319/13998205735_168b1d2b62_d.jpg)
AHTD
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3741/10927102465_d5be4c8b00_z_d.jpg)
LADOTD
Arkansas is a bit cheap since they use the u-channel post commonly seen in residential areas instead of the breakaway bolted post on a concrete base that Louisiana uses. U-channel signs usually can't withstand the high winds from passing traffic and over time the posts will bend and warp.
It's probably the only interstate that is in all three states it traverses but not connected at any of the state borders at this moment.
The problem here is that the two references--the MUTCD and Standard Highway Signs--contradict each other. The MUTCD (Table 2E-2) requires digits half shield height all the way down the line (US, state, and Interstate): this means 12" on 24" shield, 18" on 36" shield, etc. On the other hand, Standard Highway Signs requires digits 5/12 shield height all the way down the line, the digits in question being Series D on two-digit shields and Series C on three-digit shields. Which standard governs?
Since we're talking about signs:
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8084/8268947069_7c0ec25419_z_d.jpg)
MODOT
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7319/13998205735_168b1d2b62_d.jpg)
AHTD
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3741/10927102465_d5be4c8b00_z_d.jpg)
LADOTD
Arkansas is a bit cheap since they use the u-channel post commonly seen in residential areas instead of the breakaway bolted post on a concrete base that Louisiana uses. U-channel signs usually can't withstand the high winds from passing traffic and over time the posts will bend and warp.
It's probably the only interstate that is in all three states it traverses but not connected at any of the state borders at this moment.
Agree with the U-Channel posts... That needs to be changed.
But it's better than the wooden posts I've seen in Iowa: http://goo.gl/maps/zD2TD
Speaking of wooden posts, it's seems that CA uses nothing but wooden posts on all signs. The only metal used are the gantry signs.
Citing a map showing the mean population center of the United States now on the border of Laclede and Pulaski counties in South Central Missouri, he said, “In the 2020 Census, it is quite possible that Neosho or some area within a few miles of us would be the mean population center of the United States. Meaning exactly half of the population will reside east of us and exactly half of the population will reside to the west of us. So we are perfectly located not just geographically, but in terms of the distribution of our population as well.”
I think some folks fail to see the picture that Arkansas is trying to paint. They may be witholding building a larger capacity highway in lieu of a smaller one to keep people in Arkansas. If Arkansas was to build a nice four lane plus facility into MO without a stop light what can happen?
Well MO could start offering incentives for folks to move north to move to a get a place out in the country and new subdivisions could be going up in MO. AR keeping this a super two keeps the capacity down and keeps folks in AR.
Um, not likely
I don't think McDonald County is going to have a high school that would be one of the largest in the state if it were in Arkansas, no
The only people moving to McDonald County are people who work in NWA. No one moves here from CA for a job in SWMO. The jobs are in Benton and Washington Co
I don't think McDonald County is going to have a high school that would be one of the largest in the state if it were in Arkansas, no
The only people moving to McDonald County are people who work in NWA. No one moves here from CA for a job in SWMO. The jobs are in Benton and Washington Co
True but the roadway system keeps folks in NWA.
Well stay tuned.... you're about to see a shift away from new construction to just that- taking care of what we have.
This is not an official statement other than the fact Director Scott Bennett has floated this before the Commission as they look to prepare the next STIP.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/04/ybu6y9yg.jpg)
This new sign showed up at the new Don Tyson interchange and I must say it is a huge improvement! Love it!
iPhone
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/04/ybu6y9yg.jpg)
This new sign showed up at the new Don Tyson interchange and I must say it is a huge improvement! Love it!
iPhone
Speaking of wooden posts, it's seems that CA uses nothing but wooden posts on all signs. The only metal used are the gantry signs.
MoDOT used to use wooden posts almost exclusively except along expressways. The last few years, they seem to be using more square metal posts and some U-channel, but not a lot. I still see wood posts, but they seem fewer and fewer these days.
Here is an article on the Don Tyson parkway opening today off I-49 in Springdale. (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2014/jul/07/new-interchange-open-i-49-springdale/?latest)
Timely. Just last week, Hillshire Farm agreed to be acquired by Tyson. (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/33716#.U7avmfldXUR) This would make Tyson Foods (using 2014 Fortune 500 numbers) the #75 company on that list, and will make Tyson (which was already the world's largest beef/pork/chicken processor) to meat what Procter & Gamble is to consumer products, Coca-Cola is to non-dairy beverages and General Mills is to breakfast food/baking items...all the brands below will be under the Tyson umbrella as of September 27th. There have been, are and likely will be a lot of people flying into NWA Regional Airport to drive up this parkway to Tyson hq. Never though I'd see things like this (and Walmart) happening in Northwest Arkansas.
(http://www.brazil.com.bz/images/tyson.jpg)
Here is an article on the Don Tyson parkway opening today off I-49 in Springdale. (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2014/jul/07/new-interchange-open-i-49-springdale/?latest)
Timely. Just last week, Hillshire Farm agreed to be acquired by Tyson. (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/33716#.U7avmfldXUR) This would make Tyson Foods (using 2014 Fortune 500 numbers) the #75 company on that list, and will make Tyson (which was already the world's largest beef/pork/chicken processor) to meat what Procter & Gamble is to consumer products, Coca-Cola is to non-dairy beverages and General Mills is to breakfast food/baking items...all the brands below will be under the Tyson umbrella as of September 27th. There have been, are and likely will be a lot of people flying into NWA Regional Airport to drive up this parkway to Tyson hq. Never though I'd see things like this (and Walmart) happening in Northwest Arkansas.
(http://www.brazil.com.bz/images/tyson.jpg)
I miss the "original" Mexican Original: their corn chips were the best, until Tyson bought them out and ruined everything :(
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/04/ybu6y9yg.jpg)
That will drive traffic over to XNA.
Just wait until they start in on the roundabout at 56th and Don Tyson...y'all will love thatOnly if I go to Arvest Ballpark ;)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/04/ybu6y9yg.jpg)
This new sign showed up at the new Don Tyson interchange and I must say it is a huge improvement! Love it!
iPhone
Just wait until they start in on the roundabout at 56th and Don Tyson...y'all will love thatPlease tell me you're joking about that.
Nope, its in design I believeI can find nothing on Springdale's Master Street Plan.
Their are two sections of I-49 in western Arkansas without designated funding or engineering work. The shortest is the 15-mile section between the I-40/I-49 interchange near Alma and across the Arkansas River into Barling. That work, according to Randy Ort with the Arkansas Highway & Transportation Department, will cost in today’s dollars around $350 million. That’s about $23.3 million per mile.
...
Thicksten, a former Arkansas legislator from Alma who does not hold an official position with the I-49 Coalition but has become an advocate for the “I-49 Build the Bridge” push, said lobbying for precise engineering on the bridge is key to obtaining federal and state dollars for the 15-mile section.
“It’s the cornerstone, if you would, for everything that will happen for everything to connect that road between Alma and Texarkana,” Thicksten said. “If you don’t do the engineering, and don’t get firm figures, then our federal legislators and our state legislators can’t do anything. You can’t go to Congress, you can’t go to Congressman (Steve) Womack and say, ”˜This is about what we think it will cost.’ That won’t work with this. That just won’t work.”
Thicksten said part of the lobbying push is to convince the AHTD to move forward on precise engineering work. He admitted that Congressional inability to restore future solvency to the federal Highway Trust Fund “puts in jeopardy” existing highway projects and causes state highway agencies to be reluctant to study future project.
“But what we’d like is to get a commitment from them (AHTD), as much as they can, on this because Congress, at some point, Congress will get this (Highway Trust Fund) done. ... Let’s not wait, let’s be prepared to go forward,” he said.
http://www.thecitywire.com/node/33760#.U7wQuvldXUQ
Nope, its in design I believeI can find nothing on Springdale's Master Street Plan.
Damn. I know (and it's been said) that Springdale is going to exceed Fayetteville, eventually population wise.Nope, its in design I believeI can find nothing on Springdale's Master Street Plan.
I've seen it, Crafton Tull is doing the design I believe
pretty sure these five, and perhaps one and only one more, are in NWA.Alas, Compton, AR is in Newton County -- just a little too far east for "our" NWA. ;)
(http://factmag-images.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/nwa4.11.2012.jpg)
AHTD,
through trucks sign at exit 61 SB still says 540
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/13/mezy7ymu.jpg)Probably city, is my guess.
49 and Garland
I'm thinking that as well(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/13/mezy7ymu.jpg)Probably city, is my guess.
49 and Garland
The Arkansas portion of the road is already funded, and partially complete, but the highway department won't build the final section until Missouri plans to extend I-49 to the state line. The 3/4 cent tax would pay for more than 800 projects statewide, including the missing link in I-49. Missouri voters will decide on August 5.
Once completed, the bypass will change the flow of traffic to and from Missouri, and the city of Gravette wants to revitalize its downtown now, to draw new investment as crews continue work on the road.
"This downtown used to be the heart of Gravette," says Mayor Byron Warren.
Unfortunately, the buildings on Main Street have seen better days.
"They are kind of in disrepair from the roofs leaking," Warren says.
The city is making a new push to draw businesses downtown to prepare for thousands of drivers expected once the Bella Vista bypass is complete.
"Bringing back what we've lost is our main focus," Warren says. "The traffic is going to grow by 3-4 more thousand cars through here daily, and it will make Gravette a little bit busier town. We want to make sure that when people get off on the exit they'll have things to, to come to shop and to eat, and enjoy our little community."
http://www.nwahomepage.com/fulltext-news/d/story/gravette-prepares-for-bella-vista-bypass/17837/lW4ZTEtq-kSEAUwA2UE54Q
Finishing Interstate 49 around Bella Vista would be a priority in southwest Missouri if voters approve a tax Aug. 5 dedicated to building and improving state highways, regional planners were told Thursday.
"I would say No. 1 is the Bella Vista Bypass," Jason Ray, of the Harry S. Truman Coordinating Council, told members of a regional planning committee in Springdale." If the sales tax passes, it will pay for the extension of I-49 to the state line.
Arkansas will be ready to go on the last 2.5-mile section from Benton County 34 to the state line when Missouri is ready to do its final 7-mile section, highway officials said recently during a ceremony marking the opening of the bypass around Hiwasse.
Dick Trammel, Arkansas Highway commissioner, said if Missouri voters approve the tax and the project north of the state line becomes a reality, it could speed up construction of all four lanes on this side of the line. Arkansas needs an estimated $50 million more to finish the bypass as a four-lane divided highway.
"If they get it, maybe we can get our other two lanes," Trammel said.
A $13.7 million project is under way to extend the bypass from Hiwasse north to Benton County 34 on the west side of Bella Vista and should be complete before the end of this year. The state has awarded a $52.6 million contract to extend the bypass east from Hiwasse to a new interchange on I-49 on the north side of Bentonville. That section is expected to open by the spring of 2016 ....
Ray said polling has been positive but also indicates the Missouri vote will be close. Business entities have shown support for the measure but several environmental groups have come out against the tax because it includes only highway projects, Ray said. Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon is on record opposing the tax.
Why is their governor against it?
Why is their governor against it?
So I heard the engineers with Bentonville are really unhappy with the proposed $10 million roundabout
If Missouri doesn't pass the funding for the BVB, it will be around 10 years before MoDOT funds the BVB. So since the roundabout contract is for 700ish working days (not including winters), it will be at least 3 years (probably 4) before the roundabout is built. Meaning it will have a useful life of 5 years before it begins to be torn out for the SPUI
Why is their governor against it?
That's a huge head-scratcher. Jay Nixon is a Democrat, so he can't be philosophically against gov't spending. He is term-limited, so he can't run again. And he's a two-time loser in running for the U.S. Senate, so I don't know what kind of future he's looking to lay the groundwork for. The only thing I can reckon is the enviros have his ear.
So I heard the engineers with Bentonville are really unhappy with the proposed $10 million roundabout
If Missouri doesn't pass the funding for the BVB, it will be around 10 years before MoDOT funds the BVB. So since the roundabout contract is for 700ish working days (not including winters), it will be at least 3 years (probably 4) before the roundabout is built. Meaning it will have a useful life of 5 years before it begins to be torn out for the SPUI
Unreal... Bentonville has some pull, especially with Walmart. Affix a Walmart/Walton name to the interchange and/or highway... Just a crazy idea!
I live here... anything to get stuff built/improved... This area has some work to do!
Does anyone know what is happening at the Wagon Wheel exit (76) in Springdale, AR? Equipment has been moving in and a job board has been set up but I can't find any info posted on it. Thanks.
This later article (http://www.thv11.com/story/news/local/2014/06/20/alma-to-mark-designation-of-i-49-in-west-arkansas/11105495/) reports that it will be "Highway 549", which indicates that it will not receive an I-549 designation and will indeed be AR 549QuoteThis section will be I-549, our 6.5 miles, until it connects to I-49.”I-549? Are they referring to the Chaffee Crossing portion? I assume this was a typo and they meant AR 549?
WHEREAS, the Department has received approval from the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) to designate this segment as Future Interstate 49, contingent upon Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) approval.
NOW THEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED that upon approval by the FHWA and upon official notification by the Deputy Director and Chief Engineer, the following changes are hereby made to the State Highway System as shown on the attached sketch.
- The newly constructed portion of roadway from Highway 71 to the junction with Highway 22 in the vicinity of Fort Smith and Barling is hereby designated as Highway 549, Section 6.
- The newly constructed portion of roadway from Highway 71 to the junction with Highway 22 in the vicinity of Fort Smith and Barling will be dual-signed as Highway 549 and Future Interstate 49.
Does anyone know what is happening at the Wagon Wheel exit (76) in Springdale, AR? Equipment has been moving in and a job board has been set up but I can't find any info posted on it. Thanks.
Yes, but I'm not sure they've actually set a starting date. I think the next widening project is Wagon Wheel to Elm Springs Rd, so that may be what's coming up.Does anyone know what is happening at the Wagon Wheel exit (76) in Springdale, AR? Equipment has been moving in and a job board has been set up but I can't find any info posted on it. Thanks.
Isn't that where the US412 bypass is supposed to go?
The work at the exit is at the intersection of Wagon Wheel and Puppy Creek rd. Work has been done today, but it looks like their are putting a second lane on the north side of Wagon Wheel for a right turn. If this is the only thing they are going to do, it will not help the congestion trying to get onto I-49 from Wagon Wheel heading south.
I just don't understand why the state will not give any kind of answer as to what they are going to do or why they allowed the cluster to happen. If I remember right, Wagon Wheel on and off ramps are just about the only ones in NWA not signed or lighted. just my opinion in frustration :banghead:.
The 412 bypass will be right at the Goad Springs bridge between exit 76 and 78.Does anyone know what is happening at the Wagon Wheel exit (76) in Springdale, AR? Equipment has been moving in and a job board has been set up but I can't find any info posted on it. Thanks.
Isn't that where the US412 bypass is supposed to go?
Those ramps are signed. They are designed for low volume traffic... Which was fine at the time. No one anticipated the amount of growth Benton county has endured, especially Lowell and northern Springdale. ADHT doesn't have the money to keep up with such rapid growth.The work at the exit is at the intersection of Wagon Wheel and Puppy Creek rd. Work has been done today, but it looks like their are putting a second lane on the north side of Wagon Wheel for a right turn. If this is the only thing they are going to do, it will not help the congestion trying to get onto I-49 from Wagon Wheel heading south.
I just don't understand why the state will not give any kind of answer as to what they are going to do or why they allowed the cluster to happen. If I remember right, Wagon Wheel on and off ramps are just about the only ones in NWA not signed or lighted. just my opinion in frustration :banghead:.
I believe the on-ramps ARE signed. Given the layout of the interchange, the SB on-ramp is off Wagon Wheel just south of the Puppy Creek intersection.
Okay, after rereading my post and seeing the other answers given I may have miss-worded some of the comments. Yes, the entire intersection is "signed" with I-49 signs and no issues there. What I meant was the use of common STOP Signs for the ease of traffic management. Currently there is a single stop sign at the end of Wagon Wheel (west bound) and vehicles have to wait for the never ending traffic coming off of the south bound ramp, on Puppy Creek. My suggestion to AHTD is to add two more signs to make it a three way stop for each vehicle to have the same equal chance of travel. I understand money is an issue, but some common sense in traffic management in this area would be helpful. Thanks from a newbie.I'm surprised there's not a Stop on Puppy Creek Rd at Wagon Wheel. Of course, Wagon Wheel is seeing a lot more traffic than it originally did since it was realigned at the east end .
Yes, but I'm not sure they've actually set a starting date. I think the next widening project is Wagon Wheel to Elm Springs Rd, so that may be what's coming up.Does anyone know what is happening at the Wagon Wheel exit (76) in Springdale, AR? Equipment has been moving in and a job board has been set up but I can't find any info posted on it. Thanks.
Isn't that where the US412 bypass is supposed to go?
This later article (http://www.thv11.com/story/news/local/2014/06/20/alma-to-mark-designation-of-i-49-in-west-arkansas/11105495/) reports that it will be "Highway 549", which indicates that it will not receive an I-549 designation and will indeed be AR 549QuoteThis section will be I-549, our 6.5 miles, until it connects to I-49.”I-549? Are they referring to the Chaffee Crossing portion? I assume this was a typo and they meant AR 549?
I have a more authoritative source, Arkansas State Highway Commission Minute Order 2014-047 (http://www.arkansashighways.com/minute_orders/2014/041614_minute%20orders.pdf), which orders that this section will be dually signed as Highway 549 and Future Interstate 49 (page 16/27 of pdf; page 14 of document):QuoteWHEREAS, the Department has received approval from the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) to designate this segment as Future Interstate 49, contingent upon Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) approval.
NOW THEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED that upon approval by the FHWA and upon official notification by the Deputy Director and Chief Engineer, the following changes are hereby made to the State Highway System as shown on the attached sketch.
- The newly constructed portion of roadway from Highway 71 to the junction with Highway 22 in the vicinity of Fort Smith and Barling is hereby designated as Highway 549, Section 6.
- The newly constructed portion of roadway from Highway 71 to the junction with Highway 22 in the vicinity of Fort Smith and Barling will be dual-signed as Highway 549 and Future Interstate 49.
AHTD, has the Department submitted an application to FHWA for this section of Future I-49?
Our current understanding is that I-49 route markers south of Texarkana will be installed AFTER the ribbon cutting (currently looking more toward November).Will the Ft Smith to Barling section be posted or will that wait until more of the highway has been built?
Once that is complete, the next step will be to renumber the exits. Yes, there will be a (hopefully short) timeframe where you have two stretches of I-49 that restart exit numbers. But since they aren't contiguous, that shouldn't be a problem for the short duration.
We have previously published the list of anticipated exit numbers in this forum. Can't remember which thread, so we'll post again below. Note some of this data is subject to change. Not sure if these maps account for the newly opened Don Tyson Parkway interchange.
Louisiana State Line to Polk County Line
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_1.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_1.pdf)
Sevier County Line to Crawford County Line
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_2.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_2.pdf)
Sebastian County Line to the Missouri State Line
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_3.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_3.pdf)
Our current understanding is that I-49 route markers south of Texarkana will be installed AFTER the ribbon cutting (currently looking more toward November).
Once that is complete, the next step will be to renumber the exits. Yes, there will be a (hopefully short) timeframe where you have two stretches of I-49 that restart exit numbers. But since they aren't contiguous, that shouldn't be a problem for the short duration.
We have previously published the list of anticipated exit numbers in this forum. Can't remember which thread, so we'll post again below. Note some of this data is subject to change. Not sure if these maps account for the newly opened Don Tyson Parkway interchange.
Louisiana State Line to Polk County Line
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_1.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_1.pdf)
Sevier County Line to Crawford County Line
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_2.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_2.pdf)
Sebastian County Line to the Missouri State Line
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_3.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_3.pdf)
This article (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2014/jul/18/planners-told-interstate-49-bella-vista/) reports that the Bella Vista Bypass would be southwest Missouri's top priority if Missouri voters approve the transportation sales tax and that Arkansas Highway Commissioner Dick Trammel is strongly hinting that Arkansas would then be able to come up with the extra $50 million to complete the Arkansas section of the BVB as a four-lane facility
Also Wednesday, Bennett told the commission that Missouri voters will decide Aug. 5 on a proposed 3/4 cent sales tax increase to fund highway projects. Included in those projects would be completion of Missouri’s portion of the Bella Vista Bypass, which is to link Arkansas and Missouri and become part of the I-49 corridor.
The bypass cannot be designated as part of I-49 until both the Arkansas and Missouri portions of it are completed as four-lane highways that meet interstate standards. Completing Arkansas’ portion of the bypass would cost $50 million, Bennett said.
“That’s the last gap between I-40 and Alma and Kansas City, so if Missouri’s tax passes Aug. 5 … we need to be prepared to consider how we come up with that $50 million to complete this interstate segment,” he said.
Completion of the entire Arkansas stretch of I-49 reaching across the western side of the state between Missouri and Louisiana would cost $2.7 billion, Bennett said.
Our current understanding is that I-49 route markers south of Texarkana will be installed AFTER the ribbon cutting (currently looking more toward November).Will the Ft Smith to Barling section be posted or will that wait until more of the highway has been built?
Once that is complete, the next step will be to renumber the exits. Yes, there will be a (hopefully short) timeframe where you have two stretches of I-49 that restart exit numbers. But since they aren't contiguous, that shouldn't be a problem for the short duration.
We have previously published the list of anticipated exit numbers in this forum. Can't remember which thread, so we'll post again below. Note some of this data is subject to change. Not sure if these maps account for the newly opened Don Tyson Parkway interchange.
Louisiana State Line to Polk County Line
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_1.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_1.pdf)
Sevier County Line to Crawford County Line
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_2.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_2.pdf)
Sebastian County Line to the Missouri State Line
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_3.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_3.pdf)
Missouri standing in the way of Arkansas's progress
Missouri standing in the way of Arkansas's progress
Missouri standing in the way of Arkansas, who was standing in the way of Missouri :p
And yes, the north often does have Arkansas pegged as "backwards hillbillies". Oddly enough, central Illinois sounds a bit more "southern" than Chicago ;)
Well, looks like the Missouri Proposition 7 (the highway tax) is (http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/missouri-propositions/html_15e86acd-a148-58a1-ae79-d8452c48322b.html) going down in flames tonight.I may be entirely wrong, but I wonder if MoDOT will pull the plug on another project to complete I-49?
In 10 years we may indeed see the BVP complete. In the meantime, well, I guess west Bella Vista gets to stay rustic (at least, "quiet") for a decade longer.
... John McLarty, transportation study director for the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission.
“It’s not a road to nowhere, but it would be a road to a county road up in North Arkansas on the west side of Bella Vista,” McLarty said. “But it would be much nicer to go to Pineville, MO in the Missouri portion of it.”
This article (http://5newsonline.com/2014/08/06/bella-vista-bypass-dead-ends-after-missouri-vote-fails/) reports on how the Missouri vote will delay the BVB in Arkansas:Quote... John McLarty, transportation study director for the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission.
“It’s not a road to nowhere, but it would be a road to a county road up in North Arkansas on the west side of Bella Vista,” McLarty said. “But it would be much nicer to go to Pineville, MO in the Missouri portion of it.”
As previously posted over in the Missouri thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3239.msg299545#msg299545), even though the vote failed, it looks like Missouri is scheduled to start some grading work on the BVB in 2018.
To be fair, the Democratic governor of MO, Jay Nixon, publically opposed the tax hike; and several enviromental groups and public transportation groups also expressed opposition due to no transit projects being included.
But, I'm guessing that it's still the usual anti-tax/anti-government mood that mostly killed this proposal. Unless/until that changes, it looks more and more like tolls will be the future for funding major highway projects. Too bad. (At least, IMO.)
The next travel lane widening project scheduled for letting was from New Hope Road to U.S. Highway 62/State Highway 102 (AHTD Job No. 090305), but it has been pulled form the letting tomorrow due to uncertainty with the Highway Trust Fund.
Next on the schedule should be the U.S. Highway 412 Bypass. Should let sometime this year, and it's funded by the half-cent sales tax, so should be a go.
To be fair, the Democratic governor of MO, Jay Nixon, publically opposed the tax hike; and several enviromental groups and public transportation groups also expressed opposition due to no transit projects being included.And sadly, there are no toll exits on MO's portion of the BVB to warrant an expeditious connection w/Arkansas...so square one it is again...
But, I'm guessing that it's still the usual anti-tax/anti-government mood that mostly killed this proposal. Unless/until that changes, it looks more and more like tolls will be the future for funding major highway projects. Too bad. (At least, IMO.)
Cheap Republicans, too stingy to pay slightly more in taxes for something that would greatly help the citizens of Missouri.
Cheap Republicans, too stingy to pay slightly more in taxes for something that would greatly help the citizens of Missouri.
My Mom's a JFK-era liberal Democrat and she wasn't for it, either. When I heard her say that and saw only 2 lawn signs in the Springfield area for the transportation amendment, I had a feeling that it was doomed. (Springfield's said to be "the northernmost southern city", but it makes Bella Vista/Bentonville look like a confederate capital.)
Blue Dog Democrats, which aren't much different from conservative Republicans.
Springfield is an odd place. Ultra-Conservative with a semi-underground Liberal bent.Cheap Republicans, too stingy to pay slightly more in taxes for something that would greatly help the citizens of Missouri.
My Mom's a JFK-era liberal Democrat and she wasn't for it, either. When I heard her say that and saw only 2 lawn signs in the Springfield area for the transportation amendment, I had a feeling that it was doomed. (Springfield's said to be "the northernmost southern city", but it makes Bella Vista/Bentonville look like a confederate capital.)
There's a section of Grant near Grand that is (or was) adopted by a Druidic group.Springfield is an odd place. Ultra-Conservative with a semi-underground Liberal bent.Cheap Republicans, too stingy to pay slightly more in taxes for something that would greatly help the citizens of Missouri.
My Mom's a JFK-era liberal Democrat and she wasn't for it, either. When I heard her say that and saw only 2 lawn signs in the Springfield area for the transportation amendment, I had a feeling that it was doomed. (Springfield's said to be "the northernmost southern city", but it makes Bella Vista/Bentonville look like a confederate capital.)
Indeed. I've seen "adopt-a-mile" signs around Springfield sponsored by NORML, The southwest Missouri socialists, and some other radical causes. Springfield tends to support conservative Republican politicians but (probably largely due to the Missouri State and Drury campus populations, and also because there are a lot of unionized workers in the city) tends to C-O-E-X-I-S-T with a lot of leftists. The city's much more "southern" than St. Louis or Kansas City (that's not hard to do) but again, it feels much less so than northwest Arkansas three counties to the southwest.
Looks like AHTD doesn't need to redo the roundabout plans :(
Looks like AHTD doesn't need to redo the roundabout plans :(
Not a valid vimeo URL
I actually thought the main traffic movement was going to go through a roundabout. It's just the interchange, and the 2 lane connection to the west.
Missouri will figure it out. I'm still trying to figure out why only 2 lanes of a 4 lane facility is being built. Huge waste of money in the long run. Sigh. I guess something is better than nothing.
Missouri will figure it out. I'm still trying to figure out why only 2 lanes of a 4 lane facility is being built. Huge waste of money in the long run. Sigh. I guess something is better than nothing.
Dick Trammel? Biggest let-down to this area. But I guess being old is something.Mr Trammel likes to talk a lot. Part salesman, part huckster.
AHTD, we're sick of him! We need new reps!
No, it's a gateway to rural Benton County ;)
The future road to nowhere
The future road to nowhereNo, it's a gateway to rural Benton County ;)
I guess "Hiwasee Bypass" is obsolete now.The future road to nowhereNo, it's a gateway to rural Benton County ;)
Since Hiwasse has been annexed into Gravette (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2012/mar/30/hiwasse-annexed-gravette/), it could also be viewed as the Gravette Divider/Connector ("GDC"), although some might prefer to refer to it as the "GD Connector". :spin:
I don't see any of those guys asking BO or Hillary for highway handouts
Looks like another roadblock to progress
I don't see any of those guys asking BO or Hillary for highway handouts
Looks like another roadblock to progress
Huckabee, maybe.
I don't see any of those guys asking BO or Hillary for highway handouts
Looks like another roadblock to progress
Huckabee, maybe.
Huckabee is too busy pushing his agenda and trying to be Prez.
As far as "local" politicians, they have their own agendas (like getting reelected) and highways are not a priority as they were with John Paul Hammerschmidt.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/10/mu9ujesa.jpg)Could this be Arkansas' version of the "Goat Path Expressway"? It could be called the "Hog Path Expressway"! :colorful:
The future road to nowhere
Could this be Arkansas' version of the "Goat Path Expressway"? It could be called the "Hog Path Expressway"! :colorful:
AHTD,
There are 2 GS at the junction of AR 60 north and AR 282 in Rudy that still have TO I 540 posted.
I know where a 540 shield is in Washington Co. Hee hee
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/13/agu7ejy6.jpg)Never seen this one, but it's likely a city or county maintained sign.
There's a ton of these around on back roads
I will not be revealing the locations of several I-540 shields I recently found in the Lowell area. Find them yourself.If you are referring to 112/264 intersection, they've been replaced.
That one is on New Hope Rd in Johnson(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/13/agu7ejy6.jpg)Never seen this one, but it's likely a city or county maintained sign.
There's a ton of these around on back roads
That one is on New Hope Rd in Johnson
U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe, R-Okla., said during a visit to Fort Smith Tuesday (Aug. 19) that while he is against higher taxes, the gasoline tax that funds the Highway Trust Fund should be re-worked as a "percentage" versus a "centage" tax in order to keep infrastructure projects moving forward across the nation.
Inhofe, a senior member of the Senate's Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, was in Fort Smith with U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., to see the area's infrastructure needs and to meet with the Regional Intermodal Transportation Authority for a question and answer session Tuesday morning. The meeting was held at the Arkansas River Valley Nature Center at Chaffee Crossing.
The statement by Oklahoma's senior senator was in response to a question by RITA board member George Moschner, an executive vice president of risk management and compliance at Baldor Electric Co., about how to secure funding to complete the section of Interstate 49 between Alma and Chaffee Crossing. The section would include a bridge across the Arkansas River and is estimated to at least $350 million.
Inhofe first said locals must get the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department to make completion of that section of I-49 its number one priority in order to get the attention of Washington.
"The second thing is you're going to see coming up between now and May a funding mechanism that is going to change the way we're looking at funding our roads and highways. And again, this is not an announcement on my part because I still am going to maintain opposition to any new tax increases. However, I don't see that. It's more of a user fee than a tax increase and it's going to have to affect that. So those are two things that are going to have to happen before (that stretch of I-49can be funded)."
Sebastian County Judge David Hudson asked what RITA and other local governments could do to ensure projects of significance in the Fort Smith region, namely the I-49 project between Alma and Chaffee Crossing, receive funding.
Without providing specifics, Inhofe said the answer would come before a vote is taken on a final transportation bill in May, which Boozman said could be a five-year bill that would provide funding for a variety of projects nationally.
Oof! That's one ugly sign. I can't tell from the not so great quality of the photo, but I wonder if a sign contractor merely did a patch job on a previously existing I-540 shield. The least thing they could have done is get the freaking typeface correct.The direction is off, too.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/08/21/28a0996155db2088722cfbffb60378af.jpg)
This monstrosity is at the Pinnacle Hills Promenade roundabout
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/08/21/28a0996155db2088722cfbffb60378af.jpg)
This monstrosity is at the Pinnacle Hills Promenade roundabout
iPhone
Has AHTD posted anything in the last little while?
iPhone
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/08/21/28a0996155db2088722cfbffb60378af.jpg)That's the font that the City of Rogers uses on street name signs. I've seen a few speed limit signs with this font as well. Hate it. And not MUTCD approved.
This monstrosity is at the Pinnacle Hills Promenade roundabout
iPhone
I thought it was a city job. Wouldn't be so bad if they'd just used FHWA numbers.(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/08/21/28a0996155db2088722cfbffb60378af.jpg)That's the font that the City of Rogers uses on street name signs. I've seen a few speed limit signs with this font as well. Hate it. And not MUTCD approved.
This monstrosity is at the Pinnacle Hills Promenade roundabout
iPhone
Are you writing about the paving from HWY 72 to County RD. 34 section? Hope it still will be opened for traffic and not be delayed until next year because of Missouri in no hurry to do anything.
Looks close to the numbers on a Wheel Of Fortune scoreboard...(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/08/21/28a0996155db2088722cfbffb60378af.jpg)That's the font that the City of Rogers uses on street name signs. I've seen a few speed limit signs with this font as well. Hate it. And not MUTCD approved.
This monstrosity is at the Pinnacle Hills Promenade roundabout
iPhone
BTW, here's an article in today's City Wire on the 8th St. Expansion (which will link up with I-49) (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/34388) in Bentonville.
IIRC, AHTD is building the interchange (State ROW), but Bentonville is supposed to be doing all the street and approach work.BTW, here's an article in today's City Wire on the 8th St. Expansion (which will link up with I-49) (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/34388) in Bentonville.
That link was in a loop... Maybe since I'm trying to access it overnight. ETA: Link loaded.
Bentonville has severe traffic issues. This 8th Street interchange and improvements will help.
Exit 86 (Hudson/14th Street) on I-49 is of particular interest.
I have contacted AHTD, the city of Bentonville, and the city of Rogers.
Nobody can tell me what is going to happen at Exit 86. It sounds like AHTD has handed off this interchange to the locals (big shock there).
The fact is, an additional interchange at 8th Street to the north will not fix the congestion to the east (Rogers).
Yes, they are paving all 4 lanes
I mean I was pleasantly surprised when I saw your pics. I was under the impression that this was to be a stupor 2 as well.
Maybe they are just paving where the exit ramps will be?
OK, Mid-southers.
Here are pictures I snapped this afternoon on the second (new Hwy 72 bridge in Gravette to Rocky Dell Hollow bridge west of Bella Vista Highlands) section of the Bella Vista Bypass, future I-49. See if you notice something that looks unusual:
Facing north, new Rocky Dell Hollow Road bridge in distance:
(http://www.brazil.com.bz/images/091014_rocky_n.jpg)
Facing south, same location as above:
(http://www.brazil.com.bz/images/091014_rocky_s.jpg)
Facing north from new (West) Highway 72 bridge between old Gravette and Gravette/Hiwasse:
(http://www.brazil.com.bz/images/091014_72_n.jpg)
Facing south, same location as above:
(http://www.brazil.com.bz/images/091014_72_s.jpg)
The Regional Intermodal Transportation Authority is scheduled to meet with the chairman of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee next month, the second meeting with a high-ranking Washington politician in Fort Smith since August regarding infrastructure-related issues.
According to RITA Executive Director Mat Pitsch, U.S. Rep. Bill Shuster, a Republican from Pennsylvania and chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, was invited to visit Fort Smith and meet with RITA by U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, R-Rogers.
http://www.thecitywire.com/node/34679#.VBG3TvldXUQ
Thanks. Again, as mentioned previously, the likely (up by 9 points on his Democratic opponent) next governor of Arkansas and the brand new Senate Majority Leader (also a Republican) are both from this community (Gravette), within whose school district about 4/5 of the Arkansas-side Bella Vista bypass runs. They can't do anything about Missouri, but I still get a feeling they'll take a keen interest in the progress of I-49. The more of this future Interstate that's built as they assume their new office, the better.Politics on this forum is really frowned upon... FYI
However much of this four-lane is paved, it's still WONDERFUL news.
Thanks. Again, as mentioned previously, the likely (up by 9 points on his Democratic opponent) next governor of Arkansas and the brand new Senate Majority Leader (also a Republican) are both from this community (Gravette), within whose school district about 4/5 of the Arkansas-side Bella Vista bypass runs. They can't do anything about Missouri, but I still get a feeling they'll take a keen interest in the progress of I-49. The more of this future Interstate that's built as they assume their new office, the better.Politics on this forum is really frowned upon... FYI
However much of this four-lane is paved, it's still WONDERFUL news.
Thanks. Again, as mentioned previously, the likely (up by 9 points on his Democratic opponent) next governor of Arkansas and the brand new Senate Majority Leader (also a Republican) are both from this community (Gravette), within whose school district about 4/5 of the Arkansas-side Bella Vista bypass runs. They can't do anything about Missouri, but I still get a feeling they'll take a keen interest in the progress of I-49. The more of this future Interstate that's built as they assume their new office, the better.Politics on this forum is really frowned upon... FYI
However much of this four-lane is paved, it's still WONDERFUL news.
He didn't post a political opinion so it's not really political. Besides, you can't separate roads from politics because most roads are built by the government.
Thanks. Again, as mentioned previously, the likely (up by 9 points on his Democratic opponent) next governor of Arkansas and the brand new Senate Majority Leader (also a Republican) are both from this community (Gravette), within whose school district about 4/5 of the Arkansas-side Bella Vista bypass runs. They can't do anything about Missouri, but I still get a feeling they'll take a keen interest in the progress of I-49. The more of this future Interstate that's built as they assume their new office, the better.Politics on this forum is really frowned upon... FYI
However much of this four-lane is paved, it's still WONDERFUL news.
He didn't post a political opinion so it's not really political. Besides, you can't separate roads from politics because most roads are built by the government.
This. "Highway 43 is likely to be built because it runs by Senator Greene's town" is acceptable. "Senator Greene is wasting government money on pork barrel highway 43 death benghazis because single-payer ISIS gun control abortions are sequestered" is not.
I hope they take their time and put enough pride in their work to do the paving job right instead of making mistakes that will cost more money in the VERY near future to fix broken concrete way before its time.
They got in that kind of hurry in the late 60s/early 70s when they built the "new" US 65 between Little Rock and Pine Bluff. The builders were dragging the concrete pavers over muddy roadbed with bulldozers so they could get the paving job done quicker. Those of us who drove over that road regularly felt the results of that for many years.
(EDIT #2: In a following story also published today, northwest Arkansas also had the most economic growth (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/34725#.VBi10vldXUQ) of any of the top 300+ American metro areas in 2013.)
(EDIT #2: In a following story also published today, northwest Arkansas also had the most economic growth (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/34725#.VBi10vldXUQ) of any of the top 300+ American metro areas in 2013.)
My friend and I were discussing this article yesterday and, if you consider Fort Smith part of "NWA"1, then NWA (the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers MSA + the Fort Smith MSA) is already getting very close to passing up Central Arkansas (Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway MSA + the Pine Bluff MSA) as both the most populous area (761,796 vs. 800,015 respectively, as of 2010 census data) the largest economic driver in the state ($34.2 billion GDP vs. $44.2 billion GDP).
Obviously, NWA still has a bit to go before it surpasses Central Arkansas, but it is slowly getting there.
All this to say... it's clear that the improvements to I-49 are going to be increasingly important in the coming years. :)
- This is debatable, but anecdotally, there was a news story on one of the local TV stations about the groundbreaking of the new osteopathic medical college (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/31809#.VBmLDxYa7eU) in Fort Smith, and the lead was "There's a new medical college coming to NWA..."
(EDIT #2: In a following story also published today, northwest Arkansas also had the most economic growth (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/34725#.VBi10vldXUQ) of any of the top 300+ American metro areas in 2013.)
My friend and I were discussing this article yesterday and, if you consider Fort Smith part of "NWA"1, then NWA (the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers MSA + the Fort Smith MSA) is already getting very close to passing up Central Arkansas (Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway MSA + the Pine Bluff MSA) as both the most populous area (761,796 vs. 800,015 respectively, as of 2010 census data) the largest economic driver in the state ($34.2 billion GDP vs. $44.2 billion GDP).
Obviously, NWA still has a bit to go before it surpasses Central Arkansas, but it is slowly getting there.
All this to say... it's clear that the improvements to I-49 are going to be increasingly important in the coming years. :)
- This is debatable, but anecdotally, there was a news story on one of the local TV stations about the groundbreaking of the new osteopathic medical college (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/31809#.VBmLDxYa7eU) in Fort Smith, and the lead was "There's a new medical college coming to NWA..."
(EDIT #2: In a following story also published today, northwest Arkansas also had the most economic growth (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/34725#.VBi10vldXUQ) of any of the top 300+ American metro areas in 2013.)
My friend and I were discussing this article yesterday and, if you consider Fort Smith part of "NWA"1, then NWA (the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers MSA + the Fort Smith MSA) is already getting very close to passing up Central Arkansas (Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway MSA + the Pine Bluff MSA) as both the most populous area (761,796 vs. 800,015 respectively, as of 2010 census data) the largest economic driver in the state ($34.2 billion GDP vs. $44.2 billion GDP).
Obviously, NWA still has a bit to go before it surpasses Central Arkansas, but it is slowly getting there.
All this to say... it's clear that the improvements to I-49 are going to be increasingly important in the coming years. :)
- This is debatable, but anecdotally, there was a news story on one of the local TV stations about the groundbreaking of the new osteopathic medical college (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/31809#.VBmLDxYa7eU) in Fort Smith, and the lead was "There's a new medical college coming to NWA..."
Fayetteville and Fort Smith are supposed to be separate Metropolitan Survey Areas, but media has blurred the lines. A lot of our local news in Fort Smith comes Fayetteville/NW Arkansas. Part of it is probably because of the University of Arkansas and their athletic teams.
Part of it is probably Wal-Mart/Tyson/ JBHunt: not a day goes by that one of them has an "important" announcement.
It's also interesting to note that our local newspaper, The Southwest Times Record is now being printed in NW Arkansas and trucked to Fort Smith.
There is a new article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/34888#.VCVdZxYa7eU) this morning in The City Wire about some further improvements on I-49, including plans for a new set of interchanges where Fullbright Expressway (Hwy. 71), Highway 112 (Razorback Road/Cato Springs Road), and I-49 come together.
Having just had to navigate this interchange recently, I can say that this can't come soon enough. In order to get from anywhere to the south on Fullbright Expressway to I-49 South, you have to get off Fullbright Expressway onto Highway 112 (which is not signaled, there is only a stop sign), and then get on the I-49 ramp from 112 (again, not signaled). Especially when there is traffic from a UofA event, this is awful.
This is actually on Garland Ave near the Autopark....other side of town :)
Once they start to widen that end, maybe they will.This is actually on Garland Ave near the Autopark....other side of town :)
Hah, oops. Guess I totally mis-read it then. :)
All complaints with the other interchange still apply, though... maybe they need to look at that end of 112, too...
AHTD has released a map (http://arkansashighways.com/public_meetings/2014/BB0414/BB0414_2014.09.25_PIPIHO_Aer.pdf) of proposed improvements to I-49 in the vicinity of AR 112/US 71B on the north end of Fayetteville.
I thought that was the way it operated for the longest time, but -- holy blap! -- I-49 actually is the thru movement northbound, with the Fulbright exiting. There *is* a left entrance southbound, however...
I thought that was the way it operated for the longest time, but -- holy blap! -- I-49 actually is the thru movement northbound, with the Fulbright exiting. There *is* a left entrance southbound, however...This was to be a loop ramp from MD 702 to a proposed extension of the Windlass Freeway to MD 43 in Middle River. This extension was cancelled in 1978.
As for I-695 and MD702, what's with the ghost ramp?
Trammel said the price of progress among the nearly 30 major road projects across Benton and Washington counties is more than $698 million and the work is expected to continue until 2019. Trammel said the orange barrels are a sign “things will get better.” But he added, “it won’t be anytime soon.”
The much-needed widening of the Interstate 49 corridor that links the region together and to the rest of the state and country entails 25 different projects slated through 2017 for a total price tag of $605 million. Trammel said four of those have been completed at a cost of $40 million and there are seven more underway now with at a cost of $110 million. The biggest expense is yet to come, as 14 more future projects carry an estimated price tag of $455 million.
The $605 million being spent along I-49 in the two counties is broken down as follows:
- Bella Vista Bypass: 14.5 miles of new construction which is complete on the Arkansas side at a cost of $150 million.
- The U.S. 412 Bypass: 4.5 miles of new road construction from I-49 in north Springdale toward Northwest Regional Airport back around to Hwy. 412 out near Tontitown. This project is one of the last to begin around 2017 at a cost of $125 million.
- I-49 widening along 26 miles from Fayetteville to North Bentonville. The cost of this work is $200 million with a expected completion date of 2017.
- I-49 interchange work which is ongoing is expected to cost $130 million and take three more years to complete.
Trammel said there are four other large road projects in the region already underway that are not part of the I-49 work, but notable. Those are the Highway 62 Prairie Grove Bypass at $16 million; Highway 62 widening from Avoca to Garfield costing $24 million; Highway 102 through Centerton of which $5 million of work is complete and $15 million more is committed; and the widening of Highway 265 from North Fayetteville through Springdale that has a price tag of $25 million.
The cities along the I-49 corridor have also anted-up millions of their own from the Fayetteville Flyover to Don Tyson Parkway in Springdale to the $53 million 8th Street interchange coming to Bentonville by 2016.
Will I-49 be four or six lanes through the new interchange with the Fulbright Expressway? It looks like it may only be four lanes from that plan.
That's going to be hell during construction :(Will I-49 be four or six lanes through the new interchange with the Fulbright Expressway? It looks like it may only be four lanes from that plan.
Eight
Can you provide anything to verify that? I know that there was a study done by AHTD in the early 2000s. That study recommended 4 lanes in each direction for most of I-49 in NWA, but AHTD seems to ignore that.Will I-49 be four or six lanes through the new interchange with the Fulbright Expressway? It looks like it may only be four lanes from that plan.
Eight
The bridge at Rocky Dell Hollow Road (the final Arkansas exit heading northbound on future I-49/BV bypass) is cement covered at the top now, though at mid-week there was only chat on either side of the bridge. Talked with a man on the construction team who said the concrete spreader for the section from Rocky Dell Hollow to the new west side of former Hiwasse Arkansas 72 bridge (northern terminus of the first section of the BV Bypass opened earlier this year) starts spreading concrete tomorrow. Snapped some pictures and I'll try to upload them when possible.Good to hear. It's just so sad that this very needed bypass took this long, and it's only a 2 laner. I just don't get it, especially when I look at what other road projects have gone ahead in AR...
The bridge at Rocky Dell Hollow Road (the final Arkansas exit heading northbound on future I-49/BV bypass) is cement covered at the top now, though at mid-week there was only chat on either side of the bridge. Talked with a man on the construction team who said the concrete spreader for the section from Rocky Dell Hollow to the new west side of former Hiwasse Arkansas 72 bridge (northern terminus of the first section of the BV Bypass opened earlier this year) starts spreading concrete tomorrow. Snapped some pictures and I'll try to upload them when possible.Good to hear. It's just so sad that this very needed bypass took this long, and it's only a 2 laner. I just don't get it, especially when I look at what other road projects have gone ahead in AR...
They shut down a lane on I-49 today and Saturday... It backed up traffic northbound for miles... Monroe Ave in Lowell to Sunset Ave in Springdale, over 6 miles. I have never seen traffic backed up that bad... It was just miles upon miles of cars piled up.
Who's running the show here? Why wasn't this done at night? AHTD?
http://www.4029tv.com/news/highway-department-believes-weekend-went-well-despite-traffic-delays/28980828They shut down a lane on I-49 today and Saturday... It backed up traffic northbound for miles... Monroe Ave in Lowell to Sunset Ave in Springdale, over 6 miles. I have never seen traffic backed up that bad... It was just miles upon miles of cars piled up.
Who's running the show here? Why wasn't this done at night? AHTD?
I know the electric company was hanging new lines recently and had to restrict lanes. Could this have been it?
OK, I missed that memo ;)http://www.4029tv.com/news/highway-department-believes-weekend-went-well-despite-traffic-delays/28980828They shut down a lane on I-49 today and Saturday... It backed up traffic northbound for miles... Monroe Ave in Lowell to Sunset Ave in Springdale, over 6 miles. I have never seen traffic backed up that bad... It was just miles upon miles of cars piled up.
Who's running the show here? Why wasn't this done at night? AHTD?
I know the electric company was hanging new lines recently and had to restrict lanes. Could this have been it?
The news story speaks for itself. I sat in that for 45 minutes. Fix NWA!
"I have pleaded with him, given the opportunities I see in my own district, I've pleaded with him to come down to the district and see it first hand," Womack said, adding that the process of getting the Pennsylvania Republican to Arkansas began with a series of presentations in Washington highlighting the local infrastructure needs.
Shuster's visit not only gives Womack and local and state officials the opportunity to highlight the infrastructure needs including dredging the Arkansas River to 12 feet, but it gives Shuster an opportunity to see first hand the ongoing work to make Arkansas stand out as a state that is investing more local money in federal projects, such as completing Interstate 49 and highway rehabilitation across the state.
Womack said he and Shuster started the day in Benton County with a flyover of the Bella Vista Bypass that will eventually reroute traffic away from the city and through rural Benton County and McDonald County in Missouri. A vote for an increase in taxes to fund Missouri's portion of the project and several other statewide projects failed to win approval earlier this year, putting into question when the project could be completed.
After meeting with stakeholders in Northwest Arkansas, Womack brought Shuster to the Fort Smith area, where the two were presented with information on infrastructure needs along the Arkansas River, such as the dredging, but also discussed in detail additional I-49 construction. Shuster said he was impressed with the intermodal opportunities he saw in region, noting that highway, water and rail were "the fundamentals for growing an economy and you have all that right here in Fort Smith."
He said the knowledge of the region he gained through Monday's trip would be beneficial when returning to Washington to work on a "surface transportation bill.”
"This will be something that we look at and try to focus those dollars really on the major corridors in this country that move freight, that move people, and I-49 is one of those corridors. So (I will be) working with Steve (Womack) in Washington on the next surface bill, making sure we're focusing those dollars to go to places that you see right here, this roadway, that need to be completed from Canada down to Louisiana.”
The surface transportation bill Shuster discussed would likely be a five to six-year bill to appropriate funds for as many as 40 different transportation corridors across the nation, of which I-49 would likely be included, he said.
Quote"I have pleaded with him, given the opportunities I see in my own district, I've pleaded with him to come down to the district and see it first hand," Womack said, adding that the process of getting the Pennsylvania Republican to Arkansas began with a series of presentations in Washington highlighting the local infrastructure needs ....http://www.thecitywire.com/node/35008#.VDQWkPldXUR
[Shuster] said the knowledge of the region he gained through Monday's trip would be beneficial when returning to Washington to work on a "surface transportation bill.”
"This will be something that we look at and try to focus those dollars really on the major corridors in this country that move freight, that move people, and I-49 is one of those corridors. So (I will be) working with Steve (Womack) in Washington on the next surface bill, making sure we're focusing those dollars to go to places that you see right here, this roadway, that need to be completed from Canada down to Louisiana.”
The surface transportation bill Shuster discussed would likely be a five to six-year bill to appropriate funds for as many as 40 different transportation corridors across the nation, of which I-49 would likely be included, he said.
“A lot of states including Arkansas have been saying ”˜We don’t have time to wait for this, so we’re going to put up 60 or 65 percent and take a 40 percent piece from the federal government and move forward,’” Shuster said. “I think we ought to be rewarding states that are doing that and get those projects moving quicker.”
Womack and Shuster said their goal is to get a five- to six-year Highway Trust Fund bill passed next year to create some “certainty” for large ongoing projects like a 13-mile stretch of Interstate 49 and a bridge across the Arkansas River at Alma, which have a combined estimate of $550 million. The longer it is put off, the more it will cost, Womack added.
“We have to figure out the funding, and there are a number of different options on the table, and that will determine the five- to six-year bill,” Shuster said. “Once we do that, states can say ”˜OK there’s X amount of dollars in that trust fund, now let’s start allocating.’”
Have they done any work or preparation at all for the future section of I-49 between Texarkana and Fort Smith in Arkansas? I personally haven't thought that there's a lot of activity going on with that section at this point in time.
Nothing on the ground
AHTD posted links to relevant FEIS documents here:
https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg279459#msg279459
AHTD has also posted information about I-49 logs and exit numbers in this post:
https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg293262#msg293262
... which served as a basis for a thread about the exit numbers:
https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=13010.0
... The current gross estimate for completing everything is $2.8 Billion .... Currently we are estimating 24 months for the U.S. Highway 70 (Broadway) bridge over the Arkansas River at Little Rock to be out of service while the old structure is demolished and the new one constructed. That is an estimate based on a fast-track schedule. A bridge over the Arkansas and Red Rivers on new location is not likely to be fast-tracked .... So how would this all play out if the money were available? While nothing is written in stone, it’s reasonable to assume that as money does come available, we would start by constructing bypasses around several of the communities along the route — Mena, DeQueen, Waldron, etc. Then as more money becomes available, we would begin to link those bypasses. Eventually we would have a highway.
Are they retarded? A roundabout on a mainline interstate?
And where does the bypass go for now? Suburban nowhere.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=He-qx16srSM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=He-qx16srSM) YouTube - 40/29 News To Go for October 25th
First of all, Highway (Arkansas) 102 only exists west of I-49. East of I-49, it is US 62. Was there a AR 102 designation east of I-49?
With that out of that way, did AHTD combine jobs? The Pinnacle Hills exit to the US 62/AR 102 is enough to give any regular commuter hell.
Some people living in Bentonville say they are hearing explosions. That’s because the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department is rock blasting in the area as part of the construction on the Bella Vista Bypass.
Adam Jenkins, project manager at Kolb Grading, said construction crews are working on a 6.36-mile section of the bypass. Jenkins, whose company is under contract with the state, said crews are constructing a two-lane roadway between U.S. 71B in Bella Vista and Arkansas 72 southeast of Hiwasse.
“This whole six\-mile section and the other two sections through Hiwasse and Gravette will eventually get two extra lanes on the north side of them for the entire stretch,” he said.
Jenkins said in order to finish this section of the bypass crews need to take down part of a hill next to Interstate 49 to level the landscape, and they are doing that by blasting it.
“We are quite a ways higher at this point, and that road has to follow a gentle slope for all of the vehicles and traffic,” he said. “It has to fall quite a few feet in elevation to get down to the level of Walton Boulevard.”
The rock blasting is happening on the west side of McKissic Creek Road in Benton County. Crews said the blasting will continue through the end of this year.
If you enjoy images of rock blasting explosions, then this TV video (http://5newsonline.com/2014/10/28/explosions-clear-way-for-bella-vista-bypass/) about construction of the Bella Vista Bypass should be entertaining:I've not been around for the blasting, but I've seen where the road is going through.QuoteSome people living in Bentonville say they are hearing explosions. That’s because the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department is rock blasting in the area as part of the construction on the Bella Vista Bypass.
Adam Jenkins, project manager at Kolb Grading, said construction crews are working on a 6.36-mile section of the bypass. Jenkins, whose company is under contract with the state, said crews are constructing a two-lane roadway between U.S. 71B in Bella Vista and Arkansas 72 southeast of Hiwasse.
“This whole six\-mile section and the other two sections through Hiwasse and Gravette will eventually get two extra lanes on the north side of them for the entire stretch,” he said.
Jenkins said in order to finish this section of the bypass crews need to take down part of a hill next to Interstate 49 to level the landscape, and they are doing that by blasting it.
“We are quite a ways higher at this point, and that road has to follow a gentle slope for all of the vehicles and traffic,” he said. “It has to fall quite a few feet in elevation to get down to the level of Walton Boulevard.”
The rock blasting is happening on the west side of McKissic Creek Road in Benton County. Crews said the blasting will continue through the end of this year.
I remember when they were building 49 and hearing all of the blasts while at school
I remember when they were building 49 and hearing all of the blasts while at school
I think it would have been interesting to see the Bobby Hopper Tunnel being built.
So it'll be anybody's guess as to when the missing link (from Fort Smith to Texarkana) will be completed. But it's good to see the sections to the north and south of it complete and ready to drive.All the politicians are running around saying "we need to finish I-49", but I've yet to any of them actually propose anything.
So it'll be anybody's guess as to when the missing link (from Fort Smith to Texarkana) will be completed. But it's good to see the sections to the north and south of it complete and ready to drive.All the politicians are running around saying "we need to finish I-49", but I've yet to any of them actually propose anything.
Probably because that would cost more votes than it would gain
Probably because that would cost more votes than it would gain
While that may be true, I don't know if Arkansas voters would be willing to have another tax hike to support building I-49.
Probably because that would cost more votes than it would gain
While that may be true, I don't know if Arkansas voters would be willing to have another tax hike to support building I-49.
Probably because that would cost more votes than it would gain
While that may be true, I don't know if Arkansas voters would be willing to have another tax hike to support building I-49.
It's horse manure, they can drive the old US71 if they choose to not pay up. Every person I know would gladly give 5 bucks each way for a interstate from FSM to Texarkana. Just like no one batches about paying 2.50 each way to Tulsa. It's folks that would likely never travel or rarely use it that does the griping along with the constantly whining trucking industry that gives us the governed truck passing another governed truck clusters on I-40.$5? Triple or quadruple that and you might be a little closer to what it would actually cost. 180 miles of new construction through some pretty rough terrain isn't going to happen at 2.78 cents per mile.
Probably because that would cost more votes than it would gain
While that may be true, I don't know if Arkansas voters would be willing to have another tax hike to support building I-49.
It's horse manure, they can drive the old US71 if they choose to not pay up. Every person I know would gladly give 5 bucks each way for a interstate from FSM to Texarkana. Just like no one batches about paying 2.50 each way to Tulsa. It's folks that would likely never travel or rarely use it that does the griping along with the constantly whining trucking industry that gives us the governed truck passing another governed truck clusters on I-40.
I remember when they were building 49 and hearing all of the blasts while at school
I think it would have been interesting to see the Bobby Hopper Tunnel being built.
I think they did a story since it was the first tunnel built in Arkansas.
Probably because that would cost more votes than it would gain
While that may be true, I don't know if Arkansas voters would be willing to have another tax hike to support building I-49.
It's horse manure, they can drive the old US71 if they choose to not pay up. Every person I know would gladly give 5 bucks each way for a interstate from FSM to Texarkana. Just like no one batches about paying 2.50 each way to Tulsa. It's folks that would likely never travel or rarely use it that does the griping along with the constantly whining trucking industry that gives us the governed truck passing another governed truck clusters on I-40.
BUT, Arkansas Highway Law would have to be rewritten: Toll Roads are verboten (as are Red Light Cameras)
Asa Hutchinson (R), like the incoming State Senate Majority leader Kim Hendren a native of Gravette, AR where 3/4 of the future Bella Vista Bypass (Arkansas-side) runs, has won election tonight. Can't be bad news for future I-49, though we don't know how good it will be yet.I'm curious what his plan is, if he has one. During the campaign, he would talk about in vague terms without saying what he wanted to do. I have suspicions, but will keep my political opinion out of this.
Um, yeah it can be
I don't see Asa supporting any sort of spending large enough to progress I-49. Hell he was probably against the CAP programAsa talks about lower taxes, but 49 almost needs a bond issue, unless you raise gas taxes again like Huckabee did
Just because he is not against it doesn't mean he is a boon for I-49 just because he is from NWA
I don't see Asa supporting any sort of spending large enough to progress I-49. Hell he was probably against the CAP programAsa talks about lower taxes, but 49 almost needs a bond issue, unless you raise gas taxes again like Huckabee did
Just because he is not against it doesn't mean he is a boon for I-49 just because he is from NWA
Apologies if this question was already asked but...when the Texas portion of I-49 is constructed, will the exit numbering continue from the Arkansas sequence?
Any news on the Fort Smith sectionWell, there's one small piece on the former Fort Chaffee that's completed and open to traffic, at least according to the latest Rand McNally atlas. To get a better idea of what the entire route will look like, I refer you to the text listing on Froggie's website (http://www.ajfroggie.com/roads/fictional/future/i49la-ar-exits.htm).
Any news on the Fort Smith sectionWell, there's one small piece on the former Fort Chaffee that's completed and open to traffic, at least according to the latest Rand McNally atlas. To get a better idea of what the entire route will look like, I refer you to the text listing on Froggie's website (http://www.ajfroggie.com/roads/fictional/future/i49la-ar-exits.htm).
Any news on the Fort Smith section
Any news on the Fort Smith sectionWell, there's one small piece on the former Fort Chaffee that's completed and open to traffic, at least according to the latest Rand McNally atlas. To get a better idea of what the entire route will look like, I refer you to the text listing on Froggie's website (http://www.ajfroggie.com/roads/fictional/future/i49la-ar-exits.htm).
I don't think it's open, yet. Most of the exits, they haven't been started paving yet, and I don't think any of the sections have had lines painted (unless they've made extremely good progress since I passed by a week or so ago).
It's official (http://www.arkansasmatters.com/story/d/story/i-49-opens-between-texarkana-and-shreveport/31221/Y-h5RW7NakuvnzKpuYRNwg) : I-49 is now open at the AR/LA State Line.
It's official (http://www.arkansasmatters.com/story/d/story/i-49-opens-between-texarkana-and-shreveport/31221/Y-h5RW7NakuvnzKpuYRNwg) : I-49 is now open at the AR/LA State Line.
What in the world is up with the stripe that seems to end at the state line (Louisiana's, I believe) in that photograph? :confused:
It's official (http://www.arkansasmatters.com/story/d/story/i-49-opens-between-texarkana-and-shreveport/31221/Y-h5RW7NakuvnzKpuYRNwg) : I-49 is now open at the AR/LA State Line.
What in the world is up with the stripe that seems to end at the state line (Louisiana's, I believe) in that photograph? :confused:
It's official (http://www.arkansasmatters.com/story/d/story/i-49-opens-between-texarkana-and-shreveport/31221/Y-h5RW7NakuvnzKpuYRNwg) : I-49 is now open at the AR/LA State Line.
What in the world is up with the stripe that seems to end at the state line (Louisiana's, I believe) in that photograph? :confused:
I know that...but isn't it supposed to continue across the state lines instead of just ending in Arkansas?
BTW, I think this is an open Facebook page for the city of Doddridge, AR. A FB friend posted a picture and I surmised it was from this album, so here are some other pics from the site: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.795828830476665.1073741861.284528544940032&type=1
It's a standard lane separator?
Meanwhile..... someone has goofed up by re-labeling the I-540 section in Fort Smith as I-49 on Google Maps ( http://goo.gl/maps/uUo42 ).
It's official (http://www.arkansasmatters.com/story/d/story/i-49-opens-between-texarkana-and-shreveport/31221/Y-h5RW7NakuvnzKpuYRNwg) : I-49 is now open at the AR/LA State Line.
What in the world is up with the stripe that seems to end at the state line (Louisiana's, I believe) in that photograph? :confused:
It's a standard lane separator?
I know that...but isn't it supposed to continue across the state lines instead of just ending in Arkansas?Ever hear of a dashed line?
in this post (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg271196#msg271196), AHTD described how the remainder of I-49 in Arkansas might play out:While nothing is written in stone, it’s reasonable to assume that as money does come available, we would start by constructing bypasses around several of the communities along the route — Mena, DeQueen, Waldron, etc.
Curt Green, president of the I-49 International Coalition ....
said Mena, Ark., now stands right in the middle of the 150-mile stretch of I-49 still left to be completed (which would connect Texarkana to Fort Smith).
“Right now I-49 is about 80 to 85 percent complete and right now Mena is putting up more money per capital the any other Arkansas city to see that I-49 comes through.”
City wire article on the roundabout at Bella Vista/Bentonville (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/35238#.VErOhfnF_UQ).
Danny Straessel may have the hardest job in Arkansas. Explaining the bonehead AHTD decisions to the general boneheaded public
There's no way that thing is going to fly as a permanent connection once the Belle Vista Bypass is 4-laned, fully built out to Interstate standards and intended to be marked as I-49. That kind of "Breezewood" might prevent the bypass from being called I-49 unless the roundabout is replaced with a different, proper interchange or bypassed by thru traffic via flyover ramps built over the roundabout.
Google Maps has updated I-49, now waiting for the updated satellite maps. It still looks so beautiful to see I-49 as one continuous stretch from Texarkana to Shreveport.You're welcome. Now just trying to get that ugly 549 off the map...
http://goo.gl/maps/9G0nC
Meanwhile..... someone has goofed up by re-labeling the I-540 section in Fort Smith as I-49 on Google Maps ( http://goo.gl/maps/uUo42 ).The person changed it on 11/3. He gave this to justify the change: http://5newsonline.com/2014/04/20/signs-go-up-this-week-for-official-name-change-of-interstate-540/
Now just trying to get that ugly 549 off the map...
The Arkansas Highway Department got approval by the Federal Government Wednesday (April 16) to rename the route from Interstate 40 near Alma, to the U.S. Highway 71B Interchange south of Bella Vista.
Meanwhile..... someone has goofed up by re-labeling the I-540 section in Fort Smith as I-49 on Google Maps ( http://goo.gl/maps/uUo42 ).The person changed it on 11/3. He gave this to justify the change: http://5newsonline.com/2014/04/20/signs-go-up-this-week-for-official-name-change-of-interstate-540/Now just trying to get that ugly 549 off the map...
While you are trying to get rid of that 549, please try and get rid of the 49 and return the 540 to Fort Smith. The article cited to justify the change of I-540 to I-49 in the Fort Smith area clearly states that the change only went into effect from Alma northward to the Bella Vista area:QuoteThe Arkansas Highway Department got approval by the Federal Government Wednesday (April 16) to rename the route from Interstate 40 near Alma, to the U.S. Highway 71B Interchange south of Bella Vista.
Aside from reality, the change back to I-540 would be consistent with the article.
While you are trying to get rid of that 549, please try and get rid of the 49 and return the 540 to Fort Smith. The article cited to justify the change of I-540 to I-49 in the Fort Smith area clearly states that the change only went into effect from Alma northward to the Bella Vista area:The US 271 portion has had I-49 removed, but the change back to I-540 between I-40 and US 271 is still pending.QuoteThe Arkansas Highway Department got approval by the Federal Government Wednesday (April 16) to rename the route from Interstate 40 near Alma, to the U.S. Highway 71B Interchange south of Bella Vista.
Aside from reality, the change back to I-540 would be consistent with the article.
I-540 ends at the Oklahoma line but is unsigned west of US 271.Even though there's an end sign at 271?
Since when is there an end sign at US 271?
The next big piece for Chaffee Crossing has been a bit of a tantalizing tease: the completion of the Interstate 49 link, a 6.5-mile stretch that will connect state Highway 59 in Van Buren with U.S. Highway 71 in southeast Fort Smith. The link was scheduled to be completed by the end of this year but is now expected to be finished in early 2015.
FCRA officials traveled last week to south Arkansas to see the opening of the interstate at the Arkansas-Louisiana border. The completed interstate will eventually connect Canada with New Orleans, and Fort Smith’s profile should only increase with its location at the intersection of I-49 and I-40.
Owen said the stretch of interstate will send 35,000 cars daily through Chaffee Crossing, where there will be three exits. Cooper said almost all of those interchanges have long been scooped up by investors.
“It’s going to mean accessibility, visibility, traffic,” Owen said.
Cool beans! Now Arkansas needs to dig their heels in and get 'er done to Ft. Smith. C'mon lets go!
Cool beans! Now Arkansas needs to dig their heels in and get 'er done to Ft. Smith. C'mon lets go!
Very true.Cool beans! Now Arkansas needs to dig their heels in and get 'er done to Ft. Smith. C'mon lets go!
First, they have to find the money.
What are they going to do with the exit 98 on US 71 when the renumbering on I 49 north happens?
What are they going to do with the exit 98 on US 71 when the renumbering on I 49 north happens?
You mean AR 340? It should never have been given an exit number, IMO. Hopefully, it will be un-numbered
What are they going to do with the exit 98 on US 71 when the renumbering on I 49 north happens?
You mean AR 340? It should never have been given an exit number, IMO. Hopefully, it will be un-numbered
Indeed, it should be un-numbered since I-49 will not be using US 71's route through Bella Vista, but it'll be bypassing it. Speaking of the section of I-49 that will be bypassing Bella Vista, anybody have any updates on it? Looking at Google Maps I can tell there's already a short smidget of freeway numbered as AR SR. 549 at Hiwasse.
Very true.Cool beans! Now Arkansas needs to dig their heels in and get 'er done to Ft. Smith. C'mon lets go!
First, they have to find the money.
Very true.Cool beans! Now Arkansas needs to dig their heels in and get 'er done to Ft. Smith. C'mon lets go!
First, they have to find the money.
Dariusb, here's the big difference now:
Back in the 80s, 90s, maybe even the very early 2000s, it was foolish to dream of a completed I-49. (Or whatever the interstate would have been numbered.)
Now, with all that's happened and/or happening, it's ever-more-foolish NOT to dream of it.
Very true.Cool beans! Now Arkansas needs to dig their heels in and get 'er done to Ft. Smith. C'mon lets go!
First, they have to find the money.
Dariusb, here's the big difference now:
Back in the 80s, 90s, maybe even the very early 2000s, it was foolish to dream of a completed I-49. (Or whatever the interstate would have been numbered.)
Now, with all that's happened and/or happening, it's ever-more-foolish NOT to dream of it.
In the 80's, it was a "new and improved" US 71. Fayetteville to Bella Vista was built as a new 71. Alma to Fayetteville was proposed as a new 71. South of there, there had been rumblings of improving 71, but nothing much was done.
Yet in the 80s, FSM/NWA didn't have 802,000+ people between them, plus a few of the world's largest corporations to boot...
The Greenwood side of I 49 is starting to take shape. Northbound on ramp has the travel lane paved and the traffic lights have been installed. I would say by spring the road should be open to traffic.Sign posts up yet? They were drilling post holes the week before Thanksgiving? Guess I need to pop down there to look. Barling ramps look paved, but no shoulders yet as of a week ago.
What are they going to do with hwy 70 east of Hot Springs?http://connectingarkansasprogram.com/corridors/12/highway-70-garland-saline-county/#.VJIwlYfnRcY
What are they going to do with hwy 70 east of Hot Springs?http://connectingarkansasprogram.com/corridors/12/highway-70-garland-saline-county/#.VJIwlYfnRcY
What are they going to do with hwy 70 east of Hot Springs?http://connectingarkansasprogram.com/corridors/12/highway-70-garland-saline-county/#.VJIwlYfnRcY
That doesn't really give much information. Is it going to be a divided highway or an "Arkansas freeway"? Are they going to straighten it out? If it ends up being undivided it will still be dangerous because of all the curves.
Speaking of that area, they need to extend AR 9 to Malvern to hook up with the southern portion. There's no good way to go from EB I-30 to NB AR 9 and vice versa without backtracking. It's a huge missing link in the state highway system.
I'm not sure whether AHTD has confidence that MoDOT will be able to build their section of the Bella Vista Bypass in a few years or whether AHTD simply must honor its Connecting Arkansas Program commitment to Arkansas voters, but nevertheless a slide from the December 17 presentation to the Arkansas State Highway Commission (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2014/121714_Commission%20Meeting.pdf) indicates that the final section of the BVB to the state line and the US 71 major interchange to replace the roundabout are scheduled for construction during the 2017-19 time period (page 28/38 of pdf):
(http://i.imgur.com/tQQTn2u.png)
That article indicates that the first part of the US 412 bypass will be opened from I-49 to AR 112. That is probably why the signage plans have "TBD" in a US shield instead of "412".
Yes, and that is part of the project: to build to where the XNA access road will be built.That article indicates that the first part of the US 412 bypass will be opened from I-49 to AR 112. That is probably why the signage plans have "TBD" in a US shield instead of "412".
I'm guessing there's a route map for this somewhere? The article said it would be four miles long, but the distance from the I-49 exit at Wagon Wheel to AR 112 is 2 miles. 4 miles would take this new road to about the south entrance to the XNA airport.
I'm not sure whether AHTD has confidence that MoDOT will be able to build their section of the Bella Vista Bypass in a few years or whether AHTD simply must honor its Connecting Arkansas Program commitment to Arkansas voters, but nevertheless a slide from the December 17 presentation to the Arkansas State Highway Commission (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2014/121714_Commission%20Meeting.pdf) indicates that the final section of the BVB to the state line and the US 71 major interchange to replace the roundabout are scheduled for construction during the 2017-19 time period (page 28/38 of pdf)
This editorial (http://swtimes.com/opinion/how-we-see-it/editorial-i-49-builds-bridge-future) mentions that former state Rep. Ed Thicksten will head up the "I-49 Build the Bridge" campaign and that he apparently has a track record of success in obtaining funding for major highway projectsThis article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/33618#.U6tab5RdWSo) includes some photos from today's I-49 dedication in Alma, including one of a "Build the Bridge" banner:
(http://i.imgur.com/OL8Fz7h.jpg)
.... the Western Arkansas Regional Intermodal Transportation Authority .... Sebastian County Judge David Hudson ....
Meeting at the Riverpark Events Building in Fort Smith Wednesday, the regional transportation organization made up of local elected officials and private business leaders also agreed to keep “shining a light” on the need for state and federal assistant [sic? - "assistance"?] with an Arkansas River bridge for Interstate 49 to tie in the 13-mile Fort Smith section of the continental highway.
“Nothing is going to happen until Congress comes up with a multi-year highway bill,” Hudson pointed out.
RITA, however, met one of its main goals last year by hiring consultants to orchestrate a visit from U.S. Rep. Bill Shuster of Pennsylvania, chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, with U.S. Rep. Steve Womack-R, Rogers to tour I-49 construction in Fort Smith.
Any news on the Fort Smith sectionIDriveArkansas (http://www.idrivearkansas.com/) is still estimating an early 2015 completion date (it will be designated upon completion as Future I-49 and I think as AR 549 instead of US 71):
(http://i.imgur.com/w1qh722.jpg)
I just saw an exit list for the missing link on a Wikipedia page for I-49 in AR (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interstate_49_(Arkansas)), and noticed that most of the route traces the existing one for US 71. Does anyone have a map of the more defined alignment between Texarkana and Fort Smith, including the Fort Chaffee section?
In AHTD's January 7, 2015 presentation to the Asphalt Pavement Association (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2015/010715_SEB_AsphaltPavers.pdf), a Connecting Arkansas Program slide has the final section of the BVB to the state line and the US 71 major interchange to replace the roundabout scheduled for 2015 (page 8/18 of pdf) ....
Assuming this information is accurate, does this mean that AHTD has scratched the interim roundabout project? Also, has MoDOT given AHTD positive signals about a "go" on their side of the state line?
Actually those should have been listed as TBD. Originally scheduled for 2014, we have “rolled over” these projects to 2015 and will continue to do so until Missouri is able to meet us at the state line.
So technically right now they are scheduled for 2015, but no letting date has been set.
http://www.4029tv.com/news/multiplevehicle-crash-backs-up-interstate-49-in-rogers/30711474Money?
Another death on I-49 in Northwest Arkansas. Why does AHTD refuse to put roadway lighting in? This may have prevented this, and helped emergency responders.
http://www.4029tv.com/news/multiplevehicle-crash-backs-up-interstate-49-in-rogers/30711474Money?
Another death on I-49 in Northwest Arkansas. Why does AHTD refuse to put roadway lighting in? This may have prevented this, and helped emergency responders.
Holy shit. Some Wikipediot copied the major intersections from US 71 into the I-49 exit list.
No need; I noticed it while I was doing an overhaul.Holy shit. Some Wikipediot copied the major intersections from US 71 into the I-49 exit list.
Not the sharpest knife in the drawer, is he? I see several things that are messed-up, but I don't have the time to update or change things
Just checked out GSV for Ft Smith, it shows the Ft Chaffee Crossing complete and open. Is that correct?Link? The street view I'm seeing is from April-May 2014, with it still under construction.
Just checked out GSV for Ft Smith, it shows the Ft Chaffee Crossing complete and open. Is that correct?Link? The street view I'm seeing is from April-May 2014, with it still under construction.
In his January 28 presentation to the Arkansas State Highway Commission (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2015/012815_Commission%20Meeting%20Powerpoint.pdf), AHTD Director Scott Bennett included four photos of recent Bella Vista Bypass construction (pages 42-45/59 of pdf). Here is a snip of one of the photos:LOL... Yeah, we get a single-lane construction of a future Interstate. Not to mention that this will cost more in the end to construct it to a full Interstate. And now AHTD wants to widen I-630 in Little Rock. Not needed... Little Rock has other traffic issues. I'm sorry, but Dick Trammel has done nothing for NWA.
(http://i.imgur.com/b9vimTD.jpg)
In his January 28 presentation to the Arkansas State Highway Commission (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2015/012815_Commission%20Meeting%20Powerpoint.pdf), AHTD Director Scott Bennett included four photos of recent Bella Vista Bypass construction (pages 42-45/59 of pdf). Here is a snip of one of the photos:LOL... Yeah, we get a single-lane construction of a future Interstate. Not to mention that this will cost more in the end to construct it to a full Interstate. And now AHTD wants to widen I-630 in Little Rock. Not needed... Little Rock has other traffic issues. I'm sorry, but Dick Trammel has done nothing for NWA.
(http://i.imgur.com/b9vimTD.jpg)
Which "overland shipping lanes" will it open? Kansas City to Houston, Lerado[sic], and the Rio Grande Valley? There's this road called I-35, as well as US 69 in Oklahoma. Kansas City to New Orleans? Going via Springfield and Jonesboro is shorter.
Which "overland shipping lanes" will it open? Kansas City to Houston, Lerado[sic], and the Rio Grande Valley? There's this road called I-35, as well as US 69 in Oklahoma. Kansas City to New Orleans? Going via Springfield and Jonesboro is shorter.
Not bad. As far as Kansas City to Memphis, are you talking I-49 to I-44 to Springfield, then Jonesboro? Even when they finally make the Payneway area interstate-quality that's a LOT of at-grade crossings on that route. Right now, U.S. 71 to Texarkana to 59 (Houston) to the LRGV is slightly longer, but my guess is some of that mileage may go away when the I-49 corridor is finally complete. Plus, drivers from KC to Houston will go from three major metro areas of traffic congestion (Wichita, OKC, D/FW) to two (NWA/FSM, then Shreveport/Texarkana)...if they're going from Kansas City (via D/FW) to the lower Rio Grande Valley they'll also lose the Austin/San Antonio part of the drive when going I-49/I-69, so that's two more 1,000,000+ person metro areas bypassed right there. In fact, KC to Brownsville/McAllen/Laredo drivers will go from driving through four million-plus metro areas to two (Houston and NWA/FSM) on the new route.
Seems to me that along will mean there will be a lot of incentive to use this future route.
At-grade intersections are fine. And the correct comparison is upgrading what's already a four-lane expressway vs. building a whole new I-49 in Arkansas.
At-grade intersections are fine. And the correct comparison is upgrading what's already a four-lane expressway vs. building a whole new I-49 in Arkansas.
With minor roads they are.At-grade intersections are fine. And the correct comparison is upgrading what's already a four-lane expressway vs. building a whole new I-49 in Arkansas.
Not at 50+ MPH they're not.
Except that most of US 71 in Arkansas is still 2 lanes, and goes through some of the roughest terrain in Arkansas.That's my point, dude. It's a lot easier to upgrade Kansas City-Memphis (if necessary) than build a whole new Fort Smith-Texarkana.
I-49 makes enough sense on its own when you look at how it will benefit NWA. This is quickly becoming a major metro area and high-quality links to Shreveport and Joplin will benefit it and the cities it connects to. Especially when you look at the sorts of industry based in NWA: shipping, food processing, retail. These industries benefit from links to high-quality transportation systems.
No need to justify it further, really.
Except upgrading that expressway does fuckall for either Texarkana or Ft Smith.With minor roads they are.At-grade intersections are fine. And the correct comparison is upgrading what's already a four-lane expressway vs. building a whole new I-49 in Arkansas.
Not at 50+ MPH they're not.Except that most of US 71 in Arkansas is still 2 lanes, and goes through some of the roughest terrain in Arkansas.That's my point, dude. It's a lot easier to upgrade Kansas City-Memphis (if necessary) than build a whole new Fort Smith-Texarkana.
I did a research paper 7 years ago for a Transportation/Logistics class that I had at the Univ. of Arkansas in how building Interstate 49 would benefit the Walmart, JB Hunt and Tyson Corporations and my teacher (Don Betchel) thought I was crazy...I mentioned that Upgrades were going to be needed to I-540 (Making it 8 lanes through from Fayetteville-Rogers with interstate lighting) to make it work, especially for Razorback game-day traffic. Not to mention those small towns from Ft Smith to Texarkana would benefit from having truck stops. It would boost their local revenues
Where are the extra lanes going to go? no room to the inside and large retaining walls to the outsideBlow up the hillside like they did with Big Rock?
Interesting fact that I recently relearned: US 71's original route followed 72 and 59 through Hiwasse and Gravette.
1/2 cent sales tax accelerated many projects in Ark that were sitting on a shelf waiting for money
I did a research paper 7 years ago for a Transportation/Logistics class that I had at the Univ. of Arkansas in how building Interstate 49 would benefit the Walmart, JB Hunt and Tyson Corporations and my teacher (Don Betchel) thought I was crazy...I mentioned that Upgrades were going to be needed to I-540 (Making it 8 lanes through from Fayetteville-Rogers with interstate lighting) to make it work, especially for Razorback game-day traffic. Not to mention those small towns from Ft Smith to Texarkana would benefit from having truck stops. It would boost their local revenues
https://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/statewide_planning/Studies/1-11-105%20I-540%20Improvement%20Study.pdf
That's the Improvement Study from 2006. And you were totally right.
I'm trying to get AHTD to change their roadway lighting policy, because it is antiquated and puts public safety at risk!
I did a research paper 7 years ago for a Transportation/Logistics class that I had at the Univ. of Arkansas in how building Interstate 49 would benefit the Walmart, JB Hunt and Tyson Corporations and my teacher (Don Betchel) thought I was crazy...I mentioned that Upgrades were going to be needed to I-540 (Making it 8 lanes through from Fayetteville-Rogers with interstate lighting) to make it work, especially for Razorback game-day traffic. Not to mention those small towns from Ft Smith to Texarkana would benefit from having truck stops. It would boost their local revenues
https://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/statewide_planning/Studies/1-11-105%20I-540%20Improvement%20Study.pdf
That's the Improvement Study from 2006. And you were totally right.
I'm trying to get AHTD to change their roadway lighting policy, because it is antiquated and puts public safety at risk!
The city of Conway seems to be taking advantage of our lighting policy:
http://thecabin.net/news/local/2015-02-05/replacing-i-40-lights-led-18m-project#.VNT6VmB0zDc
I-40 from Conway to North Little Rock is in the process of being widened from two lanes to three. Most of this work has been completed and is open to traffic in the Conway area.
Similarly, we are in the process of widening I-49 in Northwest Arkansas to three lanes. Perhaps communities up and down that corridor will follow Conway's lead...
I-40 from Conway to North Little Rock is in the process of being widened from two lanes to three. Most of this work has been completed and is open to traffic in the Conway area.
Similarly, we are in the process of widening I-49 in Northwest Arkansas to three lanes. Perhaps communities up and down that corridor will follow Conway's lead...
I-40 from Conway to North Little Rock is in the process of being widened from two lanes to three. Most of this work has been completed and is open to traffic in the Conway area.
Similarly, we are in the process of widening I-49 in Northwest Arkansas to three lanes. Perhaps communities up and down that corridor will follow Conway's lead...
From what I saw a couple weeks ago, it's all but finished WB but there are a couple sections EB to finish.
Now we just have to get people trained that the Left lane is the fast lane ;)
You should come down and drive it.
I-40 from Conway to North Little Rock is in the process of being widened from two lanes to three. Most of this work has been completed and is open to traffic in the Conway area.
Similarly, we are in the process of widening I-49 in Northwest Arkansas to three lanes. Perhaps communities up and down that corridor will follow Conway's lead...
From what I saw a couple weeks ago, it's all but finished WB but there are a couple sections EB to finish.
Now we just have to get people trained that the Left lane is the fast lane ;)
The left lane is not the "fast" lane. It's a passing lane, and as soon as you're done passing get the fuck over.
I didn't realize that so much of I-49 through NWA actually had a timetable for being widened, which i assume means that funding is available to make it happen. I thought it was just going to be peace-meal stuff around Fayetteville.
AHTD's lighting policy of not installing it, unless a local municipality requests it? I've tried to talk to Bentonville, Rogers, Lowell, Springdale, and Fayetteville... All municipalities along I-49 in NWA. We even had a news station ask about it.
The city of Conway seems to be taking advantage of our lighting policy:
http://thecabin.net/news/local/2015-02-05/replacing-i-40-lights-led-18m-project#.VNT6VmB0zDc
I-40 from Conway to North Little Rock is in the process of being widened from two lanes to three. Most of this work has been completed and is open to traffic in the Conway area.
Similarly, we are in the process of widening I-49 in Northwest Arkansas to three lanes. Perhaps communities up and down that corridor will follow Conway's lead...
Looked thru the plans for the Lowell exit today. That will become a pretty busy exit in the next 10 years I would betThe Lowell exit is already a busy interchange at rush hour, if you're not familiar with it. Can you post the plans for that interchange?
Can't wait for the 6-lanes to be finished. It is so nice thru there
Interesting fact that I recently relearned: US 71's original route followed 72 and 59 through Hiwasse and Gravette.
Original 71 (1926) followed current AR 102 to Centerton, north on Bus 102, THEN along current 72 and 59.I don't think so. The 1926 official (and all later) clearly shows it going straight west from Rogers and then north to Bentonville, with the railroad on the direct diagonal. The 1925 (revised 1935) county map shows no erasures here. Now it did use A Street (later US 71C) right into downtown Bentonville, and there are other potential old alignments.
It was changed later (1930?) to follow Central Ave (modern 72) out of Bentonville.
Yes, I know about A Street.Original 71 (1926) followed current AR 102 to Centerton, north on Bus 102, THEN along current 72 and 59.I don't think so. The 1926 official (and all later) clearly shows it going straight west from Rogers and then north to Bentonville, with the railroad on the direct diagonal. The 1925 (revised 1935) county map shows no erasures here. Now it did use A Street (later US 71C) right into downtown Bentonville, and there are other potential old alignments.
It was changed later (1930?) to follow Central Ave (modern 72) out of Bentonville.
Looked thru the plans for the Lowell exit today. That will become a pretty busy exit in the next 10 years I would betThe Lowell exit is already a busy interchange at rush hour, if you're not familiar with it. Can you post the plans for that interchange?
Can't wait for the 6-lanes to be finished. It is so nice thru there
And, I have had so many "near-misses" where I-49 goes from 3 lanes to 2 lanes between Monroe and Wagon Wheel Road. I know AHTD planned that widening to coordinate with the Springdale US 412 Bypass.
All plans for current projects are available on AHTDs websiteAre you talking about arkansashighways.com or iDriveArkansas.com?
All plans for current projects are available on AHTDs websiteAre you talking about arkansashighways.com or iDriveArkansas.com?
I want to see actual plans, not just a description... an engineering schematic, if you will.
All plans for current projects are available on AHTDs websiteAre you talking about arkansashighways.com or iDriveArkansas.com?
I want to see actual plans, not just a description... an engineering schematic, if you will.
Currently bid projects are here
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/General/construction_plans_include.aspx
currently out for bid are here
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/General/JOBS_include.aspx
There are more plans there than you can shake a stick at. Literally thousands of pages...everything going on anywhere in Arkansas
Sure wish LADOTD's website was as "unorganized" as AHTD's. You have to hire Indiana Jones to locate a construction/engineering plan there.LaDOTD's website is miles ahead of AHTD's website. LaDOT has a Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.
LaDOTD's website is miles ahead of AHTD's website. LaDOT has a Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.What does their presence on other websites have to do with their own website?
Sure wish LADOTD's website was as "unorganized" as AHTD's. You have to hire Indiana Jones to locate a construction/engineering plan there.LaDOTD's website is miles ahead of AHTD's website. LaDOT has a Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.
Edit: AHTD has a Twitter!
I know all about LADOTD's Facebook, Twitter and YT pages...my problem is with their website, and the lack of any real access to any general construction plan or study.
I know all about LADOTD's Facebook, Twitter and YT pages...my problem is with their website, and the lack of any real access to any general construction plan or study.
Agreed. You can barely find information even about current construction, unless it is a major project with its own page. Do you remember the map you could click on to see current construction by parish? I emailed DOTD to ask what had happened to it, and they said that they were deciding how best to "rebuild" that page and would probably have IT write a new software application. This was over 3 months ago.
This article (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2014/jul/18/planners-told-interstate-49-bella-vista/) reports that the Bella Vista Bypass would be southwest Missouri's top priority if Missouri voters approve the transportation sales tax and that Arkansas Highway Commissioner Dick Trammel is strongly hinting that Arkansas would then be able to come up with the extra $50 million to complete the Arkansas section of the BVB as a four-lane facility
This article (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2014/jul/18/planners-told-interstate-49-bella-vista/) reports that the Bella Vista Bypass would be southwest Missouri's top priority if Missouri voters approve the transportation sales tax and that Arkansas Highway Commissioner Dick Trammel is strongly hinting that Arkansas would then be able to come up with the extra $50 million to complete the Arkansas section of the BVB as a four-lane facilityGiven Trammel's comment in the above quote, I think that there is a good chance that they will scrounge up the additional $50 million and build the BVB as a four-lane facility if MoDOT proceeds with its section during the term of a long-term reauthorization.
Northwest Arkansas is in the middle of a road building boom to ease congestion on the region's crowded highway system.
"I tell everybody when you see orange barrels, you know it's going to get better. They're not there because it's going to get worse," said Dick Trammel of Rogers, Arkansas Highway Commission chairman ....
"If you look at the I-49 corridor, you'll see that it's quite the jigsaw puzzle of funding mechanisms to get this corridor widened to three lanes all the way from Fayetteville up to Bentonville where the Bella Vista bypass is going to be, which is the ultimate goal," said Danny Straessle, a spokesman for the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department ....
"The traffic projections for that corridor are such that in order to increase the capacity and reduce congestion, we're going to three lanes in each direction. That's not just origin or destination traffic, it also includes projections for through traffic that comes from Missouri when the Bella Vista bypass is completed and Missouri is able to meet us at the state line," Straessle said ....
The Bella Vista bypass construction is under way. Two lanes are planned initially, but right of way is being acquired for four lanes. The first section, around Hiwasse, was built using federal highway money. Sales tax money will pay for most of the remainder of the $100 million project.
A four-mile section between Benton County 34 and the Missouri line is on hold until Missouri finds the money to meet at the state line. Trammel said Missouri is looking at ways to raise the money, and he's hopeful it will be ready to finish its portion by the time the bypass is connected at I-49 in Bentonville. The new interchange has not been put out for bid, but the eastern most, six-mile section between I-49 and Arkansas 72 is expected to be completed in mid-2016.
Bella Vista Bypass Not a Priority as Missouri Searches for Highway Money
Missouri officials look for funds to tie in to Bella Vista highway
Missouri highway officials are looking for money for roads but even if their latest proposal is successful, finishing the Bella Vista bypass doesn't appear to be on the state's list of priority projects, regional planners were told Wednesday.
"It doesn't look like there'll be enough money to do that," Andrew Seiler with the Missouri Department of Transportation told regional planners. "It will likely be pushed back."
Seiler's comment came in response to a question from Arkansas Highway Commission Chairman Dick Trammel about highway priorities in the region. Trammel said he was "deeply concerned" about getting the connection finished in a timely manner.
"I can't be critical if it's a financial problem because we're having those ourselves," Trammel said Friday. "But if it's a priority problem, I just hope they can see the expenditure and what we're doing, and then when they get in a position to they will include the Bella Vista bypass in their priorities because it's important to Missouri and Arkansas."
The Bella Vista bypass is being built as a two lane, divided highway initially but is expected to eventually be four lanes in each direction. It will be part of Interstate 49 when complete. The project has been a priority in Northwest Arkansas for years. Money to build Arkansas' side became available when voters approved Issue 1, a 10-year, half-percent sales tax for new construction of highways in 2012.
http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2015/mar/30/bella-vista-bypass-not-a-priority-as-mi/
From today's NWA area paper (and it's maddening because it's right next, literally, to a story about growth in Springdale's Elm Springs area, directly on NWA's I-49).Quote
Bella Vista Bypass Not a Priority as Missouri Searches for Highway Money
Missouri officials look for funds to tie in to Bella Vista highway
IDriveArkansas (http://www.idrivearkansas.com/) is now indicating another delay and projecting a Mid 2015 completion date
After some weather delays, construction on future Interstate 49 from Greenwood to Barling is almost done. The $98 million project is just a small fragment of an interstate that will one day run from Northwest Arkansas to Louisiana.
“Right now the concrete pavement is down, so that’s the driving surface,” Chad Adams, district engineer with the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department said. “The contractors are working on putting gravel down for the shoulders. They’ve actually starting placing asphalt on some of the shoulders on the south end of the project.”
Adams said the construction project got underway about seven years ago. Once the 5.5 mile stretch is complete, the drive from Greenwood to Highway 22 in the Barling and Fort Chaffee area will be a lot quicker ....
“For now the funding is just to complete this section,” Adams said. “There’s another section to be built between here and across the Arkansas River and to tie into 49 and the Alma area.”
The project is expected to wrap up by mid-July.
It's going to take a lot of fill dirt to make a road bed high enough to prevent the road from flooding in the "Bottoms" of Crawford County
as said before, we're (Arkansas and Missouri) at the point where it's now very foolish NOT to be thinking of a completed I-49.
Why are they building the least useful parts of the highway first? It looks like the part from I-49 to Hiwasee would be the most useful.
As the opening of a 6.5-mile stretch of Interstate 49 through Chaffee Crossing draws closer, the trust’s boss expects to field a growing number of land offers for medical-related clinics and retail.
The state will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the highway in July “hopefully,” Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority Executive Director Ivy Owen said.
“That news is out there and people know it’s going to happen,” he said. “The people who have been waiting and holding back to make offers are now coming out of the woodwork to make offers on smaller, specialized pieces of property like medical clinics and physician’s offices, that sort of thing.”
The FCRA, formed in 1997, oversees redevelopment of land released by the U.S. Army from Fort Chaffee as part of a Base Realignment and Closure downsizing. Of the original 6,000 acres located in both Fort Smith and Barling, the FCRA has about 2,800 left to sell, Owen said. The remaining land is worth between $25 million-$27 million.
I-49 represents 1,700 miles of interstate highway between New Orleans and Winnipeg, Canada, with about 315 miles within Arkansas. A dedication ceremony was held a year ago when the U.S. Department of Transportation officially designating Interstate 540 from Alma north to the Missouri border as Interstate 49.
“It will just be a monumental accomplishment to get that done,” Owen said
- See more at: http://swtimes.com/news/chaffee-crossing-boss-braces-boom#sthash.Q5pWYKyp.dpuf
Article in today's Fort Smith paper about the I-49 stretch in Greenwood/Fort Smith/Barling opening "hopefully" in July, and the further expected boom in growth there:QuoteAs the opening of a 6.5-mile stretch of Interstate 49 through Chaffee Crossing draws closer, the trust’s boss expects to field a growing number of land offers for medical-related clinics and retail.
The state will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the highway in July “hopefully,” Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority Executive Director Ivy Owen said.
“That news is out there and people know it’s going to happen,” he said. “The people who have been waiting and holding back to make offers are now coming out of the woodwork to make offers on smaller, specialized pieces of property like medical clinics and physician’s offices, that sort of thing.”
The FCRA, formed in 1997, oversees redevelopment of land released by the U.S. Army from Fort Chaffee as part of a Base Realignment and Closure downsizing. Of the original 6,000 acres located in both Fort Smith and Barling, the FCRA has about 2,800 left to sell, Owen said. The remaining land is worth between $25 million-$27 million.
I-49 represents 1,700 miles of interstate highway between New Orleans and Winnipeg, Canada, with about 315 miles within Arkansas. A dedication ceremony was held a year ago when the U.S. Department of Transportation officially designating Interstate 540 from Alma north to the Missouri border as Interstate 49.
“It will just be a monumental accomplishment to get that done,” Owen said
- See more at: http://swtimes.com/news/chaffee-crossing-boss-braces-boom#sthash.Q5pWYKyp.dpuf
http://swtimes.com/news/chaffee-crossing-boss-braces-boom
I believe him. Arkansas is now big enough that a second med school was merited (similar population states like Iowa and slightly larger Oklahoma each have at least two, where Arkansas only had one) and it's being built now, rain permitting. :-D ArcBest transportation is thriving, too, and it's moving out there. Fort Smith has always been much more industrial-based in its economy vs. Northwest Arkansas, but I think there will be a smaller though profound "NWA effect" as this interstate grows.
Just wait until it's completed (though we may be dead by then)...
I-49 represents 1,700 miles of interstate highway between New Orleans and Winnipeg, Canada [...]
What about the retirees that moved over there to get a mountain vista and now you are trying to put a highway on top of that view.
Article in today's Fort Smith paper about the I-49 stretch in Greenwood/Fort Smith/Barling opening "hopefully" in July, and the further expected boom in growth there:QuoteAs the opening of a 6.5-mile stretch of Interstate 49 through Chaffee Crossing draws closer, the trust’s boss expects to field a growing number of land offers for medical-related clinics and retail.
The state will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the highway in July “hopefully,” Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority Executive Director Ivy Owen said.
“That news is out there and people know it’s going to happen,” he said. “The people who have been waiting and holding back to make offers are now coming out of the woodwork to make offers on smaller, specialized pieces of property like medical clinics and physician’s offices, that sort of thing.”
The FCRA, formed in 1997, oversees redevelopment of land released by the U.S. Army from Fort Chaffee as part of a Base Realignment and Closure downsizing. Of the original 6,000 acres located in both Fort Smith and Barling, the FCRA has about 2,800 left to sell, Owen said. The remaining land is worth between $25 million-$27 million.
I-49 represents 1,700 miles of interstate highway between New Orleans and Winnipeg, Canada, with about 315 miles within Arkansas. A dedication ceremony was held a year ago when the U.S. Department of Transportation officially designating Interstate 540 from Alma north to the Missouri border as Interstate 49.
“It will just be a monumental accomplishment to get that done,” Owen said
- See more at: http://swtimes.com/news/chaffee-crossing-boss-braces-boom#sthash.Q5pWYKyp.dpuf
http://swtimes.com/news/chaffee-crossing-boss-braces-boom
I believe him. Arkansas is now big enough that a second med school was merited (similar population states like Iowa and slightly larger Oklahoma each have at least two, where Arkansas only had one) and it's being built now, rain permitting. :-D ArcBest transportation is thriving, too, and it's moving out there. Fort Smith has always been much more industrial-based in its economy vs. Northwest Arkansas, but I think there will be a smaller though profound "NWA effect" as this interstate grows.
Just wait until it's completed (though we may be dead by then)...
Ft. Smith screams auto. assembly plant. In turn, that would feed supplier based growth in the region.
Arkansas would likely be right-to-work, though, so we couldn't have that.
Right to work and at-will are different concepts. Right to work means that an employee can not be forced to join a union or pay dues as a condition of employment. At-will means that an employer can fire an employee for almost any reason (certain reasons like racial discrimination are illegal of course) or no reason at all.
uses "Right to work" to justify terminating anyone at any timeMove along; no doublethink here!
“It’s finally here,” [Ivy Owen, Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority executive director] said. “There’s going to be traffic on it in July. We don’t know whether to call it ribbon cutting or dedication, but the fact is on July 14, we’re going to have a ceremony opening that highway.”
...
If the highway opens earlier than July 14, “we’ll just have a dedication ceremony,” Owen said.
He expects members of the Arkansas State Highway Commission and possibly the governor to attend.
We are still projecting a fall completion for this project AND have discussed a "ride before you drive" event to give folks a preview of the facility before it opens to traffic. We will be coordinating this with the Ft. Chaffee Redevelopment Authority. More info as it becomes available!
It looks like (http://swtimes.com/news/i-49-opening-finally-here-fcra-boss-says) there may finally be a date for the opening of the stretch in Chaffee Crossing: July 14.
We are still projecting a fall completion for this project AND have discussed a "ride before you drive" event to give folks a preview of the facility before it opens to traffic. We will be coordinating this with the Ft. Chaffee Redevelopment Authority. More info as it becomes available!It looks like (http://swtimes.com/news/i-49-opening-finally-here-fcra-boss-says) there may finally be a date for the opening of the stretch in Chaffee Crossing: July 14.
AHTD, is a "ride before you drive" event still a possibility?
Man!
Due to the twin Red River floods, I'm hearing:
- The U.S. 259 bridge between DeKalb, TX and Idabel, OK is destroyed (I've seen pictures).
- The Hwy 78 bridge above Bonham, TX has a heavily damaged entry. (Pictures are out there of that, too.)
Man!
Due to the twin Red River floods, I'm hearing:
- The U.S. 259 bridge between DeKalb, TX and Idabel, OK is destroyed (I've seen pictures).
- The Hwy 78 bridge above Bonham, TX has a heavily damaged entry. (Pictures are out there of that, too.)
I couldn't figure out where our local FOX station was referring to when they said the OK78 bridge near Tishomingo. Looks like they had the wrong segment.
See if this link works. Let me know one way or the other.
https://www.facebook.com/michael.manry.33/videos/1434026060254435/
BTW, on a happier note...July 14th, 2015: http://swtimes.com/news/i-49-opening-finally-here-fcra-boss-says
BTW, on a happier note...July 14th, 2015: http://swtimes.com/news/i-49-opening-finally-here-fcra-boss-says
BTW, on a happier note...July 14th, 2015: http://swtimes.com/news/i-49-opening-finally-here-fcra-boss-says
Look at the comments. :poke:
Have the exits on old 540 been renumbered yet?Not yet
U.S. 71 closed for 2 1/2 miles at Index, AR (Red River crossing), AGAIN.
U.S. 71 closed for 2 1/2 miles at Index, AR (Red River crossing), AGAIN.
Hey Rocky, watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat!
Again?
U.S. 71 closed for 2 1/2 miles at Index, AR (Red River crossing), AGAIN.
Hey Rocky, watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat!
Again?
Nothing up my sleeve, PRESTO! Looks a little wet to me.
It has been announced that the dedication ceremony for the Barling-Fort Smith segment will be July 14, 2015, 10:00 am at the Hwy. 22 overpass in Barling.
WHAT: Ribbon cutting ceremony for the new location of Highway 549 (Future I-49) across Fort Chaffee near Fort Smith. The road is expected to open to traffic that day.
WHEN: Tuesday, July 14 at 10:00 am.
WHERE: The event will take place on the new location of Highway 549 over Highway 22. From just east of the Barling Interchange of Highways 22/59, enter the new on ramp to the event site. Police units will be on site to direct and park vehicles.
WHO: Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, Highway Commissioners, AHTD Director, Fort Smith Mayor Sandy Sanders, Barling Mayor Jerry Barling, Sebastian County Judge David Hudston, Chaffee Redevelopment Authority Executive Director Ivy Owen, Fort Smith Area Chamber of Commerce officials, other local officials and business leaders.
It has been announced that the dedication ceremony for the Barling-Fort Smith segment will be July 14, 2015, 10:00 am at the Hwy. 22 overpass in Barling.
The July 9 AHTD Information Release (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2015/NR%2015-226.pdf) confirms that the ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on July 14 at 10:00 a.m., but it still leaves a little room for drama as to when it will open to traffic by stating that it is expected to open on traffic on the 14th, as well:QuoteWHAT: Ribbon cutting ceremony for the new location of Highway 549 (Future I-49) across Fort Chaffee near Fort Smith. The road is expected to open to traffic that day.
WHEN: Tuesday, July 14 at 10:00 am.
WHERE: The event will take place on the new location of Highway 549 over Highway 22. From just east of the Barling Interchange of Highways 22/59, enter the new on ramp to the event site. Police units will be on site to direct and park vehicles.
Gov. Hutchinson will be among the dignitaries:QuoteWHO: Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, Highway Commissioners, AHTD Director, Fort Smith Mayor Sandy Sanders, Barling Mayor Jerry Barling, Sebastian County Judge David Hudston, Chaffee Redevelopment Authority Executive Director Ivy Owen, Fort Smith Area Chamber of Commerce officials, other local officials and business leaders.
Maybe Gov. Hutchinson will give some lip service to building the Arkansas River bridge as the next step.
Southbound 549 between Barling and Ft Smith opened just after 10:30. Governor Hutchinson and his entourage were the first to drive the new roadway. Northbound was still closed at 11am and state police were stopping anyone driving around the barricades.
I saw where the road appears to be now striped now between Hwy 72 (south end) and route 34 (north end, straight west of where Glasgow meets Highlands) on the future Bella Vista Bypass. Anyone heard when that section is supposed to open? Thank you in advance.
We have opened the next segment of the Bella Vista Bypass.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/SH_549_BVB_Signing_Memo.pdf
We'll schedule a ribbon cutting for sometime in August.
At least there is progress on the BVB, however slow it may come.
At least there is progress on the BVB, however slow it may come.
Looks like FY 2019 for MO... sigh (http://modot.org/plansandprojects/construction_program/STIP2016-2020/documents/Sec0406SWRural.pdf)
At least there is progress on the BVB, however slow it may come.
Looks like FY 2019 for MO... sigh (http://modot.org/plansandprojects/construction_program/STIP2016-2020/documents/Sec0406SWRural.pdf)
They may be able to scrape up some additional funding depending on what Arkansas decides to do on their side, but obviously they aren't in a hurry.
One of the articles incorrectly states that AHTD has launched its "build the bridge campaign." This is not correct. That campaign is a local effort.
Our current estimate for this facility is about $350 to $400 million for a 13-mile Interstate facility between I-40 and State Highway 22 with an Arkansas River crossing. This is ballpark at best. We have no engineering into this other than we know the corridor. High level estimates are often ballparked for various presentations, etc. that require planning to provide numbers.
One article incorrectly stated we will soon begin a feasibility study. The person quoted probably just used the wrong term. We will need to complete an EIS and at this time we don't have that programmed.
On to Northbound and then on to the bridge! .... AHTD's July 13, 2015 presentation to the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2015/071315_Scott_FtSmithChamber.pdf)
Northbound is open.
Tim Allen, president and CEO of the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce ....
THE BRIDGE AND COMPLETING I-49
Two sections of I-49 in western Arkansas are without designated funding or engineering work. The shortest is the 15-mile section between the I-40/I-49 interchange near Alma and across the Arkansas River into Barling. That work, according to recent AHTD estimates, will cost in today’s dollars around $350 million. That’s about $23.3 million per mile ....
In an interview after Tuesday’s opening, Allen told The City Wire that “getting over the river is the next target.” He said Fort Smith area leaders have reached out to the Northwest Arkansas Council to help lobby state and federal officials for funding.
“It’s imperative that we get over the river and connect that (Alma interchange with I-49 and I-40) with this. ... We’re engaged in an early effort with the Northwest Arkansas Council and Scott Bennett to move in that direction,” Allen said.
Sen. Jake Files, R-Fort Smith, and chairman of the Arkansas Senate’s Revenue and Tax committee, attended Tuesday’s event. He said “collaboration is critical” with Northwest Arkansas and state and federal officials in order to complete I-49 through western Arkansas.
“Fort Smith has a lot to gain by linking up to Northwest Arkansas, and this would be a specific example where we both see it as mutually beneficial,” Files said.
He said it is important for state officials to “get as much groundwork in place” — engineering, route studies, environmental work — so when the highway funding “debacle in Washington” is resolved, the bridge and other sections of I-49 will be “ready to execute.” He said one reason the section through Chaffee Crossing received stimulus funding was because it was more “shovel ready” than other projects around the state and nation.
Wow! I never knew how close it is to the existing I-540.
Is there a compelling reason why I-540 wasn't integrated into the I-49 corridor? I'm not terribly familiar with the area, but it looks like there is available ROW for upgrades and added capacity. (Frankly, it looks like 540 is over-due for an upgrade.)
The new alignment seems like a redundant approach which won't provide much intra-city connectivity and is already driving sprawl.
Is there a compelling reason why I-540 wasn't integrated into the I-49 corridor? I'm not terribly familiar with the area, but it looks like there is available ROW for upgrades and added capacity. (Frankly, it looks like 540 is over-due for an upgrade.)From what I can tell, I-540 is fairly busy through Fort Smith. It would definitely need widening, and either widening the Arkansas River bridge or building a whole new span would be necessary. It may have also been eliminated in the EIS for some reason, maybe too much of an impact to existing homes where I-49 would have to diverge from I-540.
The new alignment seems like a redundant approach which won't provide much intra-city connectivity and is already driving sprawl.
the Future I-49 corridor is east of this section of I-540. A map on page 23/36 of the Executive Summary of the US 71 Relocation From Dequeen to I-40 Final Environmental Impact Statement pdf (http://www.aaroads.com/forum_images/southeast/001747_FEIS_Executive_Summary.pdf) shows the location of this section of I-540 relative to the proposed route of Future I-49. If I interpret the map correctly, it looks like the long-range plan is to build a "spur" from the southern section of I-540 to connect with Future I-49 just south of the current US 71 (which, along with I-40, would create a possible I-x49 loop)(above quote from Improving I-540 at Fort Smith (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8430.msg195657#msg195657) thread)there is a proposed spur off 540 (in the vicinity of Greenwood Rd/AR 45) that will eventually connect to I-49
Here's the map of the proposed I-540 "southern spur" referenced above that would connect to I-49:
(http://i.imgur.com/6I42K0a.jpg)
The above map shows the rejected I-540 alignment that would have connected to the I-49 corridor. I think that, at the time I made the above post, I misinterpreted that alignment as a proposed southern connection of I-540 to the I-49 selected alignment. If so, were it to displace 36 businesses and 102 houses 17 to 18 years ago, then how many businesses and houses would it displace today? Perhaps some (most?) of the displacements would have resulted from widening the existing I-540; if so (it does say that the displacements are from U.S. 71 to the I-540/ I-40 interchange), maybe a standalone I-540 southern connection to I-49 could be feasible.
Why east of Kibler as opposed to a more direct route?
DeQueen to I-40 Final Environmental Impact Statement ("FEIS") (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/FEIS_U.S.71_DeQueen-I-40.pdf)
Perhaps some (most?) of the displacements would have resulted from widening the existing I-540; if so (it does say that the displacements are from U.S. 71 to the I-540/ I-40 interchange), maybe a standalone I-540 southern connection to I-49 could be feasible.
State officials and developers expect the opening of Arkansas 549 -- part of the future Interstate 49 -- to be a catalyst for development along the highway's corridor ....
Larry Webb of Hot Springs has been working with landowners to develop a mall next to the northern tip of the highway at Barling.
He said potential tenants -- including large anchor companies -- liked the location, but the idea was put on hold because no one wanted to commit to the project until there was traffic moving on the highway, he said ....
Webb said Friday that he expects to have mall tenants begin signing up within a month.
"I think now that it's open, you're going to see an explosion of development not just along the interstate, but adjacent to it," Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority Director Ivy Owen said ....
Owen said developers and companies have bought land on all four corners of the intersection of Massard Road and Chad Colley Boulevard, major streets at Chaffee Crossing less than a quarter-mile from Arkansas 549.
Now that the highway is open, Owen said he expects the development on those corners to begin. Planned for the intersection are mixed commercial and residential uses, a restaurant and a bank.
"I think that's the kind of land use potentials we're going to see," said Wally Bailey, director of the Development Services Department with the city of Fort Smith.
Bailey was referring to the potential for development at the intersection of Arkansas 549 with U.S. 71 at the southern end of the highway section. He said city leaders are considering beginning the process to annex 875 acres there because of the potential for development.
In a memorandum to city directors last week, Bailey wrote that one of the advantages of annexation would be to extend city services -- water, sewer, police and fire protection -- to developers as they plan new projects.
In the memo, Bailey wrote that most of the property owners in that area favor being annexed into the city. The city has taken no action on annexation, but he wrote that the matter is ripe for action by the board.
Northbound is open. Probably just took a while for AHTD to get all the barricades down.I am going to speculate that the asphalt ramps are temporary until the flyover ramps are built. I finally got to drive it.
BTW: I noticed a couple ramps at the south end are asphalt, but some are concrete. Also looks like SB 49 to SB 71 may eventually be a flyover ramp. AHTD: can you confirm my suspicions?
DeQueen to I-40 Final Environmental Impact Statement ("FEIS") (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/FEIS_U.S.71_DeQueen-I-40.pdf)
Is there a project map of the Mena bypass somewhere?
I will assume that the Mena Bypass would be 2-lane as well?
I will assume that the Mena Bypass would be 2-lane as well?
I don't think so since the section they opened in the Fort Smith area is 4 lanes (2 each way). Bella Vista is only 2 lanes because of Missouri dragging their heals to connect to it.
I will assume that the Mena Bypass would be 2-lane as well?
I don't think so since the section they opened in the Fort Smith area is 4 lanes (2 each way). Bella Vista is only 2 lanes because of Missouri dragging their heals to connect to it.
Rumor is that the next section of I-49 between Greenwood and Texarkana will be a bypass of Mena. Has this been confirmed? There would be exits at AR 8 and 88, CR 70, and some sort of interchange where it meets US 71 southwest of Mena. How are the CR 70 and the southwestern interchange going to be configured?(above quote from I-49 Mena bypass (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=15654.msg2068146#msg2068146) thread)
DeQueen to I-40 Final Environmental Impact Statement ("FEIS") (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/FEIS_U.S.71_DeQueen-I-40.pdf)
The city of Mena has contributed more money per person than any other city in Arkansas to the I-49 coalition.
Rumor is that the next section of I-49 between Greenwood and Texarkana will be a bypass of Mena. Has this been confirmed? There would be exits at AR 8 and 88, CR 70, and some sort of interchange where it meets US 71 southwest of Mena. How are the CR 70 and the southwestern interchange going to be configured?(above quote from I-49 Mena bypass (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=15654.msg2068146#msg2068146) thread)DeQueen to I-40 Final Environmental Impact Statement ("FEIS") (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/FEIS_U.S.71_DeQueen-I-40.pdf)
The FEIS indicates that CR 70 would be relocated (in this segment, Line 3 is the selected alignment) (p. 97/327 of pdf; p. 2-56 of document):
(http://i.imgur.com/VNcOVoY.jpg)
Looking at the map, it appears that there would would be a slight relocation of CR 70 to the north (p. 86/327 of pdf; Exh. 2-4 of document):
(http://i.imgur.com/1ecj8tV.jpg)
It looks like the southwestern interchange will involve the construction of a US 71 connector (p. 85/327 of pdf: Exh. 2-4 of document):
(http://i.imgur.com/7dU2Rb5.jpg)
Although comments quoted in this post (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2019588;topicseen#msg2019588) from forum member AHTD and I-49 International Coalition President Curt Green strongly hint that Mena is next in line, I have not seen a confirmation from department AHTD.
AHTD has released the 2013 Arkansas Highway map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/mapping_graphics/2013%20AR%20State%20Highway%20Map%20-%20State%20Side.pdf)(above quote from Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg228335#msg228335) thread)
... the projected route of Missouri's section of the Bella Vista Bypass has appeared on the 2013 map (the 2012 map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/mapping_graphics/State_Highway_Map_State_Side_2012.PDF) only has the projected route of the Arkansas section of the Bella Vista Bypass):
(http://i.imgur.com/Tb8MeVq.png)
Our 86th edition sports a new look with improved features!(bottom quote from 2015-2016 Arkansas State Highway Map Now Available (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=16080.msg2081957#msg2081957) thread)
Check it out: http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2015/jul/27/highway-map-gets-new-look-20150727-1/ (http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2015/jul/27/highway-map-gets-new-look-20150727-1/)
If NW Arkansas ain't already a mess with all of the construction, they are widening from US 71B (exit 67) to US 412 (exit 72).
AHTD's July 13, 2015 presentation to the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2015/071315_Scott_FtSmithChamber.pdf) indicates that the section between Hwy 72 and County Road 34 has been completed (page 15/31 of pdf) .... AHTD recently posted about the opening of this section in another thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=16040.msg2080690#msg2080690):We have opened the next segment of the Bella Vista Bypass.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/SH_549_BVB_Signing_Memo.pdf
We'll schedule a ribbon cutting for sometime in August.
WHEN: Friday, August 21 at 10:30 am.
WHERE: The event will take place on the northbound lanes of the new section under the northern State Highway 72 overpass.
WHY: To celebrate the opening of another two-mile section of the ultimate 21-mile Bella Vista Bypass. This $14 million project began in mid-2012 and Kolb Grading was the prime contractor.
So many ribbon-cutting ceremonies...so many miles between them. No way to get to them. :-(
About "US" 549: Arkansas loves bringing in new US highways, they might as well create US 549. :-D
So many ribbon-cutting ceremonies...so many miles between them. No way to get to them. :-(
About "US" 549: Arkansas loves bringing in new US highways, they might as well create US 549. :-D
I think it's great that the southern half of the BVB is complete with Friday's ribbon-cutting. Now the ball is truly in MO's court to help finish the northern half...
This article (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2014/jul/18/planners-told-interstate-49-bella-vista/) reports that the Bella Vista Bypass would be southwest Missouri's top priority if Missouri voters approve the transportation sales tax and that Arkansas Highway Commissioner Dick Trammel is strongly hinting that Arkansas would then be able to come up with the extra $50 million to complete the Arkansas section of the BVB as a four-lane facility:QuoteDick Trammel, Arkansas Highway commissioner, said if Missouri voters approve the tax and the project north of the state line becomes a reality, it could speed up construction of all four lanes on this side of the line. Arkansas needs an estimated $50 million more to finish the bypass as a four-lane divided highway.
"If they get it, maybe we can get our other two lanes," Trammel said.
From today's NWA area paper ...QuoteBella Vista Bypass Not a Priority as Missouri Searches for Highway Money
Missouri highway officials are looking for money for roads but even if their latest proposal is successful, finishing the Bella Vista bypass doesn't appear to be on the state's list of priority projects, regional planners were told Wednesday.
"It doesn't look like there'll be enough money to do that," Andrew Seiler with the Missouri Department of Transportation told regional planners. "It will likely be pushed back."
Seiler's comment came in response to a question from Arkansas Highway Commission Chairman Dick Trammel about highway priorities in the region. Trammel said he was "deeply concerned" about getting the connection finished in a timely manner.
"I can't be critical if it's a financial problem because we're having those ourselves," Trammel said Friday. "But if it's a priority problem, I just hope they can see the expenditure and what we're doing, and then when they get in a position to they will include the Bella Vista bypass in their priorities because it's important to Missouri and Arkansas." ....
http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2015/mar/30/bella-vista-bypass-not-a-priority-as-mi/
MoDOT draft STIP released. http://modot.org/plansandprojects/construction_program/STIP2016-2020/index.htm(bottom quote from I-49 Coming to Missouri (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3239.msg2062676#msg2062676) thread)
Looks like Bella Vista Bypass has been pushed back to 2019-2020 year (see Page 11 of attached link) :banghead:
http://www.modot.org/plansandprojects/construction_program/STIP2016-2020/documents/Sec046aSWRuralPaymentsandProjects.pdf
This Aug. 18 AHTD Information Release (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2015/NR%2015-288.pdf) provides a notification that the ribbon cutting will take place at 10:30 am on Friday, August 21
A few sprinkles from an overcast sky Friday morning didn't faze officials opening the newest section of the Bella Vista Bypass, which will be Interstate 49.
Dick Trammel, Arkansas highway commissioner, and other local dignitaries gathered below the newest Arkansas 74 overpass, just west of Hiwasse, and cut a blue ribbon using a huge pair of scissors. A couple of trucks blew their horns in salute as they passed above. Most of the cars in sight belonged to those attending the event ....
Trammel said voters' approval of a sales tax for highway improvements in 2012 paved the way for where the highway project is now, and he and others are working to find the money to finish the two additional lanes. Trammel said he'd like to have that money in hand by about the time the two lane part of the project is finished.
Trammel said Missouri officials are looking at ways to raise money for highways and he's confident Missouri will find a way to build it's 7-mile section from the state line to I-49 just south of Pineville.
Hopefully our congress and house members will pass a long term federal highway bill this fall or it will be a slow go on I 49 for both states.
I saw a few things on Little Rock news stations about this being a new "Bella Vista Bypass" section. One even said that the ribbon cutting was about the opening of it. Sorry, it's been open for a while.
That Bella Vista Bypass is a mere 2 lane road. Yet, AHTD can construct an Interstate standard highway with US 67 up to the northeast.
Dick Trammel has done nothing for this area... and it's really sad.
I have a feeling with a NWA governor in place, the I-49 project will get a kick in the rear end. The former officeholder was the driving force behind prioritizing US 67. There's always a certain amount of governmental inertia with EISes and the bidding process causing lag time.As soon as Asa finishes building more prisons
Yep, pretty much... but at least there is an Interstate ready US 67 and US 63... Both go towards Jonesboro. I did a bunch of Google street views on the highways, and yeah, I wouldn't be surprised if there was some sort of corruption... There is no traffic.I have a feeling with a NWA governor in place, the I-49 project will get a kick in the rear end. The former officeholder was the driving force behind prioritizing US 67. There's always a certain amount of governmental inertia with EISes and the bidding process causing lag time.As soon as Asa finishes building more prisons
Yep, pretty much... but at least there is an Interstate ready US 67 and US 63... Both go towards Jonesboro. I did a bunch of Google street views on the highways, and yeah, I wouldn't be surprised if there was some sort of corruption... There is no traffic.I have a feeling with a NWA governor in place, the I-49 project will get a kick in the rear end. The former officeholder was the driving force behind prioritizing US 67. There's always a certain amount of governmental inertia with EISes and the bidding process causing lag time.As soon as Asa finishes building more prisons
Yet, the Bella Vista Bypass is just doing just a 2 laner.
Building Interstates, and even just roads, is more than just luck. It's all a matter of [very x3] hard work and applying themselves. That, and a lot of bureaucracy & bills to get through. A lot. But once that's taken care of, there's no stoppin' (road) progress(o). :spin:It's luck and time. Luck to get bills signed. Luck to get work done. Luck to even believe that this road can be built. Luck it is even finished early or on time.
Building Interstates, and even just roads, is more than just luck. It's all a matter of [very x3] hard work and applying themselves. That, and a lot of bureaucracy & bills to get through. A lot. But once that's taken care of, there's no stoppin' (road) progress(o). :spin:Bankruptcy :)
Just an observation..Arkansas seems to be kind of hush-hush when it comes to their interstate duplex's. I drove Memphis to Ft.Smith ,AR and coming out of Memphis, I-55 isn't even acknowledged until the split North/West, and it's like, BTW, I-55 next right. Same is true with the I-540 concurrency, on overheads, once again, btw. Now I-49 is signed northbound, but they might as well sign it southbound by Ft. Smith.
When are they going to start the bridge expansion at exit 85?
http://5newsonline.com/2015/10/21/28-miles-of-interstate-49-to-undergo-construction-in-2-4-weeks/
Construction from south of Mountainburg (exit 29) up to Fayetteville
One of the articles incorrectly states that AHTD has launched its "build the bridge campaign." This is not correct. That campaign is a local effort.
Despite the recent economic growth and progress in the state, Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson says there is more work to be done.
Hutchinson, speaking during Thursday’s annual meeting of the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce, touted the state’s recent economic accomplishments and his goals to continue that progress ....
Another long-term goal and factor in economic development in the state is improving transportation, and Hutchinson said he has tasked his newly established Working Group on Highway Funding to hash out a number of issues, including how to secure funding to build a 13-mile stretch of Interstate 49 south of Alma that will connect at Chaffee Crossing, including a new bridge across the Arkansas River.
“We have to figure a way to make that move forward quicker than what we are doing right now,” Hutchinson said, as he was met with applause from the crowd of about 1,000 in attendance. “We have to get that done to benefit western Arkansas.”
Building Interstates, and even just roads, is more than just luck. It's all a matter of [very x3] hard work and applying themselves. That, and a lot of bureaucracy & bills to get through. A lot. But once that's taken care of, there's no stoppin' (road) progress(o). :spin:It's luck and time. Luck to get bills signed. Luck to get work done. Luck to even believe that this road can be built. Luck it is even finished early or on time.
It's not luck, it's politics. It would be a very bad legislator that left things like this up to chance.
I've drove in Fayetteville the other day and looks like they should have the third lane completed from Wedington Drive (exit 64) to Porter Drive (exit 65) within a few weeks
I have the ability to help your project, so it would be a good idea for you to get me to support your project. So you need to convince me somehow. This can take many forms: you can visit me and tell me why Lawton needs a new interstate, you can help support my re-election campaign somehow, you can write a bill that funds both Interstate 644 and an Interstate 935 in Norman, where I am from and therefore will probably like a lot. Once you get my support, then we get the bill out of committee and now we have to convince the Speaker of the House to bring it to a floor vote. And then we have to get votes for the bill. This repeats over and over until we are convincing the Governor to sign the bill.
Quote from: Scott5114I have the ability to help your project, so it would be a good idea for you to get me to support your project. So you need to convince me somehow. This can take many forms: you can visit me and tell me why Lawton needs a new interstate, you can help support my re-election campaign somehow, you can write a bill that funds both Interstate 644 and an Interstate 935 in Norman, where I am from and therefore will probably like a lot. Once you get my support, then we get the bill out of committee and now we have to convince the Speaker of the House to bring it to a floor vote. And then we have to get votes for the bill. This repeats over and over until we are convincing the Governor to sign the bill.
That's a good description of the political process. Another big part of that is if the representative from a certain area has enough clout to make that project dream come true. Southwest Oklahoma unfortunately is one of the least politically powerful areas of the state.
Here's a description of what is increasing becoming nearly continously backups somewhere on I-49 in Benton and Washington Counties. Traffic backs up.from the first light where it ends in Bella Vista to the Ark 72/Pea Ridge exit regularly. Any on ramp causes a backup as the amount feeding into I-49 basically forces everyone to merge left the Fayetteville curve and 112 exit is a daily nighmare. A side effect is happening, more and more, folks in Fayetteville are using the recently widened Crossover as a quasi freeway to go north and then cut across via Don Tyson. Traffic isn't insane yet but it's going to get there. Houses are continuing to go up along Ark 16 to Elkins, Ark 45 to Goshen and areas north. They need to be planning an extension of the US412 bypass south of where it reconnects with the existing road and get those corridors on paper for planning purposes. We are at 550,000 now, with 800,000 easily possible in 15 years and we are still in reactionary mode to pre recession growth. Even with the growth of Benton Co. Fayetteville is still adding more residents than anyone. I know from driving 49 enough to know when the Bella Vista Bypass is done and connected with Missouri the already increasing amount of thru traffic will explode. I'm continously seeing Kansas plates using it to connect to I-40. One stop at Cabelas in Rogers and glancing at plates there shows this as well. I can't imagine what it would be like if it actually was already connected to Texarkana.
Sadly I'm seeing the first blunder of the current widening construction on I-49 up here. They should at least be doing the bridge rebuilds wide enough for 4 lanes even if three is all the road bed is getting at the moment. I liken it to them doing it right between Conway and NLR on I-40 and actually rebuilding the bridges to handle three when the actual widening was still a decade off.
I wonder if anyone has really thought through what volume of traffic a corridor like this will take through northwest Arkansas, which seems almost in the middle of this "Minnie-Winnie-New-Hou hourglass"? (NOT COMPLAINING ABOUT IT...just thinking with wisdom guided by experience.)Well, time will tell...not to mention that you also have that "LA Det-lanta fork" stuck through it!
(http://i.imgur.com/DuNOAKU.png)
Are any more sections of Interstate 49 between Interstate 30 and Interstate 40 slated for construction in the near future?
I wonder if anyone has really thought through what volume of traffic a corridor like this will take through northwest Arkansas, which seems almost in the middle of this "Minnie-Winnie-New-Hou hourglass"? (NOT COMPLAINING ABOUT IT...just thinking with wisdom guided by experience.)Well, time will tell...not to mention that you also have that "LA Det-lanta fork" stuck through it!
(http://i.imgur.com/DuNOAKU.png)
20 years ago that was the exact opposite. With Loyd Benson as the Speaker, US183 was 4-laned from Snyder to Frederick. Why? Guess where Benson lives. He was also responsible for 183 between Snyder and Clinton being "upgraded". Another useless project as OK6 (appx 15 miles west) was already scheduled to be 4-laned from Altus to Elk City, mostly because of the AFB in Altus. If he hadn't wasted so much money on 183, OK6 would have been done 10 years ago. Same goes for MANY non-transportation projects (Hackberry Flats, Frederick Pioneer Musem, ad nauseum). Benson was one the the biggest pork kings in the 90's.
Heh, too true. But there are other ways from Winnipeg, Houston, etc. to Los Angeles, Atlanta, etc. The I-49 corridor will link the busiest ports in America (those on the coast from the Houston Area to the New Orleans area) to the busiest port on the Great Lakes (Duluth/Superior).
Heh, too true. But there are other ways from Winnipeg, Houston, etc. to Los Angeles, Atlanta, etc. The I-49 corridor will link the busiest ports in America (those on the coast from the Houston Area to the New Orleans area) to the busiest port on the Great Lakes (Duluth/Superior).
Pfft. Duluth/Superior's port traffic (most of which is intra-Great Lakes) has basically plateaued, as far as I'm aware. Back when I lived there, I was with a group that lobbied for the renovation of the Soo Locks and I'm not sure if that was even done after I left (hopefully, by now). Given the limitations of the Welland Canal, you're not going to be seeing PANAMAX ships come in there any time soon (not that they could even accommodate them with the current port facilities, anyway). If there was any true demand for traffic between the two ports, you would have seen measures taken long ago -- the real heyday of the Twin Ports was decades ago.
Also, given the lack of traffic in the Twin Ports to the point where it feels overbuilt as is infrastructure-wise, calling it a traffic generator or attractor is a real stretch.
Nice place to visit in the summer, though, as long as you're headed up the North Shore. :D
Saw the 60% plans for AHTD Job BB0414,
I think 71B should be TO 71B,
QuoteI think 71B should be TO 71B,
Technically the Fulbright Expy is also Highway 71B per the route and section map, probably a holdover from before I-540. I agree though
I think the reason why Little Rock is the control city is that it's still the end of I-49 until you hit the next segment near the Missouri state line.Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and to remove all doubt.
I wonder why they're including "Mo" after "Joplin". Not as if there's going to be a big confusion with Joplin, AR, is there? And all of the signs for I-44 out of Tulsa already say "Joplin", no "Mo".
But then again nobody in Oklahoma City seems to know where Joplin is when it comes up in conversation, so maybe it is needed. Who knows.
I wonder why they're including "Mo" after "Joplin". Not as if there's going to be a big confusion with Joplin, AR, is there? And all of the signs for I-44 out of Tulsa already say "Joplin", no "Mo".
But then again nobody in Oklahoma City seems to know where Joplin is when it comes up in conversation, so maybe it is needed. Who knows.
This is the second thread I've seen you post this comment. I'm not debating the accuracy, just why Joplin?
What I find interesting is the fact that Fort Smith is used as control city for I-49 (US 71) south of Joplin, but in Arkansas they use their own they use this:
https://www.google.com/maps/@35.4782209,-94.2489508,3a,75y,50.14h,72.87t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s8aIIzB20PC-JkOLbQNdgnw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656!6m1!1e1
Joplin means nothing to them either.
This is the second thread I've seen you post this comment. I'm not debating the accuracy, just why Joplin?
Because it joins I-44 at Joplin?
Now that there is a highway bill in place, are there any new parts of I-49 that might get constructed in the next 5 years? Like maybe the Mena bypass, etc.,
Now that there is a highway bill in place, are there any new parts of I-49 that might get constructed in the next 5 years? Like maybe the Mena bypass, etc.,
Nothing that I have seen. Then again, the bill is over 1000 pages and I've yet to find copy on-line.
Now that there is a highway bill in place, are there any new parts of I-49 that might get constructed in the next 5 years? Like maybe the Mena bypass, etc.,
Nothing that I have seen. Then again, the bill is over 1000 pages and I've yet to find copy on-line.
I have an AHTD Crawford County map from 1969 (?) that showed a proposed extension of I-540 heading north, so it was in some semblance of "planning" for years. It just took John Paul Hammerschmidt and lots of earmarks to make it happen.
AHTD's July 13, 2015 presentation to the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2015/071315_Scott_FtSmithChamber.pdf)Here is a good visual of the Arkansas River bridge section from AHTD's above-linked presentation to the Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce (p. 10/31 of pdf):
(http://i.imgur.com/BinBtes.jpg)
The famous “Bridge to Nowhere” in Ketchikan, Alaska, did actually lead somewhere – the start of a ban on budget appropriation “earmarks” for specific projects, and a more slippery slope for major transportation projects like those targeted by the Western Arkansas Regional Intermodal Transportation Authority.
Speaking to the authority on Wednesday at the Van Buren Public Library, U.S. Rep. Steve Womack of Rogers said the regional group’s long-running efforts to create a “slackwater harbor” for container ships in the Van Buren area and its prerequisite 12-foot deep channel from the Mississippi River, are hard to make happen without the old way of doing things.
Womack is proposing a new way of doing things, based on three components that include more transparency with a cost-benefit analysis, public entity request and having budgetary requests formerly known as earmarks subject to line item veto ....
“My ability to make a case for building that bridge has basically been taken away from me by House rules,” Womack said. “You cannot do an earmark for a project like that. … This is not like it used to be during the John Paul (Hammerschmidt) years, even the Tim and Asa (Hutchinson) and John Boozman years. … We cannot set aside money in appropriations for specific things in specific districts.” ....
Womack, who has said lawmakers essentially shot themselves in the foot with the ban, theorized Wednesday it also has led to an even more “divided government.”
“That was the grease that kept Congress pretty well together for all those many years, so I think in history, you can go back to the earmark ban and say that’s when the Congress became perhaps hopelessly divided, even on the Republican side,” Womack said.
In addition to hearing from Womack on Wednesday, the 12-member RITA group restated its objectives, with the No. 1 goal remaining “continue to support a regional intermodal port,” followed by “continue to promote I-49 development,” and “find additional financial assistance for funding RITA."
Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson proposes using state budget surplus (http://www.arktimes.com/ArkansasBlog/archives/2016/01/19/governor-pay-for-roads-with-surplus-and-general-revenue-while-boosting-highway-dept-oversight) to pay for fixing the roads(above quote from Arkansas to Use Budget Surplus to Fix Roads (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=17296.msg2120875#msg2120875) thread)
This article (http://swtimes.com/news/womack-outlines-project-funding-idea-van-buren-stop) reports on U.S. Representative Steve Womack's recent visit to Van Buren, during which he recalled the glory days of John Paul Hammerschmidt and opined that earmarks (this time subject to a line item veto) should return to Congress for big projects such as a "slackwater harbor" in the Van Buren area and, apparently, the I-49 Arkansas River bridge ("that bridge" - he may have been referring to Alaska's infamous "Bridge to Nowhere", but the comment also seems applicable to the I-49 bridge)
Congressman Steve Womack ....
also told the RITA board the Interstate 49 bridge over the Arkansas River in Crawford County will be built.
“The question will be is it going to cost X number of dollars today or multiple X number of dollars down the road,” he said.
One of the four goals for 2016 adopted Wednesday by the RITA board is to continue to stress the importance of the section of I-49 at Alma to Fort Chaffee Crossing and the river bridge.
Other goals are to continue the support of a regional intermodal port, additional financial assistance for RITA funding and the support of all modes of transportation.
RITA was formed in 2009 by the cities of Fort Smith and Van Buren and the counties of Crawford and Sebastian to plan and provide for and to develop initiatives and projects important to this region’s economic development future and particularly improvements that support the movement of the region’s goods and freight.
RITA is governed by a 12-member board.
This article (http://swtimes.com/news/womack-outlines-project-funding-idea-van-buren-stop) reports on U.S. Representative Steve Womack's recent visit to Van Buren, during which he recalled the glory days of John Paul Hammerschmidt and opined that earmarks (this time subject to a line item veto) should return to Congress for big projects such as a "slackwater harbor" in the Van Buren area and, apparently, the I-49 Arkansas River bridge ("that bridge" - he may have been referring to Alaska's infamous "Bridge to Nowhere", but the comment also seems applicable to the I-49 bridge)
This article (http://pressargus.com/news/womack-lauds-highway-plan.html) clarifies Rep. Womack's remarks about "that bridge" by reporting that he told the RITA meeting that the I-49 bridge "will be built":QuoteCongressman Steve Womack ....
also told the RITA board the Interstate 49 bridge over the Arkansas River in Crawford County will be built.
“The question will be is it going to cost X number of dollars today or multiple X number of dollars down the road,” he said.
One of the four goals for 2016 adopted Wednesday by the RITA board is to continue to stress the importance of the section of I-49 at Alma to Fort Chaffee Crossing and the river bridge.
Other goals are to continue the support of a regional intermodal port, additional financial assistance for RITA funding and the support of all modes of transportation.
RITA was formed in 2009 by the cities of Fort Smith and Van Buren and the counties of Crawford and Sebastian to plan and provide for and to develop initiatives and projects important to this region’s economic development future and particularly improvements that support the movement of the region’s goods and freight.
RITA is governed by a 12-member board.
It's interesting how this article does not mention Rep. Womack's thoughts about bringing back earmarks.
Ah, so AHTD only needs a mere $1.68B annually. That's only 35% of our ENTIRE STATE's BUDGET!!And Governor Hutchinson seems to want to "borrow" from other state service budgets to pay for it.
This article (http://swtimes.com/news/womack-outlines-project-funding-idea-van-buren-stop) reports on U.S. Representative Steve Womack's recent visit to Van Buren, during which he recalled the glory days of John Paul Hammerschmidt and opined that earmarks (this time subject to a line item veto) should return to Congress for big projects such as a "slackwater harbor" in the Van Buren area and, apparently, the I-49 Arkansas River bridge ("that bridge" - he may have been referring to Alaska's infamous "Bridge to Nowhere", but the comment also seems applicable to the I-49 bridge)
This article (http://pressargus.com/news/womack-lauds-highway-plan.html) clarifies Rep. Womack's remarks about "that bridge" by reporting that he told the RITA meeting that the I-49 bridge "will be built":QuoteCongressman Steve Womack ....
also told the RITA board the Interstate 49 bridge over the Arkansas River in Crawford County will be built.
“The question will be is it going to cost X number of dollars today or multiple X number of dollars down the road,” he said.
One of the four goals for 2016 adopted Wednesday by the RITA board is to continue to stress the importance of the section of I-49 at Alma to Fort Chaffee Crossing and the river bridge.
Other goals are to continue the support of a regional intermodal port, additional financial assistance for RITA funding and the support of all modes of transportation.
RITA was formed in 2009 by the cities of Fort Smith and Van Buren and the counties of Crawford and Sebastian to plan and provide for and to develop initiatives and projects important to this region’s economic development future and particularly improvements that support the movement of the region’s goods and freight.
RITA is governed by a 12-member board.
It's interesting how this article does not mention Rep. Womack's thoughts about bringing back earmarks.
Based upon my observations, Mr Womack and Dr Boozeman would approve anything that helps their corporate masters, but not necessarily the general public.
This article (http://swtimes.com/news/womack-outlines-project-funding-idea-van-buren-stop) reports on U.S. Representative Steve Womack's recent visit to Van Buren, during which he recalled the glory days of John Paul Hammerschmidt and opined that earmarks (this time subject to a line item veto) should return to Congress for big projects such as a "slackwater harbor" in the Van Buren area and, apparently, the I-49 Arkansas River bridge ("that bridge" - he may have been referring to Alaska's infamous "Bridge to Nowhere", but the comment also seems applicable to the I-49 bridge)
This article (http://pressargus.com/news/womack-lauds-highway-plan.html) clarifies Rep. Womack's remarks about "that bridge" by reporting that he told the RITA meeting that the I-49 bridge "will be built":QuoteCongressman Steve Womack ....
also told the RITA board the Interstate 49 bridge over the Arkansas River in Crawford County will be built.
“The question will be is it going to cost X number of dollars today or multiple X number of dollars down the road,” he said.
One of the four goals for 2016 adopted Wednesday by the RITA board is to continue to stress the importance of the section of I-49 at Alma to Fort Chaffee Crossing and the river bridge.
Other goals are to continue the support of a regional intermodal port, additional financial assistance for RITA funding and the support of all modes of transportation.
RITA was formed in 2009 by the cities of Fort Smith and Van Buren and the counties of Crawford and Sebastian to plan and provide for and to develop initiatives and projects important to this region’s economic development future and particularly improvements that support the movement of the region’s goods and freight.
RITA is governed by a 12-member board.
It's interesting how this article does not mention Rep. Womack's thoughts about bringing back earmarks.
Based upon my observations, Mr Womack and Dr Boozeman would approve anything that helps their corporate masters, but not necessarily the general public.
?
A completed I-49 (and in the short term, "that bridge" being finished along with the BV bypass) could be a HUGE benefit to the general public...
This article (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2014/jul/18/planners-told-interstate-49-bella-vista/) reports that the Bella Vista Bypass would be southwest Missouri's top priority if Missouri voters approve the transportation sales tax and that Arkansas Highway Commissioner Dick Trammel is strongly hinting that Arkansas would then be able to come up with the extra $50 million to complete the Arkansas section of the BVB as a four-lane facility:In this article about the ribbon cutting (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2015/aug/22/second-section-of-bella-vista-bypass-op/), Commissioner Trammel is quoted as expressing optimism that Missouri will find a way to complete its section and that he hopes to have the extra $50 million needed to make the BVB a four-lane facility by about the time the initial two lanes are completed:QuoteDick Trammel, Arkansas Highway commissioner, said if Missouri voters approve the tax and the project north of the state line becomes a reality, it could speed up construction of all four lanes on this side of the line. Arkansas needs an estimated $50 million more to finish the bypass as a four-lane divided highway.
"If they get it, maybe we can get our other two lanes," Trammel said.QuoteA few sprinkles from an overcast sky Friday morning didn't faze officials opening the newest section of the Bella Vista Bypass, which will be Interstate 49.
Dick Trammel, Arkansas highway commissioner, and other local dignitaries gathered below the newest Arkansas 74 overpass, just west of Hiwasse, and cut a blue ribbon using a huge pair of scissors. A couple of trucks blew their horns in salute as they passed above. Most of the cars in sight belonged to those attending the event ....
Trammel said voters' approval of a sales tax for highway improvements in 2012 paved the way for where the highway project is now, and he and others are working to find the money to finish the two additional lanes. Trammel said he'd like to have that money in hand by about the time the two lane part of the project is finished.
Trammel said Missouri officials are looking at ways to raise money for highways and he's confident Missouri will find a way to build it's 7-mile section from the state line to I-49 just south of Pineville.
This article (http://www.semissourian.com/story/2266718.html) reports that MoDOT has received some unexpected good news about its funding situation that will allow it to lift a moratorium on adding new projects to its five-year plan .... If new projects can be added to the five-year plan, then I wonder if the Bella Vista Bypass can be moved up a few years in the plan (from the current projected 2020 Award Date ...).(bottom quote from I-49 Coming to Missouri (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3239.msg2119308#msg2119308) thread)
State highway officials have identified money in an initial draft version of a new five-year transportation plan to finish work on three major Northwest Arkansas traffic corridors and start work on a fourth, Arkansas Highway Commission Chairman Dick Trammel told regional planners Wednesday.
The statewide Transportation Improvement Plan includes completing the widening of Interstate 49 to six lanes in both directions; finishing four lanes of the Bella Vista Bypass to the Missouri state line ....
The 2016 to 2020 plan identifies some $50 million for the Bella Vista Bypass, $50 million for I-49 ....
Trammel said timing on finishing the Bella Vista Bypass to the state line will be dependent on how quickly Missouri moves to finish its section. But, Trammel said, "It's in the plans."
While the plan has not been finalized, it does signal the direction the highway department wants to go, Trammel said. Several public input sessions are expected before the plan is formally adopted ....
Is the I-49 widening from Bella Vista to Fayetteville? Or are they gonna be widening all the way to I-40?
It's not too late to lobby for other I-49 projects (Mena bypass, preliminary engineering on the Arkansas River bridge ...) to be included in the STIP ......................
A request to fund over $27 million in preliminary engineering for a future Interstate 49 bridge over the Arkansas River from Alma to Barling is included in the draft 2016-2020 State Transportation Improvement Plan.
...
According to the latest project listing, a sort of wish list for highway projects, the preliminary engineering cost for the I-49 bridge is estimated at $27.4. The bridge construction has a preliminary estimation of about $128.5 million. With other costs, including right-of-way utility costs at $25.5 million, the bridge project is expected to be over $235.4 million.
AHTD's July 13, 2015 presentation to the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2015/071315_Scott_FtSmithChamber.pdf)This article (http://www.thecitywire.com/node/38162#.VaZaQqRViko) quotes the chairman of the Arkansas Senate’s Revenue and Tax committee that now is the time for "state officials [AHTD?]" to get the engineering and environmental groundwork in place for the Arkansas River bridge ....
Here is a good visual of the Arkansas River bridge section from AHTD's above-linked presentation to the Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce (p. 10/31 of pdf):
(http://i.imgur.com/BinBtes.jpg)
http://swtimes.com/news/i-49-bridge-engineering-makes-state-draft-plan :QuoteA request to fund over $27 million in preliminary engineering for a future Interstate 49 bridge over the Arkansas River from Alma to Barling is included in the draft 2016-2020 State Transportation Improvement Plan.
...
According to the latest project listing, a sort of wish list for highway projects, the preliminary engineering cost for the I-49 bridge is estimated at $27.4. The bridge construction has a preliminary estimation of about $128.5 million. With other costs, including right-of-way utility costs at $25.5 million, the bridge project is expected to be over $235.4 million.
Relocation of U.S. 71 at Arkansas 22 northbound is part of the bridge project and also estimated to run about $182.5 million for 13.81 miles of road. With engineering and right-of-way utility costs that is expected to be another $235.4 million total, according to the project listing.
How does it cost $27 million to engineer a bridge? Not actually build it but study the area and design it?
There is quite a lot of math involved and the people who know how to do it won't work cheap.
Pretty routine up here for it to cost that much for large, complex bridges.
How does it cost $27 million to engineer a bridge? Not actually build it but study the area and design it?
A story I found that could impact construction of an I-49 bridge north of Texarkana (and of course, every Red River bridge south of Denison Dam.)
http://heralddemocrat.com/news/local/red-river-valley-association-sets-sights-ports-texoma
Currently the project itself is estimated at $1 billion, and Brontoli said it could end up costing more, once supplies and equipment are taken into account and all the studies are performed
How does it cost $27 million to engineer a bridge? Not actually build it but study the area and design it?
Discussion about flood plain and Arkansas River Bridge in Sept. 9 Times Record Online (http://www.swtimes.com/news/article_6553403c-bc23-11df-8998-001cc4c002e0.html):QuoteAlma Mayor John Ballentine believes the Alma portion is likely to be the last leg of the still-unfunded highway completed because of the costly bridge that must span the Arkansas River.
Ballentine reckons the structure will cost $400 million, but that number is a shape-shifter, changing based on who is speaking and what the cost includes.
Ken O’Donnell, until recently the director of the Bi-State Metropolitan Planning Organization, said the stated cost is a bit lower – $280 million to $320 million. That’s starting with the $100 million for the bridge span itself, then adding approaches, ramps and the other things needed to make it accessible.
Because the route approaching the bridge travels through the Kibler bottoms, a flood plain, it might require building a berm or putting the roadway on supports as it extends to the bridge.
O’Donnell said costs for the highway on-grade are computed on a linear foot basis. If the roadway is elevated, the cost must be computed on a square-foot basis. The cost of a multilane interstate bridge spanning the Arkansas River “jumps off the page at you,” he said.
How does it cost $27 million to engineer a bridge? Not actually build it but study the area and design it?As others have mentioned, you have the costs for the engineers who stamp the plans. But you also have the techs who do the CADD work, soil borings (which probably cost a lot if one is needed in the river), maybe rock cores, utility coordination, permitting (Army Corps, various state permits, Coast Guard for certain waterways), and coordination with all the other government agencies.
Why does the I-49 bridge over the Arkansas River have to cost a quarter billion dollars?
The Dallas High Five stack interchange in North Dallas cost about $250 million.
A story I found that could impact construction of an I-49 bridge north of Texarkana (and of course, every Red River bridge south of Denison Dam.)
http://heralddemocrat.com/news/local/red-river-valley-association-sets-sights-ports-texoma
$250 million seems reasonable for this kind of crossing. Vertical clearance will need to be in the 52 to 75 foot range (I don't know what the standard is for that waterway, Intracoastal waterway at Galveston is around 75 feet), and the main span is usually around 350 feet.
I'm frequently surprised at the high cost of relatively simple highway projects in Texas, and there has surely been inflation even in low-cost areas such as Arkansas. I'm thinking that highway project costs have increased everywhere, and we just have to get used to it.
Why does the I-49 bridge over the Arkansas River have to cost a quarter billion dollars?
The Dallas High Five stack interchange in North Dallas cost about $250 million.
$250 million seems reasonable for this kind of crossing. Vertical clearance will need to be in the 52 to 75 foot range (I don't know what the standard is for that waterway, Intracoastal waterway at Galveston is around 75 feet), and the main span is usually around 350 feet.
The High Five contract was awarded around 2000. There has been a lot of inflation since then and today it would cost much more. The Galveston Causeway rebuild with a 350-foot main span with 75 foot clearance was awarded in 2003 and cost $136 million. It would also cost much more today.
http://aspirebridge.com/magazine/2009Summer/i-45_galveston_sum09.pdf (http://aspirebridge.com/magazine/2009Summer/i-45_galveston_sum09.pdf)
Does it have any aesthetic detailing? If not, then it's in the wrong place here if the bridge plans to have that kind of detailing.Why does the I-49 bridge over the Arkansas River have to cost a quarter billion dollars?
The Dallas High Five stack interchange in North Dallas cost about $250 million.
$250 million seems reasonable for this kind of crossing. Vertical clearance will need to be in the 52 to 75 foot range (I don't know what the standard is for that waterway, Intracoastal waterway at Galveston is around 75 feet), and the main span is usually around 350 feet.
The High Five contract was awarded around 2000. There has been a lot of inflation since then and today it would cost much more. The Galveston Causeway rebuild with a 350-foot main span with 75 foot clearance was awarded in 2003 and cost $136 million. It would also cost much more today.
http://aspirebridge.com/magazine/2009Summer/i-45_galveston_sum09.pdf (http://aspirebridge.com/magazine/2009Summer/i-45_galveston_sum09.pdf)
Sagadahoc Bridge, in Maine:
Total length 2,972 feet (906 m)
Width 69 feet (21 m)
Height 75 feet (23 m)
Longest span 420 feet (128 m)
Clearance below 75 feet (23 m)
Cost $46.6 million
Why does the I-49 bridge over the Arkansas River have to cost a quarter billion dollars?
The Dallas High Five stack interchange in North Dallas cost about $250 million.
$250 million seems reasonable for this kind of crossing. Vertical clearance will need to be in the 52 to 75 foot range (I don't know what the standard is for that waterway, Intracoastal waterway at Galveston is around 75 feet), and the main span is usually around 350 feet.
The High Five contract was awarded around 2000. There has been a lot of inflation since then and today it would cost much more. The Galveston Causeway rebuild with a 350-foot main span with 75 foot clearance was awarded in 2003 and cost $136 million. It would also cost much more today.
http://aspirebridge.com/magazine/2009Summer/i-45_galveston_sum09.pdf (http://aspirebridge.com/magazine/2009Summer/i-45_galveston_sum09.pdf)
Sagadahoc Bridge, in Maine:
Total length 2,972 feet (906 m)
Width 69 feet (21 m)
Height 75 feet (23 m)
Longest span 420 feet (128 m)
Clearance below 75 feet (23 m)
Cost $46.6 million
Four-lane.Is it a freeway?
No, undivided, single carriageway.Four-lane.Is it a freeway?
No, undivided, single carriageway.Four-lane.Is it a freeway?
But still though, double the price tag and it's still a long way off from the Galveston Causeway example from 2003 posted upthread. THAT much of a price difference is what I'm trying to wrap my head around.
No, undivided, single carriageway.Four-lane.Is it a freeway?
But still though, double the price tag and it's still a long way off from the Galveston Causeway example from 2003 posted upthread. THAT much of a price difference is what I'm trying to wrap my head around.
It depends on the definition of "bridge". How much of the approach is included? Is it in a floodplain? What kind of land (commercial, agricultural) is involved for the approaches?
Here is the Maine bridge:
https://goo.gl/maps/yQGWLfXQzQS2
And here is the site of the proposed I49 bridge:
https://goo.gl/maps/frwtxSJPc372
I suspect there weren't any approached included in the cost while the I49 bridge is going to need a LOT of approach work to get across the flood plain to the north of the river.
AHTD builds all interstate bridges to 500 yr flood elevations also. Something to consider
AHTD builds all interstate bridges to 500 yr flood elevations also. Something to consider
That would end up being quite a long bridge over the Arkansas River in the area of Fort Smith.
AHTD builds all interstate bridges to 500 yr flood elevations also. Something to consider
That would end up being quite a long bridge over the Arkansas River in the area of Fort Smith.
It'll be elevated roadway till the actual river crossing
AHTD builds all interstate bridges to 500 yr flood elevations also. Something to consider
That would end up being quite a long bridge over the Arkansas River in the area of Fort Smith.
It'll be elevated roadway till the actual river crossing
I would hope not. That would create a "dam" that would funnel all the runoff down to the bridge. I would hope they would use I40 in West Memphis as a model. Plenty of places for flood waters to pass through without undermining the roadway.
So why again did Arkansas decide to build a new alignment and new bridge for I-49 around Fort Smith rather than following US-71 and then tying into I-540 on the south side of Fort Smith? That would seem like a more logical (and less costly solution) than building a new terrain route and bridge.
AHTD builds all interstate bridges to 500 yr flood elevations also. Something to consider
That would end up being quite a long bridge over the Arkansas River in the area of Fort Smith.
AHTD builds all interstate bridges to 500 yr flood elevations also. Something to consider
That would end up being quite a long bridge over the Arkansas River in the area of Fort Smith.
It'll be elevated roadway till the actual river crossing
I would hope not. That would create a "dam" that would funnel all the runoff down to the bridge. I would hope they would use I40 in West Memphis as a model. Plenty of places for flood waters to pass through without undermining the roadway.
the Governor's Working Group on Highway Funding Short-Term Recommendation (http://ee-governor-2015.ark.org/images/uploads/HFWG_FINAL_Short-Term_Recommendation_.pdf) also acknowledges mid-term target, long-term target, and ultimate needs funding goals for highways. The timetable for Ultimate Needs is "ten years in the future" and includes the completion of I-49 as one of the needs (pp. 4-5/15 of pdf; pp. 3-4 of document)
The push to complete Interstate 49 through Fort Smith was also mentioned by the governor who described Fort Smith as “perfectly located” for business.
“It points to the need for a new highway program in the state, and Fort Smith is ground zero for that, needing to complete I-49 going south that will help us in the transportation network,” Hutchinson said. “With the new federal highway bill, it gives us an opportunity to increase funding from Arkansas. We’ve presented a highway plan that will allow new investments in highway structure without raising taxes, and we need everyone’s support for that because it will bring even more jobs to the river valley.”
the Governor's Working Group on Highway Funding Short-Term Recommendation (http://ee-governor-2015.ark.org/images/uploads/HFWG_FINAL_Short-Term_Recommendation_.pdf) also acknowledges mid-term target, long-term target, and ultimate needs funding goals for highways. The timetable for Ultimate Needs is "ten years in the future" and includes the completion of I-49 as one of the needs (pp. 4-5/15 of pdf; pp. 3-4 of document)
This article (http://arkansasnews.com/news/arkansas/mothballed-mitsubishi-plant-purchased-pennsylvania-manufacturer), primarily about a Pennsylvania company buying an old Mitsubishi warehouse in Fort Smith, includes an interesting comment from Gov. Hutchinson. In regard to I-49, instead of commenting on the need to build the I-49 Arkansas River bridge on the northern side of Fort Smith, he commented on the need to finish I-49 south of Fort Smith:QuoteThe push to complete Interstate 49 through Fort Smith was also mentioned by the governor who described Fort Smith as “perfectly located” for business.
“It points to the need for a new highway program in the state, and Fort Smith is ground zero for that, needing to complete I-49 going south that will help us in the transportation network,” Hutchinson said. “With the new federal highway bill, it gives us an opportunity to increase funding from Arkansas. We’ve presented a highway plan that will allow new investments in highway structure without raising taxes, and we need everyone’s support for that because it will bring even more jobs to the river valley.”
Gov. Hutchinson's comment surprised me because current plans for the Chaffee Crossing to Red River section of I-49 seem to have that work at least a decade away. That said, might we see work on the Mena bypass in a few years?
I sometimes forget that AHTD is currently making significant expenditures on I-49 by uppgrading the "old I-540" through NWA. This slide from a February 19 presentation to the Rogers Chamber of Commerce (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2016/021916_SEB%20Rogers_CoC.pdf) provides a good summary of past, present, and scheduled work on I-49 in Benton and Washington counties (p. 4/31 of pdf):
(http://i.imgur.com/JLba9js.png)
Not glamorous progress, but progress nonetheless.
Just an update on the construction between Mountainburg and Fayetteville (MM 28-61): All of the guardrails have been replaced and they're replacing bad spots in the road.
Did you notice the new sign north of Chester? ApparentlyJust an update on the construction between Mountainburg and Fayetteville (MM 28-61): All of the guardrails have been replaced and they're replacing bad spots in the road.
I was up there about a month ago and it looked like they were putting in cable barriers south of the tunnel.
I'll have to go look. I need to check the road below Artists Point anyway to see if it has fully washed out yet.Did you notice the new sign north of Chester? ApparentlyJust an update on the construction between Mountainburg and Fayetteville (MM 28-61): All of the guardrails have been replaced and they're replacing bad spots in the road.
I was up there about a month ago and it looked like they were putting in cable barriers south of the tunnel.
US 71 is now AR 71
Yes it was AR 71 instead U.S 71 it was hilarious lol
Yes it was AR 71 instead U.S 71 it was hilarious lolAnd only one direction (SB). Major PIA to pull over to get a shot
Right lane is open if you want a photo op.Yes it was AR 71 instead U.S 71 it was hilarious lolAnd only one direction (SB). Major PIA to pull over to get a shot
was closed off yesterday. had to pull over and wait for a chance to cross the barrelsRight lane is open if you want a photo op.Yes it was AR 71 instead U.S 71 it was hilarious lolAnd only one direction (SB). Major PIA to pull over to get a shot
This article (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2016/jan/28/money-identified-to-finish-major-road-p/?news) reports that the extra $50 million needed to convert the Bella Vista Bypass ("BVB") in Arkansas from two lanes to four lanes is identified in an initial version of the Arkansas 2016-2020 draft STIP
AHTD STIP for 2016-2020 has I49 job - I40 to HWY 22 ( Arkansas River) Preliminary Engineering to let bid in 2017. I didn't see any other new construction work for I 49 other than the already planned Widening to 6 lanes from Fayetteville to Bentonville
Seriously, how in the heck are they going to fund and construct that huge middle section between Fort Smith and Texarkana? Are they even moving forward with any sections in that area (construction-wise)?
At this rate, I-49 will never get done............. :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
Seriously, how in the heck are they going to fund and construct that huge middle section between Fort Smith and Texarkana? Are they even moving forward with any sections in that area (construction-wise)?
At this rate, I-49 will never get done............. :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
Seriously, how in the heck are they going to fund and construct that huge middle section between Fort Smith and Texarkana? Are they even moving forward with any sections in that area (construction-wise)?
At this rate, I-49 will never get done............. :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
Seriously, how in the heck are they going to fund and construct that huge middle section between Fort Smith and Texarkana? Are they even moving forward with any sections in that area (construction-wise)?
It's literally dozens of projects on a wish list. How fast do you expect progress?
At this rate, I-49 will never get done............. :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
Seriously, how in the heck are they going to fund and construct that huge middle section between Fort Smith and Texarkana? Are they even moving forward with any sections in that area (construction-wise)?
It's literally dozens of projects on a wish list. How fast do you expect progress?
At this rate, I-49 will never get done............. :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
Seriously, how in the heck are they going to fund and construct that huge middle section between Fort Smith and Texarkana? Are they even moving forward with any sections in that area (construction-wise)?
It's literally dozens of projects on a wish list. How fast do you expect progress?
This has been on the planning docket for many years, and building it has been the equivalent of pulling teeth. To be fair, that can be said for any major road project like this, but the longer they wait, the more difficult it will be to build, as costs will go up. It would be nice if they could get going one of these years.
At this rate, I-49 will never get done............. :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
Seriously, how in the heck are they going to fund and construct that huge middle section between Fort Smith and Texarkana? Are they even moving forward with any sections in that area (construction-wise)?
It's literally dozens of projects on a wish list. How fast do you expect progress?
Rumor is that the next section of I-49 between Greenwood and Texarkana will be a bypass of Mena. Has this been confirmed? There would be exits at AR 8 and 88, CR 70, and some sort of interchange where it meets US 71 southwest of Mena. How are the CR 70 and the southwestern interchange going to be configured?(above quote from I-49 Mena bypass (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=15654.msg2068146#msg2068146) thread)
AHTD's 2016-2020 Draft STIP (http://www.arkansashighways.com/stip/2016-2020/STIP_report_2016-2020_b.pdf) ....Seriously, how in the heck are they going to fund and construct that huge middle section between Fort Smith and Texarkana? Are they even moving forward with any sections in that area (construction-wise)?I did not see any US 71 projects in the Draft STIP that appear to be I-49 upgrades.
I'm kind of a Google Earth junkie. So I just noticed Google put down some new satellite imagery showing progress of the Belle Vista Bypass. Imagery is dated March 4, 2016.Right now, they're working south from Hiwasse. I need to go check progress.
AR needs to stop dragging their feet and take advantage of the situation ASAP!What situation is that? Is there special federal funding to take advantage of?
AR needs to stop dragging their feet and take advantage of the situation ASAP!What situation is that? Is there special federal funding to take advantage of?
One complication with this is the current rule (is it really a rule?) that any signed Interstate segment must be connected to the rest of the Interstate highway system.
One complication with this is the current rule (is it really a rule?) that any signed Interstate segment must be connected to the rest of the Interstate highway system.Wasn't that rule dropped several years ago with the intent to allow Interstate signing for completed freeway segments that already met Interstate standards
AR needs to stop dragging their feet and take advantage of the situation ASAP!What situation is that? Is there special federal funding to take advantage of?
MoDOT has $20 Million in the draft STIP (released today) for 2019-2020 construction to fill the gap:
http://www.modot.org/plansandprojects/construction_program/STIP2017-2021/documents/Sec0407Southeast.pdf
MoDOT has $20 Million in the draft STIP (released today) for 2019-2020 construction to fill the gap:
http://www.modot.org/plansandprojects/construction_program/STIP2017-2021/documents/Sec0407Southeast.pdf
That's for SE Missouri.
Google Street View has posted July 2015 imagery of SB I-49 at AR 151 (https://www.google.com/maps/@33.3921027,-94.0150821,3a,75y,208.27h,101.39t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sOJO_eGWacQiy_qC3aPJ4YQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656!6m1!1e1):(above quote from Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg2091578#msg2091578) thread)
(http://i.imgur.com/b9Y9tPp.jpg)
Alas, the exit sign for I-49 to exit onto itself can still be seen in the distance.
Here is the proposed logging of the entire I-49 corridor in Arkansas (and Texas).(above quote from Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg293262;topicseen#msg293262) thread)
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Proposed-Mileage.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Proposed-Mileage.pdf)
Proposed exit numbering from the Louisiana State Line (through Texas) and to the Polk County, Arkansas line:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_1.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_1.pdf)
Proposed exit numbering from the Polk County line to the Ft. Chaffee area:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_2.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_2.pdf)
Proposed exit numbering from the Ft. Chaffee area to the Missouri State Line:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_3.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49_Exits_3.pdf)
Please understand this is all PROPOSED and is subject to a tweak every now and then.
Now if they would just renumber the exits on old 540.Probably when they get more of 49 built (though 549 at Ft Smith has I-49 exit numbers)
What is the hold up on building I-49 north from Texarkana to Ashdown and further north (other than funding)?Other than funding? Also funding.
And exactly why is I-49 being routed through Texas anyway?I believe it's due to problems with the floodplain and river crossing on the Arkansas side. Much more logical crossing on the Texas side.
What is the hold up on building I-49 north from Texarkana to Ashdown and further north (other than funding)?
It wouldn't surprise me if Texas held off building its short portion of I-49 until all of I-69 and I-369 in Texas was completed. I hope they don't do that since it might take 20 or more years, but I kind of expect TX DOT to take that approach.
Maybe Arkansas would be willing to pay for I-49 through Texas? Or pay for some of it?With what? Chickens? ;)
I just noticed some info relevant to this thread in a Dec. 6, 2009 article US71 recently posted in the "I-49 in AR (Fort Smith, Bella Vista)" thread:(above quote from Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg76274#msg76274) thread)QuoteThe only work that has been done between Texarkana and Alma are environmental-impact studies on two separate sections.(http://www.allbusiness.com/government/government-bodies-offices-regional-local/13536201-1.html)
The Texarkana to De Queen section is a 36-mile leg that will have an additional 16 miles in Texas and include a new bridge over the Red River, an expense that will be shared equally between Arkansas and Texas. Total cost is expected to reach $536 million.
Maybe Arkansas would be willing to pay for I-49 through Texas? Or pay for some of it?With what? Chickens? ;)
What is the hold up on building I-49 north from Texarkana to Ashdown and further north (other than funding)?They build bypasses around the cities first, then connect the bypasses
Delegations from the Texarkana USA Chamber of Commerce, Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce, and the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce met to discuss the final stages of completion of Interstate 49 from Texarkana to Fort Smith ....
The Chambers met to discuss the next stages to complete the highway ....
The productive meeting resulted in a common agreement to encourage forward actions on the project. Focus is on the Interstate — 49 bridge over the Arkansas River at Fort Smith and the initiation of acquiring right of ways to further the highway through Arkansas.
It seems to me like DeQueen would be a higher priority. It's a slightly bigger population than Mena and has more traffic with four US highways converging (59, 70, 71, 371). Plus lots of trucks due to the chicken industry.The Mena area has three US highways (59, 71, 270) and is closer to Fort Smith. I believe it would also be easier to build as a bypass, since earlier I-49 environmental studies suggest it will largely follow the existing 71/270 "S-curve" route north of Mena; unless it's entirely north of 59/70/71, a De Queen bypass might have to go to southern Sevier County to reach 59/71 again. (Not to mention racial politics possibly affecting the cities' political pull; De Queen has a far larger Hispanic population than mostly lily-white Mena.)
I guess the difference is Mena is getting its act together and DeQueen hasn't.
At last week’s Children’s Hospital fundraising gala in Northwest Arkansas, Wal-Mart CEO Doug McMillon said the region is on pace to grow to more than 1 million residents over the next 15 years.
“If that is really the pace of growth, we will have to accelerate our plan for expansion,” Doderer said. “The building we’re designing is easily expandable. We’re actually building it such that we can grow, we can build without disrupting services that are open.”
http://talkbusiness.net/2016/08/arkansas-childrens-ceo-says-nw-arkansas-poised-for-more-growth-shares-plans-for-additional-state-reach/
Not highway news, but BOY is it Arkansas I-49 related.
Walmart CEO Doug McMillon was quoted yesterday as saying that Northwest Arkansas is now projected to have over 1 million people in 15 years. Here's a link to the post where the math is done; that translates to an average of 91 new people per day in NWA moving in over the next decade-and-one-half. (https://www.urbanplanet.org/forums/topic/116237-nwa-growth/?do=findComment&comment=1421293)
(And I'm wondering whether that takes into account any further completion of I-49, at least the Bella Vista Bypass and the Arkansas River Bridge. Regardless, given this is essentially the middle of the I-49 corridor between Kansas City and Texarkana/Shreveport, it will someday have a big effect and CAUSE a big effect if it comes to pass).QuoteAt last week’s Children’s Hospital fundraising gala in Northwest Arkansas, Wal-Mart CEO Doug McMillon said the region is on pace to grow to more than 1 million residents over the next 15 years.
“If that is really the pace of growth, we will have to accelerate our plan for expansion,” Doderer said. “The building we’re designing is easily expandable. We’re actually building it such that we can grow, we can build without disrupting services that are open.”
http://talkbusiness.net/2016/08/arkansas-childrens-ceo-says-nw-arkansas-poised-for-more-growth-shares-plans-for-additional-state-reach/
Wal-Mart built XNA (with help from Tyson and JB Hunt). Maybe they should invest in 49? Heck, they are getting their own exit already, so spend a little more. My 2 pfennigs worth.
Does Arkansas even have any toll highways?There is a proposed private toll road connecting XNA to the US 412 Bypass, but that is still a few years away. Otherwise, no.
http://www.swtimes.com/news/20160814/population-projections-show-greenwood-booming
This article show's what kind of snails pace I 49 project is going. Something needs to speed it up.
Not highway news, but BOY is it Arkansas I-49 related.
Walmart CEO Doug McMillon was quoted yesterday as saying that Northwest Arkansas is now projected to have over 1 million people in 15 years. Here's a link to the post where the math is done; that translates to an average of 91 new people per day in NWA moving in over the next decade-and-one-half. (https://www.urbanplanet.org/forums/topic/116237-nwa-growth/?do=findComment&comment=1421293)
(And I'm wondering whether that takes into account any further completion of I-49, at least the Bella Vista Bypass and the Arkansas River Bridge. Regardless, given this is essentially the middle of the I-49 corridor between Kansas City and Texarkana/Shreveport, it will someday have a big effect and CAUSE a big effect if it comes to pass).QuoteAt last week’s Children’s Hospital fundraising gala in Northwest Arkansas, Wal-Mart CEO Doug McMillon said the region is on pace to grow to more than 1 million residents over the next 15 years.
“If that is really the pace of growth, we will have to accelerate our plan for expansion,” Doderer said. “The building we’re designing is easily expandable. We’re actually building it such that we can grow, we can build without disrupting services that are open.”
http://talkbusiness.net/2016/08/arkansas-childrens-ceo-says-nw-arkansas-poised-for-more-growth-shares-plans-for-additional-state-reach/
Wal-Mart built XNA (with help from Tyson and JB Hunt). Maybe they should invest in 49? Heck, they are getting their own exit already, so spend a little more. My 2 pfennigs worth.
When I-49 is complete, Fort Smith will explode. It will be at the corner of I-40 and I-49, in the center of the U.S. With access to rail and river, the proximity to major trucking lines (ABF, C. R. England, J. B. Hunt, USA Trucking, Jones Truck Lines etc.) it will be, perhaps, the single largest drop and ship hub (not attached to a sea or ocean) in the country. It will be central most drop point for shipped items arriving in the gulf ports for distribution east, west, and north.
I read a study several months ago that predicted that, after the completion of I-49, the River Valley will be one on the 5 fastest growing areas in the country, with a return of it's strong manufacturing base to take advantage of it's, now enhanced, ability to ship North, South, East, and West.
According to a couple of friends of mine on the FS Board of Directors and the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority, east and south of Fort Smith is being gobbled up in huge chunks by investors in anticipation of the growth that will be facilitated by the completion of I-49.
Even if/when I-49 is completed there will be bigger rail & road hubs in the Central US than Fort Smith. For rail, Kansas City and Amarillo both dwarf anything in Fort Smith. Oklahoma City and Kansas City are important Interstate highway hubs.
With Fort Chaffee being decommissioned, there is lots of land available cheap (one reason why 549 was built in that area). Almost all the land surrounding the Huckabee Nature Center has been bought by housing developers. There is a private college under construction, plus a church nearby. There is a new fire station on Massard Rd, about half a mile from 549.
The only services right now is a Casey's General Store on AR 22 just west of the new highway. It would not surprise me if Love's or another truck stop has already purchased land and is simply waiting for 549 to be extended.
AR 255 is proposed to be rerouted through Ft Chaffee as well, instead along the edge as it is now.
Let me know when you're in the area and I'll show you around ;)
With Fort Chaffee being decommissioned, there is lots of land available cheap (one reason why 549 was built in that area). Almost all the land surrounding the Huckabee Nature Center has been bought by housing developers. There is a private college under construction, plus a church nearby. There is a new fire station on Massard Rd, about half a mile from 549.
The only services right now is a Casey's General Store on AR 22 just west of the new highway. It would not surprise me if Love's or another truck stop has already purchased land and is simply waiting for 549 to be extended.
AR 255 is proposed to be rerouted through Ft Chaffee as well, instead along the edge as it is now.
Let me know when you're in the area and I'll show you around ;)
^TY. :D Every other state bordering Arkansas (including those with a smaller population) has both a dental and a veterinary school, but the Natural State doesn't (yet). That private college may be about to change that, and it's time, with the state having two separate in-border metro areas that are approaching the 1 million person mark. And as you said, future I-49 is nearly at their doorstep.
Owen offered updates on the I-49 bridge and the relocation of Highway 255 to Frontier Road as well as the widening of Frontier to five lanes. Concerning the I-49 bridge over the Arkansas River, Owen said engineering on the estimated $350 million project has been approved.
“The Highway Department has a policy that once they start the engineering on a project, they will complete it within 10 years, so some of the people in this room will be driving on that bridge in 10 years, and we couldn’t have said that three or four years ago,” Owen revealed to the Board. “It’s still at the top of the Governor’s priority list to get that done. That’s one thing that spearheaded this along, and our Highway Commissioner has been right on top of it.”
With Fort Chaffee being decommissioned, there is lots of land available cheap (one reason why 549 was built in that area). Almost all the land surrounding the Huckabee Nature Center has been bought by housing developers. There is a private college under construction, plus a church nearby. There is a new fire station on Massard Rd, about half a mile from 549.
The only services right now is a Casey's General Store on AR 22 just west of the new highway. It would not surprise me if Love's or another truck stop has already purchased land and is simply waiting for 549 to be extended.
AR 255 is proposed to be rerouted through Ft Chaffee as well, instead along the edge as it is now.
Let me know when you're in the area and I'll show you around ;)
ARCOM (the new Osteopathic college) is having an open house (https://www.facebook.com/events/633060450182354/) for their new campus this Sunday (21st).^TY. :D Every other state bordering Arkansas (including those with a smaller population) has both a dental and a veterinary school, but the Natural State doesn't (yet). That private college may be about to change that, and it's time, with the state having two separate in-border metro areas that are approaching the 1 million person mark. And as you said, future I-49 is nearly at their doorstep.
I don't think there's an Optometry program, either, but I think I read somewhere that UCA was doing some preliminary research on the feasibility.
There was an interesting comment by Ivy Owens (FCRA director) about the I-49 bridge in Talk Business today (http://talkbusiness.net/2016/08/fcra-approves-high-volume-of-extensions-with-once-promised-large-shopping-center-project-in-limbo/):QuoteOwen offered updates on the I-49 bridge and the relocation of Highway 255 to Frontier Road as well as the widening of Frontier to five lanes. Concerning the I-49 bridge over the Arkansas River, Owen said engineering on the estimated $350 million project has been approved.
“The Highway Department has a policy that once they start the engineering on a project, they will complete it within 10 years, so some of the people in this room will be driving on that bridge in 10 years, and we couldn’t have said that three or four years ago,” Owen revealed to the Board. “It’s still at the top of the Governor’s priority list to get that done. That’s one thing that spearheaded this along, and our Highway Commissioner has been right on top of it.”
http://5newsonline.com/2016/08/30/ahtd-releases-details-of-i-49fulbright-expressway-interchange-widening/IMO, the current interchange should not have been built the way it was.
This is long overdue
LG-H634
This was done what 30 or so years agohttp://5newsonline.com/2016/08/30/ahtd-releases-details-of-i-49fulbright-expressway-interchange-widening/IMO, the current interchange should not have been built the way it was.
This is long overdue
LG-H634
Circa 1983This was done what 30 or so years agohttp://5newsonline.com/2016/08/30/ahtd-releases-details-of-i-49fulbright-expressway-interchange-widening/IMO, the current interchange should not have been built the way it was.
This is long overdue
LG-H634
LG-H634
Having driven it several times, it's quite obvious that the current through lanes were built well before the northern extension as a stand-alone US 71 Fayetteville bypass facility. The northern extension was merely "tacked-on" in a way that would least disrupt the bypass traffic -- and would simplify the funneling of NB traffic directly to the original US 71 commercial strip -- likely for localized economic benefit. The northern extension freeway was likely originally seen as a similar bypass of the towns to the north (Springdale, Bentonville, etc.) rather than part of a through route -- at least until the I-540 designation was posted in the '90's. And until now, it was likely thought of as adequate if not optimal. I guess the increased regional population and subsequent increased traffic finally caught up with the design!http://5newsonline.com/2016/08/30/ahtd-releases-details-of-i-49fulbright-expressway-interchange-widening/IMO, the current interchange should not have been built the way it was.
This is long overdue
LG-H634
Won't be surprised if 265 becomes jammed once they start working on the interchangeYou know it will
Work is ongoing from Interstate 49 in north Bentonville, including a large roundabout and other interchange improvements. The road will be part of I-49 when completed. Base and concrete paving are in place from Arkansas 72 on the west to past Pumpkin Hollow Road, going east.
"Realistically, we're looking at right after the first of the year before we'll actually be opening the roundabout and sending traffic down the new bypass," Archer said. "There's going to be a lot of the work that will be completed, but once you complete that bulk work, there's a lot of cleanup, there's a lot of shoulder gravel to put on, you have to pave the shoulders with asphalt."
...
Getting the road connected back to I-49 in Missouri still requires Arkansas building a 2.5-mile section to the state line and Missouri building a section from the state line to just south of Pineville.
Darin Hamelink, area engineer for the Missouri Department of Transportation, told regional planners earlier this year $20 million is budgeted in 2020 for construction of the 4.81-mile project, but another $30 million is needed to finish the road.
All right of way has been acquired, Hamelink said. He said the environmental impact statement needs to be done. Preliminary design work is completed, but $3 million must be allocated to finish the plans, he said.
Missouri officials, at one time, said they had money in hand to go ahead with the project when Arkansas was ready. Arkansas wasn't ready at that point and Missouri switched the money to other projects. Hamelink said Missouri is now dealing with a shortage of highway money.
"I don't think we'll ever see construction quit on the Bella Vista Bypass until it's four lanes and finished," said Dick Trammel, chairman of the Arkansas Highway Commission. "It's not a road to nowhere. The part that's finished and open, it's being used pretty heavily."
http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2016/sep/04/officials-happy-with-progress-of-two-no/
Why would people think it's a through road to Missouri? It'll be accessed via a roundabout off the main highway, right?
Won't be surprised if 265 becomes jammed once they start working on the interchange
LG-H634
I saw the 2017 rand mcnally atlas today and it showed interstate construction to the southwest of the wagon wheel road exit? Is this where the are planning the Bella vista bypass (southern leg)?
I thought that interchange needed a makeover when I was there in 03-09. Its about time. My only beef is that they should make I-49, 4 lanes in each direction to 1) handle game day traffic and 2) plan for the future residents moving to the area. Arkansas has a bad habit of just trying to solve current traffic issues instead of doing that and planning for future growth.They have always had a "reactive" vs "proactive" approach to road building. No need to change that, I guess! ;)
With the loss of the spinach cannery, Alma dropped the title of "Spinach Capital of the World" in favor "Crossroads of America.” Greene said it’s an apt description since the gateway to the future Interstate 49 bridge is set to begin at Alma and Interstate 40 lies just to the north of the city. Incorporated in 1872, the city of Alma also was a crossroads for the area with travelers finding it as a junction when they “came down out of the mountains,” Greene said.
http://www.swtimes.com/news/20160906/alma-being-reshaped-by-arkansas-162-relocation-project
Oh OK. Fill me in? I have not heard any word of this on here? I'm guessing its going to be a 4 lane spur parkway?
Though the I-49 bridge (and a completed I-49) is still a ways off, and though Effingham, IL might want to disagree, Alma, AR has a new slogan: "Crossroads of America". When the I-49/Texas I-69 hourglass corridor is complete, they may be right (alongside fellow I-49 interstate junction cities Kansas City, Joplin and Shreveport/Texarkana, of course)
They'll wait until they build the bridge and connect the Barling segment, which uses the new I-49 mileage.
Rumor is that the next section of I-49 between Greenwood and Texarkana will be a bypass of Mena. Has this been confirmed? There would be exits at AR 8 and 88, CR 70, and some sort of interchange where it meets US 71 southwest of Mena. How are the CR 70 and the southwestern interchange going to be configured?(above quote from I-49 Mena bypass (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=15654.msg2068146#msg2068146) thread)
This June 27 article (http://txktoday.com/news/area-chambers-meet-to-discuss-interstate-49/) reports that representatives from three Arkansas cities met recently to discuss the next steps for I-49, Texarkana, Fort Smith, and Mena.
They agreed that initial focus should be on finishing the Arkansas River bridge, and then the initiation of acquiring rights of way for the furtherance of I-49 in Arkansas
Arkansas State Representative Marcus E. Richmond spoke at the Mena Lions Club on Friday where he talked on Medicaid issues and Interstate 49. He represents District 21, including parts of Polk, Scott, Perry, Garland, Yell, Crawford and Sebastian counties ....
Richmond also discussed the next step that he believes needs to be taken in order to complete the long-awaited I-49 and the benefits it could bring to the district. "The next big step is finishing the bridge there at Alma across the Arkansas River," Richmond said. "Once that's done there are very few excuses to keep postponing the competition of Interstate 49."
Richmond said he is in favor of legislation that would incentivize businesses to bring and keep local employment in his district and acknowledged some people will be concerned I-49 will change the community. "I don't think it will have that much of an impact on who we are, but what it may do is be that large artery that allows businesses that are already here to expand and hire more people," he said. "In my opinion it would encourage new industries and maybe some of the smaller businesses to start up and expand as well. It would have beneficial economic impact on our area."
They'll wait until they build the bridge and connect the Barling segment, which uses the new I-49 mileage.That makes Sense since AR 22 Exit # is 193 and U.S. 71 Exit is 187 on AR 549 (Future I-49)
1. On the 18th of August, Chaffee Crossing's Ivy Owen says the AHTD has started its engineering studies of the I-49 bridge and never does such a study without intending to finish the project within 10 years.
2. On September 4th, Dick Trammell says he doesn't believe construction on the Bella Vista Bypass will stop until its "finished and four-laned", and we get newspaper confirmation that Missouri is slated to start their section of that I-49 in 2020. Then yesterday:
3. State Rep. Marcus Richmond told the Mena Lions' Club: "The next big step is finishing the bridge there at Alma across the Arkansas River,...Once that's done there are very few excuses to keep postponing the competition of Interstate 49." (Thanks, Grzrd.)
Talk is cheap, but BOY is there a lot of talk about Arkansas I-49 now within the space of less than a month. It is truly foolish now NOT to think about finishing that road. I guess we've reached the point where "reasons" start to become "excuses", per Rep. Richmond.
1. On the 18th of August, Chaffee Crossing's Ivy Owen says the AHTD has started its engineering studies of the I-49 bridge and never does such a study without intending to finish the project within 10 years.
2. On September 4th, Dick Trammell says he doesn't believe construction on the Bella Vista Bypass will stop until its "finished and four-laned", and we get newspaper confirmation that Missouri is slated to start their section of that I-49 in 2020. Then yesterday:
3. State Rep. Marcus Richmond told the Mena Lions' Club: "The next big step is finishing the bridge there at Alma across the Arkansas River,...Once that's done there are very few excuses to keep postponing the competition of Interstate 49." (Thanks, Grzrd.)
Talk is cheap, but BOY is there a lot of talk about Arkansas I-49 now within the space of less than a month. It is truly foolish now NOT to think about finishing that road. I guess we've reached the point where "reasons" start to become "excuses", per Rep. Richmond.
There was an interesting comment by Ivy Owens (FCRA director) about the I-49 bridge in Talk Business today (http://talkbusiness.net/2016/08/fcra-approves-high-volume-of-extensions-with-once-promised-large-shopping-center-project-in-limbo/):QuoteOwen offered updates on the I-49 bridge and the relocation of Highway 255 to Frontier Road as well as the widening of Frontier to five lanes. Concerning the I-49 bridge over the Arkansas River, Owen said engineering on the estimated $350 million project has been approved.
“The Highway Department has a policy that once they start the engineering on a project, they will complete it within 10 years, so some of the people in this room will be driving on that bridge in 10 years, and we couldn’t have said that three or four years ago,” Owen revealed to the Board. “It’s still at the top of the Governor’s priority list to get that done. That’s one thing that spearheaded this along, and our Highway Commissioner has been right on top of it.”
The Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department is commissioning a study on the feasibility of not only using tolls to help build a new section of Interstate 49 in western Arkansas, but also to have someone else operate and maintain the tollway.
The Arkansas Highway Commission last week approved an order to solicit consultants to study using tolls and a public-private partnership to complete a 13-mile section of I-49 from Interstate 40, where I-49 ends now, south to Arkansas 22 in Barling.
If built as envisioned, it would be the first example of a public-private partnership on a roadway project in Arkansas, state highway officials said.
"The thought, if the money part works out, is that a private entity would design, build, operate and maintain the facility until it is paid for and can become a 'free' route," Scott Bennett, the department director, said last week. "Many times, with facilities such as this, there is a shortfall between the revenue generated from tolls and what is needed to build the facility.
"From this standpoint, it could actually be a design-build-finance-operate-maintain project. Part of the study should also evaluate the costs and benefits of operations and maintenance by a third party versus operations and maintenance by the department." ....
The estimated price tag of the 13.7-mile segment between Barling and Alma is $380 million. The estimate includes $110 million for a new bridge over the Arkansas River.
The bridge cannot be built without connecting I-49 between Alma and Barling.
"You've got to connect the bridge on either side to make it usable," Bennett told the commission last week.
Bennett briefed local leaders about a month ago on the possibility of looking at tolls to build the new segment ....
The consultant will have to reassess the environmental impact statement for the project because it is outdated. The Federal Highway Administration approved it in 1997.
The consultant also will develop a "conceptual and preliminary design for more accurate cost estimating ... explore tolling as a feasible funding option and ... determine if the project is a candidate for the design/build/maintain project delivery method," state highway officials said.
From the time it takes to hire the consultant to completion of all aspects of the study, it could take two years, Bennett said.
"We need some design to know actually how much it is going to cost," Bennett said. "And this is one from the standpoint of public-private partnerships. You have tolling and the possibility of having ... design build-finance-operate-maintain. This could be a possibility.
"But we won't know unless we have the numbers, so what we're saying is we'll carve out a little of that $10 million for the tolling study so we'll know whether it's viable as a public-private partnership. A lot of that will tell us whether it's viable as a design-build project also."
Dick Trammel
That would be extremely shunpikable with I-540, wouldn't it?
That would be extremely shunpikable with I-540, wouldn't it?
Yes it would. That stretch of 540 and the little stretch of 71 is going to see a lot of traffic if that happens lol.
What the hell kind of bridge are they thinking about building that it takes 2 years just to come up with a design to determine costs (and then presumably wait a few more years to build the thing and meanwhile let price inflation make it even more expensive)?
This isn't the freaking Golden Gate Bridge or some other signature crossing like that. It's just a conventional highway bridge over a river with nothing bigger than small barge traffic on it. It's not like a Disney Princess cruise ship is going to ever come steaming through Fort Smith. There's lots of other conventional bridges crossing barge traveled rivers all over the country. What makes this one bridge such an engineering feat to build? It's not like the Great River Bridge proposed to cross the Mississippi.
45 years ago this nation was putting men on the moon and laying down 1000 miles of Interstate highway per year. Now we can't do squat.
They are looking at spending maybe 670 million on I-30 in Little Rock to upgrade it over the Arkansas River but can't find the money to build this one at Fort smith. 1/2 cent sales tax was passed mainly for Little Rock.
What the hell kind of bridge are they thinking about building that it takes 2 years just to come up with a design to determine costs (and then presumably wait a few more years to build the thing and meanwhile let price inflation make it even more expensive)?
This isn't the freaking Golden Gate Bridge or some other signature crossing like that. It's just a conventional highway bridge over a river with nothing bigger than small barge traffic on it. It's not like a Disney Princess cruise ship is going to ever come steaming through Fort Smith. There's lots of other conventional bridges crossing barge traveled rivers all over the country. What makes this one bridge such an engineering feat to build? It's not like the Great River Bridge proposed to cross the Mississippi.
45 years ago this nation was putting men on the moon and laying down 1000 miles of Interstate highway per year. Now we can't do squat.
It looks like the area around the river at that location looks marshy, so long approach spans may also be required, which would drive the cost of the bridge up.
(Yes, I know it would add to the cost but...with something like this, I partially wish they'd build a smaller version of the majestic bridge between Lake Village and Greenville, MS, and atop it, fly a big American flag on the highest point like that above the Kansas City Southern railway bridge between Vicksburg and Louisiana, just north of I-20. If you're going to diddle around and build an expensive bridge, build an expensive (memorable) bridge! :love: (Imagining how beautiful that sight would look as one comes out of the Boston Mountains above Alma on I-49 and sees the flag-bearing bridge structure in the distance with the Ouachitas beyond, beckoning to south Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas and the Gulf Coast. :love: ))
(Yes, I know it would add to the cost but...with something like this, I partially wish they'd build a smaller version of the majestic bridge between Lake Village and Greenville, MS, and atop it, fly a big American flag on the highest point like that above the Kansas City Southern railway bridge between Vicksburg and Louisiana, just north of I-20. If you're going to diddle around and build an expensive bridge, build an expensive (memorable) bridge! :love: (Imagining how beautiful that sight would look as one comes out of the Boston Mountains above Alma on I-49 and sees the flag-bearing bridge structure in the distance with the Ouachitas beyond, beckoning to south Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas and the Gulf Coast. :love: ))
I say put a bonnie blue flag on it
45 years ago this nation was putting men on the moon and laying down 1000 miles of Interstate highway per year. Now we can't do squat.
No one wants to pay for them, anymore.45 years ago this nation was putting men on the moon and laying down 1000 miles of Interstate highway per year. Now we can't do squat.
Nailed it! :rofl:
No one wants to pay for them, anymore.45 years ago this nation was putting men on the moon and laying down 1000 miles of Interstate highway per year. Now we can't do squat.
Nailed it! :rofl:
Actually since Reagan. It all went to corporate tax breaks so companies wouldn't move to China. /sarcasmNo one wants to pay for them, anymore.45 years ago this nation was putting men on the moon and laying down 1000 miles of Interstate highway per year. Now we can't do squat.
Nailed it! :rofl:
We've accumulated $15 trillion in debt as a nation over the last two presidencies. How much infrastructure could that money have built? What the tarnation did it go to?
Doesn't Hilary Clinton or Donald Trump have some huge spending plan for our infrastructure? It was one of them, but I can't remember which.Does a wall count as infrastructure?
Didn't Crafton Tull just screw up at Lowell exit? There are blacked out pavement markings everywhere around Dixieland. How did they end up with this project?
Why aren't there 2 lanes getting on I49 south at exit 78? Is there not enough room with the 412 bypass?That interchange has always been a clusterf*ck. I don't think they ever planned it to handle all the traffic it has. Can you imagine a 2-lane backwater highway leading to a "major metropolitan airport"?
Why aren't there 2 lanes getting on I49 south at exit 78? Is there not enough room with the 412 bypass?
Why aren't there 2 lanes getting on I49 south at exit 78? Is there not enough room with the 412 bypass?
Two lanes merging into two lanes of Interstate? Doesn't sound like a good idea
Why aren't there 2 lanes getting on I49 south at exit 78? Is there not enough room with the 412 bypass?
I've seen it. Two lanes merging onto the highway, becoming one, finally merging into the rest of the highway. I don't see that as possible at 264. I see more a "drop lane" (merge, then exit) from 264 to the 412 Bypass and Byp 412 to 264.
Yet AHTD had an opportunity to do a drop lane with the Tyson Parkway and US 412/Sunset Street, but didn't.
Two lanes merging into two lanes of Interstate? Doesn't sound like a good idea
Private entity builds and maintains tollway. Like that worked so well for Texas.
AHTD's plans for the mess that is the Rogers interchange:
(http://talkbusiness.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/I49-71BinterchangeRogersnarrow.jpg)
http://talkbusiness.net/2016/10/ahtd-reveals-plans-for-23-million-rogers-interchange-on-interstate-49/
AHTD's plans for the mess that is the Rogers interchange:
(http://talkbusiness.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/I49-71BinterchangeRogersnarrow.jpg)
http://talkbusiness.net/2016/10/ahtd-reveals-plans-for-23-million-rogers-interchange-on-interstate-49/
The AHTD is finally, uh, coming into the 21st Century.
AHTD's plans for the mess that is the Rogers interchange:
(http://talkbusiness.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/I49-71BinterchangeRogersnarrow.jpg)
http://talkbusiness.net/2016/10/ahtd-reveals-plans-for-23-million-rogers-interchange-on-interstate-49/
The AHTD is finally, uh, coming into the 21st Century.
Am I reading this picture right? Do all of those ramps meet above I-49 into one massive holy-shit intersection?
AHTD's plans for the mess that is the Rogers interchange:
(http://talkbusiness.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/I49-71BinterchangeRogersnarrow.jpg)
http://talkbusiness.net/2016/10/ahtd-reveals-plans-for-23-million-rogers-interchange-on-interstate-49/
The AHTD is finally, uh, coming into the 21st Century.
Am I reading this picture right? Do all of those ramps meet above I-49 into one massive holy-shit intersection?
In a way, yes...but that's just the left turn movements. This is a classic Single Point Urban Interchange (SPUI).
AHTD, you have failed again. Why would you give the City of Bentonville total control over the Exit 86 and the new interchange planned to the north?
Money talks
Crews have officially moved the orange barrels on an eight mile stretch of I-49 Thursday. This will open up a expanded third lane in both the north and southbound directions. The new lanes start near Johnson Mill Boulevard and extend up to Wagon Wheel Road.
The new lanes were supposed to open Thursday night at 8, but the highway department decided to open them this afternoon instead ....
With the lane expansion complete, now crews are focusing on other I-49 updates. "We'll have several projects that will be completed next year during 2017. The next project that is related to I-49 that is scheduled for completion is in fact the usable portion of the Bella Vista bypass."
The highway department said by 2022, most of the work on I-49 should be complete between Fayetteville and Bella Vista.
M86, who did you talk to in Bville? Mike Churchwell worked for AHTD for 20+ years. Really their mayor drives a lot of what they do"Mike Churchwell worked for AHTD for 20+ years".
Churchwell is a good engineer. He is competent.West Walnut, I'm guessing?
Bentonville and Rogers did collaborate on the exit's design. As part of the deal, 3 miles of US 71B in Rogers will become a city street
Will it lose the 71B designation?
Or, can it keep it?
How does city vs state maint work in AR WRT numbered routes?
Will it lose the 71B designation?
Or, can it keep it?
How does city vs state maint work in AR WRT numbered routes?
Know how you can pay for this project and every other project the state could dream of? Become the first Southern state to legalize recreational cannabis and tax it.
Know how you can pay for this project and every other project the state could dream of? Become the first Southern state to legalize recreational cannabis and tax it.North Carolina is building a statewide network of interstate highways. The money comes from the gas tax, which is 13.45¢ higher in NC than in Arkansas (according to http://taxfoundation.org/blog/state-gasoline-tax-rates-2016). I'm not arguing that Arkansas should do that; it's a decision for Arkansas folks to make. But it is possible to build roads if voters really want to have them.
Arkansas wants better roads, but wants someone else to pay for them.Know how you can pay for this project and every other project the state could dream of? Become the first Southern state to legalize recreational cannabis and tax it.North Carolina is building a statewide network of interstate highways. The money comes from the gas tax, which is 13.45¢ higher in NC than in Arkansas (according to http://taxfoundation.org/blog/state-gasoline-tax-rates-2016). I'm not arguing that Arkansas should do that; it's a decision for Arkansas folks to make. But it is possible to build roads if voters really want to have them.
That's just it. Stupid voters think roads just build themselves for free. The voters don't want to pay for anything. They view any tax as way too much tax. They don't ever bother thinking about what it costs to build a road, be it all the high priced materials, the high priced planning, construction, workers comp insurance on all that labor, etc., etc., etc. Far be it for these lazy idiots to bother themselves with details.
So, here in Oklahoma at least, we have a gas tax funding mechanism that hasn't budged since around 1993. I can guarantee a road costs way way more to build now than it did 23 years ago. There's actually a bunch of people who think the gasoline tax should be abolished. I wonder how these selfish morons would feel if their own jobs in the private sector got put under the microscope. How would these selfish morons feel if the "peanut gallery" demanded they get their pay cut in half or even be forced to work for free.
American voters are, on average, not the slightest bit plugged into reality.
That's just it. Stupid voters think roads just build themselves for free. The voters don't want to pay for anything. They view any tax as way too much tax. They don't ever bother thinking about what it costs to build a road, be it all the high priced materials, the high priced planning, construction, workers comp insurance on all that labor, etc., etc., etc. Far be it for these lazy idiots to bother themselves with details.
So, here in Oklahoma at least, we have a gas tax funding mechanism that hasn't budged since around 1993. I can guarantee a road costs way way more to build now than it did 23 years ago. There's actually a bunch of people who think the gasoline tax should be abolished. I wonder how these selfish morons would feel if their own jobs in the private sector got put under the microscope. How would these selfish morons feel if the "peanut gallery" demanded they get their pay cut in half or even be forced to work for free.
American voters are, on average, not the slightest bit plugged into reality.
Actually I don't think people have a problem with paying taxes. They just get sick of their money being "wasted". If the gas tax actually went back to the roads rather than in some general fund, then I don't think people would be complaining (as much).
Little Rock and NWA get the bulk of highway revenue while the rest of the state suffers and the governor refuses to raise taxes to fix the roads.
Little Rock and NWA get the bulk of highway revenue while the rest of the state suffers and the governor refuses to raise taxes to fix the roads.
It's the governor's job to set taxes? In my state, the legislative branch does that. But maybe Arkansas is different.
Little Rock and NWA get the bulk of highway revenue while the rest of the state suffers and the governor refuses to raise taxes to fix the roads.
It's the governor's job to set taxes? In my state, the legislative branch does that. But maybe Arkansas is different.
Highway revenues goes to the general fund. The entire state budget is set by the General Assembly. A gas tax increase wouldn't 100% go to AHTD unless it was a different mechanism
Little Rock and NWA get the bulk of highway revenue while the rest of the state suffers and the governor refuses to raise taxes to fix the roads.
It's the governor's job to set taxes? In my state, the legislative branch does that. But maybe Arkansas is different.
Highway revenues goes to the general fund. The entire state budget is set by the General Assembly. A gas tax increase wouldn't 100% go to AHTD unless it was a different mechanism
My point exactly. Raising the gas tax almost does nothing for roads. Most of the money will just get spent elsewhere.
Little Rock and NWA get the bulk of highway revenue while the rest of the state suffers and the governor refuses to raise taxes to fix the roads.
It's the governor's job to set taxes? In my state, the legislative branch does that. But maybe Arkansas is different.
Highway revenues goes to the general fund. The entire state budget is set by the General Assembly. A gas tax increase wouldn't 100% go to AHTD unless it was a different mechanism
My point exactly. Raising the gas tax almost does nothing for roads. Most of the money will just get spent elsewhere.
Well, that's really dumb. Most states don't have the gas tax go into the general fund. In Washington, the gas tax only funds the DOT.
Little Rock and NWA get the bulk of highway revenue while the rest of the state suffers and the governor refuses to raise taxes to fix the roads.
It's the governor's job to set taxes? In my state, the legislative branch does that. But maybe Arkansas is different.
Highway revenues goes to the general fund. The entire state budget is set by the General Assembly. A gas tax increase wouldn't 100% go to AHTD unless it was a different mechanism
My point exactly. Raising the gas tax almost does nothing for roads. Most of the money will just get spent elsewhere.
Well, that's really dumb. Most states don't have the gas tax go into the general fund. In Washington, the gas tax only funds the DOT.
This is Arkansas: everyone wants a piece of the pie, especially Wal-Mart
Which brings us full circle to a point I made in another thread: has anyone in the Wal-Mart organization or even the Walton family expressed any interest in the completion of I-49 (first, in reference to the missing Bella Vista link into MO, and, second, Ft. Smith to Texarkana)? Or do they not see any benefit to themselves from either or both of these projects? If anyone more in tune with attitudes at Wal-Mart HQ, or manifestations of any previous transportation policy-related activities on their part, please speak up!
Besides, Walmart has distribution centers scattered hither and yon. I don't think I-49 makes much of a difference to them one way or another. They became a mega-giant while US 71 was the main route to the world, after all.
Interesting discussion. A couple of additional comments about the NC gas tax:Little Rock and NWA get the bulk of highway revenue while the rest of the state suffers and the governor refuses to raise taxes to fix the roads.
It's the governor's job to set taxes? In my state, the legislative branch does that. But maybe Arkansas is different.
Highway revenues goes to the general fund. The entire state budget is set by the General Assembly. A gas tax increase wouldn't 100% go to AHTD unless it was a different mechanism
My point exactly. Raising the gas tax almost does nothing for roads. Most of the money will just get spent elsewhere.
Well, that's really dumb. Most states don't have the gas tax go into the general fund. In Washington, the gas tax only funds the DOT.
Little Rock and NWA get the bulk of highway revenue while the rest of the state suffers and the governor refuses to raise taxes to fix the roads.
It's the governor's job to set taxes? In my state, the legislative branch does that. But maybe Arkansas is different.
Highway revenues goes to the general fund. The entire state budget is set by the General Assembly. A gas tax increase wouldn't 100% go to AHTD unless it was a different mechanism
My point exactly. Raising the gas tax almost does nothing for roads. Most of the money will just get spent elsewhere.
Well, that's really dumb. Most states don't have the gas tax go into the general fund. In Washington, the gas tax only funds the DOT.
Little Rock and NWA get the bulk of highway revenue while the rest of the state suffers and the governor refuses to raise taxes to fix the roads.
It's the governor's job to set taxes? In my state, the legislative branch does that. But maybe Arkansas is different.
Highway revenues goes to the general fund. The entire state budget is set by the General Assembly. A gas tax increase wouldn't 100% go to AHTD unless it was a different mechanism
My point exactly. Raising the gas tax almost does nothing for roads. Most of the money will just get spent elsewhere.
Well, that's really dumb. Most states don't have the gas tax go into the general fund. In Washington, the gas tax only funds the DOT.
Besides, Walmart has distribution centers scattered hither and yon. I don't think I-49 makes much of a difference to them one way or another. They became a mega-giant while US 71 was the main route to the world, after all.
As did Tyson and JB Hunt
Years from now I can see various towns and cities putting up their own toll tag readers on their busiest intersections and spreading it from there.I would imagine that if that started to happen, voters would follow Texas's lead and outlaw it. In Texas, tolls are only permitted newly-constructed capacity. Any existing free lanes must remain free, with tolls only applying to new express lanes inside existing freeways, new freeways inside existing surface highways (which become continuous frontage roads), or new ramps bypassing stoplight-controlled intersections.
In light of just how expensive and difficult it has become to build roads (much less even maintain them) I can't imagine a more stupid thing than allowing gas tax revenue to go into a state's general fund.
Hardly a day passes without an updated status in this newspaper about Interstate 49 road work in Northwest Arkansas. Laid end to end, the column inches devoted to the roadway over recent years might well stretch from here to Shreveport, a critical, long-term connecting point between Kansas City and New Orleans for the highway. Sadly a paper ribbon would not a highway make.
At a Bentonville concert some months ago, Arkansas State Highway Commission Chairman Dick Trammel attended, as did I. During intermission I buttonholed him and humbly asked if Interstate 49 from Fort Smith to Texarkana (and on to Shreveport and world seaports beyond) might be completed in my lifetime.
His eyes softened. He responded quietly and apologetically: No.
That's a pity. Not for me and my ilk -- numerous Gulf Coast expatriates God has blessed with relocations to this Ozarks Shangri-La reached, as in epic lore, through a mountain niche passageway. Former Louisianans can deal with the inconvenience of driving deeply south now and again. We know rewards await at the end of a trek down two-laned U.S. 71 or 65: Mother's shrimp Creole. sister's oyster turkey dressing, and, in season, satsumas picked fresh from a neighbor's backyard trees.
No,the pity is for the communities in the western third of Arkansas between Fort Smith and Texarkana. Their basic link to the world is old U.S. 71, of similar curvy quality as our formerly solitary link to Interstate 40 via 71. That drive was scenic back in the day, except when the scenery became the back of a Wal-Mart semi groaning its way through hairpins to the Bentonville distribution center. Similarly, south of Fort Smith on U.S. 71, the road trip game is still estimating board feet on the logging truck you're stuck behind as it lumbers down to the paper mill in Ashdown. Lest I be tagged as a snarky city dude making fun of a rural highway, my concern is these communities are disconnected from Northwest Arkansas' tachometer-red-lining economic engine. And for the sake of our third of the state over here by Oklahoma, and for the sake of the state in general, this transportation need should be addressed sooner than later.
Just look at what completing an interstate highway has done for southwest Missouri. As U.S. 71 was upgraded section by section from Kansas City to Joplin and Pineville, new businesses began opening: a gas station here, a motel there and a dollar store over there. And for those fearing the McDonald County/Missouri Ozarks ambiance that inspired TV's Beverly Hillbillies might be endangered, it's still there, not far from the concrete ribbon's progress. The same could be said one day for stretches near Mena in the Ouachitas.
I am befuddled. Why the lack of priority placed on this? It's an important piece of highway directly linking the state's second-largest city, Fort Smith, to its fifth-largest city, Texarkana. OK, that's if you also include the slightly larger Texas-side population of the split city -- but I'm talking business markets here, not provincialism. And speaking of provincialism, it's curious that among the current Arkansas highway board members, there is no representation from the state's southwest quadrant, the part that would gain most from expanding U.S. 71 to four lanes of interstate down there.I'm neither a civil engineer nor a public sector finance expert. But there's something wrong with this 21st century picture, illustrated by recalling a famous highway project early in the last century. If infamous Louisiana Gov. Huey Long could complete most of the 156 miles of Airline Highway connecting Baton Rouge and New Orleans through the muck, marshland and depths of the Great Depression, should we not expect similar results on terra firma across the 156 miles between Greenwood and Ogden?Take heart, dear local readers, as you play dodge'em cars through orange traffic barrels and temporary lane changes on Interstate 49, awaiting your turn at the temporary Bella Vista traffic carousel. We prosperous ones already have our brass ring, receiving a gracious plenty of highway project dollars. Not so Arkansans two hours to our south. No matter. Someday soon our rush hour will be reduced by 10 minutes or so.
Yet I have hope. My parents and grandparents have all lived within putting distance of 100 years old. If my genes provide likewise, then just maybe I'll last long enough so my Baton Rouge granddaughter will have an easy drive up here for Papa Ted's funeral.
If infamous Louisiana Gov. Huey Long could complete most of the 156 miles of Airline Highway connecting Baton Rouge and New Orleans through the muck, marshland and depths of the Great Depression, should we not expect similar results on terra firma across the 156 miles between Greenwood and Ogden?
QuoteIf infamous Louisiana Gov. Huey Long could complete most of the 156 miles of Airline Highway connecting Baton Rouge and New Orleans through the muck, marshland and depths of the Great Depression, should we not expect similar results on terra firma across the 156 miles between Greenwood and Ogden?
Airline Highway is only 116 miles in total length. Much of that length is not through muck or marshland. And that "terra firma" is rather mountainous, with lots of really-hard rocks that will have to be broken and moved. :pan:
Wouldn't a better analogy be Interstate 10 between BTR and NOLA?? That had to be elevated through some swampland and the Morganza Spillway, right?
I'm not so sure building really long bridges is easier than blasting through mountainside rock these days. The prices of concrete, steel, etc. has made bridge building ridiculously expensive in the United States. 20 or 30 years ago building a new Interstate crossing over the Arkansas River in Fort Smith would not have been a big deal at all. Now it's a project weighing upwards of half a billion dollars. If I-10 had to be re-built between New Orleans and Baton Rouge or between Baton Rouge and Lake Charles those long bridges could easily cost billions of dollars. It's like the taxpayers are writing a blank check to construction companies and materials suppliers these days.
:rolleyes:
The Alma to Barling segment in the Fort Smith Area across the Arkansas River is the biggest stumbling block to hurdle. I'm not sure why that segment has to cost nearly half a billion dollars. They're not sending giant cargo ships and super tankers up the river through there. I'm under the impression the state of Arkansas wants to build that segment of I-49 before it has any other parts of the Texarkana to Fort Smith route built.
That is what they have made statements on that it is cheaper to do it all in one construction project. Now when the section from Hwy 71 to Hwy 72 is finished sometime this year does that mean AHTD will not do anymore work on the bypass until Missouri starts there section. So if Missouri doesn't come up with extra money the work on Bella Vista bypass will stop until 2020. That is when they have it scheduled. Then Arkansas has to finish there last section and still have to build additional 2 lanes to make it Interstate standard. Some way the 2 states need to get a fast lane grant to finish this.
That is what they have made statements on that it is cheaper to do it all in one construction project. Now when the section from Hwy 71 to Hwy 72 is finished sometime this year does that mean AHTD will not do anymore work on the bypass until Missouri starts there section. So if Missouri doesn't come up with extra money the work on Bella Vista bypass will stop until 2020. That is when they have it scheduled. Then Arkansas has to finish there last section and still have to build additional 2 lanes to make it Interstate standard. Some way the 2 states need to get a fast lane grant to finish this.
From what I understand AHTD will not proceed with building to the state line until MoDOT can come up with the money to finish its portion.
Scott Bennett's "Wish list" for Governor Hutchinson and President Trump: the I-69 Mississippi River Bridge and the I-49 Arkansas River Bridge: http://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/115718/fort-smith-great-river-bridges-comprise-arkansas-wish-list
I'm a little surprised they have not done more design and prep work on the I-49 bridge. The just built the Southern approach to itand it is the less expensive of the two bridges.Not to mention it would jump-start completing the link between Texarkana and Ft. Smith!
It seems like it would be the easier sell to get federal funding.
Does anyone think Bennett will get his wish granted for those Interstate river bridges?
I agree, I-49 was priority before I-69 and Louisiana is working on I-49 south and I don't see them really interested in I-69 also Texas is working on the south end of I-69 . So if Arkansas works on I-49 until those states get serious we need to work I-49. not enough money to do both interstates at the time. Bennett needs to quit thinking about Santa Claus.By all means, I-49 must be completed first before I-69 can get worked on.
I agree, I-49 was priority before I-69 and Louisiana is working on I-49 south and I don't see them really interested in I-69 also Texas is working on the south end of I-69 . So if Arkansas works on I-49 until those states get serious we need to work I-49. not enough money to do both interstates at the time. Bennett needs to quit thinking about Santa Claus.By all means, I-49 must be completed first before I-69 can get worked on.
Since LA doesn't seem to be in any hurry to finalize I-69 plans outside their own Shreveport SE loop "SIU", it's more than likely that AR is focusing their attention on taking care of corridor segments that address local needs rather than seek cooperation from LA on the I-69 segment crossing the state line. Until the time that LA makes the completion of I-69 a priority, it's unlikely that AR will pay much if any attention to anything SW of the present Monticello project -- and what's being planned east of that project will likely retain its 2-lane initial characteristics. With any I-69-related work maintaining this limited scope, it is certainly likely that I-49 will be well along the way to completion before any portion of I-69 within the state even looks like a full-blown Interstate.
Texas has little incentive to bring I-69 to Logansport.
(I-49 in Springdale looking north toward Don Tyson Parkway. A potential EIGHT lane interstate? No wonder 2 of the 3 Fort Smith/NWA stations have moved their main ops from FSM to NWA...now just watch what happens to FSM when I-49 is completed...)
I said it 10 years ago, I 540/49 Should Have been 4 lanes both ways because of game day traffic , and even student traffic. Not to mention the area was getting crazy growth (In 2003-09 when I lived there) from students from Texas and the people who relocate from other areas of the country. I advocated 3 regular lanes and a HOV lane from Fayetteville to Bella Vista. They also need interstate lighting and Electronic/Commercial Billboards that you see in the city...
LED billboards can have a play list of many ads. Here in Oklahoma most of the boards have hold times of 8 seconds before switching to the next ad. Some towns, like Edmond, demand a 30 second hold time on any variable message sign. That sucks. Too long a message hold time ruins much of the value of having the LED display in the first place.
Some cities and town just ban these LED signs and billboards outright, which reminds me of some towns banning the use of neon in signs. I still love neon signs, especially big outdoor signs loaded up with it. These days with widespread gentrification the trend seems to be banning as many signs as possible and then going nuts with the landscaping along side the streets. The problem with making a commercial/retail district look like a gated country club community it can make it really difficult for customers to find a store or restaurant. Then businesses lose business over that crap. All the trees and bushes along the medians and edges of a street along with Draconian sign limitations make it very easy to drive past any intended point of interest. Relying on the smart phone GPS is not a great fall-back for various reasons. To me a city doesn't look like a city without some cool looking signs.
I am definitely in favor of lighting on the interstates in Arkansas. I hated driving at night there last time I went. I'm indifferent about billboards. I figure that's more of a municipality by municipality decision.At least put up high-masts at the interchanges, then work from there.
iPhone
Former Arkansas resident.AHTD never seems to have much money, except for special projects like the Broadway Bridge, Little Rock and NWA get a lot attention, but everything else basically rots.
AHTD is very anti-roadway lighting. I never understood it, and fought against it. Their policy is to let the local municipalities decide that, even in metro areas. If it's an Interstate, why would a local town have jurisdiction?
It's funny, because I found a lot of discrepancies. Take a look at Little Rock, and their Interstate system. I remember reading the most Interstate miles per capita for a metro.
I hope AHTD is better... They were a disaster when I lived there, but were making progress. They need to fix their lighting policy.
Maybe the lack of lighting is about trying to save money on electricity bills.
Saving money on electricity bills was one theory I had about a situation here in Lawton at the complex I-44 interchange with Cache Road and 2nd Street. There are 11 high rise light towers in that interchange. The lamps in those towers are unique in that they put out white colored light instead of the usual amber colored light. This is the only freeway interchange I can think of that has lamps like that. Anyway, for the past few years the lights in several of those towers were turned off and burned out lamps in the other towers weren't replaced. I figured ODOT was pinching pennies. Just over the past couple or so weeks ODOT maintenance crews serviced the towers, bringing the dark ones back online one by one. There's still a tower or two with a lamp out here or there, but the lighting in that interchange is far brighter at night than it has been in years.
Maybe the lack of lighting is about trying to save money on electricity bills.
Saving money on electricity bills was one theory I had about a situation here in Lawton at the complex I-44 interchange with Cache Road and 2nd Street. There are 11 high rise light towers in that interchange. The lamps in those towers are unique in that they put out white colored light instead of the usual amber colored light. This is the only freeway interchange I can think of that has lamps like that. Anyway, for the past few years the lights in several of those towers were turned off and burned out lamps in the other towers weren't replaced. I figured ODOT was pinching pennies. Just over the past couple or so weeks ODOT maintenance crews serviced the towers, bringing the dark ones back online one by one. There's still a tower or two with a lamp out here or there, but the lighting in that interchange is far brighter at night than it has been in years.
Maybe the lack of lighting is about trying to save money on electricity bills.
Saving money on electricity bills was one theory I had about a situation here in Lawton at the complex I-44 interchange with Cache Road and 2nd Street. There are 11 high rise light towers in that interchange. The lamps in those towers are unique in that they put out white colored light instead of the usual amber colored light. This is the only freeway interchange I can think of that has lamps like that. Anyway, for the past few years the lights in several of those towers were turned off and burned out lamps in the other towers weren't replaced. I figured ODOT was pinching pennies. Just over the past couple or so weeks ODOT maintenance crews serviced the towers, bringing the dark ones back online one by one. There's still a tower or two with a lamp out here or there, but the lighting in that interchange is far brighter at night than it has been in years.
I'm not sure if it's the same in Lawton, but in Oklahoma City, the responsibility for maintaining freeway lighting is with...OG&E for some reason!! ODOT doesn't actually look for burned-out lights. I don't know if OG&E does, either, but they do accept reports from customers.
Talk about a weird policy.
Those brighter white lights may have been LED lights.
I'm not sure if it's the same in Lawton, but in Oklahoma City, the responsibility for maintaining freeway lighting is with...OG&E for some reason!! ODOT doesn't actually look for burned-out lights. I don't know if OG&E does, either, but they do accept reports from customers.
So in all lilkelihood, they're metal halide lights? Of course, high-pressure sodium lights are the amber-colored ones.Quote from: codyg1985Those brighter white lights may have been LED lights.
I'm doubting it. The lamps in these particular high rise light towers have been white the whole time I've lived in the Lawton area, more than 20 years, which is well ahead of the advent of high intensity LED use in outdoor lighting, jumbotrons, etc.
The 14-mile stretch of bridge that would go from Barling to Alma over the Arkansas River is projected to cost $500 million, according to the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department.
“Anything that the federal government can do to speed this process along I'm all in favor of,” Owen said ....
Federal funding is exactly what the authors of HR 1018 are encouraging. They also want to bring attention back to the project, which Owen said needs to be a priority.
“When this is completed, there's not going to be any stopping expansion of Fort Smith, I can tell you that, and even the rest of Sebastian County,” he said.
The expansion from Fort Chaffee to Texarkana is estimated to cost about $2.5 billion, according to the AHTD.
10 NOW THEREFORE,
11 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-FIRST GENERAL
12 ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ARKANSAS:
13
14 THAT the House of Representatives recognize the need for expansion of
15 the United States Route 49 north-south corridor and encourage the United
16 States Government to fund a project to provide accessibility to and create
17 economic prosperity for the Arkansas communities extending along the
18 corridor.
19
20 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT upon adoption of this resolution, an appropriate
21 copy shall be provided to the Arkansas congressional delegation by the Chief
22 Clerk of the House of Representatives
Interstate 49 and US 49 are on opposite sides of the state, so any confusion should be minimal.In theory. Still, naming them correctly would ensure no confusion.
One thing would help is having the engineering done on this project. President Trump said the other day that his infrastructure projects that he wants to do later this year is for them to be ready for construction immediately and not be 2 years before they actually start hiring people like they did on the stimulus jobs a while back. AHTD needs to get off there butt and get it ready or we will lose out on that help. I 49 needs to be a priority for them and maybe the governor can help on that.
AHTD has way to much shit on their plate! What they need to do is take a step back and think about their life choices, because clearly, the people in position now aren't doing so well with Arkansas' transportation "Hey guys I got 53 million the other day, let's go build an Interstate" "Oh, guys lets expand I-30 in Little Rock!" -- Meanwhile, US 71 is turning to dust....
Great job AHTD! I haven't heard anything yet on District 4's plans for US 71 renovations in Sebastian County (it needs it!), but I will wait!
I can't remember if this has been mentioned, but this article (http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/sep/19/state-weighs-tolls-to-build-i-49-route-/#/) reports that AHTD is studying whether to toll the thirteen-mile Arkansas River bridge section of I-49:QuoteThe Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department is commissioning a study on the feasibility of not only using tolls to help build a new section of Interstate 49 in western Arkansas, but also to have someone else operate and maintain the tollway.
The Arkansas Highway Commission last week approved an order to solicit consultants to study using tolls and a public-private partnership to complete a 13-mile section of I-49 from Interstate 40, where I-49 ends now, south to Arkansas 22 in Barling. ....
it could actually be a design-build-finance-operate-maintain project. Part of the study should also evaluate the costs and benefits of operations and maintenance by a third party versus operations and maintenance by the department." ....
The estimated price tag of the 13.7-mile segment between Barling and Alma is $380 million. The estimate includes $110 million for a new bridge over the Arkansas River. ....
The consultant will have to reassess the environmental impact statement for the project because it is outdated. The Federal Highway Administration approved it in 1997.
The consultant also will develop a "conceptual and preliminary design for more accurate cost estimating ... explore tolling as a feasible funding option and ... determine if the project is a candidate for the design/build/maintain project delivery method," state highway officials said.
From the time it takes to hire the consultant to completion of all aspects of the study, it could take two years, Bennett said.
Scott Bennett's "Wish list" for Governor Hutchinson and President Trump: the I-69 Mississippi River Bridge and the I-49 Arkansas River Bridge: http://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/115718/fort-smith-great-river-bridges-comprise-arkansas-wish-list
I can't remember if this has been mentioned, but this article (http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/sep/19/state-weighs-tolls-to-build-i-49-route-/#/) reports that AHTD is studying whether to toll the thirteen-mile Arkansas River bridge section of I-49:QuoteThe Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department is commissioning a study on the feasibility of not only using tolls to help build a new section of Interstate 49 in western Arkansas, but also to have someone else operate and maintain the tollway.
The Arkansas Highway Commission last week approved an order to solicit consultants to study using tolls and a public-private partnership to complete a 13-mile section of I-49 from Interstate 40, where I-49 ends now, south to Arkansas 22 in Barling. ....
it could actually be a design-build-finance-operate-maintain project. Part of the study should also evaluate the costs and benefits of operations and maintenance by a third party versus operations and maintenance by the department." ....
The estimated price tag of the 13.7-mile segment between Barling and Alma is $380 million. The estimate includes $110 million for a new bridge over the Arkansas River. ....
The consultant will have to reassess the environmental impact statement for the project because it is outdated. The Federal Highway Administration approved it in 1997.
The consultant also will develop a "conceptual and preliminary design for more accurate cost estimating ... explore tolling as a feasible funding option and ... determine if the project is a candidate for the design/build/maintain project delivery method," state highway officials said.
From the time it takes to hire the consultant to completion of all aspects of the study, it could take two years, Bennett said.
This slide from AHTD's presentation on the Future of Fort Smith (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2017/20170417%20CA%20-%20Future%20FtSmith.pdf) concisely summarizes what should be produced by the end of the study (p. 31/35 of pdf). I am particularly interested in the coceptual design:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_24_04_17_2_30_03.png)Scott Bennett's "Wish list" for Governor Hutchinson and President Trump: the I-69 Mississippi River Bridge and the I-49 Arkansas River Bridge: http://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/115718/fort-smith-great-river-bridges-comprise-arkansas-wish-list
It still looks like they are about 1.5 years away from finishing the conceptual design. No telling how long the final design will take. Sure, the Trump infrastructure plan is a long shot, But it would be nice if this project would have a chance.
Scott Bennett's "Wish list" for Governor Hutchinson and President Trump: the I-69 Mississippi River Bridge and the I-49 Arkansas River Bridge: http://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/115718/fort-smith-great-river-bridges-comprise-arkansas-wish-listIt still looks like they are about 1.5 years away from finishing the conceptual design. No telling how long the final design will take. Sure, the Trump infrastructure plan is a long shot, But it would be nice if this project would have a chance.
Fort Smith holds a Gallup poll distinction most cities want desperately to avoid – its residents reported the lowest well-being of anywhere in the United States, in part due to 12,000 manufacturing jobs lost here since 1999. Locals say the most devastating closure was the shutdown of the iconic Whirlpool factory, which at its peak employed 4,500 people ....
But local boosters are looking to one infrastructure project in particular to provide a massive jolt to Fort Smith's economy: the completion of Interstate 49, which when finished would stretch from New Orleans to Canada.
"We're ready for them to start moving dirt," says Ivy Owen, who leads a multi-state coalition pushing to complete the project.
Today, Fort Smith is home to an unconnected six-mile stretch of highway funded in part by President Obama's stimulus bill that opened in 2015. It is flanked by new development and green road signs proclaiming it "Future Interstate 49," but on both sides, it dead-ends.
For around $3 billion, the government could complete Interstate 49 in Arkansas and create an uninterrupted 1,700 mile trade corridor that runs right through Fort Smith, something supporters say would transform the city's fortunes.
In a chopper flying over the lonely six-mile stretch of the highway, Owen said he believes Trump can get it done.
"Mr. President, you campaigned on jobs. Finishing this highway will produce jobs."
President Trump said on the news he wanted infrastructure projects to ready to put people to work within 3 months when they get a bill passed to spend money. Looks like Scott Bennett has I-49 on his back burner. Same thing happened when Stimulus bill passed. Bella Vista bypass was not ready for construction so they could only use 2 million for utility relocation. This Time Governor Hutchinson Asked for the bridge project get started on design and engineering work or there wouldn't be nothing at all ready. That is called dropping the ball for a priority road that needs to be built. He could ask Missouri to ask jointly for money to finish Bella Vista Bypass to 4 lanes.
(I-49 in Springdale looking north toward Don Tyson Parkway. A potential EIGHT lane interstate? No wonder 2 of the 3 Fort Smith/NWA stations have moved their main ops from FSM to NWA...now just watch what happens to FSM when I-49 is completed...)
I've seen plans for an 8-lane interstate: it would likely require several businesses having to move, though Econo Lodge & Quality Inn would be no great loss, IMO.
Right now, 8-Lanes aren't needed since most drivers don't know how to use the far left lane. Knowing AHTD though, they will wait until it's urgent to widen the road again.
President Trump said on the news he wanted infrastructure projects to ready to put people to work within 3 months when they get a bill passed to spend money.
What's up with the hot wheels slide in that presentation? I know I would love to see loop-de-loop MOT...
Unrelated to the previous few posts, I'd like to say that although I always love to see new interstates, I hope they can connect I-49 from Louisiana to NW Arkansas without tearing up too much of the Ouachita Natl Forest. I visited about a year and half ago and I would consider that area (west central AR, incl. Hot Springs) to be one of my favorite "hidden gems" that I've experienced. I would almost compare it to the Smokies, with better weather.
They won't do anything without a bridge over the Arkansas River. They discussed that yesterday at the ribbon cuttingWhat's up with the hot wheels slide in that presentation? I know I would love to see loop-de-loop MOT...
Unrelated to the previous few posts, I'd like to say that although I always love to see new interstates, I hope they can connect I-49 from Louisiana to NW Arkansas without tearing up too much of the Ouachita Natl Forest. I visited about a year and half ago and I would consider that area (west central AR, incl. Hot Springs) to be one of my favorite "hidden gems" that I've experienced. I would almost compare it to the Smokies, with better weather.
Yeah, same here with I-49. Only if District 4 gets off their asses and finish the section in Fort Smith! It has been just that, a segment for a long time now!
WHAT THE FUCK?! They could at least get the Masard Rd. and others complete in Fort Smith and then they could quite litterally cross the bridge once they get there. Wow, just wow. I don't understand, like logically they is work still to be done whether there's a bridge built or not! I am sure you understand this too, US71.
WHAT THE FUCK?! They could at least get the Masard Rd. and others complete in Fort Smith and then they could quite litterally cross the bridge once they get there. Wow, just wow. I don't understand, like logically they is work still to be done whether there's a bridge built or not! I am sure you understand this too, US71.
???
There is an open interchange at Massard Rd as well as Roberts Rd, so I'm not sure I follow you.
WHAT THE FUCK?! They could at least get the Masard Rd. and others complete in Fort Smith and then they could quite litterally cross the bridge once they get there. Wow, just wow. I don't understand, like logically they is work still to be done whether there's a bridge built or not! I am sure you understand this too, US71.
???
There is an open interchange at Massard Rd as well as Roberts Rd, so I'm not sure I follow you.
Google Maps is not quite up-to-date, but in regards to just finishing the US 71 interchange at White Bluff and futher up, they could just complete the land portion and then worry about the bridge.
WHAT THE FUCK?! They could at least get the Masard Rd. and others complete in Fort Smith and then they could quite litterally cross the bridge once they get there. Wow, just wow. I don't understand, like logically they is work still to be done whether there's a bridge built or not! I am sure you understand this too, US71.
???
There is an open interchange at Massard Rd as well as Roberts Rd, so I'm not sure I follow you.
Google Maps is not quite up-to-date, but in regards to just finishing the US 71 interchange at White Bluff and futher up, they could just complete the land portion and then worry about the bridge.
I think I understand what you mean, but there's no where to go north of AR 22 until a bridge is built.I'm sure the intersecting county roads will simply be grade separated.
With the latest section of Bella Vista Bypass open for traffic it looks like any new sections of I-49 for construction is put on hold until 2021. Widening I-49 is on going in NWA area. I don't see any fast lane projects on Missouri's Department of Transportation. Does anybody know if they are asking for fast lane projects.
AHTD (soon to be ARDOT) apparently announced to the Arkansas Highway Commission (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2017/20170607%20AHC%20Meeting%20slides.pdf) that it will submit a joint application with MoDOT to finally complete the Bella Vista Bypass during the next round of FASTLANE and/or TIGER grant applications (p. 22/148 of pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_09_06_17_11_40_02.png)
Maybe they'll get it.
Earlier today President Trump gave a news conference about his $1 trillion infrastructure plan. One key part of his speech: complaining how regulations and bureaucracy have suffocated development of things like roads. He mentioned an 18 mile long highway project in Maryland that has taken at least 20 years of red tape struggle before the project could move forward. In the past this nation has built big things relatively fast (he mentioned the Hoover Dam and Empire State Building as two notable examples). The first 40,000 miles of the Interstate highway system were built relatively fast. Today, building a single freeway (such as the I-49 or I-69 projects) is taking decades. The resulting roads that finally get built are twisty, inefficiently crooked corridors. That really goes for the I-69 segments from Arkansas to Indiana.
I don't know how much luck President Trump and the GOP will have at greatly streamlining the regulatory process of planning and building highways. One thing is certain: the current system is absolutely terrible. The current system does only seem to exist to give lawyers and bureaucrats something to do. The more they hold up a highway project the more they get paid. It's all billable hours, you know.
So, perhaps with some luck, the I-49 projects like the Bella Vista bypass could get put on the fast track if they suddenly get some political winds blowing at their back. AR DOT needs to get FASTLANE and TIGER grant applications filed for the I-49 Arkansas River crossing at Fort Smith while they're at it.
Earlier today President Trump gave a news conference about his $1 trillion infrastructure plan. One key part of his speech: complaining how regulations and bureaucracy have suffocated development of things like roads. He mentioned an 18 mile long highway project in Maryland that has taken at least 20 years of red tape struggle before the project could move forward. In the past this nation has built big things relatively fast (he mentioned the Hoover Dam and Empire State Building as two notable examples). The first 40,000 miles of the Interstate highway system were built relatively fast. Today, building a single freeway (such as the I-49 or I-69 projects) is taking decades. The resulting roads that finally get built are twisty, inefficiently crooked corridors. That really goes for the I-69 segments from Arkansas to Indiana.
I don't know how much luck President Trump and the GOP will have at greatly streamlining the regulatory process of planning and building highways. One thing is certain: the current system is absolutely terrible. The current system does only seem to exist to give lawyers and bureaucrats something to do. The more they hold up a highway project the more they get paid. It's all billable hours, you know.
So, perhaps with some luck, the I-49 projects like the Bella Vista bypass could get put on the fast track if they suddenly get some political winds blowing at their back. AR DOT needs to get FASTLANE and TIGER grant applications filed for the I-49 Arkansas River crossing at Fort Smith while they're at it.
There's never enough money to do it right, but plenty of money to do it over (at least in Arkansas) ;)
Well, in Connecticut, we don't even have enough money to do it over again. :(Earlier today President Trump gave a news conference about his $1 trillion infrastructure plan. One key part of his speech: complaining how regulations and bureaucracy have suffocated development of things like roads. He mentioned an 18 mile long highway project in Maryland that has taken at least 20 years of red tape struggle before the project could move forward. In the past this nation has built big things relatively fast (he mentioned the Hoover Dam and Empire State Building as two notable examples). The first 40,000 miles of the Interstate highway system were built relatively fast. Today, building a single freeway (such as the I-49 or I-69 projects) is taking decades. The resulting roads that finally get built are twisty, inefficiently crooked corridors. That really goes for the I-69 segments from Arkansas to Indiana.
I don't know how much luck President Trump and the GOP will have at greatly streamlining the regulatory process of planning and building highways. One thing is certain: the current system is absolutely terrible. The current system does only seem to exist to give lawyers and bureaucrats something to do. The more they hold up a highway project the more they get paid. It's all billable hours, you know.
So, perhaps with some luck, the I-49 projects like the Bella Vista bypass could get put on the fast track if they suddenly get some political winds blowing at their back. AR DOT needs to get FASTLANE and TIGER grant applications filed for the I-49 Arkansas River crossing at Fort Smith while they're at it.
There's never enough money to do it right, but plenty of money to do it over (at least in Arkansas) ;)
That's the way it seems!
AHTD (soon to be ARDOT) apparently announced to the Arkansas Highway Commission (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2017/20170607%20AHC%20Meeting%20slides.pdf) that it will submit a joint application with MoDOT to finally complete the Bella Vista Bypass during the next round of FASTLANE and/or TIGER grant applications (p. 22/148 of pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_09_06_17_11_40_02.png)
On the next page of the PDF, it also States the final 7.1 miles of the Bella Vista Bypass is up for letting as a combination project.AHTD (soon to be ARDOT) apparently announced to the Arkansas Highway Commission (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2017/20170607%20AHC%20Meeting%20slides.pdf) that it will submit a joint application with MoDOT to finally complete the Bella Vista Bypass during the next round of FASTLANE and/or TIGER grant applications (p. 22/148 of pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_09_06_17_11_40_02.png)
In ARDOT's July 26, 2017 presentation to the Arkansas State Highway Commission (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2017/20170726%20AHC%20Meeting.pdf), they informed the Commission that they will submit the joint application for the Bella Vista Bypass as an INFRA grant application (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=20590.msg2239213#msg2239213) by the November 2 deadline (pp. 25-26/85 of pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_16_08_17_10_27_35.png)
Also, for the November 15 letting, ARDOT is tentatively planning to add the other two lanes to the majority of the Bella Vista Bypass (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/General/Next_Three_Lettings.pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_16_08_17_10_43_07.png)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_16_08_17_10_49_48.png)
Slowly, but surely ...............
A toll feasibility study is up in the air for the future Interstate 49 bridge over the Arkansas River with extensions connecting Arkansas 22 to Interstate 40 at Alma.
Following approval last year of $10 million in I-49 project development, the Arkansas Department of Transportation solicited bids for a consultant to conduct an I-49 toll feasibility study. They are currently in a negotiation phase, according to ArDOT District 4 Construction Engineer Jason Hughey.
ArDOT selected HNTB on June 23 to conduct the “I-49 Alternative Delivery Study.” The negotiations are over the scope of work and process has been “fluid,” ArDOT Public Information Officer Danny Straessle noted in an email. The cost of a toll feasibility study could run between $500,000 and $1 million, according to ArDOT Director Scott Bennett.
Bennett told local county judges and mayors last August at a Western Arkansas Planning and Development meeting that a public-private-partnership, or P3, with tolling could move up the construction timeline for the road extension and bridge by several years.
Bennett told WAPDD representatives in that August 2016 meeting that the total annual budget for ArDOT is about $400 million, with 80 percent going to maintain roads and the rest for capital improvements.
“Without the tolling option or the P3, this project wouldn’t start for at least 5-10 years, with construction start time being at the earliest of 10 years,” the WAPDD meeting notes from August 2016 state.
A P3 could have a road open in eight years from Highway 22 to I-40, Bennett estimated, with construction starting as early as three years after a toll study showed the feasibility.
A request to fund more than $27 million in preliminary engineering for the future I-49 bridge over the Arkansas River from Alma to Barling was included in the draft 2016-20 State Transportation Improvement Plan
State Rep. Mat Pitsch, R-Fort Smith said by phone Friday the nature of P3s is to make money as soon as possible. He also noted the I-49 corridor project was mentioned by Gov. Asa Hutchinson as one of the top two state projects when asked to present those to President Donald Trump.
“I’ve very anxious to get the I-49 project complete because of the economic development that follows,” Pitsch said.
He went on to say that if the I-49 bridge and extensions come back with no interest from the Trump Administration’s pledge for a $1 trillion infrastructure improvements, then “by all means” he is in favor of moving forward with a P3 with tolls.
Pitsch echoed the sentiments of Arkansas Department of Transportation District Engineer Chad Adams.
“The goal and interest is to exhaust every option, because tolling doesn’t sound good to a lot of people,” Adams said by phone Friday. “With any toll road, to make it work, you need traffic and a reasonable toll.”
By federal law, only new roads can be tolled. ArDOT has tolling authority ....
Finding the money for the I-49 corridor project is the the only thing holding ArDOT from moving forward, Straessle noted in a phone call. Late last week, Trump abandoned plans for an Advisory Council on Infrastructure that was being formed to spend as much as $1 trillion upgrading roads, bridges and other public works.
The portion of I-49 from Ft. Smith to Texarkana is going to be the real issue. I don't see that getting done anytime soon. I-69 and I-49 may end up having large gaps in the middle.
The portion of I-49 from Ft. Smith to Texarkana is going to be the real issue. I don't see that getting done anytime soon. I-69 and I-49 may end up having large gaps in the middle.
This is true.
I proposed it be a toll route on here long ago because I did a paper in college about it 10 years ago. If this road gets built. It will probably be built in 2-3 year segments like I 22 was built in NW Alabama, but that took 10 years too long to complete, IMO
I proposed it be a toll route on here long ago because I did a paper in college about it 10 years ago. If this road gets built. It will probably be built in 2-3 year segments like I 22 was built in NW Alabama, but that took 10 years too long to complete, IMO
The problem with a toll road is the alternatives available for shunpiking -- mainly US 271/59/259 about 25-30 miles west over the state line. Still think a long-term incremental approach is the one that'll eventually be utilized here -- simply because it won't piss off the local residents as much as a tolled facility would -- particularly one that would subsume rather than parallel US 71 for much of its length.
I proposed it be a toll route on here long ago because I did a paper in college about it 10 years ago. If this road gets built. It will probably be built in 2-3 year segments like I 22 was built in NW Alabama, but that took 10 years too long to complete, IMO
The problem with a toll road is the alternatives available for shunpiking -- mainly US 271/59/259 about 25-30 miles west over the state line. Still think a long-term incremental approach is the one that'll eventually be utilized here -- simply because it won't piss off the local residents as much as a tolled facility would -- particularly one that would subsume rather than parallel US 71 for much of its length.
I would NOT recommend 271 or 259 for shumpiking. Too winding and steep.
Slowly but surely, the corridor is continuing to take shape. With completion of the Bella Vista Bypass further north and the likely construction of the ICC down in Shreveport, it's safe to say that I-49 is making far more progress than I-69 is. (Here's wishing Lafayette and Kansas City would help out more in the process as well.)
And if anyone opts for US 259 just for the scenery (which is quite nice), please don't speed through Broken Bow or Idabel lest you end up in front of my cousin, who's a county judge down there; and he's certainly not the most lenient!
And if anyone opts for US 259 just for the scenery (which is quite nice), please don't speed through Broken Bow or Idabel lest you end up in front of my cousin, who's a county judge down there; and he's certainly not the most lenient!
I was in Idabel a couple months ago and had no problems. Then again, no one seems to patrol the old city route ;)
Is this a big ol' "game changer", or not? Walmart will, over the next 5-7 years, be building a new hq office in east Bentonville.
http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2017/sep/15/wal-mart-build-new-headquarters-near-downtown-bent/
Considering that they are a large corporation, they possibly held a gun to their head for it to be considered. :hmmm:Is this a big ol' "game changer", or not? Walmart will, over the next 5-7 years, be building a new hq office in east Bentonville.
http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2017/sep/15/wal-mart-build-new-headquarters-near-downtown-bent/
They are going to build it near the (M)Alice Palace (aka Crystal Bridges Museum). Of course they decided this AFTER ARDOT agreed to build them their own exit off I-49.
Considering that they are a large corporation, they possibly held a gun to their head for it to be considered. :hmmm:Is this a big ol' "game changer", or not? Walmart will, over the next 5-7 years, be building a new hq office in east Bentonville.
http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2017/sep/15/wal-mart-build-new-headquarters-near-downtown-bent/
They are going to build it near the (M)Alice Palace (aka Crystal Bridges Museum). Of course they decided this AFTER ARDOT agreed to build them their own exit off I-49.
The new exit will still be extremely useful. I wouldn't be surprised if ArDOT knew about it
The new exit will still be extremely useful. I wouldn't be surprised if ArDOT knew about it
Now if someone can get Wal Mart to loan MO the money to build their portion of the Bella Vista I-49 bypass, their own exit might be something of a bargain (at least in the long run)!
The new exit will still be extremely useful. I wouldn't be surprised if ArDOT knew about it
Now if someone can get Wal Mart to loan MO the money to build their portion of the Bella Vista I-49 bypass, their own exit might be something of a bargain (at least in the long run)!
Go ask Alice ;)
The US Transportation Department announced that $500 million was available for 2017 Tiger Grants. Deadline is to submit application is October 16th. Hopefully Arkansas and Missouri will put in their joint application to finish the I49 Bella Vista bypass.
What exactly has been done so far for I-49 from the Texas state line to the US 71 and AR 549 intersection south of Fort Smith? What plans, if any, exist for this route?There's still a stub in Fort Smith, last I checked.
What exactly has been done so far for I-49 from the Texas state line to the US 71 and AR 549 intersection south of Fort Smith? What plans, if any, exist for this route?There's still a stub in Fort Smith, last I checked.
What exactly has been done so far for I-49 from the Texas state line to the US 71 and AR 549 intersection south of Fort Smith? What plans, if any, exist for this route?
What exactly has been done so far for I-49 from the Texas state line to the US 71 and AR 549 intersection south of Fort Smith? What plans, if any, exist for this route?
How much more of future Interstate 49 has to be constructed before they renumber the exits on the portion of Interstate 49 that used to be part of Interstate 540? If I called the shots, those exits would already have been renumbered.
How much more of future Interstate 49 has to be constructed before they renumber the exits on the portion of Interstate 49 that used to be part of Interstate 540? If I called the shots, those exits would already have been renumbered.
Under the current approach it will take so many years (or decades) for I-49 to get filled in between Texarkana and Fort Smith that all the highway signs along existing I-49 will go through numerous graphics replacement cycles. The vinyl lettering and diamond grade reflective backgrounds don't have a very long life span.
I proposed it be a toll route on here long ago because I did a paper in college about it 10 years ago. If this road gets built. It will probably be built in 2-3 year segments like I 22 was built in NW Alabama, but that took 10 years too long to complete, IMO
The problem with a toll road is the alternatives available for shunpiking -- mainly US 271/59/259 about 25-30 miles west over the state line. Still think a long-term incremental approach is the one that'll eventually be utilized here -- simply because it won't piss off the local residents as much as a tolled facility would -- particularly one that would subsume rather than parallel US 71 for much of its length.
I would NOT recommend 271 or 259 for shumpiking. Too winding and steep.
The "pro" side of building that part of I-49 as a toll road is the facility might get built much faster. The "con" side of it: a toll road wouldn't be able to cannibalize any of the existing US-71 alignment (which is part of the current plan).
In ARDOT's July 26, 2017 presentation to the Arkansas State Highway Commission (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2017/20170726%20AHC%20Meeting.pdf), they informed the Commission that they will submit the joint application for the Bella Vista Bypass as an INFRA grant application (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=20590.msg2239213#msg2239213) by the November 2 deadline (pp. 25-26/85 of pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_16_08_17_10_27_35.png)
The Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission will apply for a federal grant to help cash-strapped Missouri finish its part of Interstate 49 around Bella Vista.
"It's a long shot, but nothing ventured, nothing gained," said Jeff Hawkins, executive director of regional planning. "It's totally within our planning area, both sides of the line."
The Bella Vista bypass is now labeled the Missouri/Arkansas Interstate 49 Connector Project to better denote its regional significance, planners said.
Missouri has acquired the right of way, done an environmental study, designed the road and set aside $18.4 million for the project, regional planners were told. But,Missouri is about $32.4 million short.
Arkansas has money set aside for its remaining portion of the highway.
It is hoped the $32.4 million will come from a federal Department of Transportation grant program known as Infrastructure for Rebuilding America. The $1.5 billion in discretionary money is earmarked for projects that involve moving freight. The program looks to use local and state money for highways and ports.
The money would be given to Missouri, which would then build the highway.
The federal program is specifically focused on projects in which a local sponsor is significantly invested and is positioned to proceed rapidly to construction, according to a news release.
"It meets the criteria just like it was written for it," Hawkins said of the project.
Planners approved a resolution to apply for the grant Wednesday afternoon. It has the support of the Missouri and Arkansas departments of transportation.
"I think it's a wonderful project. Scott Bennett and I have discussed it, and we support it and I know the commission will support it," Arkansas Highway Commission chairman Dick Trammel said. "What I like about this project is departments came together, municipal units came together -- everybody came together to try to make this possible." ....
Missouri officials earlier this year asked the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission to amend the region's Transportation Improvement Plan, which includes McDonald County, Mo., and move the project back until at least 2021. The improvement plan is a list of federally funded transportation projects proposed by various communities, transit providers, the commission, and the Arkansas and Missouri transportation departments.
Frank Miller, a planning manager for the Missouri Department of Transportation southwest division, said the department is just trying to maintain the infrastructure it has with the money it has available ....
Tim Conklin, assistant director for the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission ....
“It’s a project that is of national significance, not only for Arkansas but for the state of Missouri,” Conklin said.
If this (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2017/NR%2017-393.pdf) helps anyone. It's is news on AR 62 and AR 102 (I-49 widening)
In my defense, they only stated "HWY 62", so there was confussion. :)If this (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2017/NR%2017-393.pdf) helps anyone. It's is news on AR 62 and AR 102 (I-49 widening)
US 62 :)
That whole area is a clusterf*ck right now because they are also building the 8th St interchange.
On a side note, Exit 88 (AR 72) has been split into two exits northbound. 88A is AR 72 E , 88B is "West East Central Ave".
Southbound, it still appears to be one exit.
https://talkbusiness.net/2017/11/arkansasmissouri-connector-could-open-in-2022-if-commission-receives-grant/
Hopefully this will help get the INFRA Grant that NWA commission is asking for. ROCK (KFSM) – The state Highway Commission has approved a bid to expand the Bella Vista Bypass between U.S. 71 and Benton County 34, according to a news release.
The commission on Monday (Nov. 20) awarded a $27.5 million contract to Kolb Grading, LLC to construct 8.8 miles of two additional lanes of Arkansas 549, commonly called the Bella Vista Bypass.
The company, based out of St. Charles, Mo., is expected to begin work in two to four weeks, weather permitting, according to the release.
The Arkansas Department of Transportation expects the project to be finished by late 2019.
The bypass runs west from the roundabout on North Walton Boulevard in Bentonville and passes through portions of Hiwasse and unincorporated Benton County before terminating at Benton County 34.
Like him or not, this pretty much jibes with what Dick Trammell said a year or two back...words to the effect of: "From here on out, you'll likely see continuous construction (on the Arkansas side) of the Bella Vista Bypass until it's finished."
Like him or not, this pretty much jibes with what Dick Trammell said a year or two back...words to the effect of: "From here on out, you'll likely see continuous construction (on the Arkansas side) of the Bella Vista Bypass until it's finished."
He's going to sprain his arm one of these days patting himself on the back. </sarcasm>
Ran Across the below article a couple of days ago on a political comment website that I frequent.
Also had to explain to a commenter on how a state could apply tolls to a "Federal" highway... :rolleyes:
https://www.equipmentworld.com/ark-dot-studies-possible-first-toll-road-for-state/
Ark. DOT studies possible first toll road for state
Don McLoud | December 26, 2017
A future Interstate 49 and whether it will become Arkansas’ first toll road are being considered, with public meetings likely coming in early 2018, reports KFSM news station.
The interstate section being considered would stretch from Barling to Alma over the Arkansas River. The Arkansas Department of Transportation has commissioned a study on charging tolls on the future highway section.
The study is scheduled to be completed next fall, and public meetings are expected at the first of 2018 to get public input on the project, the station reports.
Interstate 49 would eventually stretch from New Orleans to Canada. Portions of the highway have been constructed elsewhere and are being constructed in Arkansas.
The Interstate 49 International Coalition says the highway is about 80 percent complete, with the Arkansas portion between Texarkana and Fort Smith among the remaining pieces to be built. The state is still trying to come up with the $2.5 billion needed for the project.
A future Interstate 49 and whether it will become Arkansas’ first toll road are being considered ... The interstate section being considered would stretch from Barling to Alma over the Arkansas River.
↑ I didn't think the article was vague. ↑My 68-year-old eyes must be getting weak -- missed the reference completely (actually, I skimmed the article directly without going to the synopsis provided by greenlanterncorps). Lunch hour, you know -- trying to do too much in what's really 45 minutes. Oh well...........In any case, I'm glad the reference is to the bridge alone; I don't think trying to toll the entire length of I-49 south of I-40 would be feasible -- it would be so easy to shunpike via US 271/59 through OK and miss the portion of the route that's expected to directly overlay US 71 (and part of US 270 as well); the remainder through Mena and De Queen could be done on either the old road or nearby state highways. Probably end up being a fiscal nightmare. Tolls on the bridge, OTOH, are certainly feasible if kept to a reasonable level (not the $5 per crossing we're used to here in NorCal -- and going up soon, if Caltrans has its way!). For Arkansas, a buck and a half seems about right.Quote from: the articleA future Interstate 49 and whether it will become Arkansas’ first toll road are being considered ... The interstate section being considered would stretch from Barling to Alma over the Arkansas River.
The money generated could fund expansion projects in NWA and accelerate I-69.
Wow! I suggested this in College on a term paper circa 2007 and maybe 49 as a toll road between Ft Smith and Texarkana will come to fruition. Most people who will travel that area from out of state should pay 2 dollars plus, depending on # of axles. Locals should pay .50 cents or exempt depending on mileage and axles. Its moot though. But I'm glad the slow #### dot are finally considering it. The money generated could fund expansion projects in NWA and accelerate I-69
That might be over-estimating the ability of this toll bridge to attract traffic rather than entice it to drive a few miles farther to free crossings. Shunpiking is a big enough threat that ARDOT will be lucky if they can set toll prices just high enough to merely pay for the bridge. In the end I think they're going to be stuck making it a free crossing.
Wow! I suggested this in College on a term paper circa 2007 and maybe 49 as a toll road between Ft Smith and Texarkana will come to fruition. Most people who will travel that area from out of state should pay 2 dollars plus, depending on # of axles. Locals should pay .50 cents or exempt depending on mileage and axles. Its moot though. But I'm glad the slow #### dot are finally considering it. The money generated could fund expansion projects in NWA and accelerate I-69
IMHO, the only way to discourage shunpiking is to make the whole Ft. Smith / Texarkana portion a tollway.
I don't want "money generated" to fund anything. Once the bridge is paid off, make it free.
Given the current situation with philosophies on taxes in both the federal government and Arkansas state government, I think hell will freeze over before I-49 gets built between Fort Smith and Texarkana. Not under the current mindset and extremely slow trickle of fuel tax dollars little farts in the wind from the federal government. If all or significant parts of the Fort Smith to Texarkana segment of I-49 was going to be completed by 2030 or even 2040 that part of I-49 would have to be built as a toll road, likely in some sort of public-private partnership. I see no other way of getting it done quickly. The only way I-49 gets completed as a "free" road and completed within the next 50 years is by sweeping changes in politics over how we regard highway infrastructure.I hate to get political here, but Arkansas has a more moderate tradition than other states and I trust they will do the right thing eventually. (Granted, you'll have to hope someone from Mena runs for governor.)
Given the current situation with philosophies on taxes in both the federal government and Arkansas state government, I think hell will freeze over before I-49 gets built between Fort Smith and Texarkana. Not under the current mindset and extremely slow trickle of fuel tax dollars little farts in the wind from the federal government. If all or significant parts of the Fort Smith to Texarkana segment of I-49 was going to be completed by 2030 or even 2040 that part of I-49 would have to be built as a toll road, likely in some sort of public-private partnership. I see no other way of getting it done quickly. The only way I-49 gets completed as a "free" road and completed within the next 50 years is by sweeping changes in politics over how we regard highway infrastructure.I hate to get political here, but Arkansas has a more moderate tradition than other states and I trust they will do the right thing eventually. (Granted, you'll have to hope someone from Mena runs for governor.)
Proposed exit numbering From Polk Conty Fort Chaffee area: http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Proposed-Mileage.pdf
That presumes there is enough revenue coming in from fuel taxes to cover maintenance and any necessary improvements on the bridge once it becomes "free." Here in Oklahoma so many people want the toll gates to be removed from our turnpikes "since they're paid for." But since the state hasn't changed its fuel taxes since 1993 it sure doesn't have the tax revenue to take ownership (and the costs that come with it) of over 600+ miles of toll roads. At least not without bumping up those fuel taxes a good bit.It seems Arkansas is always in favor of paying higher gas taxes and then complains about them! :-D
That presumes there is enough revenue coming in from fuel taxes to cover maintenance and any necessary improvements on the bridge once it becomes "free." Here in Oklahoma so many people want the toll gates to be removed from our turnpikes "since they're paid for." But since the state hasn't changed its fuel taxes since 1993 it sure doesn't have the tax revenue to take ownership (and the costs that come with it) of over 600+ miles of toll roads. At least not without bumping up those fuel taxes a good bit.It seems Arkansas is always in favor of paying higher gas taxes and then complains about them! :-D
Proposed exit numbering From Polk Conty Fort Chaffee area: http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-Proposed-Mileage.pdfThere's not going to be an exit at AR 8 near the infamous Mena airport?
I think the migration from Texas to NWA is overstated. So I looked at the most recently available Metro to Metro migration data from the US Census Bureau.
26.9% - rural, nonmetro areas in the US (admittedly not very helpful, but I would imagine the primary state here is Arkansas)
7%- Little Rock metro
7%- Asia
4.8%- DFW
4.4%- Fort Smith metro
3%- Tulsa
2.3%- Central America
2.14%- Kansas City
2.13%- Joplin
2%- Los Angeles
I think the migration from Texas to NWA is overstated. So I looked at the most recently available Metro to Metro migration data from the US Census Bureau.
26.9% - rural, nonmetro areas in the US (admittedly not very helpful, but I would imagine the primary state here is Arkansas)
7%- Little Rock metro
7%- Asia
4.8%- DFW
4.4%- Fort Smith metro
3%- Tulsa
2.3%- Central America
2.14%- Kansas City
2.13%- Joplin
2%- Los Angeles
All one has to do is look at the incoming freshmen classes at the U of A to see the Metroplex impact on NWA. Last year the Uof A admitted a record amount of Arkansas kids , yet were outnumbered by Metroplex kids. Couple that with amount of alumni that head to the Metroplex to work/live and there's some numbers that kinda get lost in the shuffle. Hit I-49 from Alma to Fayetteville on a Sun night after a break and get back with me on the amount of Texas tags that you saw. These folks already have toll tags, make two turnpikes between Ft. Skith and Ashdown and one between Mena and Texarkana and hit them twice and join in with OK and North Tx. Keep the immedate Mena area free for locals communting. Everyone I know would gladly pay. They hate the McAlister to Durant segment in Okie. Okie is stupid for not having done it yet.
I think the migration from Texas to NWA is overstated. So I looked at the most recently available Metro to Metro migration data from the US Census Bureau.
26.9% - rural, nonmetro areas in the US (admittedly not very helpful, but I would imagine the primary state here is Arkansas)
7%- Little Rock metro
7%- Asia
4.8%- DFW
4.4%- Fort Smith metro
3%- Tulsa
2.3%- Central America
2.14%- Kansas City
2.13%- Joplin
2%- Los Angeles
All one has to do is look at the incoming freshmen classes at the U of A to see the Metroplex impact on NWA. Last year the Uof A admitted a record amount of Arkansas kids , yet were outnumbered by Metroplex kids. Couple that with amount of alumni that head to the Metroplex to work/live and there's some numbers that kinda get lost in the shuffle. Hit I-49 from Alma to Fayetteville on a Sun night after a break and get back with me on the amount of Texas tags that you saw. These folks already have toll tags, make two turnpikes between Ft. Skith and Ashdown and one between Mena and Texarkana and hit them twice and join in with OK and North Tx. Keep the immedate Mena area free for locals communting. Everyone I know would gladly pay. They hate the McAlister to Durant segment in Okie. Okie is stupid for not having done it yet.
It's because college kids aren't migrating (permanently moving) to NWA. If they stay there after graduation, then they should be counted.
I believe the Rural migrators are mainly from eastern OK where there is a lack of good job opportunities.
There isn't enough room on this page to refute your comment that "OK is stupid for not doing this". BTW, Okie is considered an insult in some areas. They don't like the word as it usually is tied back to poor whites who moved to California in the Dust Bowl days and they don't want to be reminded of it. Think "The Grapes of Wrath".
Spare this Arkie overy over the sensibilities of Okies.
I think 49 would be totally pointless if 'Okie' finally turnpiked US 67 from McAlister to Durant.
Also, I wasn't aware 67 ran anywhere near Oklahoma69, probably
I think the migration from Texas to NWA is overstated. So I looked at the most recently available Metro to Metro migration data from the US Census Bureau.
26.9% - rural, nonmetro areas in the US (admittedly not very helpful, but I would imagine the primary state here is Arkansas)
7%- Little Rock metro
7%- Asia
4.8%- DFW
4.4%- Fort Smith metro
3%- Tulsa
2.3%- Central America
2.14%- Kansas City
2.13%- Joplin
2%- Los Angeles
All one has to do is look at the incoming freshmen classes at the U of A to see the Metroplex impact on NWA. Last year the Uof A admitted a record amount of Arkansas kids , yet were outnumbered by Metroplex kids. Couple that with amount of alumni that head to the Metroplex to work/live and there's some numbers that kinda get lost in the shuffle. Hit I-49 from Alma to Fayetteville on a Sun night after a break and get back with me on the amount of Texas tags that you saw. These folks already have toll tags, make two turnpikes between Ft. Skith and Ashdown and one between Mena and Texarkana and hit them twice and join in with OK and North Tx. Keep the immedate Mena area free for locals communting. Everyone I know would gladly pay. They hate the McAlister to Durant segment in Okie. Okie is stupid for not having done it yet.
It's because college kids aren't migrating (permanently moving) to NWA. If they stay there after graduation, then they should be counted.
I believe the Rural migrators are mainly from eastern OK where there is a lack of good job opportunities.
There isn't enough room on this page to refute your comment that "OK is stupid for not doing this". BTW, Okie is considered an insult in some areas. They don't like the word as it usually is tied back to poor whites who moved to California in the Dust Bowl days and they don't want to be reminded of it. Think "The Grapes of Wrath".
I think the migration from Texas to NWA is overstated. So I looked at the most recently available Metro to Metro migration data from the US Census Bureau.
26.9% - rural, nonmetro areas in the US (admittedly not very helpful, but I would imagine the primary state here is Arkansas)
7%- Little Rock metro
7%- Asia
4.8%- DFW
4.4%- Fort Smith metro
3%- Tulsa
2.3%- Central America
2.14%- Kansas City
2.13%- Joplin
2%- Los Angeles
All one has to do is look at the incoming freshmen classes at the U of A to see the Metroplex impact on NWA. Last year the Uof A admitted a record amount of Arkansas kids , yet were outnumbered by Metroplex kids. Couple that with amount of alumni that head to the Metroplex to work/live and there's some numbers that kinda get lost in the shuffle. Hit I-49 from Alma to Fayetteville on a Sun night after a break and get back with me on the amount of Texas tags that you saw. These folks already have toll tags, make two turnpikes between Ft. Skith and Ashdown and one between Mena and Texarkana and hit them twice and join in with OK and North Tx. Keep the immedate Mena area free for locals communting. Everyone I know would gladly pay. They hate the McAlister to Durant segment in Okie. Okie is stupid for not having done it yet.
It's because college kids aren't migrating (permanently moving) to NWA. If they stay there after graduation, then they should be counted.
I believe the Rural migrators are mainly from eastern OK where there is a lack of good job opportunities.
There isn't enough room on this page to refute your comment that "OK is stupid for not doing this". BTW, Okie is considered an insult in some areas. They don't like the word as it usually is tied back to poor whites who moved to California in the Dust Bowl days and they don't want to be reminded of it. Think "The Grapes of Wrath".
7%- Asia (Wow, on its own.)
If anything, there are a lot of kids who move (often from the Metroplex) BACK to Northwest Arkansas. I'd be curious to see statistics on how many NWA HS graduates either stay or return to the area after graduation today vs. as recently as 30-35 years ago.
And NWA is still going to be squarely, geographically in the middle of the hourglass-shaped corridor between Winnipeg/Minneapolis-St.Paul/Houston/New Orleans some day, even though we really have no clue as to the full effect of that (but can make some partially-educated guesses).
Any bets on what city is going to take Fort Smith's place as '2nd Largest'? I am just surprised people aren't moving out of FS.
Current Pop: 88,133 (https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/fortsmithcityarkansas/PST045216)
Any bets on what city is going to take Fort Smith's place as '2nd Largest'? I am just surprised people aren't moving out of FS.
Current Pop: 88,133 (https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/fortsmithcityarkansas/PST045216)
Let's not talk about Greenwood's fail on granting a liquor license...Any bets on what city is going to take Fort Smith's place as '2nd Largest'? I am just surprised people aren't moving out of FS.
Current Pop: 88,133 (https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/fortsmithcityarkansas/PST045216)
I'd be shocked if Fayetteville or Springdale hasn't already. Let's not forget that area immediately outside of Ft. SMitch jas grown, like Greenwood. I'd look at the MSA numbers over the city population.
Speaking of MSA's, let's just say that NWA only gets half of that projection that I posted and added around 150,000 over the next 5 years, that puts NWA at 675,000 in 2022.
Current sizes of our neighbors:
Tulsa's MSA is 981,000, CSA 1,151,000
LittleRock/Conway MSA 724,385
Ft. Smith MSA 290,000
It's looking like NWA is quickly running down Little Rock and if that 90,000 figure plays out, equals or surpasses Little Rock in 5 years and is knocking on Tulsa's door in 10 years. I said all along they should have 8 laned I-49 while they were at it. If they 4 lanes US412 all the way to Harrison and opened up a nice corridor between here and Springfield, I imagine that area would fill in as well.
If they ever made Ft Smith and NWA MSA's into a CSA, It catches Tulsa as quick as Little Rock.
Also does that number for Little Rock's MSA include NLR? Kind of a nitpick, I know, but I just want to make sure that that number isn't beginning "short changed".
Oh and check this comparison out (https://datausa.io/profile/geo/little-rock-north-little-rock-conway-ar-metro-area/?compare=fort-smith-ar)!
Fayettenam is 83K to Ft Smith's 88K, so looks like that's where growth will be.
The sooner they get the I-49 segment built between Alma and Barling (including the Arkansas river bridge) the more it will allow Fort Smith to at least have some chance at sharing a little of the growth going on in NWA.Don’t forget Grand Ave! That is another getto of FS...
I-49 completed through the Fort Chaffee area would open a good amount of area for new development, especially if the highway can start getting extended South past its current terminus. Fort Smith has a few decent looking areas. Garrison Ave in the downtown district looks alright. But then there's a bunch of other areas, including commercial zones like North 10th Street and Towson Ave which look really run down and cluttered with junk. And I thought certain parts of Lawton looked bad. Those zones look particularly horrible compared to the bustling commercial districts in Springdale and Rogers. New areas of business in the Fort Smith area along the I-49 corridor could eliminate some of the eye-sore crap in other parts of the city over the long term. New businesses and at least some existing businesses could relocate to these new commercial areas and then open up the possibility for the old properties to be revitalized or converted into residential space, green space, etc.
Fort Smith is the most dysfunctional city in Arkansas. None of these lofty development or redevelopment plans will be coming to fruition.
They couldn’t pay me to live or work in Ft Smith. I’ll stay in Fayetteville, thank you.
YOu should move back... Leave them wondering why you left! :) :-DThey couldn’t pay me to live or work in Ft Smith. I’ll stay in Fayetteville, thank you.
I shouldn't have left, but my "friends" were in Ft Smith who were suddenly "too busy" after I moved here.
The rebuild at I-49 and AR 112 appears to almost be finished. Road crews were paving the new Exit 67 A-B ramps off SB 49 today.Apologies for dredging this old post up, but do you have an independent source for the exit number change information?
67A replaces exit 66 and will be AR 112/ Garland Ave
67B is US 71 B/ Fulbright Expressway.
It's going to be a clusterf*ck until people are used to it.
Traffic turning onto NB 49 from NB 112 now have a separate ramp apart from the mainline 49 that will split into I-49 and 71B.
Mainline 49 will have it's own exit to 71B and the ramps will merge, as will the ramps for NB 49, which will also merge with traffic entering from 71B.
SB 49 will no longer have a direct exit to AR 112, but a separate lane of traffic.
And remember: there is never enough time or money to do the job right the first time, but plenty of time and money to go back and fix things ;)
The rebuild at I-49 and AR 112 appears to almost be finished. Road crews were paving the new Exit 67 A-B ramps off SB 49 today.Apologies for dredging this old post up, but do you have an independent source for the exit number change information?
67A replaces exit 66 and will be AR 112/ Garland Ave
67B is US 71 B/ Fulbright Expressway.
It's going to be a clusterf*ck until people are used to it.
Traffic turning onto NB 49 from NB 112 now have a separate ramp apart from the mainline 49 that will split into I-49 and 71B.
Mainline 49 will have it's own exit to 71B and the ramps will merge, as will the ramps for NB 49, which will also merge with traffic entering from 71B.
SB 49 will no longer have a direct exit to AR 112, but a separate lane of traffic.
And remember: there is never enough time or money to do the job right the first time, but plenty of time and money to go back and fix things ;)
It was built fine the way it was - decades ago. It looks like on earlier USGS topos that it was two-lanes with a mix of interchanges and intersections - of course, being modified as the area grew and connections were made to the south and north.
An electronic tolling system that doesn’t call for cars to stop and pay is favored over traditional stop-and-pay toll lanes for initial plans of an Interstate 49 extension from Alma to Barling with a bridge over the Arkansas River.
A public input meeting is set to take place from 4-7 p.m. April 26 at Sacred Heart of Mary Church, 1301 Frank St., in Barling. A sneak peek of the plans was offered by the Arkansas Department of Transportation on Thursday. The proposed route stretches from Alma to Barling, bypassing Kibler to the east.
The proposed I-49 route would cross Arkansas 162 near Hamer Road, then cross Frog Bayou near Waterfront Road before skirting the east side of Kibler at New Town Road, then proceed south and west over Thornhill Street, Westville Road and Gun Club Road before crossing the Arkansas River at Springhill Park into Barling, then connecting with I-549 at Arkansas 22.
About 100 parcels of land are adjacent to the proposed route, Jennifer Halstead of HNTB said. Studies indicate no disruptions with cemeteries, wildlife areas or gas lines, but public comment for the route is sought.
Representatives from both ARDOT and HNTB gave an update on the planning process Thursday at the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center in Chaffee Crossing. More than 30 “stakeholders” in the project – mayors, state representatives, engineers and geologists to name a few – were present at the meeting for the “draft schematic preview” and information gathering session from local leaders on issues with the proposed route.
Steve Core, Public Works director for Barling, pointed out that a grade elevation would be needed at H Street for access to sewer and gas lines and so as not to impede firefighter crews. Core noted after the meeting that construction of the I-49 extension will be challenging when encountered with the many coal and gas reservoirs in the area.
Terry Carson, president of the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce, told planners that an on-ramp at Arkansas 162 south of Alma may be more beneficial to residents than an on-ramp farther south at Clear Creek Road going into Kibler. It has been 21 years since a study was done that put the on-ramp at Clear Creek Road. The distance from the proposed crossing at Arkansas 162 and the on-ramp at Clear Creek Road is about 1.8 miles.
ARDOT’s sneak peek of I-49 extension includes toll system
(Fort Smith Southwest Times Record, March 30, 2018)QuoteAn electronic tolling system that doesn’t call for cars to stop and pay is favored over traditional stop-and-pay toll lanes for initial plans of an Interstate 49 extension from Alma to Barling with a bridge over the Arkansas River.
A public input meeting is set to take place from 4-7 p.m. April 26 at Sacred Heart of Mary Church, 1301 Frank St., in Barling. A sneak peek of the plans was offered by the Arkansas Department of Transportation on Thursday. The proposed route stretches from Alma to Barling, bypassing Kibler to the east.
and;QuoteThe proposed I-49 route would cross Arkansas 162 near Hamer Road, then cross Frog Bayou near Waterfront Road before skirting the east side of Kibler at New Town Road, then proceed south and west over Thornhill Street, Westville Road and Gun Club Road before crossing the Arkansas River at Springhill Park into Barling, then connecting with I-549 at Arkansas 22.
About 100 parcels of land are adjacent to the proposed route, Jennifer Halstead of HNTB said. Studies indicate no disruptions with cemeteries, wildlife areas or gas lines, but public comment for the route is sought.
Representatives from both ARDOT and HNTB gave an update on the planning process Thursday at the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center in Chaffee Crossing. More than 30 “stakeholders” in the project – mayors, state representatives, engineers and geologists to name a few – were present at the meeting for the “draft schematic preview” and information gathering session from local leaders on issues with the proposed route.
Steve Core, Public Works director for Barling, pointed out that a grade elevation would be needed at H Street for access to sewer and gas lines and so as not to impede firefighter crews. Core noted after the meeting that construction of the I-49 extension will be challenging when encountered with the many coal and gas reservoirs in the area.
Terry Carson, president of the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce, told planners that an on-ramp at Arkansas 162 south of Alma may be more beneficial to residents than an on-ramp farther south at Clear Creek Road going into Kibler. It has been 21 years since a study was done that put the on-ramp at Clear Creek Road. The distance from the proposed crossing at Arkansas 162 and the on-ramp at Clear Creek Road is about 1.8 miles.
http://www.swtimes.com/news/20180330/ardots-sneak-peek-of-i-49-extension-includes-toll-system
The tolling of 49 also helps keeping both 40 and 55 properly maintained and could help fund future transportation projects on IH 49 In Fayetteville and points northIf ARDOT is the tolling authority. If not, the only person getting rich is Asa Hutchinson. Like Rick Perry tried a decade ago.
The tolling of 49 also helps keeping both 40 and 55 properly maintained and could help fund future transportation projects on IH 49 In Fayetteville and points northIf ARDOT is the tolling authority. If not, the only person getting rich is Asa Hutchinson. Like Rick Perry tried a decade ago.
They [ArDOT] have tolling authority.The tolling of 49 also helps keeping both 40 and 55 properly maintained and could help fund future transportation projects on IH 49 In Fayetteville and points northIf ARDOT is the tolling authority. If not, the only person getting rich is Asa Hutchinson. Like Rick Perry tried a decade ago.
The U of A has a huge percentage of people from Texas...I find this interesting, because I hear so much shit about Arkansas' colleges and universities. I would think Texas would have more to do and better colleges and universities.
Why not just toll the whole section between Alma and Texarkana to get the dang thing built? I'd be all in favor of that at this point.Because as sparker and so many others have stated, "It could be easily shunpiked". I emailed ArDOT's Public Information Office not too long ago, and this is what they said:
Hello,
I am contacting ArDOT for information regarding tolling within the state.
I am an avid highway lover and I follow information regarding projects across the state. I live in Fort Smith, and with that, I follow closely the project of I-49 and I know there is a shortage of funds for this project. I have a simple question: Why hasn’t Arkansas — or rather — ArDOT considered tolling heavily traveled corridors of the state? I know there was an intuitive to toll I-40, and potenientally I-630. Why are we not taking advantage of high traffic areas and charging as such? Surely, we would have more money for projects around the state, no? Back to I-49, is this corridor eventually going to get a bridge tolling system for a revenue stream? It’s hard to see such a great state struggle to get some really great projects finished. Did you know that I-49 goes from Louisiana to Canada? We (as I hear it) are the last and unfinished link for the corridor.
Thank you,
Trenton
Hi Trenton-
Yes, we have studied tolls in Arkansas, however we have determined that not enough folks would use it to pay for the construction. And right now, we cannot toll an existing interstate highway.
Thank you for contacting us!
- Danny
That’s because the two main schools (UT and A&M) limit enrollment to the top 10% of graduating classes and there’s a massive surplus of students in regard to colleges in Texas. The UA recognized this early on and offered in-state tuition to Texas students. (Oklahoma does the same and has a huge Texas contingent too.) I think Texas students may outnumber Arkansas students.The U of A has a huge percentage of people from Texas...I find this interesting, because I hear so much shit about Arkansas' colleges and universities. I would think Texas would have more to do and better colleges and universities.
Whoever is saying I-49 goes to Canada is incorrect, That is misinformation from the mainstream media too lazy to verify facts. I-49 ends at Kansas City currently at I-470/I-435. From there, you can take I-29 or I-35 to Canada. Going south, I-49 is expected to eventually connect to New Orleans via US 90 south of Lafayette, LA.And there's really no need to, with the presence of I-29 and I-35 (a major difference is that the former ends at the border, but the latter does not).
But Canada? Nope. At least, not in my lifetime.
Whoever is saying I-49 goes to Canada is incorrect, That is misinformation from the mainstream media too lazy to verify facts. I-49 ends at Kansas City currently at I-470/I-435. From there, you can take I-29 or I-35 to Canada. Going south, I-49 is expected to eventually connect to New Orleans via US 90 south of Lafayette, LA.
But Canada? Nope. At least, not in my lifetime.
That's been me, and I didn't mean that I-49 goes to Winnipeg, but that it's part of the hourglass-shaped corridor (the "Winnie-Minnie-New-Hou") that looks to be (when completed) central North America's main north-south interstate system of the future.And what's wrong with I-55 and the Avenue of the Saints (from New Orleans to Minneapolis/Winnipeg)? It doesn't pass through the area that the promoters of this new route live in?
That's been me, and I didn't mean that I-49 goes to Winnipeg, but that it's part of the hourglass-shaped corridor (the "Winnie-Minnie-New-Hou") that looks to be (when completed) central North America's main north-south interstate system of the future.And what's wrong with I-55 and the Avenue of the Saints (from New Orleans to Minneapolis/Winnipeg)? It doesn't pass through the area that the promoters of this new route live in?
That’s because the two main schools (UT and A&M) limit enrollment to the top 10% of graduating classes and there’s a massive surplus of students in regard to colleges in Texas. The UA recognized this early on and offered in-state tuition to Texas students. (Oklahoma does the same and has a huge Texas contingent too.) I think Texas students may outnumber Arkansas students.
Why not just toll the whole section between Alma and Texarkana to get the dang thing built? I'd be all in favor of that at this point.Because as sparker and so many others have stated, "It could be easily shunpiked". I emailed ArDOT's Public Information Office not too long ago, and this is what they said:Quote from: From: Trenton
Friday, March 09, 2018 4:07 PM
Public Information Office
Institution of Tolls in ArkansasHello,
I am contacting ArDOT for information regarding tolling within the state.
I am an avid highway lover and I follow information regarding projects across the state. I live in Fort Smith, and with that, I follow closely the project of I-49 and I know there is a shortage of funds for this project. I have a simple question: Why hasn’t Arkansas — or rather — ArDOT considered tolling heavily traveled corridors of the state? I know there was an intuitive to toll I-40, and potenientally I-630. Why are we not taking advantage of high traffic areas and charging as such? Surely, we would have more money for projects around the state, no? Back to I-49, is this corridor eventually going to get a bridge tolling system for a revenue stream? It’s hard to see such a great state struggle to get some really great projects finished. Did you know that I-49 goes from Louisiana to Canada? We (as I hear it) are the last and unfinished link for the corridor.
Thank you,
TrentonQuote from: Danny Straessle - PIO - ArDOT
4/9/2018 11:38 AMHi Trenton-
Yes, we have studied tolls in Arkansas, however we have determined that not enough folks would use it to pay for the construction. And right now, we cannot toll an existing interstate highway.
Thank you for contacting us!
- Danny
That's utterly ridiculous. How in the heck are they going to pay for I-49 between Alma and Texarkana if they can't toll? And how could it be easily shunkpiked. Remember, we are talking about building the entire section here, not just the Arkansas River bridge.If I understand correctly, there is US 71 and other highways that (a road-smart motorist) could be utilized to shunpike I-49 tolls.
You are correct in that US 71 is there, but you would have to be an expert shunpiker for that since much of those roads are slow winding roads between DeQueen and Mansfield. No trucker in his right mind is going to choose that over a straight freeway.That's utterly ridiculous. How in the heck are they going to pay for I-49 between Alma and Texarkana if they can't toll? And how could it be easily shunkpiked. Remember, we are talking about building the entire section here, not just the Arkansas River bridge.If I understand correctly, there is US 71 and other highways that (a road-smart motorist) could be utilized to shunpike I-49 tolls.
*I was trying to find a quote for Sparker himself that I had read related to shunpiking tolls... just trying to cite sources
You are correct in that US 71 is there, but you would have to be an expert shunpiker for that since much of those roads are slow winding roads between DeQueen and Mansfield. No trucker in his right mind is going to choose that over a straight freeway.That's utterly ridiculous. How in the heck are they going to pay for I-49 between Alma and Texarkana if they can't toll? And how could it be easily shunkpiked. Remember, we are talking about building the entire section here, not just the Arkansas River bridge.If I understand correctly, there is US 71 and other highways that (a road-smart motorist) could be utilized to shunpike I-49 tolls.
*I was trying to find a quote for Sparker himself that I had read related to shunpiking tolls... just trying to cite sources
That’s because the two main schools (UT and A&M) limit enrollment to the top 10% of graduating classes and there’s a massive surplus of students in regard to colleges in Texas. The UA recognized this early on and offered in-state tuition to Texas students. (Oklahoma does the same and has a huge Texas contingent too.) I think Texas students may outnumber Arkansas students.The U of A has a huge percentage of people from Texas...I find this interesting, because I hear so much shit about Arkansas' colleges and universities. I would think Texas would have more to do and better colleges and universities.
Would it help if I asked for an AADT map for I-49? They have been widening I-49 and some surface streets like crazy!That’s because the two main schools (UT and A&M) limit enrollment to the top 10% of graduating classes and there’s a massive surplus of students in regard to colleges in Texas. The UA recognized this early on and offered in-state tuition to Texas students. (Oklahoma does the same and has a huge Texas contingent too.) I think Texas students may outnumber Arkansas students.The U of A has a huge percentage of people from Texas...I find this interesting, because I hear so much shit about Arkansas' colleges and universities. I would think Texas would have more to do and better colleges and universities.
You don't have to think it, it's true. The U of A had a record number on incoming in state students in 2017. It was outnumbered by incoming Texas kids. That's why there's huge increase in Sorority House Building. It seems there's way more girls doing this but that is just my observation. There's a huge connection between NWA and the Metroplex with it being the largest alumni base outside of Arkansas. Some of these kids have a family connection to Arkansas or the U of A as that was the place many left to find greener pastures. It just so happens NWA is a pretty green pasture these days. I am shocked Southwest Air hasn't got a clue yet and started XNA to Hobby and Love flights
I think they vastly underestimate the usage a Turnpike from Ft. Smith to Texarkana would see and only a subset of locals would shunpike
The traffic count on I-49 between Alma and NWA is steadily increasing. Anyone that drives it knows this and they know there's more and more through traffic that's not local.
The State leg needs to get off it's ass and allow state built toll roads and get Ft. Smith to Texarkana blanking done. The traffic count will soar when it becomes common knowledge that it is limited access expressway through Western Arkansas. It will support itself with the tolls, I have no doubt. Leave old 71 for the locals and hay haulers that don't want to pay but everyone else wod rejoice at going 75mph down the divided highway whether it's free or tolled . They could problem get by with charging 10 bucks each way (5 bucks north of Mena and 5 bucks south) Hell I'd fork over 6 or 7 easily as long as it's all electronic.
It'll work to go across North Arkansas as well. Keep US 412 free from Harrison to Springdale but from Harrison, build a Turnpike to Walnut Ridge. It'll exploded with traffic especially if they extended I-555 to US 67/I-57. Thsee two turnpikes would reduce lots of pressure on the Little Rock area. I know I'd go across to my trips to NEA and Memphis this way vs using I-40 between Memphis and Little Rock.
My only concern is that if the did fast track I-49 by using tolls,.they better get ready to upgrade US 270 from Y City to Hot Springs.
My Nephew and some of his group of friends.went to OBU for school. They always drove to Little Rock and then to Arkadelphia. Most everyone do this when going between NWA and that area of Arkansas. It's like the routing folks take between NWA and NEA by going down and cutting across at Conway to Beebe on US 64 and vice versa.
If they put this on the ballot, to eatablishe a Turnpike system connecting Arkansas corner to corner (US 71, US 412, US 82, US 67) It'll pass. They could even team up with TN and/or Missisipping for a couple of new toll Missississippi River Bridges. I still think the I-69 bridge is redundant considering g the new bridge 30 mile south that could be used for I-69.
It's likely that I-49 would have to consume the exiting US-71 highway on those mountainous segments between Texarkana and Fort Smith. I don't know if this is necessarily a hard bound rule, but generally speaking any US highway is not routed onto toll roads. It's that way here in Oklahoma and just about everywhere else in the country. In Texas there are toll roads where the actual US highway is routed onto the frontage roads.
With that being said, if I-49 was built as a toll road between Fort Smith and Texarkana the "free" US-71 route would have to be preserved. Based on the preliminary alignments I've seen it looks like the old US-71 would remain in a lot of places. But it doesn't look that way in the mountainous segments.
Here are some maps courtesy of AHTD. The maps aren't 100% accurate as they don't show an exit at AR 8 near the Mena airport. Who knows what other errors they contain, if any. These maps show the proposed exit numbers. They are several years old so some plans might have changed since they were published.Was there a key for the map? I understand the green and red, but the grey?
[...]
That's utterly ridiculous. How in the heck are they going to pay for I-49 between Alma and Texarkana if they can't toll? And how could it be easily shunkpiked. Remember, we are talking about building the entire section here, not just the Arkansas River bridge.If I understand correctly, there is US 71 and other highways that (a road-smart motorist) could be utilized to shunpike I-49 tolls.
*I was trying to find a quote for Sparker himself that I had read related to shunpiking tolls... just trying to cite sources
Here are some maps courtesy of AHTD. The maps aren't 100% accurate as they don't show an exit at AR 8 near the Mena airport. Who knows what other errors they contain, if any. These maps show the proposed exit numbers. They are several years old so some plans might have changed since they were published.Was there a key for the map? I understand the green and red, but the grey?
[...]
I-49 will not be built over US 71 except for the section through Foran Gap between "Y" City and Acorn (The backwards "S" in northern Polk County that is visible on maps).
That's utterly ridiculous. How in the heck are they going to pay for I-49 between Alma and Texarkana if they can't toll? And how could it be easily shunkpiked. Remember, we are talking about building the entire section here, not just the Arkansas River bridge.If I understand correctly, there is US 71 and other highways that (a road-smart motorist) could be utilized to shunpike I-49 tolls.
*I was trying to find a quote for Sparker himself that I had read related to shunpiking tolls... just trying to cite sources
Well, thanks for the cite thought -- but even I can't recall exactly what I said at any given point without slogging through my posts. But regarding shunpiking -- even if I-49 will sit atop US 71 near Y City, it would be quite simple to just avoid the whole shooting match through this area by using US 59 north into OK and then US 271 back into AR at Fort Smith -- with similar overall mileage, and considerably more benign terrain (this is the route that the KCS RR main line uses to avoid the Ouachita summit along the US 71 alignment). If not for having to involve OK in the project, that would have been a nice little alternate path for I-49; when going & coming from the north, it's my usual route from the DeQueen, AR/Broken Bow. OK area (where many of my relatives are centered).
Of course, the best route through Oklahoma is US 59 to OK 112 to US 271...taking OK 112 saves about 5 1/2 miles over staying on US 271. I'm surprised they haven't rerouted 271 to follow 112 instead of following 59 to 9.Geography or (local/national) political reasoning?
Of course, the best route through Oklahoma is US 59 to OK 112 to US 271...taking OK 112 saves about 5 1/2 miles over staying on US 271. I'm surprised they haven't rerouted 271 to follow 112 instead of following 59 to 9.Geography or (local/national) political reasoning?
Here are some maps courtesy of AHTD. The maps aren't 100% accurate as they don't show an exit at AR 8 near the Mena airport. Who knows what other errors they contain, if any. These maps show the proposed exit numbers. They are several years old so some plans might have changed since they were published.Was there a key for the map? I understand the green and red, but the grey?
[...]
Here are some maps courtesy of AHTD. The maps aren't 100% accurate as they don't show an exit at AR 8 near the Mena airport. Who knows what other errors they contain, if any. These maps show the proposed exit numbers. They are several years old so some plans might have changed since they were published.I cross-referenced the above maps with Froggie's exit list of said proposal (http://www.ajfroggie.com/roads/fictional/future/i49la-ar-exits.htm), and saw that some numbers may be off by 1 or 2, but other than that, it follows the same route very accurately.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/813/27609302118_6864868344_o.png)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/896/27609305558_21dcdce2e5_o.png)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/886/27609322238_bc4097e76d_o.png)
That's been me, and I didn't mean that I-49 goes to Winnipeg, but that it's part of the hourglass-shaped corridor (the "Winnie-Minnie-New-Hou") that looks to be (when completed) central North America's main north-south interstate system of the future.And what's wrong with I-55 and the Avenue of the Saints (from New Orleans to Minneapolis/Winnipeg)? It doesn't pass through the area that the promoters of this new route live in?
Sounds like the focus of this particular PR flack is centered around Kansas City, the "cinch" point of the so-called "hourglass". If the focus were the entire state of Missouri, then the AOS/I-55 corridor might get a reference -- but that doesn't seem to be the case, at least from what I've seen & read referring to I-49 publicity efforts. Obviously, there's a conflation of I-49 with I-29 and, to a lesser degree, I-35 north of KC; this sort of thing is a common occurrence when commercial interests start touting a corridor project (making it seem like it's more comprehensive than it really is). In this case, the goal seems to be to convince commercial users to funnel onto I-49 from the entire upper Midwest, including the Canadian plains provinces. If such efforts can translate into increased support from various interests regarding the need to complete the I-49 corridor, then PR efforts will have been valid -- if a bit overarching at times.
It would be the quickest interstate way from the northern cities to Houston and New Orleans were I-49 complete in Arkansas.Bullshit. Unless the Avenue of the Saints starts getting major traffic problems, you're not going to make better time with 50 more miles via I-49 (to Winnipeg; Minneapolis is 80 miles shorter on the AoTS). And Houston to Winnipeg is laughable. 69/49 is 60 miles longer than the direct route (using US 75 between Topeka and Nebraska City). It's only Houston to Minneapolis where 69/49 is on par, and that's because Oklahoma hasn't upgraded US 69. Turn US 69 into a freeway and it's no contest.
It would be the quickest interstate way from the northern cities to Houston and New Orleans were I-49 complete in Arkansas.Bullshit. Unless the Avenue of the Saints starts getting major traffic problems, you're not going to make better time with 50 more miles via I-49 (to Winnipeg; Minneapolis is 80 miles shorter on the AoTS). And Houston to Winnipeg is laughable. 69/49 is 60 miles longer than the direct route (using US 75 between Topeka and Nebraska City). It's only Houston to Minneapolis where 69/49 is on par, and that's because Oklahoma hasn't upgraded US 69. Turn US 69 into a freeway and it's no contest.
So while we're building all the new highways, what happens to the existing ones?They decay?
So while we're building all the new highways, what happens to the existing ones?They decay?
Add a fairly aggressive rate of cost inflation for road building and maintenance projects to that equation. We can't build any big things without the process including at least a decade's worth of public hearings, lawsuits, red tape entanglements, environmental issues and compliance with ever-changing (and always more expensive) safety standards. When the project can finally get moving costs of construction and materials have shot the original budget to hell.Why is Oklahoma looking to a gas tax when they have tolls? To me, a gas tax is the poor man's route. Now, gas tax + tolls= $$$.
So even if we had the gasoline tax pegged to a percentage of the price for a gallon of gasoline (which I think should be done) rather than a flat level (which hasn't changed in over 20 years in some states, like Oklahoma) we would still have all these time and cost bleeding issues taking place.
Add a fairly aggressive rate of cost inflation for road building and maintenance projects to that equation. We can't build any big things without the process including at least a decade's worth of public hearings, lawsuits, red tape entanglements, environmental issues and compliance with ever-changing (and always more expensive) safety standards. When the project can finally get moving costs of construction and materials have shot the original budget to hell.Do you ever think that shit will be put in check or get worse? It seems like much needed infrastructure projects are nothing short of a miracle if they're completed these days.
So even if we had the gasoline tax pegged to a percentage of the price for a gallon of gasoline (which I think should be done) rather than a flat level (which hasn't changed in over 20 years in some states, like Oklahoma) we would still have all these time and cost bleeding issues taking place.
The thing really chapping my @$$ now is the Oklahoma state legislature wants to raise the fuel tax for the first time since the early 1990's, but the tax hike won't go to roads, it will go into public education to supposedly fund teacher pay raises.
[...]
At the same time, it's complete bull$#!+ that our state insists on coming up with stupid, regressive schemes to fund any improvements to public education. Pulling the funding out fuel taxes is Stealing from Peter to pay Paul. Unfortunately we have a state with no shortage of selfish, ignorant voters who think stuff like good roads or good schools shouldn't cost anything.
On the individual level we're twisting our culture to make the act of raising a family a high priced luxury purchase. Lots of young, working class people will be forced to opt-out of that cornerstone of the so-called American dream.Good. We need fewer kids.
On the individual level we're twisting our culture to make the act of raising a family a high priced luxury purchase. Lots of young, working class people will be forced to opt-out of that cornerstone of the so-called American dream.Good. We need fewer kids.
The population as a whole?Who is "we"?On the individual level we're twisting our culture to make the act of raising a family a high priced luxury purchase. Lots of young, working class people will be forced to opt-out of that cornerstone of the so-called American dream.Good. We need fewer kids.
Good. We need fewer kids.
China’s got the world covered, oh and don’t forget about India!Quote from: NE2Good. We need fewer kids.
It's only good if you desire a bleak future for this nation and the rest of the developed world.
At first glance fewer kids and smaller population might seem like a far more environmetally friendly thing. Fewer people consuming fewer resources. But that only works if different generational age groups maintain a proper size balance. You gotta have enough working age tax payers to fund the pensions, health care costs and end of life costs for all the older folks. The population of the US already had a median age skewing ever older before the Great Recession hit late last decade. Now the fertility rate of American born women is well under the replacement rate level and going downward. If it turns into a long term trend it will be financially disasterous both business and government.
Then there's the comparative birth rates of other nations. Developing nations have higher birth rates and more youthful populations. The US is big on military spending, but how well is its military going to function if it suddenly has a rapidly shrinking pool of potential recruits? Lots of new business and innovation tend to happen among more youthful people.
China’s got the world covered, oh and don’t forget about India!
Good luck getting the Chinese and Indians to pay for your Social Security and Medicare.
Or the Republicans.
ArDOT ”˜dusts off’ $600 million future I-49 Barling to Alma stretch
The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ArDOT) and the Federal Highway Administration have cooperated on an environmental re-evaluation as well as refining the conceptual alignment for a new section of Interstate 49 (I-49) that would connect approximately 13.7 miles between Highway 22 in Sebastian County and the I-40/I-49 interchange in Crawford County.
ArDOT officials presented a portion of the work by Kansas City-based engineering firm HNTB Corporation on Thursday (April 26) from the Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Barling.
https://talkbusiness.net/2018/04/ardot-dusts-off-600-million-future-i-49-barling-to-alma-stretch/
We'll still need freeways like I-49 for city to city connections .... But we'll need fewer highways. Small towns and rural areas have already been losing population. ... One would think the ridiculously high living costs would encourage more young adults to stay in small towns rather than keep migrating to big cities. The declining tax bases in many small towns leave them less able to fund police & fire, public schools, infrastructure, etc. Those problems won't go away ... On the bright side, it might become more affordable to live in the cities if there is an increasing glut of available housing.
A lot of the growth in NW Arkansas is brand new. That region is going to keep growing despite what happens to demographics nationwide. So there is still going to be a good case for completing I-49.
Posted just over 8 hours ago on the Arkansas business news site "TalkBusiness"Soo... They've had the money the whole time?!QuoteArDOT ”˜dusts off’ $600 million future I-49 Barling to Alma stretch
The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ArDOT) and the Federal Highway Administration have cooperated on an environmental re-evaluation as well as refining the conceptual alignment for a new section of Interstate 49 (I-49) that would connect approximately 13.7 miles between Highway 22 in Sebastian County and the I-40/I-49 interchange in Crawford County.
ArDOT officials presented a portion of the work by Kansas City-based engineering firm HNTB Corporation on Thursday (April 26) from the Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Barling.
https://talkbusiness.net/2018/04/ardot-dusts-off-600-million-future-i-49-barling-to-alma-stretch/
Finishing Arkansas I-49 means finishing the "three Bs"
1. The "Bella Vista bypass". (Waiting for news in June on an INFRA grant to Arkansas for Missouri to finish it.)
2. "The bridge". (Which this article details more on.)
3. "The big one". (Greenwood to Texarkana.)
As populations continue to decline in rural areas (and more people are forced into urban/surburban areas) and the costs of road building and maintenance continue rising like they've been many states with lower populations but lots of land will be forced to decommission some state highways and even close a good number of roads and bridges. I can see that happening here in Oklahoma. We have huge numbers of section line roads criss-crossing the state. Many are gravel roads, but still cost money to maintain and keep open. Even gravel roads have a decent number of bridge crossings. Even if most of the bridges are modest they still cost money to build and maintain. What's the point of paying to maintain those facilities if their use drops off to very low levels? Oil, cattle and agricultural businesses might have an opportunity to take over some rural roads and turn them into private access roads, but I can't imagine those guys wanting to pay the maintenance costs themselves.
There's so much State Highway that doean't need to be State Highway in Arkansas. Ark 214 in Poinsett Co. For Example. I own land off of it and still think it should be a county road. There are dozens of examples in Poinsett Co. alone.
For a state as large as Oklahoma (69,690 square miles) the state highway system is quite small (12,265 centerline miles plus 606 miles of turnpikes). There are lots of county and local roads in Oklahoma that would be state highways in other states. Arkansas, on the other hand is quite a bit smaller (53,180 square miles) and has 16,443 miles of state highways. I expect for there to be a mass decommissioning of state highways in Arkansas in the future. There are some highways (AR 370 in Polk County is a good example) that have no business being on the system.
There's so much State Highway that doean't need to be State Highway in Arkansas. Ark 214 in Poinsett Co. For Example. I own land off of it and still think it should be a county road. There are dozens of examples in Poinsett Co. alone.
Arkansas has lots of state-maintained factory roads that only run half a mile. Plus numerous state-maintained/numbered county roads (such as AR 74 east of Winslow)
There's so much State Highway that doean't need to be State Highway in Arkansas. Ark 214 in Poinsett Co. For Example. I own land off of it and still think it should be a county road. There are dozens of examples in Poinsett Co. alone.
Arkansas has lots of state-maintained factory roads that only run half a mile. Plus numerous state-maintained/numbered county roads (such as AR 74 east of Winslow)
State maintained county roads? The only thing similar to this that I've ever heard of is that sometimes the state will build a bridge and approaches on county roads. Polk County 74 over the Ouachita River is a good example.
I have a strong hunch that AR 10 (despite being a state highway) is maintained (in the Greenwood area) by Sebastian Co. Road Dept in Greenwood.There's so much State Highway that doean't need to be State Highway in Arkansas. Ark 214 in Poinsett Co. For Example. I own land off of it and still think it should be a county road. There are dozens of examples in Poinsett Co. alone.
Arkansas has lots of state-maintained factory roads that only run half a mile. Plus numerous state-maintained/numbered county roads (such as AR 74 east of Winslow)
State maintained county roads? The only thing similar to this that I've ever heard of is that sometimes the state will build a bridge and approaches on county roads. Polk County 74 over the Ouachita River is a good example.
Maybe the phrasing is wrong: county roads that the state has taken over maintenance (and numbered). 74 east of Winslow was CR 43 (still is after 4-5 miles) until the county asked ARDOT to maintain it.
I have a strong hunch that AR 10 (despite being a state highway) is maintained (in the Greenwood area) by Sebastian Co. Road Dept in Greenwood.In AR, State routes are state maintenance, right? FWIW, They're in the ROAD_INVENTORY_AHTD shapefiles, with route numbers, section numbers, logmiles, and all the same info...
The reason for the speculation of AR 10 is due to lettings by the state for this specific area. I don't here much about Greenwood contracts for maintenance of AR 10. I have relatives in Greenwood and frequent the area regularly.I have a strong hunch that AR 10 (despite being a state highway) is maintained (in the Greenwood area) by Sebastian Co. Road Dept in Greenwood.In AR, State routes are state maintenance, right? FWIW, They're in the ROAD_INVENTORY_AHTD shapefiles, with route numbers, section numbers, logmiles, and all the same info...
I have a strong hunch that AR 10 (despite being a state highway) is maintained (in the Greenwood area) by Sebastian Co. Road Dept in Greenwood.
Hee hee: "Complete I-49 between Texarkana and Fort Smith." (And more than 1 person agreed. :-D )
http://forums.hogville.net/index.php?topic=660507.0
I'm assuming this has been posted here before.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/911/28173120648_a11cb9f442_b.jpg)
(https://flic.kr/p/JVyBes)AR-549 - Future I-49 (https://flic.kr/p/JVyBes) by TheInstrumentalist (https://www.flickr.com/photos/154936453@N06/), on Flickr
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/978/28173121068_05bfdd84a4_b.jpg)
(https://flic.kr/p/JVyBmG)Future I-49 sign (https://flic.kr/p/JVyBmG) by TheInstrumentalist (https://www.flickr.com/photos/154936453@N06/), on Flickr
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/960/28173121428_1e2ee1cb8c_b.jpg)
(https://flic.kr/p/JVyBsU)Future I-49 Exit 191 (https://flic.kr/p/JVyBsU) by TheInstrumentalist (https://www.flickr.com/photos/154936453@N06/), on Flickr
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/824/28173120258_abebae1f24_b.jpg)
(https://flic.kr/p/JVyB7J)Future I-49 Exit 193 (https://flic.kr/p/JVyB7J) by TheInstrumentalist (https://www.flickr.com/photos/154936453@N06/), on Flickr
I'm assuming this has been posted here before.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/911/28173120648_a11cb9f442_b.jpg)
(https://flic.kr/p/JVyBes)AR-549 - Future I-49 (https://flic.kr/p/JVyBes) by TheInstrumentalist (https://www.flickr.com/photos/154936453@N06/), on Flickr
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/978/28173121068_05bfdd84a4_b.jpg)
(https://flic.kr/p/JVyBmG)Future I-49 sign (https://flic.kr/p/JVyBmG) by TheInstrumentalist (https://www.flickr.com/photos/154936453@N06/), on Flickr
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/960/28173121428_1e2ee1cb8c_b.jpg)
(https://flic.kr/p/JVyBsU)Future I-49 Exit 191 (https://flic.kr/p/JVyBsU) by TheInstrumentalist (https://www.flickr.com/photos/154936453@N06/), on Flickr
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/824/28173120258_abebae1f24_b.jpg)
(https://flic.kr/p/JVyB7J)Future I-49 Exit 193 (https://flic.kr/p/JVyB7J) by TheInstrumentalist (https://www.flickr.com/photos/154936453@N06/), on Flickr
You forgot Massard Rd ;)
So if the voters approve the gas tax hike in MO this fall, could we FINALLY see the Bella Vista Bypass finished?
Drove the Bella Vista Bypass yesterday going to Gravette and noticed that they are already clearing trees and moving dirt south of the first AR-72 exit for the northbound carriageway even though there's no news on Missouri's ability to connect to it yet.
Any news on Texarkana-Ft. Smith? My suspicions say that they will not start working on that until the Bella Vista Bypass is completed and opened to traffic.
Any news on Texarkana-Ft. Smith? My suspicions say that they will not start working on that until the Bella Vista Bypass is completed and opened to traffic.
Something was mentioned at the AR612 dedication about finishing the 412 Bypass, THEN working on I-49.
My suspicion is that they won't do any further planning of that portion other than city bypasses until the I-40 to AR-22 portion over the Arkansas River is completed.
Here's a picture I took last Saturday from a mile south of the current northern terminus of the Bella Vista Bypass, at what used to be called Gun Range Road. Given that there are small segments of paved four lane (with two of them inaccessible) stretches at both this and the Highway 72 exit to the south and east of this photograph, it looks like the first full four lane section of the BVP may be between these two exits.Well, that's a rare sight! Yellow skip contrast lane lines.
(http://a-b-p.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/20180526_134820.jpg)
Here's a picture I took last Saturday from a mile south of the current northern terminus of the Bella Vista Bypass, at what used to be called Gun Range Road. Given that there are small segments of paved four lane (with two of them inaccessible) stretches at both this and the Highway 72 exit to the south and east of this photograph, it looks like the first full four lane section of the BVP may be between these two exits.Well, that's a rare sight! Yellow skip contrast lane lines.
(http://a-b-p.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/20180526_134820.jpg)
That seems to be the case, but I am referring to the general appearance of the style of the lane lines. I have not seen that style used anywhere in my travels across the state. Thanks for informing me about the difference in color between white and yellow purpose.Here's a picture I took last Saturday from a mile south of the current northern terminus of the Bella Vista Bypass, at what used to be called Gun Range Road. Given that there are small segments of paved four lane (with two of them inaccessible) stretches at both this and the Highway 72 exit to the south and east of this photograph, it looks like the first full four lane section of the BVP may be between these two exits.Well, that's a rare sight! Yellow skip contrast lane lines.
(http://a-b-p.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/20180526_134820.jpg)
Pretty common on 2-way highways; in this case, the carriageway would be used for 2-way traffic until the other two lanes (pictured under construction) were opened; at that time, the striping would be redone as white.
BTW, those white outer lane-limit lines are also unique; the cross-hatches to the outside look like a painted method of emulating rumble strips. It would be interesting to see if ARDOT applies this to other new freeway construction statewide.
BTW, those white outer lane-limit lines are also unique; the cross-hatches to the outside look like a painted method of emulating rumble strips. It would be interesting to see if ARDOT applies this to other new freeway construction statewide.
Those are rumble strips. Zoom in, and you can see the aggregate in the concrete where they were ground out.
SM-T580
Maybe with KNWA help and Missouri finally raising their funds the Bella Vista Bypass will finally be finished. I think U.S. Transportation Department has until the middle of this December to let the BUILD grants. BENTON COUNTY, Ark. (KNWA) -- A regional commission is seeking $25 million to complete a key part of Interstate 49 near Bella Vista.
The NWA Regional Planning Commission is working with Missouri officials to ask the U.S. Department of Transportation for a B.U.I.L.D. grant to help pay for part of the newly renamed I-49 Missouri-Arkansas connector in Missouri.
The Missouri Department of Transportation is providing more of its own funding as well, increasing it from $18 million to $25 million.
Maybe with KNWA help and Missouri finally raising their funds the Bella Vista Bypass will finally be finished. I think U.S. Transportation Department has until the middle of this December to let the BUILD grants. BENTON COUNTY, Ark. (KNWA) -- A regional commission is seeking $25 million to complete a key part of Interstate 49 near Bella Vista.
The NWA Regional Planning Commission is working with Missouri officials to ask the U.S. Department of Transportation for a B.U.I.L.D. grant to help pay for part of the newly renamed I-49 Missouri-Arkansas connector in Missouri.
The Missouri Department of Transportation is providing more of its own funding as well, increasing it from $18 million to $25 million.
When will awards be made?
Under the FY 2018 Appropriations Act, the Department must make awards by December 18, 2018.
In AHTD's April 26 Presentation to the Arkansas Higway Commission (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2017/20170426%20AHC%20Meeting.pdf) .... they have a 2022 letting date for the Arkansas River bridge (p. 9/132 of pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_26_04_17_5_56_52.jpeg)
If that’s all the money that’s needed, Walmart should just gift the governments the cash and get the dang thing finished.
It would be nice, but they don't work that way. ARDOT is building them an exit on I-49, XNA was built with bonds sold by Alice Walton's Llama Company. 540 (now 49) north of Alma was basically a "gift" to Wal-Mart, Tyson, and JB Hunt.
Here's a picture I took last Saturday from a mile south of the current northern terminus of the Bella Vista Bypass, at what used to be called Gun Range Road. Given that there are small segments of paved four lane (with two of them inaccessible) stretches at both this and the Highway 72 exit to the south and east of this photograph, it looks like the first full four lane section of the BVP may be between these two exits.
(http://a-b-p.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/20180526_134820.jpg)
OK -- my increasingly feeble eyes didn't initially see the textures in the white cross-strips. Not that ARDOT is trying to win a MOMA award or anything, but those are some of the most attractive rumble strips I've seen; far better than the usual lateral grooves ground into the outer asphalt shoulders. And this design obviously lets the driver know when they're barely out of the lane rather than a few feet outside. Nice!BTW, those white outer lane-limit lines are also unique; the cross-hatches to the outside look like a painted method of emulating rumble strips. It would be interesting to see if ARDOT applies this to other new freeway construction statewide.Those are rumble strips. Zoom in, and you can see the aggregate in the concrete where they were ground out.
SM-T580
Waldron was always a wretched place, but it's even worse without Walmart. The Walmart there was an old style store that was cramped and hsd very narrow lanes and low ceilings. A far cry from today's wide open Supercenters.
Waldron was always a wretched place, but it's even worse without Walmart. The Walmart there was an old style store that was cramped and hsd very narrow lanes and low ceilings. A far cry from today's wide open Supercenters.
Half the reason Walmart left was, in their eyes, it wasn't worth upgrading. I'm sure the new Harps store didn't helpWaldron was always a wretched place, but it's even worse without Walmart. The Walmart there was an old style store that was cramped and hsd very narrow lanes and low ceilings. A far cry from today's wide open Supercenters.
I remember visiting the Wal-Mart (old school!) in Broken Bow, OK back in the early '80's when visiting family there; it was just as described above -- more like an old "five & dime" store than a modern department facility. One thing I remember -- it wasn't particularly well-lit, and it almost always smelled musty -- like some merchandise had been there for years and the dust build-up permeated the store's interior. Never liked going there, but my relatives insisted on it because of the exceptionally low prices on some items (towel, underwear, cleaning supplies -- but, I noticed, rarely on food or drinks, particularly 12/24-packs of soda, which my cousins went through like water). Of course these days Wal-Mart's store brands have drastically changed that profile. Nevertheless, a lot of these older Wal-Marts still are hanging in there, particularly in smaller areas with a limited customer base.
... It's easy now to talk about how difficult the Greenwood-Texarkana I-49 stretch will be to complete. If, however, this gets funded in December, and if the I-49 Ark River bridge is let in 2022 and if (as was just said on the Texas I-69 thread) the ever-growing "Texas Trident" will have the emphasis on Texarkana, not Shreveport, as its northern terminus it's going to get a LOT more difficult to talk (and keep making excuses for) how difficult Greenwood-Texarkana will be.
The promise of Interstate 49 was that it would speed traffic going from Kansas City to New Orleans and points in between, including Texarkana.
But the construction of I-49 itself hasn't been all that speedy.
Right now, the northern part of highway begins south of Kansas City and continues to Pineville, just north of the Arkansas state line. It picks up from Bella Vista, Ark., and runs to to Alma, Ark.
It picks up again north of Texarkana and continues on to I-220 in Shreveport before resuming as I-49 to Lafayette, La.
That's a lot of miles. But construction on I-49 began in Louisiana in 1981. That's a lot of years.
While work is continuing to complete the highway from Texarkana to Lafayette, the major portion through Arkansas is still a dream. On Wednesday, the Arkansas Department of Transportation told the Western Arkansas Intermodal Authority that studies should begin in the fall on the proposed route from Alma, Ark., to Barling, Ark.–a distance of about 17 miles.
Consider this: The initial Interstate Highway System, authorized in 1956, took just 35 years to build multiple highways covering more than 42,000 miles. Work on I-49 alone has been going on 37 years.
Yeas, we understand things are different today. Both costs and environmental awareness–which means more costs–are higher today. And we are talking limited government funds.
Those excuses are wearing thin. The government can find plenty of other things to spend money on–as our national debt plainly shows. And we suspect most readers never see any benefit from most of that money. The I-49 project has already benefited millions and will benefit millions more upon completion. Why isn't it on the front burner?
We have been waiting a long time. And it looks like we are going to be waiting a lot longer.
Those excuses are wearing thin. The government can find plenty of other things to spend money on–as our national debt plainly shows. And we suspect most readers never see any benefit from most of that money.
QuoteThose excuses are wearing thin. The government can find plenty of other things to spend money on–as our national debt plainly shows. And we suspect most readers never see any benefit from most of that money.
This is the question every American--liberal or conservative--should be asking. And by "asking" I don't mean blaming "wars" or "welfare," but demanding real answers from the last three administrations and their Congresses. By my estimate, Louisiana's share of the national debt is $70 billion--which would complete I-49, rebuild I-10 through Baton Rouge, puts loops around Baton Rouge and Lafayette, upgrade US 165 to an interstate, AND build I-69 and I-14, and probably leave plenty to fix up the rest of our highways and bridges.
Quit giving tax breaks to the wealthy.
It is a real answer. If revenue is already too low to cover spending, you don't cut it further. It's like quitting your job right after signing a lease or taking out a loan.Quit giving tax breaks to the wealthy.
Debt is causes by excessive spending, not by revenue. Rephrase in the form of a real answer.
It is a real answer. If revenue is already too low to cover spending, you don't cut it further. It's like quitting your job right after signing a lease or taking out a loan.Quit giving tax breaks to the wealthy.Debt is causes by excessive spending, not by revenue. Rephrase in the form of a real answer.
It is a real answer. If revenue is already too low to cover spending, you don't cut it further. It's like quitting your job right after signing a lease or taking out a loan.Quit giving tax breaks to the wealthy.Debt is causes by excessive spending, not by revenue. Rephrase in the form of a real answer.
It is a real answer. If revenue is already too low to cover spending, you don't cut it further. It's like quitting your job right after signing a lease or taking out a loan.Quit giving tax breaks to the wealthy.Debt is causes by excessive spending, not by revenue. Rephrase in the form of a real answer.
It's not the government's money in the first place.
This is why I'm a big supporter of tollways. The people who use them will pay for and fund them.
... leads me to conclude that this kind of stance really is about not wanting to pay for roads, nearly at all.
I don't see how your getting a personal tag is a response to my criticism of the "only actual users should pay for the road" mentality.... leads me to conclude that this kind of stance really is about not wanting to pay for roads, nearly at all.
Wow. You just told that to someone who just this last week stopped at a TxTag office in Austin to get a sticker for his new vehicle. Check your bigotry.
Depending on what is being taxed and where the tax rate is set, reducing the tax rate can increase tax revenue and increasing the tax rate can reduce tax revenue. So increasing a tax rate and automatically expecting a tax revenue increase may not always be the wisest thing.We long passed that point in the Kennedy administration. Please don't turn this country into Kansas.
It's not the government's money in the first place.Tollways cause traffic on local roads to increase due to shunpikers. Just look at what's going on in Pennsylvania. Traffic on US 30 is going through the roof because the Turnpike gets more expensive every year. If you love tollways so much, maybe you should try moving to a place where you have to pay a toll to get just about anywhere on high-speed roadways and you'll see how annoying they are. Whenever I go to visit my family in Rochester (3.5 hours away), tolls are 40% of the cost of the trip. 40%!! And the Thruway is the cheapest toll road (on a per-mile basis) in the area! Toll roads get expensive after a while, and definitely put a dampener on roadgeeking. Having to pay one to commute? Sounds like hell, I don't know how some people do it. Life is expensive enough as it is.
This is why I'm a big supporter of tollways. The people who use them will pay for and fund them.
If you love tollways so much, maybe you should try moving to a place where you have to pay a toll to get just about anywhere on high-speed roadways and you'll see how annoying they are.
As for "it's not the government's money"... I'd say that "your money" comprises only net, not gross. It ceases to be "your money" the moment it's taxed.
I have an hourlong commute each day covering a significant part of I-12. I would gladly pay tolls on that commute for a high-quality, well-maintained highway with a lot fewer cheapskates in my way. I have used tollways in Texas several times--that's why I have the toll tag that I just mentioned.Congratulations on being able to afford that. Not all of us can. Good roads shouldn't be restricted to those with money.
By that logic, the government can take whatever it wants, just by laying a tax on it. A tax on income is an assault on personal property and the right to pursue happiness. As a free citizen of a democratic system, I object to the government arbitrarily taking my money just because it says so.And how are income taxes special in that regard? Seems to me like a general argument against taxation at all, but society wouldn't function at all if we took that argument to its logical conclusion.
Here's a picture I took last Saturday from a mile south of the current northern terminus of the Bella Vista Bypass, at what used to be called Gun Range Road. Given that there are small segments of paved four lane (with two of them inaccessible) stretches at both this and the Highway 72 exit to the south and east of this photograph, it looks like the first full four lane section of the BVP may be between these two exits.
(http://a-b-p.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/20180526_134820.jpg)OK -- my increasingly feeble eyes didn't initially see the textures in the white cross-strips. Not that ARDOT is trying to win a MOMA award or anything, but those are some of the most attractive rumble strips I've seen; far better than the usual lateral grooves ground into the outer asphalt shoulders. And this design obviously lets the driver know when they're barely out of the lane rather than a few feet outside. Nice!BTW, those white outer lane-limit lines are also unique; the cross-hatches to the outside look like a painted method of emulating rumble strips. It would be interesting to see if ARDOT applies this to other new freeway construction statewide.Those are rumble strips. Zoom in, and you can see the aggregate in the concrete where they were ground out.
SM-T580
I believe the original version of that groove pattern in the shoulder was an innovation developed by the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission in the 1980s. The PTC called it (and still calls it) SNAP, for Sonic Nap Alert Pattern. The first operational installation was in 1989. It was nearly immediately recognized as extremely effective (and cost-effective) by DOTs around the country and similar pavement patterns are now used extensively just about everywhere.
Here's a pretty good write-up about the development, testing, specs, photos, etc.: http://www.usroads.com/journals/p/rilj/9808/ri980803.htm
By that logic, the government can take whatever it wants, just by laying a tax on it. A tax on income is an assault on personal property and the right to pursue happiness. As a free citizen of a democratic system, I object to the government arbitrarily taking my money just because it says so.
By that logic, the government can take whatever it wants, just by laying a tax on it. A tax on income is an assault on personal property and the right to pursue happiness. As a free citizen of a democratic system, I object to the government arbitrarily taking my money just because it says so.
Well, once you become a Billionaire, it gets easier. Government will arbitrarily give you everyone else's money . </s>
As for "it's not the government's money"... I'd say that "your money" comprises only net, not gross. It ceases to be "your money" the moment it's taxed.
No of course not. I'm talking about an attitude. Government officials, including elected representatives, who view the taxed portion of the citizen's income as not the citizen's income is in my opinion despicable. (And I promise to try to not slobber like Mel Blanc when I say that word.)If you buy something, do you view the money that was used to buy that thing to be "your money" even after it changed hands? No? Paying taxes is similar.
That attitude is how you have senators and representatives who shriek at any suggestion of lowering any tax rate and call any rate reduction "giving money away to people." That's ridiculous of course. Lowering a tax rate is not giving money away, it's simply not taking as much in the first place.
I'm not opposed to paying taxes. Not at all. But the natural tendency of government at all levels is to find increasingly creative ways to get more from the citizen's pocket. It's no wonder, when government officials' state of mind is to consider the taxed portion of the citizen's income to be the government's money already.
That's why I view the Connecting Arkansas Program as one of the better methods of taxation. It is dedicated to a specific goal, voted on by the populace, and has a mandated sunset. The more local that taxation occurs, the more efficiently it tends to be allocated rather than passed up to the federal layer and then back down as they see fit after many hands have been in the till.Trouble is, not every community has the same ability to pay. This is the reason why city school districts are crap while suburban school districts are good, for example. Also why infrastructure in rich areas is shiny and new while infrastructure in poor areas is falling apart.
If you love tollways so much, maybe you should try moving to a place where you have to pay a toll to get just about anywhere on high-speed roadways and you'll see how annoying they are.
Trouble is, not every community has the same ability to pay. This is the reason why city school districts are crap while suburban school districts are good, for example. Also why infrastructure in rich areas is shiny and new while infrastructure in poor areas is falling apart.
If you buy something, do you view the money that was used to buy that thing to be "your money" even after it changed hands? No? Paying taxes is similar.
In any case, I budget off net and hardly pay attention to gross.
Regarding what sparked this, the wealthy and businesses already weren't paying enough taxes…
Right now we have a system where Warren Buffet pays a lower percentage of his income than his secretary does.
I have yet to hear an elected official criticize the idea of giving money back to the people. I have heard elected officials warn of growing deficits because of tax cuts.
I have yet to hear an elected official criticize the idea of giving money back to the people. I have heard elected officials warn of growing deficits because of tax cuts.
I have yet to hear an elected official criticize the idea of giving money back to the people. I have heard elected officials warn of growing deficits because of tax cuts.
Really? You've never heard a politician call a tax cut a "giveaway?" Happens every time one is proposed. How could you miss it?
If you buy something, do you view the money that was used to buy that thing to be "your money" even after it changed hands? No? Paying taxes is similar.
If you buy something, do you view the money that was used to buy that thing to be "your money" even after it changed hands? No? Paying taxes is similar.
Of course not, because you willingly exchanged the money for a good or service. The money isn't yours any more, but the good or service is.
Paying tolls is essentially paying for access to or usage of a road. I can choose to pay the toll, or not pay the toll and not use the tolled road.
Income taxes, on the other hand, are flat-out confiscation. You can choose to not pay them, if you want to gamble your freedom.
This is why I'm a big supporter of tollways. The people who use them will pay for and fund them.
If a tax rate reduction (say on income) increases economic activity and results in increased tax revenue, I really don't care if the wealthy keep more money.
Then move to Texas :p
… And even if they were revenue-positive, it would still be a questionable premise that the goal of the income tax system should be revenue maximization. High marginal tax rates for high income brackets tend to realign incentives away from executive compensation and toward building companies through capital formation. This, in turn, tends to narrow income inequality and reduces the extent to which low- and middle-income workers end up on the downside of the wealth effect.
Soo...
How about that I-49?
Amirite?
If you buy something, do you view the money that was used to buy that thing to be "your money" even after it changed hands? No? Paying taxes is similar.
Of course not, because you willingly exchanged the money for a good or service. The money isn't yours any more, but the good or service is.
Paying tolls is essentially paying for access to or usage of a road. I can choose to pay the toll, or not pay the toll and not use the tolled road.
Income taxes, on the other hand, are flat-out confiscation. You can choose to not pay them, if you want to gamble your freedom.
Soo...
How about that I-49?
Amirite?
....and we are *how far* away from the $$$$ and construction of the Shreveport ICC and the Fort Smith-Texarkana sections?
I just noticed a new freeway US 412 in the Fayetteville area on google maps, how far will this ultimately go?
I just noticed a new freeway US 412 in the Fayetteville area on google maps, how far will this ultimately go?
From where the divided highway portion ends at the edge of Tontitown to the twin White River bridges where it divides again between Sonora and Nob Hill. What has been completed is the middle section. No timelines (or funding) yet when the other two segments will happen, though.
Ok, just curious, I will be down there at the end of the month and I noticed that when I was plotting a route. Is this really necessary for the area? I feel like finishing 49 is much more important.
Ok, just curious, I will be down there at the end of the month and I noticed that when I was plotting a route. Is this really necessary for the area? I feel like finishing 49 is much more important.
To some degree, yes. 412 sees more than its share of truck traffic, not to mention 412 through Springdale where it follows Business 71 XNA is also planning a toll road from new 412 to the airport, reducing that slow slog on AR 12 or AR 264
Ok, just curious, I will be down there at the end of the month and I noticed that when I was plotting a route. Is this really necessary for the area? I feel like finishing 49 is much more important.
To some degree, yes. 412 sees more than its share of truck traffic, not to mention 412 through Springdale where it follows Business 71 XNA is also planning a toll road from new 412 to the airport, reducing that slow slog on AR 12 or AR 264
Having flow in and out of XNA a few times, yes, that airport access has to be a bit of a joke. Especially that 3 way stop in Cave Springs. You try to convince yourself you have made a wrong turn.
so will this be a full interstate grade facility the whole way?
so will this be a full interstate grade facility the whole way?
The airport road? I'm not sure
so will this be a full interstate grade facility the whole way?
The airport road? I'm not sure
412
so will this be a full interstate grade facility the whole way?
The airport road? I'm not sure
412
Yes. new 412 will be controlled access.
What type is the new I-49/Bypass 412 interchange? Trumpet, directional (semi-), diamond, cloverleaf, other?
seems like overkill
seems like overkill
Considering that US 412 is ultimately likely to become an Interstate in the (probably distant) future, it's just getting ahead of the curve for a change. Where the forced exit is currently, you can see where the carriageway will ultimately extend eventually under the current overpass. There will have to be another tier for the overpass coming from the east side of I-49 for southbound traffic when the bypass gets built out to the other side of Sonora.
I can't exactly remember where I read it, and I cannot seem to find it anymore in a Google search, but I thought the 400 series US highways were numbered that way to indicate some sort of high-priority corridor, so it would make sense that ultimately, it would become an Interstate. Political and financial realities come and go over time, so it's not likely to happen anytime soon, regardless.
I can't exactly remember where I read it, and I cannot seem to find it anymore in a Google search, but I thought the 400 series US highways were numbered that way to indicate some sort of high-priority corridor, so it would make sense that ultimately, it would become an Interstate. Political and financial realities come and go over time, so it's not likely to happen anytime soon, regardless.
That might be true. I recall reading somewhere many years ago that US-400 was a precursor designation for what would have been a planned (and now dead) extension of I-66 through Kansas and southern Colorado.
US 412 from Huntsville to Harrison needs expressway'd as fast as possible after we pull a rabbit out of our butt for the rest of the Springdale bypass and a legit Siloam Springs expressway bypass. That 35 miles stretch between Huntsville and Alpena can be brutal.
I dream of it becoming an extension Of I-22 at least to Tulsa, incorporating it with I-555 and a new bridge north of Memphis that tries into I-69/I-269, making most of the I-269 loop become I-22.
US 412 from Huntsville to Harrison needs expressway'd as fast as possible after we pull a rabbit out of our butt for the rest of the Springdale bypass and a legit Siloam Springs expressway bypass. That 35 miles stretch between Huntsville and Alpena can be brutal.
I dream of it becoming an extension Of I-22 at least to Tulsa, incorporating it with I-555 and a new bridge north of Memphis that tries into I-69/I-269, making most of the I-269 loop become I-22.
That would be a handy stretch of freeway for multiple reasons. It's going to have to happen eventually due to the growth of both northern corners of Arkansas. The northwest corner is still the 14th fastest growing area of the nation, and soon to be in the top 100 MSAs. Roads have just got to keep up.
Given OK's seemingly perpetual lack of funds for transportation purposes, the prospects for extending any limited-access facilities in the northwest quadrant of the state (i.e., north of I-40 and west of I-35), tolled or not, would appear to be slim, despite the presence of "wish lists".
The Indian Nation Turnpike from Henryetta down to Hugo is a pretty odd, remote route. Henryetta to Durant (along the Tulsa to Dallas corridor) would have made a hell of a lot more sense. Paris, TX isn't exactly a major destination for Tulsa traffic.
The Indian Nation Turnpike from Henryetta down to Hugo is a pretty odd, remote route. Henryetta to Durant (along the Tulsa to Dallas corridor) would have made a hell of a lot more sense. Paris, TX isn't exactly a major destination for Tulsa traffic.
The southern terminus of the Indian Nation near Hugo wasin all likelihoodpolitically motivated, functionally "throwing a bone" to SE OK. The INTP was the initial high-capacity route into the area; US 70 is being upgraded in bits and pieces (Idabel & Durant bypass; Hugo was bypassed as an extension of the INTP), although a major corridor-length expansion doesn't seem to be on the table. I suppose when the INTP was planned, it was figured that the composite US 69/75 corridor would eventually be upgraded as a matter of course (the freeway section north of McAlester attests to that) -- but that situation is more than adequately covered in other threads.
That's the first I've heard regarding an Interstate concept for US 412 outside the Fictional realm -- although some sort of controlled-access/signal-less connection to Tulsa would be a worthwhile endeavor to enhance the connection between that city and NWA. A Siloam Springs bypass might pose a political problem (IIRC that's been suggested before but dismissed), but the portion in OK, including the Cherokee Turnpike, seems doable. But even extending the new segment west of I-49 to the west might be fiscally difficult in the near term -- so I wouldn't expect to see a new more comprehensive corridor concept brought up for quite some time.
I remember about 15 years ago reading that US 412 between Tulsa and Arkansas was supposed to be Interstate 38. It’s been so long idr where I read it iPhone
I remember about 15 years ago reading that US 412 between Tulsa and Arkansas was supposed to be Interstate 38. It’s been so long idr where I read it iPhone
I've never heard of that one. Perhaps it was part of someone's fantasy/fictional highway musing.
Mike
I-42 was assigned to North Carolina, of course; I-46 is probably the best fit.I remember about 15 years ago reading that US 412 between Tulsa and Arkansas was supposed to be Interstate 38. It’s been so long idr where I read it iPhone
I've never heard of that one. Perhaps it was part of someone's fantasy/fictional highway musing.
Mike
Really! If you're going to speculate about future corridors, you may as well place them in the grid appropriately (unless they're diagonals, in which case at least part of it should be grid-compatible!). Placing I-38 north of I-40 just doesn't work. If you look over in Fictional, things like I-42, 46, and 50 have been suggested for the US 412 corridor, particularly the portion between I-35 and I-49. But given the priorities of the states through which the corridor passes, such a proposal would be at best well off into the future.
I-42 was assigned to North Carolina, of course; I-46 is probably the best fit.
Quote from: wdcrft63I-42 was assigned to North Carolina, of course; I-46 is probably the best fit.
I don't think the US-412 corridor between Tulsa and Springdale is long enough to justify burning another 2di Interstate designation, at least not unless the Western reaches extend well past Tulsa. FWIW, I think I-42 is a little silly for that "Intra-State" route in NC. OTOH there is a growing number of examples where duplicates of the same 2di route run in different parts of the country, such as the NC version of I-87. So it's possible for there to end up being two disconnected I-42 routes. If the decision was up to me those routes would probably just carry 3 digit Interstate designations.
Fictional territory alert: I think an "I-46" route ought to be built between Oklahoma City and Denver. More specifically, from OKC splitting off the Kilpatrick Turnpike and running diagonally thru Woodward then up into Western Kansas and ending at I-70 in Limon, CO. Taking the fantasy farther, the route should be extended SE down to a point near Texarkana, ending at I-49 (near Ashdown). In the OKC area the route would skirt the West and South sides of the metro, linking Yukon, Mustang and Norman. The combo of this route and I-49 would create an effective "Ports to Front Range" corridor.
And since the "fourth wall" of Fictional has been breached here, Bobby's long-sought OKC-Denver corridor would be a great place to put a I-52: like its US numerical equivalent, it would be a NW>SE diagonal -- and there would be no in-state conflict with that US route much further north and east.
The problem with gratuitously using 2 digit Interstate designations on short routes is it raises multiple problems. One: it ignores future long term needs. We don't know how America's population will migrate and how/where they'll be driving decades from now. I think a 2-digit designation needs to run at least so many miles, but furthermore the 2-digit route needs to be far enough from other parallel 2-digit routes. The system needs to have some sense of balance. In Western states various Interstate routes are spread very very far apart. But Interstate routes are packed in like crazy in certain parts of the East.
North Carolina is going nuts with slapping 2-digit Interstate markers on all sorts of routes, many of them short and not even connected. That kind of makes a mockery of the Interstate system. It's a joke similar to the wacky crooked nature of certain new Interstate routes.Quote from: sparkerAnd since the "fourth wall" of Fictional has been breached here, Bobby's long-sought OKC-Denver corridor would be a great place to put a I-52: like its US numerical equivalent, it would be a NW>SE diagonal -- and there would be no in-state conflict with that US route much further north and east.
I keep bringing up I-46 for that fictional Denver-OKC route for a couple reasons. I-x4 and I-x6 routes are the next thing down from "major" East-West routes that end in zero. I-52 would probably be better used on a shorter route. Denver has a duplicate of I-76. The I-46 route would kind of go with that. It's like I-44 and I-64 ending in the St Louis metro area. I wish I-24 went farther than its current end at I-57. It would be cool if it went by Carbondale and diagonally up to Columbia, IL to cross the Mississippi into St Louis over what's currently I-255. I-24, I-44 and I-64 would all end in St Louis.
The idea of extending this I-46 concept from OKC to near Texarkana would also create an interesting intersection between I-46 and I-49.
I remember about 15 years ago reading that US 412 between Tulsa and Arkansas was supposed to be Interstate 38. It’s been so long idr where I read it iPhoneI've never heard of that one. Perhaps it was part of someone's fantasy/fictional highway musing.
Mike
Really! If you're going to speculate about future corridors, you may as well place them in the grid appropriately (unless they're diagonals, in which case at least part of it should be grid-compatible!). Placing I-38 north of I-40 just doesn't work. If you look over in Fictional, things like I-42, 46, and 50 have been suggested for the US 412 corridor, particularly the portion between I-35 and I-49. But given the priorities of the states through which the corridor passes, such a proposal would be at best well off into the future.
I remember about 15 years ago reading that US 412 between Tulsa and Arkansas was supposed to be Interstate 38. It’s been so long idr where I read it iPhoneI've never heard of that one. Perhaps it was part of someone's fantasy/fictional highway musing.
Mike
Really! If you're going to speculate about future corridors, you may as well place them in the grid appropriately (unless they're diagonals, in which case at least part of it should be grid-compatible!). Placing I-38 north of I-40 just doesn't work. If you look over in Fictional, things like I-42, 46, and 50 have been suggested for the US 412 corridor, particularly the portion between I-35 and I-49. But given the priorities of the states through which the corridor passes, such a proposal would be at best well off into the future.
"Interstate 50" makes sense for U.S. 412. :nod:
Question for the board...any updates to the construction thru NWA? Is the construction wrapping up along 49 in the Fayetteville / Springdale areas? Any activity from Missouri on getting funding for their last section to be completed?
Question for the board...any updates to the construction thru NWA? Is the construction wrapping up along 49 in the Fayetteville / Springdale areas? Any activity from Missouri on getting funding for their last section to be completed?
Missouri has a road tax increase on the November mid-term ballot. An attempt to have it thrown off as unconstitutional was tossed out.
As for construction through NWA, the only thing I can think of is the Springdale Bypass project and the AR section of the Bella Vista Bypass.
As for the Springdale Bypass, the ramps off I-49 are open going west, but it stops short of US-412 right now as construction continues.
As for the Bella Vista Bypass, AR is going to go ahead and finish their part of it to the Missouri state line regardless of the Missouri tax vote.
When the Bella Vista opens, posting volume in AARoads will drop by 30% as no one in NWA will have anything to talk about anymore.
Question for the board...any updates to the construction thru NWA? Is the construction wrapping up along 49 in the Fayetteville / Springdale areas? Any activity from Missouri on getting funding for their last section to be completed?
Missouri has a road tax increase on the November mid-term ballot. An attempt to have it thrown off as unconstitutional was tossed out.
As for construction through NWA, the only thing I can think of is the Springdale Bypass project and the AR section of the Bella Vista Bypass.
As for the Springdale Bypass, the ramps off I-49 are open going west, but it stops short of US-412 right now as construction continues.
As for the Bella Vista Bypass, AR is going to go ahead and finish their part of it to the Missouri state line regardless of the Missouri tax vote.
When the Bella Vista opens, posting volume in AARoads will drop by 30% as no one in NWA will have anything to talk about anymore.
I beg to differ.Question for the board...any updates to the construction thru NWA? Is the construction wrapping up along 49 in the Fayetteville / Springdale areas? Any activity from Missouri on getting funding for their last section to be completed?
Missouri has a road tax increase on the November mid-term ballot. An attempt to have it thrown off as unconstitutional was tossed out.
As for construction through NWA, the only thing I can think of is the Springdale Bypass project and the AR section of the Bella Vista Bypass.
As for the Springdale Bypass, the ramps off I-49 are open going west, but it stops short of US-412 right now as construction continues.
As for the Bella Vista Bypass, AR is going to go ahead and finish their part of it to the Missouri state line regardless of the Missouri tax vote.
When the Bella Vista opens, posting volume in AARoads will drop by 30% as no one in NWA will have anything to talk about anymore.
Question for the board...any updates to the construction thru NWA? Is the construction wrapping up along 49 in the Fayetteville / Springdale areas? Any activity from Missouri on getting funding for their last section to be completed?
Missouri has a road tax increase on the November mid-term ballot. An attempt to have it thrown off as unconstitutional was tossed out.
As for construction through NWA, the only thing I can think of is the Springdale Bypass project and the AR section of the Bella Vista Bypass.
As for the Springdale Bypass, the ramps off I-49 are open going west, but it stops short of US-412 right now as construction continues.
As for the Bella Vista Bypass, AR is going to go ahead and finish their part of it to the Missouri state line regardless of the Missouri tax vote.
When the Bella Vista opens, posting volume in AARoads will drop by 30% as no one in NWA will have anything to talk about anymore.
That's not true! Then the topic will change focus to the I-49 stretch between I-40 and AR-22 that has a half billion dollar unfunded bridge over the Arkansas River that's needed before the AR-549 segment between AR-22 and US-71 south of Ft. Smith gets connected up. That's likely the last part of I-49 in Arkansas for a couple of decades unless the U.S. comes up with some different funding mechanisms for new Interstate projects. Or Arkansas' economy booms so much that we suddenly cease to be 48th or 49th in everything nationally. We seem to run with Mississippi and West Virginia in most things that people view as things to strive for excellence in. Except for obesity and teenage pregnancy!
Question for the board...any updates to the construction thru NWA? Is the construction wrapping up along 49 in the Fayetteville / Springdale areas? Any activity from Missouri on getting funding for their last section to be completed?
Missouri has a road tax increase on the November mid-term ballot. An attempt to have it thrown off as unconstitutional was tossed out.
As for construction through NWA, the only thing I can think of is the Springdale Bypass project and the AR section of the Bella Vista Bypass.
As for the Springdale Bypass, the ramps off I-49 are open going west, but it stops short of US-412 right now as construction continues.
As for the Bella Vista Bypass, AR is going to go ahead and finish their part of it to the Missouri state line regardless of the Missouri tax vote.
When the Bella Vista opens, posting volume in AARoads will drop by 30% as no one in NWA will have anything to talk about anymore.
As for construction through NWA, the only thing I can think of is the Springdale Bypass project and the AR section of the Bella Vista Bypass.
As for construction through NWA, the only thing I can think of is the Springdale Bypass project and the AR section of the Bella Vista Bypass.
Another segment of the Springdale bypass is under construction now? I noticed on Google Street View that the second carriageway is currently under construction along the Bella Vista Bypass between CR 34 and AR 72. Also of note: new signs have been posted along the BVB that shows exit numbers in the 200s; presumably for the ultimate build out of I-49.
People hate obvious freeway gaps, especially short ones that require long detours. The more Arkansas builds, the greater the pressure on Missouri to fill the gap.Question for the board...any updates to the construction thru NWA? Is the construction wrapping up along 49 in the Fayetteville / Springdale areas? Any activity from Missouri on getting funding for their last section to be completed?
Missouri has a road tax increase on the November mid-term ballot. An attempt to have it thrown off as unconstitutional was tossed out.
As for construction through NWA, the only thing I can think of is the Springdale Bypass project and the AR section of the Bella Vista Bypass.
As for the Springdale Bypass, the ramps off I-49 are open going west, but it stops short of US-412 right now as construction continues.
As for the Bella Vista Bypass, AR is going to go ahead and finish their part of it to the Missouri state line regardless of the Missouri tax vote.
When the Bella Vista opens, posting volume in AARoads will drop by 30% as no one in NWA will have anything to talk about anymore.
Arkansas and Missouri are awaiting the possibility of a BUILD grant this December to finish the bypass on the Missouri side. It's been reported that there's a lot of optimism about this one - Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) is standing behind it. We will see.
The bid for updating the signs from Alma to Bella Vista is Oct. 24th.
The bid for updating the signs from Alma to Bella Vista is Oct. 24th.
So, they figured out what they're going to do about the mileage considering that I-49 takes a 5 mile detour out to Texas?
Will the short segment of I-49 in Texas have any exits?
How would Interstate 369 be extended to connect with future Interstate 49? Given the amount of development immediately north of 369's present northern terminus at Interstate 30, there seems to be quite a few homes and businesses to tear down. Once you get past the University of Texas A&M/Texarkana campus, constructing a freeway would be easier.
How would Interstate 369 be extended to connect with future Interstate 49? Given the amount of development immediately north of 369's present northern terminus at Interstate 30, there seems to be quite a few homes and businesses to tear down. Once you get past the University of Texas A&M/Texarkana campus, constructing a freeway would be easier.
Which would probably explain why TxDOT is proposing an alignment further to the west of Loop 151 for I-369 to eventually run, so it will ultimately be able to comnect with both I-30 and I-49. The westward shift would take I-369 through a less-developed area and avoid a lot of the issues mentioned with simply extending it northward from the I-30/Loop 151 interchange.
The bid for updating the signs from Alma to Bella Vista is Oct. 24th.
The bid for updating the signs from Alma to Bella Vista is Oct. 24th.
Creative Design Concepts of Van Buren, Arkansas received the contract worth $9.981 million. Includes gantry signage, better wayfinding signs, plus message boards and additional traffic cameras.
(I never knew we had a sign contractor in the area.)
https://talkbusiness.net/2018/10/more-than-63-million-in-interstate-rehab-signage-set-for-fort-smith-metro-nwa/
The bid for updating the signs from Alma to Bella Vista is Oct. 24th.
Creative Design Concepts of Van Buren, Arkansas received the contract worth $9.981 million. Includes gantry signage, better wayfinding signs, plus message boards and additional traffic cameras.
(I never knew we had a sign contractor in the area.)
https://talkbusiness.net/2018/10/more-than-63-million-in-interstate-rehab-signage-set-for-fort-smith-metro-nwa/
Will they be updating the exit numbers and mile markers to I-49's instead I-540?
VAN BUREN, Ark. – Progress is “going pretty well” on a study of what Union Pacific calls a Northwest Arkansas Regional Port on the Arkansas River, according to Arkansas State Rep. Mathew Pitsch, R-Fort Smith. Functioning as a consultant on the project for the Western Arkansas Intermodal Authority, Pitsch says “a few [potential] customers are interested” in the proposed 2,000-acre facility.
In April, UP posted on its website that Ports America, the country’s largest port operator, had signed a memorandum of understanding with the state authority to conduct a “six-month exclusive diligence process to evaluate the commercial potential” for such a facility. It would be a multi-modal, multi-commodity site designed for storage and for import and export.
The new port would link UP, river barge traffic, and Interstates 40 and 49. Efforts to develop such a facility have been underway for several years. Van Buren is adjacent to Fort Smith which is on the Arkansas-Oklahoma border. Besides UP, both are served by short line Arkansas & Missouri and Kansas City Southern.
Since I-369 will go to Texarkana anyway, are there plans to extend it up the loop to I-49, or will an I-x49 number be used instead? I like the idea of having an I-249 come around the southern and western sides of town.Will the short segment of I-49 in Texas have any exits?
Some plan variants show the off-and-on-planned western Texarkana loop intersecting the main line of I-49 within TX; but there's always the chance that one or another surface road may be extended north or northeast to provide access to I-49 if that western loop doesn't materialize. But since there will be about 7-8 miles of the route within the state, anything could happen by the time final plans are nailed down.
Since I-369 will go to Texarkana anyway, are there plans to extend it up the loop to I-49, or will an I-x49 number be used instead? I like the idea of having an I-249 come around the southern and western sides of town.Will the short segment of I-49 in Texas have any exits?
Some plan variants show the off-and-on-planned western Texarkana loop intersecting the main line of I-49 within TX; but there's always the chance that one or another surface road may be extended north or northeast to provide access to I-49 if that western loop doesn't materialize. But since there will be about 7-8 miles of the route within the state, anything could happen by the time final plans are nailed down.
So basically, they plan to build it as something other than I-49. Tell me: why are we letting AR designate new interstate corridors like I-57 when they can't even finish the ones they have?
Good question. My only guess is that its a helluva lot cheaper to finish 57 than 49. I don't see 49 construction starting until 2024 after hearing that recent press release. SMFH
There shouldn’t be any tolls period. The state needs to step up its game along with the entire country and get our roads properly funded. I’m not against toll roads, just not for interstate corridors.
Which is exactly why they should pass a law ensuring gas tax can’t be redirected.Quote from: Plutonic PandaThere shouldn’t be any tolls period. The state needs to step up its game along with the entire country and get our roads properly funded. I’m not against toll roads, just not for interstate corridors.
The problem is fuel taxes can be misdirected to other things. Here in Oklahoma the extra revenue from the first fuel tax increase in over 25 years was put into teacher pay raises. The teachers certainly needed a raise, but the funding should not have come from fuel taxes. We have a lot of idiot voters and shameless politicians willing to pander to the worst tendencies of voters. Politicians come up with stupid schemes to avoid actually dealing with a problem, kicking the can down the road to the next administrations in the future.
Toll gates are annoying. But if anyone did a broad poll of the public I'd bet the vast majority of them would say they already pay way too much in fuel taxes and would say no to any increase.
Quote from: Plutonic PandaThere shouldn’t be any tolls period. The state needs to step up its game along with the entire country and get our roads properly funded. I’m not against toll roads, just not for interstate corridors.
The problem is fuel taxes can be misdirected to other things. Here in Oklahoma the extra revenue from the first fuel tax increase in over 25 years was put into teacher pay raises. The teachers certainly needed a raise, but the funding should not have come from fuel taxes. We have a lot of idiot voters and shameless politicians willing to pander to the worst tendencies of voters. Politicians come up with stupid schemes to avoid actually dealing with a problem, kicking the can down the road to the next administrations in the future.
Toll gates are annoying. But if anyone did a broad poll of the public I'd bet the vast majority of them would say they already pay way too much in fuel taxes and would say no to any increase.
Which is exactly why they should pass a law ensuring gas tax can’t be redirected.Quote from: Plutonic PandaThere shouldn’t be any tolls period. The state needs to step up its game along with the entire country and get our roads properly funded. I’m not against toll roads, just not for interstate corridors.
The problem is fuel taxes can be misdirected to other things. Here in Oklahoma the extra revenue from the first fuel tax increase in over 25 years was put into teacher pay raises. The teachers certainly needed a raise, but the funding should not have come from fuel taxes. We have a lot of idiot voters and shameless politicians willing to pander to the worst tendencies of voters. Politicians come up with stupid schemes to avoid actually dealing with a problem, kicking the can down the road to the next administrations in the future.
Toll gates are annoying. But if anyone did a broad poll of the public I'd bet the vast majority of them would say they already pay way too much in fuel taxes and would say no to any increase.
IMHO, doing an expanded version of what is being done around Bella Vista would be a great idea, with or without tolls. As I-57 has much less mileage to complete on the other side of the state, I agree that it should be AR's main priority (and MO's too, for that matter); once that's done, then I-49 can be the main focus.So basically, they plan to build it as something other than I-49. Tell me: why are we letting AR designate new interstate corridors like I-57 when they can't even finish the ones they have?Good question. My only guess is that its a helluva lot cheaper to finish 57 than 49. I don't see 49 construction starting until 2024 after hearing that recent press release. SMFH
My guess is that what's going to happen is that outside of the Arkansas River bridge, which will need to be 4 lanes in any case, much of the remainder of I-49 in AR will follow the Bella Vista model -- originally do 2 lanes of I-grade carriageway in any location where the alignment doesn't overlay the existing route -- and for those overlain sections, where ROW acquisition would be less in any case, perform whatever upgrades are necessary for 2 lanes of Interstate geometrics while eliminating private access points. Add freeway bypasses of the major towns along the route (Mena, De Queen, Ashdown) and you have a project that may take time to complete but which can be broken up into sections -- with the full-length buildout to occur later. Essentially the upper-Midwest expressway format with lengthy 2-lane segments (complete with passing lanes deployed in hill country) as interim improvements to US 71. It's also the answer to how you eat an elephant: one bite at a time. If spread out along the full incomplete corridor, it could also enhance political feasibility by providing developmental activity segment by segment. An approach such as this one is necessary considering the topographical difficulty of the project, particularly in the Waldron to Mena segment that "tops out" the corridor.
And yes -- if backers in NE AR keep up any sort of pressure, I-57 will likely be built within the state before I-49 is developed much farther than the Arkansas River bridge -- principally because of those same topographic issues.
Missouri has Awarded the Building removal job for future I49 last segment today and ARDOT has one project on going to build additional lanes on the Bella Vista Bypass. With ARDOT has 2 projects to finish their part and MODOT has the final project to finish their part I believe there is a good Situation to get the Build Grant from Federal Transportation. Senator Tom Cotton is also helping. They have until December 18 to award the grants. Lets hope the do nothing congress funds the upcoming funding gap so it doesn't get delayed.
Grant approved!
Heck yeah. That's great news.Grant approved!
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/fox-24/-25-million-grant-awarded-to-complete-arkansas-missouri-i-49-connection_/1643707068?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook_FOX24_News
Transportation departments from Missouri and Arkansas have been working on completing this project for about 25 years. according to the press release. An engineer with MoDOT's Southwest District said in June that if the full $25 million was awarded, then state officials could propose to begin working on the project in 2021 or 2022.
:clap: :coffee: :clap:
Just in time, 25 years later. Haha
That was a great scene from Ghostbusters II (1989). I am a Ghostbusters fanatic, which is why my profile is titled The Ghostbuster.
What are you supposed to be? The post master? You know everything there is to know about posts? August 12th, 2023(exact time to the hour:minute unknown). A thread about the revival of the 710 tunnel in the Pacific Southwest section. Mark it down.That was a great scene from Ghostbusters II (1989). I am a Ghostbusters fanatic, which is why my profile is titled The Ghostbuster.
This was a great post from The Ghostbuster (12/7/2018, 04:06:06 PM). I am a great post fanatic, which is why you must really be great at parties.
:clap: :coffee: :clap:
Just in time, 25 years later. Haha
Better late than never...
Here is a quote from Bennett. "Now that Missouri DOT has the money to fund its portion of the bypass, we can now begin to schedule the remaining components here in Arkansas," said Scott Bennett, the director of the Arkansas Department of Transportation. "And that will happen quickly because we already have the money provided by the voter-approved Connecting Arkansas Program."
Also I read where a Missouri engineer said that they would have to update the environmental part and that would take a year or less. So Maybe it can still be done in a few years.
Here is a quote from Bennett. "Now that Missouri DOT has the money to fund its portion of the bypass, we can now begin to schedule the remaining components here in Arkansas," said Scott Bennett, the director of the Arkansas Department of Transportation. "And that will happen quickly because we already have the money provided by the voter-approved Connecting Arkansas Program."
Also I read where a Missouri engineer said that they would have to update the environmental part and that would take a year or less. So Maybe it can still be done in a few years.
On Twitter, ARDOT said 2022/2023 for completion
I'm hearing from a Bella Vista source that Walmart has purchased land at the Rocky Dell Road (also was the old "Gun Range Road") interchange for a Neighborhood Market. Given that WM builds these only when they're surrounded by neighborhoods, they clearly see this as a hot growth spot. And again, can't wait to see what will indubitably be a "Texarkana-class" Arkansas Welcome Center near there, although that won't be at an interchange.
I'm hearing from a Bella Vista source that Walmart has purchased land at the Rocky Dell Road (also was the old "Gun Range Road") interchange for a Neighborhood Market. Given that WM builds these only when they're surrounded by neighborhoods, they clearly see this as a hot growth spot. And again, can't wait to see what will indubitably be a "Texarkana-class" Arkansas Welcome Center near there, although that won't be at an interchange.
There's a need for more services on the west side of Bella Vista for sure as most are concentrated along 71B currently. And Highlands Blvd. is pretty close to there, so there will be a ready supply of traffic for that exit even without the eminent buildup of that area.
OT I think the stretch of 49 from From Smith to Texarkana might be done the same way IH 22 was done in Alabama. That took nearly 20 years to do 100 miles. Even though about 20-30 miles outside of Birmingham is 6 lanes which I love, but the 22/65 interchange took 5-7 years...Is I-22 ever going to be extended to US 31?
I'm hearing from a Bella Vista source that Walmart has purchased land at the Rocky Dell Road (also was the old "Gun Range Road") interchange for a Neighborhood Market. Given that WM builds these only when they're surrounded by neighborhoods, they clearly see this as a hot growth spot. And again, can't wait to see what will indubitably be a "Texarkana-class" Arkansas Welcome Center near there, although that won't be at an interchange.
There's a need for more services on the west side of Bella Vista for sure as most are concentrated along 71B currently. And Highlands Blvd. is pretty close to there, so there will be a ready supply of traffic for that exit even without the eminent buildup of that area.
But it's a pain in the tukus to go from I-49 over to Highlands Blvd. It wouldn't surprise me if some of the big players like Love's were already scouting out the area or even quietly buying land.
I forget...will there also be an interchange on the Missouri side (on this final section) at the road which heads west to Noel? With all the summertime canoeing, that, too, might hold similar value for a Casey's or Kum and Go type store.
I forget...will there also be an interchange on the Missouri side (on this final section) at the road which heads west to Noel? With all the summertime canoeing, that, too, might hold similar value for a Casey's or Kum and Go type store.
You're thinking MO 90? Yes, there will be an interchange there. Love's opened a new store in Neosho at MO 86 last year and a new store at AR 282 near Alma earlier this year.
Casey's just opened another Ft Smith location about a month ago a mile north of 549 on 71. Slightly larger store with an outdoor picnic area. They are also the first Casey's in town to offer E-85, but it trends higher than the E-10 "Regular".
OT I think the stretch of 49 from From Smith to Texarkana might be done the same way IH 22 was done in Alabama. That took nearly 20 years to do 100 miles. Even though about 20-30 miles outside of Birmingham is 6 lanes which I love, but the 22/65 interchange took 5-7 years...
I'm hearing from a Bella Vista source that Walmart has purchased land at the Rocky Dell Road (also was the old "Gun Range Road") interchange for a Neighborhood Market. Given that WM builds these only when they're surrounded by neighborhoods, they clearly see this as a hot growth spot. And again, can't wait to see what will indubitably be a "Texarkana-class" Arkansas Welcome Center near there, although that won't be at an interchange.
OT I think the stretch of 49 from From Smith to Texarkana might be done the same way IH 22 was done in Alabama. That took nearly 20 years to do 100 miles. Even though about 20-30 miles outside of Birmingham is 6 lanes which I love, but the 22/65 interchange took 5-7 years...
I don't see much progress on that stretch until the Waldron, Mena, and De Queen bypasses are done, like Fayetteville was done originally before the rest of I-540 connected up Bella Vista to Alma. Then, the bypasses connected together, probably with Texarkana to DeQueen connected first as it's the lowest hanging fruit, topography-wise. Hopefully they put some thought into the interchanges when the time comes so they don't have to redo them like the north side of Fayetteville had to have done.
I wonder if they're worried about induced demand? :hmmm:OT I think the stretch of 49 from From Smith to Texarkana might be done the same way IH 22 was done in Alabama. That took nearly 20 years to do 100 miles. Even though about 20-30 miles outside of Birmingham is 6 lanes which I love, but the 22/65 interchange took 5-7 years...
I don't see much progress on that stretch until the Waldron, Mena, and De Queen bypasses are done, like Fayetteville was done originally before the rest of I-540 connected up Bella Vista to Alma. Then, the bypasses connected together, probably with Texarkana to DeQueen connected first as it's the lowest hanging fruit, topography-wise. Hopefully they put some thought into the interchanges when the time comes so they don't have to redo them like the north side of Fayetteville had to have done.
As I've said before, ARDOT doesn't seem to plan ahead. The Fayetteville Bypass is a good example: built as 2 lanes at-grade, then piecemeal upgraded to 4 Lanes, then sticking 4-Lane 71 next to AR 112, then eventually rebuilding the junction. Not to mention waiting almost 40 years to build a flyover from NB 71B to the SB Bypass. They are more RE-active than PRO-active.
I figure by the time I-49 is complete from Bella Vista to Missouri, ARDOT will decide it needs major upgrades.
I'm hearing from a Bella Vista source that Walmart has purchased land at the Rocky Dell Road (also was the old "Gun Range Road") interchange for a Neighborhood Market. Given that WM builds these only when they're surrounded by neighborhoods, they clearly see this as a hot growth spot. And again, can't wait to see what will indubitably be a "Texarkana-class" Arkansas Welcome Center near there, although that won't be at an interchange.
I just wonder how long after the connection is made before they get around to a non-pitiful welcome center. I'm sure there'll be a fair amount of truck parking, unless it looks like a number of truck stops start popping up in the area. The current welcome center in Bella Vista isn't very accessible to anything more than a handful of cars, so they're going to have to up their game to put a better face on the state for travelers.
I'm hearing from a Bella Vista source that Walmart has purchased land at the Rocky Dell Road (also was the old "Gun Range Road") interchange for a Neighborhood Market. Given that WM builds these only when they're surrounded by neighborhoods, they clearly see this as a hot growth spot. And again, can't wait to see what will indubitably be a "Texarkana-class" Arkansas Welcome Center near there, although that won't be at an interchange.
I just wonder how long after the connection is made before they get around to a non-pitiful welcome center. I'm sure there'll be a fair amount of truck parking, unless it looks like a number of truck stops start popping up in the area. The current welcome center in Bella Vista isn't very accessible to anything more than a handful of cars, so they're going to have to up their game to put a better face on the state for travelers.
MikieTimT, I mentioned that earlier. A few years ago, I actually emailed the state department (Can't remember if its Parks or AHTD) which handles these welcome centers and was told there would be a new center planned. I'd mentioned here that I'd be surprised, given how much money is spent elsewhere in NWA to attract tourists to Crystal Bridges, the Amazeum, Brightwater, etc., if this isn't a "Texarkana-class" Welcome Center (below). I've made a rest stop at the TXK center along I-30 and it's nice. And right now, there's still significant land available for this just south of the state line on future I-49.
(https://onlyinark.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Texarkana-Welcome-Center-.jpg)
@US71Well, that's basically how I-44 was built in Missouri (among other roads) : piecemeal upgrades & bypasses. Bugo has predicted in the past that Mena would likely be one of the first towns to be bypassed.
I did not know that about the Fayetteville bypass but it makes sense. I'm baffled in their reactive approach considering how many students commute to the U of A and NWACC. Im in the belief now that bypasses will be built in those towns south of IH 40 And then will connect to 49 built in stretches, kinda a built it up a over a long stretch (20 years)
How will the south terminus of the Bella Vista bypass tie into mainline 49? It has the temporary ramps now.
Obviously the bypasses around the towns along the route (Ashdown, DeQueen, Mena, Waldron, Mansfield, etc) need to be done first. The cost of building those segments will get ever more expensive the longer they're put off to the future. The rural sections will be less expensive to build and may not be subject to as much cost inflation.North Carolina built I-73 in a linear fashion but it is building I-42 with bypasses first. So it works either way. The most important thing is to sketch out the entire route through a feasibility study and then decide with public hearings how to prioritize the various segments. Is anything like that happening?
It would be a big mistake for ARDOT to start at one end of existing I-49 and add extensions to in linear fashion. The proposed ROW in all the towns farther down the route would be deliberately overrun with development. One motivation behind that is so people can cash in from the gub'ment when it comes time to buy up the ROW and demolish all those newly built properties. The other motivation is simply blocking the way in an attempt to prevent it from being built.
The first thing ARDOT needs to do is buy up the ROW needed for those town bypasses. I think they need to do that before building any actual I-49 freeway between Fort Smith and Texarkana. Once they have that done it will be easier (and less costly) to piece everything else together.
Obviously the bypasses around the towns along the route (Ashdown, DeQueen, Mena, Waldron, Mansfield, etc) need to be done first. The cost of building those segments will get ever more expensive the longer they're put off to the future. The rural sections will be less expensive to build and may not be subject to as much cost inflation.It's too bad states can't just declare the corridor to "lock in" the ROW costs, with the current costs of the properties along the route being a price ceiling for the amount the state would have to pay when the projects move forward. That would stop developers from being able to scoop up the land, develop it, and then take the eminent domain as profit.
It would be a big mistake for ARDOT to start at one end of existing I-49 and add extensions to in linear fashion. The proposed ROW in all the towns farther down the route would be deliberately overrun with development. One motivation behind that is so people can cash in from the gub'ment when it comes time to buy up the ROW and demolish all those newly built properties. The other motivation is simply blocking the way in an attempt to prevent it from being built.
The first thing ARDOT needs to do is buy up the ROW needed for those town bypasses. I think they need to do that before building any actual I-49 freeway between Fort Smith and Texarkana. Once they have that done it will be easier (and less costly) to piece everything else together.
Now there is money to finish the Bella Vista Bypass and engineering has started on the Arkansas river Bridge section to Fill that gap is next priority. Then I would to see it extended from Hwy 71 in Fort smith to bypass Mansfield because of the sharp turn and hill north of Mansfield is a Bottle neck for traffic. Then next would be Mena because of the long route thru town. Traffic would flow a lot better for increased truck traffic. One thing that is costly is Waldron has been relocated before and they immediately build along side of that bypass so you have to move it again. Waldron is not that big anyway and just strung out now.
It's too bad states can't just declare the corridor to "lock in" the ROW costs, with the current costs of the properties along the route being a price ceiling for the amount the state would have to pay when the projects move forward. That would stop developers from being able to scoop up the land, develop it, and then take the eminent domain as profit.
Political and public pressure to extend I-49 South from Fort Smith will increase only after the Alma to Barling segment is finally built. The price of that proposed bridge over the Arkansas River is only getting more expensive the longer it keeps getting pushed off into the future, like a game of political kick the can. The US-412 bypass up in NWA is easier to build because its cost is cheaper per mile and it's located closer to higher income locations than the lower rent stuff around Fort Smith. So they're making that a bigger priority.
This all gets back to why the federal government has to be taking a far bigger leadership role in the stuff. It's important to the overall Interstate highway network that ALL of I-49 gets completed. If individual states and local areas are going to be doing more of the deciding on what gets built and when then that notion of a big picture NATIONAL highway network becomes completely irrelevant. As much as Fort Smith is kind of a red-headed step child to its neighbors up the road to the North the smaller communities between Fort Smith and Texarkana are even less of a priority. IMHO it will take a lot of federal intervention and federal funding for the I-49 segment between Fort Smith and Texarkana to get built. If it's left up to Arkansas alone the road may never get built.
Just a Small project like Missouri 5.5 mile section to finish I 49 it is going to take up to a year to update environmental part. Too much red tape and spending money that when it was good back in 2009 when Arkansas and Missouri applied for a tiger grant to get started.
Political and public pressure to extend I-49 South from Fort Smith will increase only after the Alma to Barling segment is finally built. The price of that proposed bridge over the Arkansas River is only getting more expensive the longer it keeps getting pushed off into the future, like a game of political kick the can. The US-412 bypass up in NWA is easier to build because its cost is cheaper per mile and it's located closer to higher income locations than the lower rent stuff around Fort Smith. So they're making that a bigger priority.
This all gets back to why the federal government has to be taking a far bigger leadership role in this stuff. It's important to the overall Interstate highway network that ALL of I-49 gets completed. If individual states and local areas are going to be doing more of the deciding on what gets built and when then that notion of a big picture NATIONAL highway network becomes completely irrelevant. As much as Fort Smith is kind of a red-headed step child to its neighbors up the road to the North the smaller communities between Fort Smith and Texarkana are even less of a priority. IMHO it will take a lot of federal intervention and federal funding for the I-49 segment between Fort Smith and Texarkana to get built. If it's left up to Arkansas alone the road may never get built.
OT I think the stretch of 49 from From Smith to Texarkana might be done the same way IH 22 was done in Alabama. That took nearly 20 years to do 100 miles. Even though about 20-30 miles outside of Birmingham is 6 lanes which I love, but the 22/65 interchange took 5-7 years...
I don't see much progress on that stretch until the Waldron, Mena, and De Queen bypasses are done, like Fayetteville was done originally before the rest of I-540 connected up Bella Vista to Alma. Then, the bypasses connected together, probably with Texarkana to DeQueen connected first as it's the lowest hanging fruit, topography-wise. Hopefully they put some thought into the interchanges when the time comes so they don't have to redo them like the north side of Fayetteville had to have done.
As I've said before, ARDOT doesn't seem to plan ahead. The Fayetteville Bypass is a good example: built as 2 lanes at-grade, then piecemeal upgraded to 4 Lanes, then sticking 4-Lane 71 next to AR 112, then eventually rebuilding the junction. Not to mention waiting almost 40 years to build a flyover from NB 71B to the SB Bypass. They are more RE-active than PRO-active.
I figure by the time I-49 is complete from Bella Vista to Missouri, ARDOT will decide it needs major upgrades.
That's good foreshadowing. By 2025 there might be preliminary talks on a total loop around Fayetteville, Springdale and Rogers. Especially if the growth rate continues at the current pace...By then this post will be at 150 pages...
Yeah I remember people 15 years ago, using 265 (crossover rd?) To bypass US71. If that is still the case, they need to 6 lane that whole corridor. Ditto with SR 112
I received a message from ARDOT that the 49/Bus 71 junction at Bella Vista will be a SPUI. It will likely be bid sometime next year depending on MODOT's progress.
I think that NWA has just about reached the stage of being in perpetual construction. It's about to cross into Top 100 MSA territory. By the time 2020 comes around and the current phase of 6-laning wraps up, they'll need a couple more lanes, and then be tapped out on the ability to handle anything more on the current I-49. Then the Western Beltway will be dusted off again and it'll be time for me to move out of here since I don't want an interstate next to the nice quiet woods I live in now.
I received a message from ARDOT that the 49/Bus 71 junction at Bella Vista will be a SPUI. It will likely be bid sometime next year depending on MODOT's progress.
Is that where the roundabout is right now?
I received a message from ARDOT that the 49/Bus 71 junction at Bella Vista will be a SPUI. It will likely be bid sometime next year depending on MODOT's progress.
Is that where the roundabout is right now?
Yes. I was discussing their plans for the SPUI at 49/Bus 71 in Bentonville (Exit 85) and they mentioned a proposed SPUI at Bella Vista, plus one at AR 10 and Rodney Parham in Little Rock (I didn't think the two crossed)
I just noticed that at the current north end of the BVB (at Rocky Dell Hollow Road), there are many side roads in the way, as well as a couple of small ponds. How different will the layout be from what's there now, and what roads in the area will be rerouted/eliminated?
Given the geography of the I-49/US 71/AR 549 (Future I-49) interchange location, redesigning it to an SPUI and maintaining traffic is going to be challenging to say the least.
Quote from: GreenLanternCorpsGiven the geography of the I-49/US 71/AR 549 (Future I-49) interchange location, redesigning it to an SPUI and maintaining traffic is going to be challenging to say the least.
Given the footprint of the existing I-49 interchange and roundabout, I doubt ARDOT would need to acquire any more ROW. A SPUI could fit in that foot print pretty easily.
Maintaining traffic and minimizing disruptions is another matter. My guess is they'll build the I-49 main lanes on a bridge over the North half of the existing roundabout. The bridge structure would go up first and everything else would build out from it. They're going to have to add that second set of lanes to future I-49 on the West side of the interchange. Traffic could shift to the new lanes when part of the new bridge is finished so the existing approach can be elevated. Conversion of the roundabout into a SPUI would happen underneath.
Political and public pressure to extend I-49 South from Fort Smith will increase only after the Alma to Barling segment is finally built. The price of that proposed bridge over the Arkansas River is only getting more expensive the longer it keeps getting pushed off into the future, like a game of political kick the can. The US-412 bypass up in NWA is easier to build because its cost is cheaper per mile and it's located closer to higher income locations than the lower rent stuff around Fort Smith. So they're making that a bigger priority.
This all gets back to why the federal government has to be taking a far bigger leadership role in this stuff. It's important to the overall Interstate highway network that ALL of I-49 gets completed. If individual states and local areas are going to be doing more of the deciding on what gets built and when then that notion of a big picture NATIONAL highway network becomes completely irrelevant. As much as Fort Smith is kind of a red-headed step child to its neighbors up the road to the North the smaller communities between Fort Smith and Texarkana are even less of a priority. IMHO it will take a lot of federal intervention and federal funding for the I-49 segment between Fort Smith and Texarkana to get built. If it's left up to Arkansas alone the road may never get built.
The US 412 Bypass will likely serve more AADT for the foreseeable future, so it makes sense for Arkansas to prioritize the remaining 2 segments over anything south of Rye Hill at this point. That said, it would knock about 10-12 minutes off my drive back to my hometown if they would build the bridge and remaining river valley I-49 segment. And Ft. Smith has earned the red-headed stepchild reputation due to their perpetually dysfunctional city government that puts any business over a barrel that wants to operate there. A completed Interstate 49 will help a little with commercial/industrial growth, but it won't change the culture of government there that's really the reason it's hamstrung. Ft. Smith has so many things going for it that should make it growth-positive, like cheap land and labor, status as a border city, access to a navigable river and Class I railroad, etc.
Left up to Arkansas, it'll be 25-30 years until it's done unless we grow another John Paul Hammerschmidt to get some infrastructure budgeted from the federal government since it is actually a federal highway serving interstate traffic, probably even more so than local traffic for a few counties south of Sebastian.
Quote from: GreenLanternCorpsGiven the geography of the I-49/US 71/AR 549 (Future I-49) interchange location, redesigning it to an SPUI and maintaining traffic is going to be challenging to say the least.
Given the footprint of the existing I-49 interchange and roundabout, I doubt ARDOT would need to acquire any more ROW. A SPUI could fit in that foot print pretty easily.
Maintaining traffic and minimizing disruptions is another matter. My guess is they'll build the I-49 main lanes on a bridge over the North half of the existing roundabout. The bridge structure would go up first and everything else would build out from it. They're going to have to add that second set of lanes to future I-49 on the West side of the interchange. Traffic could shift to the new lanes when part of the new bridge is finished so the existing approach can be elevated. Conversion of the roundabout into a SPUI would happen underneath.
Sort of what they are doing with the Exit 85 conversion. They will convert one side, then the other side.
Interesting you should say that about FSM. In the most recent mayor's race, there was a Brazilian (a US military veteran who is a UAFS student, from a wealthy farming family in Brazil) who wanted to "make Fort Smith great again" and did speak positively of I-49 in his mayoral campaign. He was simply too young to be taken seriously, though he was a good kid who seemed on the right side of the issues I saw him speak about. As it is now, I'd really be curious to hear the new mayor's genuine thoughts on I-49, especially given that the "marooned" segment and the Arkansas River bridge are or will be pretty much Alma-Kibler-Barling-Greenwood things with very little carriageway in the FSM city limits. (Again, I wonder whether or not either the Brazilian candidate or the new mayor know the NWA paper ran an article over a decade ago saying that a completed I-49 is projected to make FSM grow like NWA.)
The tricky part is not the bridge over the roundabout, the tricky part is maintaining the I-49 to US 71 Connection for a large amount of north and southbound traffic until the connection from I-49 to AR 549 is built AND Missouri completes it's end of the bypass. Sequencing and timing are going to be important.
That's good foreshadowing. By 2025 there might be preliminary talks on a total loop around Fayetteville, Springdale and Rogers. Especially if the growth rate continues at the current pace...By then this post will be at 150 pages...
It has been discussed in passing. In the interim, the AR 265 extension will handle traffic from Fayetteville to Rogers on the east side of town.
They're not going to build a new terrain freeway paralleling US 412 between Tulsa and Springdale. There is a perfectly good expressway between the two points. If anything happens, it would be the upgrading the existing expressway into a freeway. Other than Siloam Springs and in Springdale there are no lights or stop signs along this part of the highway. There is no need for a new terrain freeway paralleling US 412.I think that NWA has just about reached the stage of being in perpetual construction. It's about to cross into Top 100 MSA territory. By the time 2020 comes around and the current phase of 6-laning wraps up, they'll need a couple more lanes, and then be tapped out on the ability to handle anything more on the current I-49. Then the Western Beltway will be dusted off again and it'll be time for me to move out of here since I don't want an interstate next to the nice quiet woods I live in now.
NWA's ever-growing status may yet prompt a serious attempt to deploy a direct Interstate-grade Tulsa-Springville connection along or paralleling US 412. OK probably wouldn't mind as long as they could add the additional mileage to be constructed to their toll network, but someone at ARDOT would have to inform the folks in Siloam Springs that like it or not, they're getting bypassed -- and that they would need to make arrangements to take all due advantage of said bypass. Now -- whether a parallel "relief" route for I-49 is warranted in the near term might be a subject for debate; I'd guess increasing the capacity of the existing freeway (and dealing with the "non-standard" features) would be given prioritization; a bypass loop would come later when even an enhanced 49 corridor was starting to display signs of inadequacy.
I think it's only a matter of time before a fully Interstate-class highway becomes necessary between Tulsa and NW Arkansas.
The 26 mile segment of US-412 between the I-44 & US-412 interchange on the East side of Tulsa and the beginning of the Cherokee Turnpike would be relatively easy to upgrade. There's not very many properties too close the highway. The existing expressway is pretty much Interstate-grade; it just has 23 at-grade intersections to modify. The intersections are all crossing roads. No driveways. Some intersections are already ready to upgrade into Interstate quality exits. Other intersections will take more work to upgrade into Interstate exits. Some intersecting roads will just have to be bridged over US-412 without any on/off ramps. Overall it looks similar to some of work that had to be done to US-71 in Missouri to turn it into I-49.
From the East end of the Cherokee Turnpike US-412 requires more work to get into Arkansas. Along with intersections there is a bunch of driveways and properties close to the road. A new terrain bypass may indeed be necessary.
I agree Bobby. And a 412 extension to 555 in NE Arkansas would be nice. Its such a pain in the Ass to have to go south to IH 40 to get to NE Arkansas. That also would mean a new rerouting of 412 bypassing Springdale. That is light years away to. But its good to be proactive instead of reactivate...
... That also would mean a new rerouting of 412 bypassing Springdale. That is light years away to.
Well hell. North Central Arkansas is a huge area to retire to as well. More people in those towns there would necessitate a thruway through there. It might be 2030 before that happens
Well hell. North Central Arkansas is a huge area to retire to as well. More people in those towns there would necessitate a thruway through there. It might be 2030 before that happens
Putting an interstate through there would draw more than retirees there as it becomes a lot more accessible. And then it becomes another Bella Vista too. Don't get me wrong, I'd love an I-50 to run across northern Arkansas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and New Mexico, but with that comes a lot of development that runs contrary to the goals of most retirees, which in general are seeking out cheap and quiet places to live out their golden years. North Arkansas becomes a tourist mecca instead of an ideal retirement destination if an expressway gets completed. Depends on what your goals are. Like I said in an earlier post, if they ever do the Western Beltway bypass for I-49 that was studied back in 2011, it would be supremely convenient to hop on an interstate that would have an exit 2 miles from my home. But with that comes development, crime, noise, pollution, traffic, and other undesirable aspects of freeways that you don't necessarily want at your doorstep. It's the reason I moved into what is essentially a retirement community outside of Fayetteville even in my youth. Makes for a great place to raise kids without worrying about their every waking moment like many of our parents had the blessing of, and gives them an appreciation for nature that many city dwellers only get from afar that often turns into nature worship. When NWA grows to my doorstep, it's time to move.
I never considered the Woods to be a retirement community. 20 years ago, it seemed to be old, retired hippies and hermits. ;)
I drove by about a month ago just for giggles and it looked like it was about to be swallowed up by the city.
An Interstate quality link between Tulsa and Springdale would be a reaction to development growth and increases in traffic that has already happened.
It's another point of debate whether such an Interstate connection should be extended farther East. IMHO, upgrading the US-412 corridor across Northern Arkansas to Interstate standards is unnecessary. Some of the 2-lane segments might be worth upgrading to 4 lanes.
As far as highways in NE Arkansas go the I-57 project would be the biggest priority, followed by extending I-555 to Walnut Ridge and then (long term) extending up into Missouri to patch into the US-60 corridor on the way to Springfield. That's a more significant East-West corridor than US-412 across Northern Arkansas. It's a lot farther along in the process of being upgraded into an Interstate class facility.
^^^^^^^^
As far as future development of the US 412 (BTW, it's also HPC #8, so while hardly funded, is at least directly eligible for federal matching) corridor goes, I can see an Interstate-grade Tulsa-to-I-49 connection happening in the next 15-20 years......
^^^^^^^^
As far as future development of the US 412 (BTW, it's also HPC #8, so while hardly funded, is at least directly eligible for federal matching) corridor goes, I can see an Interstate-grade Tulsa-to-I-49 connection happening in the next 15-20 years......
Oklahoma is VERY incrementally upgrading 412 east of Tulsa to a freeway:
http://www.odot.org/cwp-8-year-plan/cwp_ffy2019-ffy2026/8_year_cwp_divisiontul_map.pdf
The intersection at 412P is scheduled to become and interchange in 2026. :banghead:
Getting OK and AR to agree on a Siloam Springs bypass might be problematic.
Will these incremental US 412 upgrades be tolled? Will they be free of charge? Or have they not decided which route they will go yet (tolled or free)?Hopefully they won’t be tolled. Tulsa and NE Oklahoma needs a break from tolls. Once they’re done with the turner turnpike between OKC and Tulsa widening, it’d be nice to see them remove all tolls on I-44 from Tulsa to Missouri state line.
What is going on with the I-49 Arkansas River bridge? Haven’t heard anything in a while.
Will these incremental US 412 upgrades be tolled? Will they be free of charge? Or have they not decided which route they will go yet (tolled or free)?Hopefully they won’t be tolled. Tulsa and NE Oklahoma needs a break from tolls. Once they’re done with the turner turnpike between OKC and Tulsa widening, it’d be nice to see them remove all tolls on I-44 from Tulsa to Missouri state line.
The divided carriageway ends just as you enter West Siloam Springs, so that would make a good spot for a Siloam Springs Bypass....provided the area isn't overbuilt.Will these incremental US 412 upgrades be tolled? Will they be free of charge? Or have they not decided which route they will go yet (tolled or free)?Hopefully they won’t be tolled. Tulsa and NE Oklahoma needs a break from tolls. Once they’re done with the turner turnpike between OKC and Tulsa widening, it’d be nice to see them remove all tolls on I-44 from Tulsa to Missouri state line.
Since they will be using the existing carriageways (which were built in the 70's on a new alignment), they won't be tolled, at least from Tulsa to Chouteau where the Cherokee Turnpike begins. Can't say they won't to get around Siloam Springs.
The divided carriageway ends just as you enter West Siloam Springs, so that would make a good spot for a Siloam Springs Bypass....provided the area isn't overbuilt.Will these incremental US 412 upgrades be tolled? Will they be free of charge? Or have they not decided which route they will go yet (tolled or free)?Hopefully they won’t be tolled. Tulsa and NE Oklahoma needs a break from tolls. Once they’re done with the turner turnpike between OKC and Tulsa widening, it’d be nice to see them remove all tolls on I-44 from Tulsa to Missouri state line.
Since they will be using the existing carriageways (which were built in the 70's on a new alignment), they won't be tolled, at least from Tulsa to Chouteau where the Cherokee Turnpike begins. Can't say they won't to get around Siloam Springs.
Gov. Hutchinson appoints Keith Gibson of Fort Smith to Arkansas Highway Commission (https://talkbusiness.net/2019/01/gov-hutchinson-appoints-keith-gibson-of-fort-smith-to-arkansas-highway-commission/)
Maybe this is some good news for getting some funding to build the bridge? /wishful thinking
The last full-term highway commissioner from the Fort Smith region was Jake Patterson, appointed in the Rockefeller administration in 1969.
Hutchinson said repeatedly while campaigning for reelection in 2018 that the next highway commissioner would come from “south of the mountain” and from the (Arkansas) River valley, noting that a commissioner from the Fort Smith area was very important to the region even though he would be responsible for meeting the needs of the entire state.
State Senator Mat Pitsch of Fort Smith said the appointment of a commissioner from Fort Smith was “huge.”
“When you have five guys in a room determining where you are going to build the biggest economic driver we have, which is new roads, new transportation, and now one of those five men is from our hometown, that’s huge. We’ve worked the last four years to make this happen,” Pitsch said, noting that he hopes the appointment could push development of I-49 and all transportation, including rail, river and roads, in the area.
I-49, the north-south corridor that originates in Lafayette, Louisiana, runs through the western flank of Arkansas, and stretches north to Kansas City, Missouri has been a major funding challenge for the Fort Smith region. The southern stretch of the Arkansas portion of the interstate has come up short in funding for decades. Recently, the northwest Arkansas portion of the road known as the Bella Vista Bypass received funding to complete.
Gibson’s appointment will raise expectations for the southern stretch of I-49. He was cautious in his comments on the issue at Wednesday’s press conference.
“It is certainly something I want to look at closely. I look forward to learning more specifics about it,” he said. “I know it’s critically important to a lot of people in this area, so that is something I want to look at closely.”
Tim Allen, Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, said Gibson’s appointment will create new opportunities for the region.
“Governor Hutchinson’s appointment of Keith Gibson to the Arkansas Highway Commission is further endorsement that Fort Smith and western Arkansas are indeed open for business, and that the state is watching. The region is primed for high-powered growth with the transportation infrastructure we already have in place and the potential development being discussed,” Allen said. “The Fort Smith region plays a crucial role in advanced manufacturing logistics and having Keith’s voice in discussions regarding highway progress will set the stage for additional economic expansion.”
As I travel the state, I often talk about Interstate 49. I don’t think there is a better example than I-49 of a road anywhere that truly changed a region. It’s well designed, and it’s a beautiful ride on a fall afternoon. But the real value of I-49 is it connected a group of diverse and growing communities and made them a region. A real region where communities understand what is good for one community is good for all.
It’s the backbone of a part of the state where large and small businesses thrive, where school districts outperform the rest of the state, and where the number of tourists coming here increases monthly.
https://talkbusiness.net/2019/01/random-thoughts-sitting-in-traffic-at-rainbow-curve/
Looking at bigger projects, Pitsch told the board that ARDOT Director Scott Bennett had a study done on the feasibility of a bridge and a roughly 13-mile section of I-49 north of Fort Chaffee that would connect Highway 22 in Sebastian County and the I-40/I-49 interchange in Crawford County to be a toll system. The timing for that section of the interstate would have to be started within the next five years, he said.
“No one wanted to commit to a 13-mile section, but by doing it the way he did, he could see who might be interested in a toll contract on the highway without having to commit to starting the entire project,” Pitsch said. “It was a very smart way to do it. We don’t know if any of the (interstate) will be toll, but by using funds for the study, it was a commitment that construction on that section would have to be started within five years.”
https://talkbusiness.net/2019/01/western-arkansas-intermodal-authority-updates-on-greenwood-bypass-i-49-north-of-fort-chaffee/
Going to be a mess in Bentonville/Rogers for a few months with Exit 86 north ramps (entrance and exit) closed to tie in with the 8th St. exit rampworks. Looks like a bunch of traffic getting dumped onto Exit 85 for U-turns, so I'd definitely avoid Exit 85 until after May.
http://ardot.gov/news/2019_news/NR%2019-033.pdf (http://ardot.gov/news/2019_news/NR%2019-033.pdf)
Construction continues on the Bella Vista Bypass; ArDOT waiting for MODOT to issue contracts
There's good news for Bella Vista drivers - especially those that share the road with big rigs. The completed bypass will connect I-49 south of Pineville, MO to I-49 in Benton County. Danny Straessle says about 7,500 vehicles use the existing Highway 549 each day. When the roadway becomes a full-fledged interstate, the effect will be noticeable.
“The trucks that go through the area will take the interstate and that will get them out of Bella Vista and that should help the traffic congestion there greatly,” Straessle said.
Right now - two lanes take State Highway 549 from the Bella Vista/Bentonville roundabout to Hiwassee - about 2 miles short of the Arkansas-Missouri border.
In the meantime, construction continues on the northbound lanes of the future interstate. ArDOT says it is waiting on Missouri's highway department to issue contracts for their piece of the connection. Once that is done, ArDOT will begin work on assembling their contracts for the piece near the state line and at the roundabout in Bentonville & Bella Vista.
There will be 4 interchanges along the new bypass - including a new, single-point urban interchange at the roundabout. Construction is expected to wrap up on the Bella Vista Bypass at the end of 2020.
https://www.4029tv.com/article/updates-on-benton-county-i-49-road-construction/26337335QuoteConstruction continues on the Bella Vista Bypass; ArDOT waiting for MODOT to issue contracts
There's good news for Bella Vista drivers - especially those that share the road with big rigs. The completed bypass will connect I-49 south of Pineville, MO to I-49 in Benton County. Danny Straessle says about 7,500 vehicles use the existing Highway 549 each day. When the roadway becomes a full-fledged interstate, the effect will be noticeable.
“The trucks that go through the area will take the interstate and that will get them out of Bella Vista and that should help the traffic congestion there greatly,” Straessle said.
Right now - two lanes take State Highway 549 from the Bella Vista/Bentonville roundabout to Hiwassee - about 2 miles short of the Arkansas-Missouri border.
In the meantime, construction continues on the northbound lanes of the future interstate. ArDOT says it is waiting on Missouri's highway department to issue contracts for their piece of the connection. Once that is done, ArDOT will begin work on assembling their contracts for the piece near the state line and at the roundabout in Bentonville & Bella Vista.
There will be 4 interchanges along the new bypass - including a new, single-point urban interchange at the roundabout. Construction is expected to wrap up on the Bella Vista Bypass at the end of 2020.
I assume when they're talking about construction being completed by 2020 it might just be the Arkansas side?
Based on the article the existing portions of AR 549 from just west of the roundabout to Rocky Dell Hollow Road will be completed to Interstate standards. The Section from Rocky Dell Hollow Road North to the State Line and the interchange to replace the roundabout at the I-49/US 71 North Interchange (Exit 93) will not start until MDOT actually lets contracts for the section from the State Line north to I-49.
Based on the article the existing portions of AR 549 from just west of the roundabout to Rocky Dell Hollow Road will be completed to Interstate standards. The Section from Rocky Dell Hollow Road North to the State Line and the interchange to replace the roundabout at the I-49/US 71 North Interchange (Exit 93) will not start until MDOT actually lets contracts for the section from the State Line north to I-49.
And that roundabout will be replaced by the 2nd SPUI in NWA. The first being at (current) Exit 85 for 71B in Rogers/Bentonville.
Even after all the improvements, the Exit 86 interchange is still going to be horrific for traffic on the Rogers side. It's technically still Bentonville, but the Rogers city limits are just to the east.
When I lived there, I talked with the Bentonville transportation guy, since the city was behind the Exit 86/new 8th Street interchange. I tried to express my concerns with the traffic congestion to the east of I-49.
He didn't care. And apparently, Rogers doesn't care either.
But...
I found this:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/public_meetings/2019_PM/090500/090500.aspx
I'm just glad that stupid intersection at AR 94 and US 62 will be fixed.
Even after all the improvements, the Exit 86 interchange is still going to be horrific for traffic on the Rogers side. It's technically still Bentonville, but the Rogers city limits are just to the east.
When I lived there, I talked with the Bentonville transportation guy, since the city was behind the Exit 86/new 8th Street interchange. I tried to express my concerns with the traffic congestion to the east of I-49.
He didn't care. And apparently, Rogers doesn't care either.
But...
I found this:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/public_meetings/2019_PM/090500/090500.aspx
I'm just glad that stupid intersection at AR 94 and US 62 will be fixed.
When the entire Bella Vista Bypass is complete, will the US 71 designation be moved onto the bypass? Or will it remain on its existing alignment? My assumption is that US 71 will move to the bypass.
When the entire Bella Vista Bypass is complete, will the US 71 designation be moved onto the bypass? Or will it remain on its existing alignment? My assumption is that US 71 will move to the bypass.
To my knowledge current 71 will remain 71, but the bypass will become I-49 (though they did try to do that with the highway out of Alma once upon a time)
When the entire Bella Vista Bypass is complete, will the US 71 designation be moved onto the bypass? Or will it remain on its existing alignment? My assumption is that US 71 will move to the bypass.
To my knowledge current 71 will remain 71, but the bypass will become I-49 (though they did try to do that with the highway out of Alma once upon a time)
IIRC, the Bella Vista Bypass in Arkansas is currently signed as AR 549, correct?
When the entire Bella Vista Bypass is complete, will the US 71 designation be moved onto the bypass? Or will it remain on its existing alignment? My assumption is that US 71 will move to the bypass.
To my knowledge current 71 will remain 71, but the bypass will become I-49 (though they did try to do that with the highway out of Alma once upon a time)
IIRC, the Bella Vista Bypass in Arkansas is currently signed as AR 549, correct?
Yes. As is future 49 between Ft Smith and Barling.
ArDOT Has listed jobs CA0903 Hwy 71 Interchange (Bella Vista) and CA0905 Co RD 34 - Missouri State Line ( Bella Vista) for July 24th 2019. https://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/General/Next_Three_Lettings.pdf. So this future I 49 connector is making some progress.
If they're being let in July, does that mean both projects will be done sometime in 2021, give or take?
Are there drawings of the SPUI project for I-49/AR 549 and US71 on the web? Not even sure where to look on the ARDOT website.
The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ArDOT) and the Federal Highway Administration have cooperated on an environmental re-evaluation as well as refining the conceptual alignment for a new section of Interstate 49 (I-49) that would connect approximately 13.7 miles between Highway 22 in Sebastian County and the I-40/I-49 interchange in Crawford County.
ArDOT officials presented a portion of the work by Kansas City-based engineering firm HNTB Corporation on Thursday (April 26) from the Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Barling.
The proposed project was originally part of a larger environmental study known as the “US 71 Relocation.” The previous study extended from Highway 70 in DeQueen to I-40 near Alma, and it encompassed approximately 125 miles. The relocation of U.S. 71 in Arkansas is part of Congressionally-Designated High Priority Corridor 1 and Corridor 72, running from Shreveport, La., to Kansas City, Mo. A final environmental impact statement was prepared and a record of decision was issued in December of 1997 that approved the general alignment of a new location, four-lane highway in western Arkansas.
Due to the length of the corridor and funding constraints, design and construction of sections of the corridor have been completed as funding has become available. HNTB’s work on this particular section will include a toll feasibility analysis to see if there would be enough traffic to justify tolling as a funding mechanism to pay for the $600 million stretch.
”˜NOT A DONE DEAL’
Danny Straessle, public information officer for the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD), told Talk Business & Politics HNTB’s portion of the work should be completed by the end of 2018. “We’re basically taking it off the shelf, blowing the dust off, and taking another look at it. We still don’t have any money for this, but there’s enough of I-49 that has been completed where it’s reasonable to take a look at it again, especially since we have a Chaffee Crossing part that goes from 71 to 22. Going from 22 to I-40 is the next logical step.”
Straessle continued: “It’s not a done deal. The consultant might find that we won’t collect enough tolls. We’ve done several toll studies in the state already where it has been determined that no, it’s not feasible.”
Still, Straessle added, no toll doesn’t necessarily mean no project.
“The project will be done one day. We’ve just got to find the money for it. We don’t have $600 million laying around.” When asked if it could be another 20 years before the 13.7 miles is built, he said, “Possibly, but not preferably.”
What’s different this time is that there is “a groundswell of support from the community, and the department looks at this as something that’s doable” and would help support Arkansas’ economic development.
“You know, the highways in Arkansas are our backbone of economic development, so it just makes sense to complete it. But you’ve got to balance this (project) with the other priorities we have in the state. We have the 12th largest highway system in the country. We have more than 16,400 miles of highways, and we rank 42nd in being able to take care of what we got. Meaning, we have a lot of miles; we don’t have a lot of money. So the commission has to make tough decisions every day on where to spend what limited money we have, and when you look at a brand spanking new four-lane divided Interstate that’s theoretically priced around $600 million, that’s $600 million you can spend over five years in other areas of the state. So how do you balance these potholes over here or this bridge that’s failing, versus a nice, shiny, nice-to-have Interstate that would help economic development in the community over here?”
PAYING FOR IT
One way the department has done it is through a half-cent sales tax on everything but food, gas, and medicine. It was passed by voters in November of 2012, but the sunset date is in 2023, and there’s no guarantee of renewal.
“The money off of that, we use to leverage bonds to pay for all this construction we’re doing. It’s about a $1.8 billion program, so when the public steps up and votes and says, ”˜Yes, good roads do matter to us in Arkansas,’ it gives us these opportunities.” However, due to the sunset date, “none of that money will apply to this project,” Straessle said, “but a program like that could help fund something like this. We have a project in Little Rock that is about the same price tag. It’s called ’30 Crossing.’ They’re redoing Interstate 30 through the downtown Little Rock and North Little Rock areas and part of I-40. It’s about a $630 million project, and it’s being paid for with that half-cent sales tax.”
Other funding comes through the state’s existing fuel tax, which has not increased in over 20 years.
“But if you think about it, the gas tax hasn’t been raised since the mid-to-late 1990s, yet think about what the cost of construction has done since then. It’s gone up,” Straessle said. “It’s more expensive to build a mile of highway. Six million dollars for a lane mile of interstate. For every two lanes, you’ve got $12 million per mile easily. Have the other two lanes going the other way, or multiply ($6 million) times four, basically, and all of the sudden, it’s gotten really expensive.”
As an example, Straessle pointed to the first 4.5-mile segment of the Springdale bypass. The project held a ribbon cutting on Wednesday and officially “opens” on Monday (April 30). “It’s a four-lane divided Interstate, in a new location. It was $100.6 million, all paid for by the half-cent sales tax.”
Concerning how the department prioritizes projects, Straessle said money usually follows the traffic, and that of Arkansas’ 16,400 miles of road, only half (or close to 8,500) supports 92% of the state’s traffic.
“Those are interstates, major arteries, routes of regional significance. And there are some areas where we’ve had to do capacity upgrades, like we just got finished widening I-49 to three lanes in both directions. With a project like this – we were able to build the stretch across Chaffee Crossing relatively cheaply in terms of construction because the federal government gave us the land. We did not have to purchase right-of-way. Right-of-way purchase, utility relocation costs – those tremendously add to the cost of a project.”
THE I-49 CORRIDOR
Summing up the mission of the I-49 corridor, Straessle said the vision is to create a mid-continental, north-south route for shipments. With the widening of the Panama Canal, “those big container ships can go to the Port of New Orleans now” and the idea would be “to put all the containers on the trucks and drive straight up I-49 through Arkansas, up into Kansas City or wherever it terminates there in the middle of the country. That way, you don’t go to the port on the east coast or the port on the west coast and then truck it in on I-40. So there’s a lot of benefit to it.”
Other major projects ahead include completion of the Bella Vista bypass and the segment of I-49 connecting Greenwood, US-71, and Texarkana, the latter of which is an estimated $2 billion project.
Are there drawings of the SPUI project for I-49/AR 549 and US71 on the web? Not even sure where to look on the ARDOT website.If there's a job number for the project, I can do some digging, but I'm sure there isn't yet.
ARDOT (https://www.swtimes.com/news/20190404/ardot-i-49-extension-from-alma-to-barling-not-viable-as-toll-road) announces tolling I-49 from Alma to Barling is "not viable".
ARDOT (https://www.swtimes.com/news/20190404/ardot-i-49-extension-from-alma-to-barling-not-viable-as-toll-road) announces tolling I-49 from Alma to Barling is "not viable".
As a stand-alone facility, a Fort Smith I-49 bypass wouldn't be particularly viable as a toll road, since the opportunities for shunpiking across the Arkansas River (US 64/71, I-540) are there and functional. The only way that tolls -- limited to the bridge itself rather than the entire bypass -- would be a viable concept is after I-49 is completed south to Texarkana; it's likely that a driver not intending to overnight in the Fort Smith area would expend the effort to shunpike over surface facilities but rather remain on the I-49 main line and pay the bridge toll. Of course, revenues from this would necessarily be directed toward maintenance rather than construction of the facility -- which doesn't presently help the prospects for deployment. Nevertheless, it's something that could be useful down the line.
Years ago, the late Christopher Hitchens took a trip to North Korea and witnessed (the better word might be "initiated") an obscure yet sad scene there. His ever-present North Korean interpreter at the end said: "Such pity".
Today, after the idea of I-49 with an Arkansas River bridge and link to Texarkana has been diddled around on, the I-540 and Midland bridges to Fort Smith are to be closed tonight, with U.S. 64 into Oklahoma closed at Garrison Ave. as well (https://5newsonline.com/). The only other Arkansas River bridge available for FSM/Van Buren is the U.S. 59 bridge at Barling, and it may be closed in the future as well given what KFSM-TV reporters are saying...the river hasn't crested yet, and it's going to stay at that level for awhile (with more rounds of severe weather, and rain, predicted for tomorrow through Wednesday in Kansas and Oklahoma, where this is coming from).
Such pity.
Years ago, the late Christopher Hitchens took a trip to North Korea and witnessed (the better word might be "initiated") an obscure yet sad scene there. His ever-present North Korean interpreter at the end said: "Such pity".
Today, after the idea of I-49 with an Arkansas River bridge and link to Texarkana has been diddled around on, the I-540 and Midland bridges to Fort Smith are to be closed tonight, with U.S. 64 into Oklahoma closed at Garrison Ave. as well (https://5newsonline.com/). The only other Arkansas River bridge available for FSM/Van Buren is the U.S. 59 bridge at Barling, and it may be closed in the future as well given what KFSM-TV reporters are saying...the river hasn't crested yet, and it's going to stay at that level for awhile (with more rounds of severe weather, and rain, predicted for tomorrow through Wednesday in Kansas and Oklahoma, where this is coming from).
Such pity.
AR 59 at Barling US 59 is south of Sallisaw, OK :)
But US 271 to US 59 north to Sallisaw, then back to Van Buren on I-40 is an alternative if needed. :spin:
On the bright side ArDOT might not have as many homes and properties near the river to buy and clear in order to build the bridge and its approaches.
:)
The Great Arkansas River Flood of 2019 just made it that much more expensive to ever cross the Arkansas River with I-49 as they'll have to re-figure how high to make the bridge, approaches, and even the roadbed through the Kibler Bottoms because of this historic flood. 2040 would be a best-case scenario at this point, and the price tag has undoubtedly just jumped significantly.On the other hand, with the area cut in half by the bridge closings with no access, the need for an additional and secure crossing is made apparent, which could spur action.
The Great Arkansas River Flood of 2019 just made it that much more expensive to ever cross the Arkansas River with I-49 as they'll have to re-figure how high to make the bridge, approaches, and even the roadbed through the Kibler Bottoms because of this historic flood. 2040 would be a best-case scenario at this point, and the price tag has undoubtedly just jumped significantly.
The Great Arkansas River Flood of 2019 just made it that much more expensive to ever cross the Arkansas River with I-49 as they'll have to re-figure how high to make the bridge, approaches, and even the roadbed through the Kibler Bottoms because of this historic flood. 2040 would be a best-case scenario at this point, and the price tag has undoubtedly just jumped significantly.On the other hand, with the area cut in half by the bridge closings with no access, the need for an additional and secure crossing is made apparent, which could spur action.
The Great Arkansas River Flood of 2019 just made it that much more expensive to ever cross the Arkansas River with I-49 as they'll have to re-figure how high to make the bridge, approaches, and even the roadbed through the Kibler Bottoms because of this historic flood. 2040 would be a best-case scenario at this point, and the price tag has undoubtedly just jumped significantly.On the other hand, with the area cut in half by the bridge closings with no access, the need for an additional and secure crossing is made apparent, which could spur action.
They re-opened the 2 major closed bridges between Van Buren and Ft. Smith after 1 night as the river didn't crest as high as they anticipated and the bridges were in fine shape, so as long as the approaches don't swamp, the only major closing was the Garrison Ave. bridge into OK, only because the road a half mile into OK was flooded out. As morbid as it is to say, there (thankfully!) haven't been enough deaths to spur any major changes in funding or planning, and Arkansas isn't politically important enough to get much in the way of federal attention.
The Great Arkansas River Flood of 2019 just made it that much more expensive to ever cross the Arkansas River with I-49 as they'll have to re-figure how high to make the bridge, approaches, and even the roadbed through the Kibler Bottoms because of this historic flood. 2040 would be a best-case scenario at this point, and the price tag has undoubtedly just jumped significantly.On the other hand, with the area cut in half by the bridge closings with no access, the need for an additional and secure crossing is made apparent, which could spur action.
They re-opened the 2 major closed bridges between Van Buren and Ft. Smith after 1 night as the river didn't crest as high as they anticipated and the bridges were in fine shape, so as long as the approaches don't swamp, the only major closing was the Garrison Ave. bridge into OK, only because the road a half mile into OK was flooded out. As morbid as it is to say, there haven't been enough deaths to spur any major changes in funding or planning, and Arkansas isn't politically important enough to get much in the way of federal attention.
.... Members of the Arkansas Highway Commission got their first look at the potential projects at their regular meeting Wednesday in Little Rock as they work to put together a plan of how they will spend the total federal and state highway money that will be available over the next 20 years.
Agency officials described it as a second Connecting Arkansas Program, which is the name of the $1.8 billion road construction program that is funded in large part by a temporary half-percent sales tax voters approved in 2012.
"To me, this is a very good map," said Robert Moore Jr., a member of the commission from Arkansas City. "I think we always have to keep in mind that we do not have enough money to do everything we want to do.
"More importantly, this is not going to be a regional vote to pass the half-cent sales tax. It would be a statewide vote. Of necessity, we have to make sure we're looking at the needs of everyone in Arkansas. You've done a reasonable and equitable job of doing that. There may be some tweaks on there ... but I think as a fundamental map, it's very good."....
An ambitious list, but I'm wondering about why they are making such a fuss about US 82.
I found a more detailed map at https://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2019/20190612%20AHC%20Meeting%20Slides.pdf (page 45)
On the bright side, the temporary Super 2 configuration will at least secure the right of way and prevent jackass developers from putting new buildings in the way.
On the bright side, the temporary Super 2 configuration will at least secure the right of way and prevent jackass developers from putting new buildings in the way.
That part of Arkansas won't have issues with development encroaching for quite some time, but, yes, it'll be good to get ROW acquisition nailed ASAP.
Has anyone seen any paving going on the north bound lanes of HWY 549, Bella Vista Bypass? I saw an article that the bridges were about finished.
Should just convert that new stretch of I-49 between US-71 and AK-255 into a local road, then route I-49 up the existing I-540. That $700 million could go to completing long rural stretches of I-49 instead, which are far more of a priority.
The new I-49 stretch would just become another one of those highways - built intended for an interstate, then re-routed instead and only serves local traffic.
Should just convert that new stretch of I-49 between US-71 and AK-255 into a local road, then route I-49 up the existing I-540.
On the bright side, the temporary Super 2 configuration will at least secure the right of way and prevent jackass developers from putting new buildings in the way.
That part of Arkansas won't have issues with development encroaching for quite some time, but, yes, it'll be good to get ROW acquisition nailed ASAP.
Since it looks like much of the alignment from US 270 north to Greenwood will essentially follow the current facility, securing (ostensibly) a ROW accommodating 2+2, even though only initially constructing 2 of the 4, and maintaining limited access like any other Super-2, would go a long way (that's a big chunk of mileage!) toward getting I-49 built at all (baby steps!). And -- IMO, if the Super-2 sits more or less atop the old US 71, it would be most appropriate just to retain the US 71 signage for the time being (avoiding the temptation to call it another "549" section) until such time as funding allows the 2nd carriageway to be constructed. All in all, not a bad plan, considering the overall funding situation.
On the bright side, the temporary Super 2 configuration will at least secure the right of way and prevent jackass developers from putting new buildings in the way.
That part of Arkansas won't have issues with development encroaching for quite some time, but, yes, it'll be good to get ROW acquisition nailed ASAP.
Since it looks like much of the alignment from US 270 north to Greenwood will essentially follow the current facility, securing (ostensibly) a ROW accommodating 2+2, even though only initially constructing 2 of the 4, and maintaining limited access like any other Super-2, would go a long way (that's a big chunk of mileage!) toward getting I-49 built at all (baby steps!). And -- IMO, if the Super-2 sits more or less atop the old US 71, it would be most appropriate just to retain the US 71 signage for the time being (avoiding the temptation to call it another "549" section) until such time as funding allows the 2nd carriageway to be constructed. All in all, not a bad plan, considering the overall funding situation.
None of I-49 between Ft. Smith and Y City, which is the first section in the PDF to potentially receive funding for a Super-2 is concurrent with the current US-71 alignment. Terrain between Y City and Acorn to the south will dictate having to be concurrent to make the S-curve around the 2 big mountains there for a few miles, but other than that, it's all new alignment throughout. For the most part, other than slicing to the east of Mansfield, the highlighted Super-2 section is all to the west of US-71.
Has anyone seen any paving going on the north bound lanes of HWY 549, Bella Vista Bypass? I saw an article that the bridges were about finished.
No paving yet, but lots of dirt work done and all but a couple of bridge decks about ready to go in the middle section. The ends don't have any progress as of a month ago when I was there last and that's where lots of work remains to tie into existing I-49 and start progressing north of Rocky Dell Hollow Rd.
I'm not sure why the term "high-priority corridor" is used so widely (especially in unbuilt areas where I-49, I-57, and I-69 will go) there, yet the $$$$$ coming to them isn't exactly a high priority. I guess the idea/need is the "high" part. :-/ ;-)
Which states do you think abuse the "high priority" designation?Georgia. Just Georgia. Maybe Missouri, but Georgia. Definitely Georgia. No questions asked.
Which states do you think abuse the "high priority" designation?Georgia. Just Georgia. Maybe Missouri, but Georgia. Definitely Georgia. No questions asked.
https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/planning/national_highway_system/high_priority_corridors/hiprimap_lg.jpg
https://www.flickr.com/photos/54480415@N08/48102746766/in/photostream/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/54480415@N08/48102860212/in/photostream/
Some photos of I-49 I just took a few weeks ago. I am surprised that Houston is a control city for I-49 South at I-30. Even though Loop 151 links to US 59 which goes there, still seems a little odd.
Also Four State Fair is an unusual name for a road, but I assume there is ane event that takes place in Texarkana each year that is got the name four states for LA, AR, TX, and probably OK is the fourth state that is knock off state fair for all four states.
Correction: I checked it out with Google and I am correct. Its like the County Fair for Miller but under a more grandeur name, but its fairgrounds are located along the road that bears its name between both I-49 and I-30 and even has a rodeo when it takes place.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/54480415@N08/48102746766/in/photostream/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/54480415@N08/48102860212/in/photostream/
Some photos of I-49 I just took a few weeks ago. I am surprised that Houston is a control city for I-49 South at I-30. Even though Loop 151 links to US 59 which goes there, still seems a little odd.
Also Four State Fair is an unusual name for a road, but I assume there is ane event that takes place in Texarkana each year that is got the name four states for LA, AR, TX, and probably OK is the fourth state that is knock off state fair for all four states.
Correction: I checked it out with Google and I am correct. Its like the County Fair for Miller but under a more grandeur name, but its fairgrounds are located along the road that bears its name between both I-49 and I-30 and even has a rodeo when it takes place.
Which states do you think abuse the "high priority" designation?Georgia. Just Georgia. Maybe Missouri, but Georgia. Definitely Georgia. No questions asked.
https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/planning/national_highway_system/high_priority_corridors/hiprimap_lg.jpg
Georgia representatives essentially did what GADOT asked them to do: encompass the entire GRIP system in one corridor definition (HPC #62). Since that system functions as their "superhighway" connectivity system, it means that there's 80% federal contribution to that system -- which is how they got the Fall Line to its present status, as well as other projects on the very extensive state network. They gamed the system and have been doing so since 2005's SAFETEA-LU act. Sneaky but ultimately effective! :eyebrow:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48138333791_01a28eb377_k_d.jpg)
Kentucky sign gantry in Arkansas. I know there are a few of them outside of the Bluegrass State, but to me I find them most intriguing.
I read from Wikipedia that Arkansas has made into law a 75 mph maximum for speed limits on freeways. If that is true why don't the state implement it anywhere especially on I-49 south of Texarkana?
I-30 and I-40 likely will never get that bump because of the sheer number of semis that travel them.Bumps up to 75 mph as soon as you get to Texas. I-40 jumps to 80 mph out west.
I-30 and I-40 likely will never get that bump because of the sheer number of semis that travel them.Bumps up to 75 mph as soon as you get to Texas. I-40 jumps to 80 mph out west.
The speed limit should reflect the fact most people do 75 - 80 mph and the design speed of the roadway. Not the tractor trailer volume.
But how many will use 80mph speed limit as justification to do 85 or 90? I believe Wyoming has strict tolerance.It gets to a point where most drivers are comfortable around 80 - 85 mph. Many don't exceed that in my experience.
I-30 and I-40 likely will never get that bump because of the sheer number of semis that travel them.Bumps up to 75 mph as soon as you get to Texas. I-40 jumps to 80 mph out west.
The speed limit should reflect the fact most people do 75 - 80 mph and the design speed of the roadway. Not the tractor trailer volume.
I-30 and I-40 likely will never get that bump because of the sheer number of semis that travel them.Bumps up to 75 mph as soon as you get to Texas. I-40 jumps to 80 mph out west.
The speed limit should reflect the fact most people do 75 - 80 mph and the design speed of the roadway. Not the tractor trailer volume.
I would argue differently for the stretch between Little Rock and West Memphis. The sheer volume of semis would mean a greater speed differential between the slowest and the fastest. That is what causes wrecks, not the top speed in isolation. I never enjoy driving that stretch like I do from Fort Smith to Little Rock because of that.
It gets to a point where most drivers are comfortable around 80 - 85 mph. Many don't exceed that in my experience.
I agree with others: that stretch of I-40 is chronically stuffed with heavy truck traffic.
I agree with others: that stretch of I-40 is chronically stuffed with heavy truck traffic.
Connecting 57 to Little Rock should help alleviate some of the traffic, I'd imagine.
If I-57 was fully completed between Little Rock and Sikeston it would definitely pull a great deal of truck traffic off I-40.
If I-57 was fully completed between Little Rock and Sikeston it would definitely pull a great deal of truck traffic off I-40.
One wonders of 57 will be completed first or 6-laning I-40 from Little Rock to West Memphis.
they are already working on a new White River bridge, and I'd almost guarantee that it'll be wide enough for 6 lanes already.That's correct.
The new bridge will have 18 spans comprising six travel lanes and will provide 321.5 ft of horizontal clearance between the two main river piers and 51.9 ft of vertical clearance above the flow line of the White River channel.
I agree with others: that stretch of I-40 is chronically stuffed with heavy truck traffic.
Connecting 57 to Little Rock should help alleviate some of the traffic, I'd imagine.
Without a doubt, I-40 from the LR metro area to West Memphis needs to be 6 laned, with the "Trucks use right 2 lanes only" enforced. Even going west on I-40 in that area is slow going at times. Going east is far worse. This should be the #1 project for Arkansas with Bella Vista #2 and the completion of I-57 #3.Are you sure 6 lanes is enough? Better design for expansion to 8.
Regarding I-57 (us 67), the 6 lanes needs to be extended to exit 19. Also, the concrete of US 67 (Future I-57) needs rehabilitation from around mile marker 26 to the new 6 lane section, and from mile marker 33 to 42. The road is buckling big time.
The powers at be passed a gas tax hike in the state, Now it's time for them to get to work!
Without a doubt, I-40 from the LR metro area to West Memphis needs to be 6 laned, with the "Trucks use right 2 lanes only" enforced. Even going west on I-40 in that area is slow going at times. Going east is far worse. This should be the #1 project for Arkansas with Bella Vista #2 and the completion of I-57 #3.Are you sure 6 lanes is enough? Better design for expansion to 8.
Regarding I-57 (us 67), the 6 lanes needs to be extended to exit 19. Also, the concrete of US 67 (Future I-57) needs rehabilitation from around mile marker 26 to the new 6 lane section, and from mile marker 33 to 42. The road is buckling big time.
The powers at be passed a gas tax hike in the state, Now it's time for them to get to work!
The two remaining jobs for Arkansas, county road 34 to Missouri state line and Hwy. 71 interchange Connection to I49 are on the bid list for July 24th this year. Missouri has their part scheduled for spring of 2020. So Arkansas will start those 2 jobs sometime this fall.
Is the super-2 in Arkansas going to be dualized or is it currently being dualized now? I can't imagine it remaining 2-lanes.The two remaining jobs for Arkansas, county road 34 to Missouri state line and Hwy. 71 interchange Connection to I49 are on the bid list for July 24th this year. Missouri has their part scheduled for spring of 2020. So Arkansas will start those 2 jobs sometime this fall.
A Missouri company will be paid $102 million to complete two sections of the Interstate 49 Bella Vista Bypass in Arkansas. According to the Northwest Arkansas Council, Arkansas should be able to keep its promise of having the roadway open in 2022.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/arkansas-to-spend-over-100-million-on-bella-vista-bypass/
Have they already awarded the contract? This article (https://www.eagleobserver.com/news/2019/jul/25/state-opens-bids-for-i-49-connector-201-1/) says that they just opened the bids.The two remaining jobs for Arkansas, county road 34 to Missouri state line and Hwy. 71 interchange Connection to I49 are on the bid list for July 24th this year. Missouri has their part scheduled for spring of 2020. So Arkansas will start those 2 jobs sometime this fall.
A Missouri company will be paid $102 million to complete two sections of the Interstate 49 Bella Vista Bypass in Arkansas. According to the Northwest Arkansas Council, Arkansas should be able to keep its promise of having the roadway open in 2022.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/arkansas-to-spend-over-100-million-on-bella-vista-bypass/
There is a job going on now that is adding the north bound lanes from Hwy 71 interchange to County road 34. so it will be all interstate standard on the Bella Vista bypass.
Again, the same article you quoted says completion will be 700 days versus 1000 for the runner-up but lower bid from a second company.Have they already awarded the contract? This article (https://www.eagleobserver.com/news/2019/jul/25/state-opens-bids-for-i-49-connector-201-1/) says that they just opened the bids.The two remaining jobs for Arkansas, county road 34 to Missouri state line and Hwy. 71 interchange Connection to I49 are on the bid list for July 24th this year. Missouri has their part scheduled for spring of 2020. So Arkansas will start those 2 jobs sometime this fall.
A Missouri company will be paid $102 million to complete two sections of the Interstate 49 Bella Vista Bypass in Arkansas. According to the Northwest Arkansas Council, Arkansas should be able to keep its promise of having the roadway open in 2022.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/arkansas-to-spend-over-100-million-on-bella-vista-bypass/
Construction should begin by November. The company has 90 days from the date the bids are awarded to start work.
The company said it will take about a year to finish the highway and about 700 days to do the interchange, which consists of about 2.7 miles of roadways and bridges.There is a job going on now that is adding the north bound lanes from Hwy 71 interchange to County road 34. so it will be all interstate standard on the Bella Vista bypass.
When is that job supposed to be completed?
Again, the same article you quoted says completion will be 700 days versus 1000 for the runner-up but lower bid from a second company.Have they already awarded the contract? This article (https://www.eagleobserver.com/news/2019/jul/25/state-opens-bids-for-i-49-connector-201-1/) says that they just opened the bids.The two remaining jobs for Arkansas, county road 34 to Missouri state line and Hwy. 71 interchange Connection to I49 are on the bid list for July 24th this year. Missouri has their part scheduled for spring of 2020. So Arkansas will start those 2 jobs sometime this fall.
A Missouri company will be paid $102 million to complete two sections of the Interstate 49 Bella Vista Bypass in Arkansas. According to the Northwest Arkansas Council, Arkansas should be able to keep its promise of having the roadway open in 2022.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/arkansas-to-spend-over-100-million-on-bella-vista-bypass/
Construction should begin by November. The company has 90 days from the date the bids are awarded to start work.
The company said it will take about a year to finish the highway and about 700 days to do the interchange, which consists of about 2.7 miles of roadways and bridges.There is a job going on now that is adding the north bound lanes from Hwy 71 interchange to County road 34. so it will be all interstate standard on the Bella Vista bypass.
When is that job supposed to be completed?
I was asking about the project where they’re paving the northbound lanes between hwy 71 and county road 34. As I understand it, that project has already been let and construction has started on it.Again, the same article you quoted says completion will be 700 days versus 1000 for the runner-up but lower bid from a second company.Have they already awarded the contract? This article (https://www.eagleobserver.com/news/2019/jul/25/state-opens-bids-for-i-49-connector-201-1/) says that they just opened the bids.The two remaining jobs for Arkansas, county road 34 to Missouri state line and Hwy. 71 interchange Connection to I49 are on the bid list for July 24th this year. Missouri has their part scheduled for spring of 2020. So Arkansas will start those 2 jobs sometime this fall.
A Missouri company will be paid $102 million to complete two sections of the Interstate 49 Bella Vista Bypass in Arkansas. According to the Northwest Arkansas Council, Arkansas should be able to keep its promise of having the roadway open in 2022.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/arkansas-to-spend-over-100-million-on-bella-vista-bypass/
Construction should begin by November. The company has 90 days from the date the bids are awarded to start work.
The company said it will take about a year to finish the highway and about 700 days to do the interchange, which consists of about 2.7 miles of roadways and bridges.There is a job going on now that is adding the north bound lanes from Hwy 71 interchange to County road 34. so it will be all interstate standard on the Bella Vista bypass.
When is that job supposed to be completed?
Google Street View imagery along that part of AR-549 (dated April 2018) shows construction in progress. A lot of dirt work was taking place when the Google car made its pass through there. Ground must have been broken on that segment shortly after the satellite/aerial view was taken (3/13/2018). At this point the second set of lanes ought to be well along.
I'm wondering when ArDOT will start bulldozing I-49 North of County Road 34 toward the MO state line.
With regard to the single-point urban interchange, Emery Sapp & Sons is expected to complete the project in about two years. The bid was for $66.59 million, which is higher than the bid submitted by Kolb Grading LLC of St. Charles, Mo. Straessle explained that Emery Sapp & Sons was the apparent low bidder based on how many days it would take to complete the project. Kolb Grading submitted a bid for $60.92 million, but would complete the project in more than three years, the bid shows.
“To us, time is money,” Straessle said. “And we may be paying in the neighborhood of $6 million more for that bid, but if they can do it in a years less time, then that’s worth it. That’s money well spent, or invested, if you will.”
Emery Sapp & Sons is expected to complete the 2.5-mile portion of the bypass to the state line in a year, according to the bid. Its bid for the project was $35.52 million. Kolb Grading submitted the second-lowest bid at $37.52 million, but would take more than a year to complete the project.
Should just convert that new stretch of I-49 between US-71 and AK-255 into a local road, then route I-49 up the existing I-540. That $700 million could go to completing long rural stretches of I-49 instead, which are far more of a priority.
The new I-49 stretch would just become another one of those highways - built intended for an interstate, then re-routed instead and only serves local traffic.
Since it looks like much of the alignment from US 270 north to Greenwood will essentially follow the current facility, securing (ostensibly) a ROW accommodating 2+2, even though only initially constructing 2 of the 4, and maintaining limited access like any other Super-2, would go a long way (that's a big chunk of mileage!) toward getting I-49 built at all (baby steps!). And -- IMO, if the Super-2 sits more or less atop the old US 71, it would be most appropriate just to retain the US 71 signage for the time being (avoiding the temptation to call it another "549" section) until such time as funding allows the 2nd carriageway to be constructed. All in all, not a bad plan, considering the overall funding situation.
Since it looks like much of the alignment from US 270 north to Greenwood will essentially follow the current facility, securing (ostensibly) a ROW accommodating 2+2, even though only initially constructing 2 of the 4, and maintaining limited access like any other Super-2, would go a long way (that's a big chunk of mileage!) toward getting I-49 built at all (baby steps!). And -- IMO, if the Super-2 sits more or less atop the old US 71, it would be most appropriate just to retain the US 71 signage for the time being (avoiding the temptation to call it another "549" section) until such time as funding allows the 2nd carriageway to be constructed. All in all, not a bad plan, considering the overall funding situation.
There's no way US 71 between Greenwood and "Y" City could be upgraded to freeway status. It's just a typical Arkansas cowpath that was never relocated onto a better alignment (except for the Waldron bypass). There are hundreds and hundreds of driveways along that stretch and dozens of roads that branch off of US 71. It would be much more expensive to attempt to do this instead of just building a freeway on a new alignment.
However, the section through Foran Gap south of "Y" City near the Polk/Scott county line will be built on top of or right next to the current highway. Fourche Mountain is pretty tall so the freeway will pretty much have to run close to the current route to avoid building lengthy tunnels.
I thought I-49 was going to run a few miles west of US 71 in Scott County. Has this been changed?
Since it looks like much of the alignment from US 270 north to Greenwood will essentially follow the current facility, securing (ostensibly) a ROW accommodating 2+2, even though only initially constructing 2 of the 4, and maintaining limited access like any other Super-2, would go a long way (that's a big chunk of mileage!) toward getting I-49 built at all (baby steps!). And -- IMO, if the Super-2 sits more or less atop the old US 71, it would be most appropriate just to retain the US 71 signage for the time being (avoiding the temptation to call it another "549" section) until such time as funding allows the 2nd carriageway to be constructed. All in all, not a bad plan, considering the overall funding situation.
There's no way US 71 between Greenwood and "Y" City could be upgraded to freeway status. It's just a typical Arkansas cowpath that was never relocated onto a better alignment (except for the Waldron bypass). There are hundreds and hundreds of driveways along that stretch and dozens of roads that branch off of US 71. It would be much more expensive to attempt to do this instead of just building a freeway on a new alignment.
However, the section through Foran Gap south of "Y" City near the Polk/Scott county line will be built on top of or right next to the current highway. Fourche Mountain is pretty tall so the freeway will pretty much have to run close to the current route to avoid building lengthy tunnels.
I thought I-49 was going to run a few miles west of US 71 in Scott County. Has this been changed?
(Beginning of the end of) Groundbreaking ceremonies for the Bella Vista Bypass set for October 15:
The plan:
Arkansas BVP road finish: mid-2020
Seamless connector between I-49 BVP and I-49 at north Bentonville finish: 2021
Missouri-side BVP finish: 2022.
https://talkbusiness.net/2019/10/officials-to-celebrate-start-of-102-million-in-projects-for-bella-vista-bypass/?fbclid=IwAR34OwYdrOd5OQik3tHf6H6-_6YfkUaflcSDXjtZMSxWyu9KZPzD6_uMKD8
(Beginning of the end of) Groundbreaking ceremonies for the Bella Vista Bypass set for October 15:
The plan:
Arkansas BVP road finish: mid-2020
Seamless connector between I-49 BVP and I-49 at north Bentonville finish: 2021
Missouri-side BVP finish: 2022.
https://talkbusiness.net/2019/10/officials-to-celebrate-start-of-102-million-in-projects-for-bella-vista-bypass/?fbclid=IwAR34OwYdrOd5OQik3tHf6H6-_6YfkUaflcSDXjtZMSxWyu9KZPzD6_uMKD8
Actually, adding the additional two lanes between Bentonville and Bella Vista should be 2020, but finishing 49 to Missouri will likely be 2022, about the same time Missouri finishes up. The media appears to have bollixed up some of the info, but I spoke directly to Danny Straessle, ARDOT's press spokesman
(Beginning of the end of) Groundbreaking ceremonies for the Bella Vista Bypass set for October 15:
The plan:
Arkansas BVP road finish: mid-2020
Seamless connector between I-49 BVP and I-49 at north Bentonville finish: 2021
Missouri-side BVP finish: 2022.
https://talkbusiness.net/2019/10/officials-to-celebrate-start-of-102-million-in-projects-for-bella-vista-bypass/?fbclid=IwAR34OwYdrOd5OQik3tHf6H6-_6YfkUaflcSDXjtZMSxWyu9KZPzD6_uMKD8
Actually, adding the additional two lanes between Bentonville and Bella Vista should be 2020, but finishing 49 to Missouri will likely be 2022, about the same time Missouri finishes up. The media appears to have bollixed up some of the info, but I spoke directly to Danny Straessle, ARDOT's press spokesman
Add 9 months to a year for the inevitable weather (and assorted BS) delays, and the bypass should be completed in about 3 1/2 to 4 years. Considering that only a couple of years back it was up in the air as to whether it would be completed within a decade or so this is reasonable progress, considering the two states involved.
(Beginning of the end of) Groundbreaking ceremonies for the Bella Vista Bypass set for October 15:
The plan:
Arkansas BVP road finish: mid-2020
Seamless connector between I-49 BVP and I-49 at north Bentonville finish: 2021
Missouri-side BVP finish: 2022.
https://talkbusiness.net/2019/10/officials-to-celebrate-start-of-102-million-in-projects-for-bella-vista-bypass/?fbclid=IwAR34OwYdrOd5OQik3tHf6H6-_6YfkUaflcSDXjtZMSxWyu9KZPzD6_uMKD8
Actually, adding the additional two lanes between Bentonville and Bella Vista should be 2020, but finishing 49 to Missouri will likely be 2022, about the same time Missouri finishes up. The media appears to have bollixed up some of the info, but I spoke directly to Danny Straessle, ARDOT's press spokesman
Add 9 months to a year for the inevitable weather (and assorted BS) delays, and the bypass should be completed in about 3 1/2 to 4 years.
(Beginning of the end of) Groundbreaking ceremonies for the Bella Vista Bypass set for October 15:
The plan:
Arkansas BVP road finish: mid-2020
Seamless connector between I-49 BVP and I-49 at north Bentonville finish: 2021
Missouri-side BVP finish: 2022.
https://talkbusiness.net/2019/10/officials-to-celebrate-start-of-102-million-in-projects-for-bella-vista-bypass/?fbclid=IwAR34OwYdrOd5OQik3tHf6H6-_6YfkUaflcSDXjtZMSxWyu9KZPzD6_uMKD8
Actually, adding the additional two lanes between Bentonville and Bella Vista should be 2020, but finishing 49 to Missouri will likely be 2022, about the same time Missouri finishes up. The media appears to have bollixed up some of the info, but I spoke directly to Danny Straessle, ARDOT's press spokesman
Add 9 months to a year for the inevitable weather (and assorted BS) delays, and the bypass should be completed in about 3 1/2 to 4 years.
Don't give anybody out there any ideas. I'm sure enough of then want to fit in all the coffee/donut breaks they can, as it is. ;-) :cool:
(Beginning of the end of) Groundbreaking ceremonies for the Bella Vista Bypass set for October 15:
The plan:
Arkansas BVP road finish: mid-2020
Seamless connector between I-49 BVP and I-49 at north Bentonville finish: 2021
Missouri-side BVP finish: 2022.
https://talkbusiness.net/2019/10/officials-to-celebrate-start-of-102-million-in-projects-for-bella-vista-bypass/?fbclid=IwAR34OwYdrOd5OQik3tHf6H6-_6YfkUaflcSDXjtZMSxWyu9KZPzD6_uMKD8
Actually, adding the additional two lanes between Bentonville and Bella Vista should be 2020, but finishing 49 to Missouri will likely be 2022, about the same time Missouri finishes up. The media appears to have bollixed up some of the info, but I spoke directly to Danny Straessle, ARDOT's press spokesman
Add 9 months to a year for the inevitable weather (and assorted BS) delays, and the bypass should be completed in about 3 1/2 to 4 years. Considering that only a couple of years back it was up in the air as to whether it would be completed within a decade or so this is reasonable progress, considering the two states involved.
I have a little more faith in MoDOT.
My skepticism/cynicism arises not so much from issues with either state's DOT, but the fact that they need to coordinate efforts with one another. While the efforts to do so may be spelled out on paper, in the field things happen for a multitude of reasons, not necessarily attributable to the actions of one or another, but simple minor misunderstandings and miscommunication that can "snowball" into delay-causing problems. I hope I'm being over-pessimistic, and that things will progress on or reasonably around schedule -- but heeding the axiom that states "if it can go wrong, it will go wrong", just in case!
Granted, this is about 2 counties (around the Jasper/Newton line, I'm guessing) north of Arkansas, but a new interstate brings positive changes:
https://www.joplinglobe.com/news/updated-casey-s-announces-plan-to-build-distribution-center-in/article_3ea23f7c-06fd-11ea-b532-cbaaf8b6cc9a.html
Granted, this is about 2 counties (around the Jasper/Newton line, I'm guessing) north of Arkansas, but a new interstate brings positive changes:
https://www.joplinglobe.com/news/updated-casey-s-announces-plan-to-build-distribution-center-in/article_3ea23f7c-06fd-11ea-b532-cbaaf8b6cc9a.html
Contingent oncorporate welfaretax incentives.
Granted, this is about 2 counties (around the Jasper/Newton line, I'm guessing) north of Arkansas, but a new interstate brings positive changes:
https://www.joplinglobe.com/news/updated-casey-s-announces-plan-to-build-distribution-center-in/article_3ea23f7c-06fd-11ea-b532-cbaaf8b6cc9a.html
Contingent oncorporate welfaretax incentives.
Granted, this is about 2 counties (around the Jasper/Newton line, I'm guessing) north of Arkansas, but a new interstate brings positive changes:
https://www.joplinglobe.com/news/updated-casey-s-announces-plan-to-build-distribution-center-in/article_3ea23f7c-06fd-11ea-b532-cbaaf8b6cc9a.html
Contingent oncorporate welfaretax incentives.
I'm sure the state and city have done the math and decided they'll get more than $3M in benefit and ancillary/support industries. Can't fault either the industry for seeking tax deferment, or the state and city governments from offering as that's what's required to be competitive on both sides nowadays. And as long as everyone does their diligence, I'm sure it works out for both sides.
It's very certain a great deal of long distance traffic moving through the region chooses other Interstate or 4-lane US highway corridors rather than taking that stretch of US-71.US-167 between Alexandria and Little Rock is mostly 4-lane divided highway, with the exception of a short stretch in southern Arkansas that is 3-lanes that has an alternating passing lane, and I-40 between Little Rock and Fort Smith is all interstate highway.
Good points. I was just curious what the current traffic was like. I read the Highway commission report and saw a lot of unfunded projects. I also saw one picture of a road with 4 lanes and a yellow strip with a center lane that looked a little narrower than the driving lanes. Is that the Arkansas design for the non interstate 4 lanes it is building?That's the infamous Arkansas expressway. ARDOT, in the past, seems to just do the bare minimum.
It's an interesting design. Does it save much money over a divided?
As currently estimated, the new Bentonville Walmart headquarters (2024) and the I-49 Bella Vista Bypass (2022) are estimated to be completed within a couple of years of each other. Don't quite know how each will affect the other, but watching the changes (and needs) thereafter will be quite interesting.:
https://www.curbed.com/2019/11/19/20970158/walmart-home-office-urbanism-corporate-hq-retail?fbclid=IwAR3kPXGW20OwzUGb0xCcIAFdr4yel1sgoWJqF-PmMkTKOJfTwEL9-tk-kC8
(https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Fn5rUxIxaGvtP29ei-ca37sfQgU=/0x0:9000x5265/1720x0/filters:focal(0x0:9000x5265):format(webp):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19385834/view_1.jpg)
Good points. I was just curious what the current traffic was like. I read the Highway commission report and saw a lot of unfunded projects. I also saw one picture of a road with 4 lanes and a yellow strip with a center lane that looked a little narrower than the driving lanes. Is that the Arkansas design for the non interstate 4 lanes it is building?
It's an interesting design. Does it save much money over a divided?
In the thread about US 71B's decommissioning in Fort Smith, was this link:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/minute_orders/2019/2019-12.pdf
It was mentioned elsewhere in that .pdf that the welcome center off US 71 in Bella Vista will revert to being a locally-run tourist/visitor center. Meanwhile, its replacement will be built at the first SB exit south of the MO/AR state line on I-49.
In the thread about US 71B's decommissioning in Fort Smith, was this link:Is the welcome center planned to be a two-way welcome center located on a site off of the first exit, or a southbound only welcome center directly on the freeway?
http://www.arkansashighways.com/minute_orders/2019/2019-12.pdf
It was mentioned elsewhere in that .pdf that the welcome center off US 71 in Bella Vista will revert to being a locally-run tourist/visitor center. Meanwhile, its replacement will be built at the first SB exit south of the MO/AR state line on I-49.
In the thread about US 71B's decommissioning in Fort Smith, was this link:Is the welcome center planned to be a two-way welcome center located on a site off of the first exit, or a southbound only welcome center directly on the freeway?
http://www.arkansashighways.com/minute_orders/2019/2019-12.pdf
It was mentioned elsewhere in that .pdf that the welcome center off US 71 in Bella Vista will revert to being a locally-run tourist/visitor center. Meanwhile, its replacement will be built at the first SB exit south of the MO/AR state line on I-49.
In the thread about US 71B's decommissioning in Fort Smith, was this link:Is the welcome center planned to be a two-way welcome center located on a site off of the first exit, or a southbound only welcome center directly on the freeway?
http://www.arkansashighways.com/minute_orders/2019/2019-12.pdf
It was mentioned elsewhere in that .pdf that the welcome center off US 71 in Bella Vista will revert to being a locally-run tourist/visitor center. Meanwhile, its replacement will be built at the first SB exit south of the MO/AR state line on I-49.
My guess is SB only. What I understood is it would be ON/along the highway.
In the thread about US 71B's decommissioning in Fort Smith, was this link:Is the welcome center planned to be a two-way welcome center located on a site off of the first exit, or a southbound only welcome center directly on the freeway?
http://www.arkansashighways.com/minute_orders/2019/2019-12.pdf
It was mentioned elsewhere in that .pdf that the welcome center off US 71 in Bella Vista will revert to being a locally-run tourist/visitor center. Meanwhile, its replacement will be built at the first SB exit south of the MO/AR state line on I-49.
My guess is SB only. What I understood is it would be ON/along the highway.
Is Missouri planning to build one for the NB lanes of the future new section on their side?
If so, it would make sense for Arkansas to build theirs as SB only.
If not, it would more sense to build it off the exit, so that traffic from both directions would be able to use it.
Is there anything going on with 49 south of the Ft Smith area? IMO, it seems that this area is reluctant/against any interstate development in that area! That hinders future revenue. Having lived in NWA could not image what NWA would be like without 540/49 running through it...
And they could always build IH 49 in segments like IH 22 in Alabama was built during the 90s til 2010???
Yep I forgot about that. Wasnt US 71 in Fayetteville considered the bypass from the Fayetteville airport to Springdale long 30 years ago?
Missouri sweetening the pot for I-49 Bella Vista Bypass work
SPRINGDALE -- Missouri highway officials are putting another $7 million in the pot to build their portion of the Interstate 49 Bella Vista Bypass from Pineville to the state line.
The Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission was asked to amend planning documents to reflect the additional money for the project, which is also known as the I-49 Missouri/Arkansas Connector. The project is within regional planning's jurisdiction. A committee Thursday recommended approval of the amendment.
Tim Conklin with regional planning said the change was needed to cover anticipated cost increases for the project, which sat dormant for several years. Missouri plans to open bids on the project in March, he said.
https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2020/jan/18/missouri-sweetening-the-pot-for-i-49-be/
Fort Smith/River Valley is not against I-49. It would be great for Chaffee Crossing.
The newest Highway Commissioner is from Lavaca, surely a big part of his selection was to keep the emphasis on I-49
There appears to be a delay (SURPRISE! --NOT!)
https://talkbusiness.net/2020/01/bella-vista-bypass-project-cost-rises-by-7-million-fayetteville-interchange-delayed/
Drove the Bella Vista bypass twice today and noted a huge change from a month ago when I'd last went through there. Much of the rock blasting is completed and it sure does look different coming down the hill where I-49 terminates currently northbound. The construction sign says that it is estimated to be completed Oct. 2021, so here's hoping Missouri can get with the program.
I went to the Springdale 1/2 cent continuation proposal meeting that ARDOT was canvassing the state promoting (before COVID-19 shut them down) and they stated that the maps with the 2nd Connecting Arkansas Program that have a number of long-desired new terrain Interstates (at least 2 lanes of them) and 4-laning upgrades of US highways were not a 10 year horizon, but rather a 20 year horizon. So it sounds like there's going to have to be a huge gift from Uncle Sam before anything substantive comes about in our lifetimes.
I think they’re planning on finishing the Missouri part by the end of next year as well. That might change if there are any construction delays due to this Covid19.Drove the Bella Vista bypass twice today and noted a huge change from a month ago when I'd last went through there. Much of the rock blasting is completed and it sure does look different coming down the hill where I-49 terminates currently northbound. The construction sign says that it is estimated to be completed Oct. 2021, so here's hoping Missouri can get with the program.
I went to the Springdale 1/2 cent continuation proposal meeting that ARDOT was canvassing the state promoting (before COVID-19 shut them down) and they stated that the maps with the 2nd Connecting Arkansas Program that have a number of long-desired new terrain Interstates (at least 2 lanes of them) and 4-laning upgrades of US highways were not a 10 year horizon, but rather a 20 year horizon. So it sounds like there's going to have to be a huge gift from Uncle Sam before anything substantive comes about in our lifetimes.
MoDOT is aiming for mid-2022 to have their section of I-49 done. All that's left is to formally award the bid before construction begins.
I've heard that Progress in Arkansas is going to move Slowly because of Arkansas having Low funds, and that they have to make 2 new Bridges for Interstate, I-69/US 278 and I-49
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Gov. Asa Hutchinson’s priorities for the 2020 election season will focus on winning voter approval for a proposed constitutional amendment that would make Arkansas’ 0.5% sales tax for highways and roads permanent.
At Tuesday’s meeting of the Arkansas Good Roads Foundation, Hutchinson said the proposal is vital to the state’s future. Arkansas officials project the measure would raise about $205 million a year for highways.
Voters approved the tax in 2012 but it is set to expire after 10 years, the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported.
A Gilmore Strategy Group poll in October found 62% of 800 likely voters said they’re going to vote for Issue 1 or are likely to vote in favor of it, according to Hutchinson. The poll also showed 68.6% of people are more likely to vote for the amendment “if they are assured that it was going to be spent and invested in all four corners of the state.”
About 33% of the respondents indicated their major concern about the quality of roads is potholes damaging vehicles, while 18% are more concerned with congestion and delays, Hutchinson said.
A committee dubbed “Vote for Roads. Vote for Issue 1” will promote the proposed amendment ahead of next year’s election.
Hutchinson said he’s delighted that highway commissioners and the Transportation Department will be hosting 12 public hearings across the state. The meetings will begin in Monticello on Jan. 21 and end April 2 in El Dorado, according to the agency.
Hutchinson said the meetings are critical because the public wants to know how the money will be used.
“They want to make sure that the divvying up and the allocation of those funds was not done simply behind a closed door, but that they had input into it, that they were able to express their views on it, they were able to see it on a map and to comment on it and help develop it and shape it,” the governor said.
I've heard that Progress in Arkansas is going to move Slowly because of Arkansas having Low funds, and that they have to make 2 new Bridges for Interstate, I-69/US 278 and I-49
I say just build it as a toll bridge and call it a day.
I say just build it as a toll bridge and call it a day.
Currently, toll roads/bridges are not allowed on public highways in Arkansas.
I don't really think I-49 is going to be held up for I-69. The I-69 bridge is decades in the future if ever. Common sense is to take I-69 from south of US 82 (west of ElDorado) to the current US278 (US 82 Greenville) bridge, extend the future I-530 (US 425 / 278 or US-65) from Pine Bluff to Lake Village. A few miles more of freeway, but no half billion+dollar bridge.
The currently proposed I-69 path between Shreveport and Memphis sucks out loud bad enough for being a really crooked route, not in the slightest bit direct at all. But pulling the Mississippi River crossing farther South to US-82 would make I-69 even more of a joke not worth building out at all ever.:paranoid:
No one except for local regional traffic will ever use that route. Everyone else will stick to using I-30 and I-40 and just avoid that I-69 jerky, dog-leg ridden waste of time.
Interstate highways need to be built on paths direct as possible to save as much time and mileage as possible. Otherwise there is zero point in building them at all. One Interstate route should never be a disjointed Frankstein's monster of local routes stitched together.
And then there's the matter of the I-69 route being so crooked. How much time/mileage will it save versus using the I-30/40 combo coming up from I-369? I really don't see the value of I-69 between the I-369 split in Texas all the way up to Indianapolis as being a primary highway to move traffic between Mexico and Canada.Curious as well, I decided to draw the proposed routing as accurately as possible based on state maps and compared the distance / time of Future I-69 and I-269 to Future I-369, I-30, and I-40, for a routing between Tenaha and I-40 east of Memphis at I-269.
Tenaha -> Memphis
I-369 -> I-30 -> I-40 = 6 hours, 4 minutes; 426 miles
I-69 -> I-269 = 6 hours, 8 minutes; 430 miles
So ultimately, both routes would have about the same mileage and travel times, with I-69 also avoiding the Little Rock, Memphis, and Texarkana metros. The traffic load would additionally be split. I-69 would serve southeastern Texas traffic whereas I-40 and I-30 would serve Oklahoma and northern Texas traffic. If I-69 could reasonably get completed through Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi, it indeed would take traffic off of I-40 and I-30 and relieve congestion, especially those high truck percentages, over 50% of the traffic volumes.
Additionally, Google's time calculations tend to assume a slightly higher speed than the actual speed limit, so I would have to go through each segment of I-40 and I-30, notably in the urban areas, and get an accurate time calculation based on the posted speed limit. The I-30 and I-40 time estimate could be ~5 minutes off. I assumed a consistent 70 mph speed limit on the I-69 route, whereas Google may have assumed a consistent 75 mph driving speed on I-30 / I-40.
I-69 in Arkansas, as currently proposed, is indeed a crooked route. And shifting the Mississippi crossing farther South to US-82 will make it even more stupidly crooked. It will make I-69 in Arkansas a mostly East-West route and the path in Mississippi very much a North-South route. The path would be a stupid, giant backwards L-shape route. Just worthless.There's no official proposal to re-route it to US-82.
The I-30/I-40 combo is a long established route with lots of services along its exits. I-69 doesn't have any guarantees of attracting similar amounts of development along its path, especially if it runs an even more out of the way angle to re-purpose the US-82 crossing. Most of the traffic will likely keep using I-30 and I-40.
I-69 in Arkansas, as currently proposed, is indeed a crooked route. And shifting the Mississippi crossing farther South to US-82 will make it even more stupidly crooked. It will make I-69 in Arkansas a mostly East-West route and the path in Mississippi very much a North-South route. The path would be a stupid, giant backwards L-shape route. Just worthless.There's no official proposal to re-route it to US-82.
The I-30/I-40 combo is a long established route with lots of services along its exits. I-69 doesn't have any guarantees of attracting similar amounts of development along its path, especially if it runs an even more out of the way angle to re-purpose the US-82 crossing. Most of the traffic will likely keep using I-30 and I-40.
For the existing proposed route, it's just as long as the current I-30 / I-40 routing. Look above.
Quote from: bwana39I don't really think I-49 is going to be held up for I-69. The I-69 bridge is decades in the future if ever. Common sense is to take I-69 from south of US 82 (west of ElDorado) to the current US278 (US 82 Greenville) bridge, extend the future I-530 (US 425 / 278 or US-65) from Pine Bluff to Lake Village. A few miles more of freeway, but no half billion+dollar bridge.
The currently proposed I-69 path between Shreveport and Memphis sucks out loud bad enough for being a really crooked route, not in the slightest bit direct at all. But pulling the Mississippi River crossing farther South to US-82 would make I-69 even more of a joke not worth building out at all ever.
No one except for local regional traffic will ever use that route. Everyone else will stick to using I-30 and I-40 and just avoid that I-69 jerky, dog-leg ridden waste of time.
Interstate highways need to be built on paths direct as possible to save as much time and mileage as possible. Otherwise there is zero point in building them at all. One Interstate route should never be a disjointed Frankstein's monster of local routes stitched together.
I-69 in Arkansas, as currently proposed, is indeed a crooked route. And shifting the Mississippi crossing farther South to US-82 will make it even more stupidly crooked. It will make I-69 in Arkansas a mostly East-West route and the path in Mississippi very much a North-South route. The path would be a stupid, giant backwards L-shape route. Just worthless.There's no official proposal to re-route it to US-82.
The I-30/I-40 combo is a long established route with lots of services along its exits. I-69 doesn't have any guarantees of attracting similar amounts of development along its path, especially if it runs an even more out of the way angle to re-purpose the US-82 crossing. Most of the traffic will likely keep using I-30 and I-40.
For the existing proposed route, it's just as long as the current I-30 / I-40 routing. Look above.
yeah i Haven't seen anything of US 82 being the Bridge of I-69, But i do believe they might have to due to low funding for both Arkansas and Mississippi
I say just build it as a toll bridge and call it a day.
Currently, toll roads/bridges are not allowed on public highways in Arkansas.
ArDOT did a feasibility study about financing the Arkansas River brige with tolls. That study concluded that tolling the bridge would come nowhere near close to covering the cost of the bridge's construction. And so the main sticking point holding up construction that would link the orphaned section of I-49 to I-40 and the rest of I-49 is how to pay for it. No one can seem to figure that out.
I believe it is state law, which isn't going to changeState law can be changed.
I believe it is state law, which isn't going to changeState law can be changed.
You can't build a toll bridge overnight. Not an effective one at least.I believe it is state law, which isn't going to changeState law can be changed.
Not overnight.
You obviously aren't very familiar with how Arkansas works
Toll roads being against the Arkansas Constitution is the first issue. It is not very likely to change. It will take a constitutional amendment.
The second and just a pertinant detail is that this bridge is not a good candidate for tolls. The mileage saved is less than 10 miles and the traffic through Fort Smith outside a couple of one hour times morning and evening is not that significant. Unless the tolls were insignificant, it gets skipped. People would follow a free route.
The second and just a pertinant detail is that this bridge is not a good candidate for tolls. The mileage saved is less than 10 miles and the traffic through Fort Smith outside a couple of one hour times morning and evening is not that significant. Unless the tolls were insignificant, it gets skipped. People would follow a free route.Thru traffic is minimal through the area because there's no good access. Thru traffic currently bound to the north can follow other 4-lane routes to meet I-40 at Little Rock then follow it to I-49. The completion of I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana would likely draw a lot of that thru traffic, which would likely utilize a toll bridge with a lower cost. Yes, some would exit and re-enter to avoid it, though if you have a decent amount of thru traffic and a reasonable toll, it could be feasible.
The second and just a pertinant detail is that this bridge is not a good candidate for tolls. The mileage saved is less than 10 miles and the traffic through Fort Smith outside a couple of one hour times morning and evening is not that significant. Unless the tolls were insignificant, it gets skipped. People would follow a free route.Thru traffic is minimal through the area because there's no good access. Thru traffic currently bound to the north can follow other 4-lane routes to meet I-40 at Little Rock then follow it to I-49. The completion of I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana would likely draw a lot of that thru traffic, which would likely utilize a toll bridge with a lower cost. Yes, some would exit and re-enter to avoid it, though if you have a decent amount of thru traffic and a reasonable toll, it could be feasible.
That's really my thinking on such a toll as well. Make it cheap enough that drivers will waste more money in spent fuel trying to go around the toll.I wouldn't compare a long-distance toll road with something like tolled express lanes. Tolls on urban express lanes tend to be higher on a per-mile basis because one of the points of the toll is to keep the lanes uncongested, since the point of the lanes is to pay to avoid congestion on the free lanes. That is not the case with a rural turnpike.
On the other hand, Oklahoma's turnpike tolls have been a bargain relative to other toll roads and toll bridges elsewhere in the country. Toll rates per mile on express lanes in Dallas are a lot higher than the rates per mile in Oklahoma. Nevertheless plenty of Okies here will blow more money in gasoline (and time) shunpiking than what the tolls cost. In the end it's an emotional issue for too many people.
That's really my thinking on such a toll as well. Make it cheap enough that drivers will waste more money in spent fuel trying to go around the toll.
On the other hand, Oklahoma's turnpike tolls have been a bargain relative to other toll roads and toll bridges elsewhere in the country. Toll rates per mile on express lanes in Dallas are a lot higher than the rates per mile in Oklahoma. Nevertheless plenty of Okies here will blow more money in gasoline (and time) shunpiking than what the tolls cost. In the end it's an emotional issue for too many people.
That's really my thinking on such a toll as well. Make it cheap enough that drivers will waste more money in spent fuel trying to go around the toll.
On the other hand, Oklahoma's turnpike tolls have been a bargain relative to other toll roads and toll bridges elsewhere in the country. Toll rates per mile on express lanes in Dallas are a lot higher than the rates per mile in Oklahoma. Nevertheless plenty of Okies here will blow more money in gasoline (and time) shunpiking than what the tolls cost. In the end it's an emotional issue for too many people.
There's also return on investment. Make it too cheap, you lose money in the long run.
I'm guesstimating that the tolls will need to be set at somewhere between 3 and 4 bucks per direction; low enough to make the concept of shunpiking more time & trouble than it's worth to long-distance traffic, but high enough to ensure a reasonable rate of return (particularly if a dedicated bond issue is utilized to finance the project). About the price of a couple of cups of decent coffee sounds about right (assuming the typical regional commercial driver doesn't regularly patronize Starbuck's or Peet's -- if they did there would likely be little if any problem at all with >$5 tolls!). But it also needs to be low enough to entice those locals who have to cross the river to consider using I-49 for at least one direction!To attract the most traffic, $2 or under would be the most optimal. Maybe $3, but nothing above.
I'm guesstimating that the tolls will need to be set at somewhere between 3 and 4 bucks per direction; low enough to make the concept of shunpiking more time & trouble than it's worth to long-distance traffic, but high enough to ensure a reasonable rate of return (particularly if a dedicated bond issue is utilized to finance the project). About the price of a couple of cups of decent coffee sounds about right (assuming the typical regional commercial driver doesn't regularly patronize Starbuck's or Peet's -- if they did there would likely be little if any problem at all with >$5 tolls!). But it also needs to be low enough to entice those locals who have to cross the river to consider using I-49 for at least one direction!To attract the most traffic, $2 or under would be the most optimal. Maybe $3, but nothing above.
That's really my thinking on such a toll as well. Make it cheap enough that drivers will waste more money in spent fuel trying to go around the toll.I wouldn't compare a long-distance toll road with something like tolled express lanes. Tolls on urban express lanes tend to be higher on a per-mile basis because one of the points of the toll is to keep the lanes uncongested, since the point of the lanes is to pay to avoid congestion on the free lanes. That is not the case with a rural turnpike.
On the other hand, Oklahoma's turnpike tolls have been a bargain relative to other toll roads and toll bridges elsewhere in the country. Toll rates per mile on express lanes in Dallas are a lot higher than the rates per mile in Oklahoma. Nevertheless plenty of Okies here will blow more money in gasoline (and time) shunpiking than what the tolls cost. In the end it's an emotional issue for too many people.
I asked him how much he saved in total, about $3.50 he said. Arriving an hour late I said, well you just priced how much you are worth on an hourly basis.
I wouldn't compare a long-distance toll road with something like tolled express lanes. Tolls on urban express lanes tend to be higher on a per-mile basis because one of the points of the toll is to keep the lanes uncongested, since the point of the lanes is to pay to avoid congestion on the free lanes. That is not the case with a rural turnpike.
To attract the most traffic, $2 or under would be the most optimal. Maybe $3, but nothing above.
Even compared to some other rural toll roads, such as the Penn Turnpike or Florida's Turnpike the costs are substantially lower. Nevertheless, Oklahomans frequently gripe about the turnpikes, that the toll gates should be removed because "they're paid for." None of the complainers ever bother to think how much more they'll be paying for gasoline due to a big hike in fuel taxes if those 600+ miles of turnpike are added to Oklahoma's system of "free" roads.I'd say a study should be completed on it. How much would it cost the state to pay for maintenance and operation along the roads, how much would a gas tax increase be needed, and if it's feasible, remove the tolls.
To attract the most traffic, $2 or under would be the most optimal. Maybe $3, but nothing above.
The short segment of AR-549 has a 65mph speed limit, but a completed I-49 to Alma could have the limit boosted to 70mph or 75mph.Beginning July 1, 2020, speed limits of 75 mph will be authorized in rural areas along controlled access highways.
They literally did this study you're asking for in 2019 and it was not close to being feasible
https://www.arkansashighways.com/I49/1-04-052b%20%20I-49%20Toll%20Feasibility%20Technical%20Report%20-%20FINAL%20with%20Appendices.pdf (https://www.arkansashighways.com/I49/1-04-052b%20%20I-49%20Toll%20Feasibility%20Technical%20Report%20-%20FINAL%20with%20Appendices.pdf)
Looking at the map of the country, the I-49 gap in Arkansas is visible, and to go around it on a trip New Orleans/Kansas City is either veer over to Little Rock or go through Oklahoma (where you would have a toll road closest). If they would work out the toll road prohibition, it would be feasible to charge significantly more than $2.00 for the stretch from Texarkana to Fort Smith. It wouldn't pay for the road over 40 years, but it might make it workable to add with the funds available.
If such an arrangement is doable in AR, it may be worth considering.
It may not be now, but who knows what could happen in 10 years. I've seen laws in Indiana go away that I thought might never disappear.If such an arrangement is doable in AR, it may be worth considering.
It isn't....
It may not be now, but who knows what could happen in 10 years. I've seen laws in Indiana go away that I thought might never disappear.If such an arrangement is doable in AR, it may be worth considering.
It isn't....
It may not be now, but who knows what could happen in 10 years. I've seen laws in Indiana go away that I thought might never disappear.If such an arrangement is doable in AR, it may be worth considering.
It isn't....
I don't see Arkansas suddenly becoming better than 49th or 50th in everything other than teen pregnancy in 10 years. But, hopefully I'm wrong. We live in a crazy world right now.
Had to go to western Bella Vista Friday for a job and had to take the Bella Vista Bypass (AR-549) for what is likely the last time for the next year as they are closing the off-ramp from northbound I-49 to AR-549 to reconfigure it. Looks like they are pretty much done with the blasting, so took some quick pics on my way through northbound.
Monday, April 27: The northbound I-49 exit ramp to the existing roundabout (Exit 93) will be closed.
Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2: Northbound I-49 mainlane traffic will be shifted onto temporary pavement prior to Exit 93 to continue northbound on US 71
Had to go to western Bella Vista Friday for a job and had to take the Bella Vista Bypass (AR-549) for what is likely the last time for the next year as they are closing the off-ramp from northbound I-49 to AR-549 to reconfigure it. Looks like they are pretty much done with the blasting, so took some quick pics on my way through northbound.
Demo-Zette had a post last Thursday.
(https://media.tegna-media.com/assets/KFSM/images/871cda65-c690-49d2-afe7-d7b1f4634040/871cda65-c690-49d2-afe7-d7b1f4634040_750x422.jpg)QuoteMonday, April 27: The northbound I-49 exit ramp to the existing roundabout (Exit 93) will be closed.QuoteFriday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2: Northbound I-49 mainlane traffic will be shifted onto temporary pavement prior to Exit 93 to continue northbound on US 71
Had to go to western Bella Vista Friday for a job and had to take the Bella Vista Bypass (AR-549) for what is likely the last time for the next year as they are closing the off-ramp from northbound I-49 to AR-549 to reconfigure it. Looks like they are pretty much done with the blasting, so took some quick pics on my way through northbound.
Demo-Zette had a post last Thursday.
(https://media.tegna-media.com/assets/KFSM/images/871cda65-c690-49d2-afe7-d7b1f4634040/871cda65-c690-49d2-afe7-d7b1f4634040_750x422.jpg)QuoteMonday, April 27: The northbound I-49 exit ramp to the existing roundabout (Exit 93) will be closed.QuoteFriday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2: Northbound I-49 mainlane traffic will be shifted onto temporary pavement prior to Exit 93 to continue northbound on US 71
I saw that. However, there isn't going to be access to/from I-49/US-71 to AR-549 for a year as the exit loop is permanently closing and alternate lanes fixing to open are going to US-71 only. Access to AR-549 is going to come from the old US-71B/Walton Blvd. That will certainly reduce traffic on AR-549 for the next year.
https://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2020_news/NR%2020-119-01.pdf (https://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2020_news/NR%2020-119-01.pdf)
While the stretch from Fort Smith to Fayetteville got built in a fairly direct manner. UA is in Fayetteville. Tyson is in Springdale, Wal*Mart is in Bentonville. Connecting those elements with I-40, Little Rock and points beyond was politically and economically expedient.
Wasn't the freeway that is now I-49 in Northwest Arkansas originally built 30 or more years ago? For the longest time it was a Northern extension of I-540. IIRC, that segment of freeway was getting completed back when the original I-49 segment in Louisiana between Lafayette and Shreveport was being built. The 1980's and earlier was an era where freeway building was considerably easier and far less costly.
There is a huge discussion on the I-369 thread about the proposed I-49 sections between I-40 and Texarkana.
The I-49 spur onto Ft. Chaffee was built to insure Chaffee and its' many acres of redevelopment (industrial park) land weren't bypassed due to the expense of the Arkansas River Bridge. It may have even been all or partially paid for using BRACC or BRACC related funds. This forum tends to dismiss the effect of Military bases on Highway projects. Funds travel both ways. Military and BRACC funds for the local communities get used for upgrades to infrastructure and State / Local funds get spent to help retain military facilities. To a lesser extent we do the same for major employers / potential employers. Generally for private employers, it tends to be tax abatements and surface street level improvements.
Eventually the bridge will get built. Sooner or Later. With this said, I-540 and US71 are not that terrible a route as it is.
While the stretch from Fort Smith to Fayetteville got built in a fairly direct manner. UA is in Fayetteville. Tyson is in Springdale, Wal*Mart is in Bentonville. Connecting those elements with I-40, Little Rock and points beyond was politically and economically expedient.
As to the stretch from Ft Smith to Mena, It goes through a rural MOUNTAINOUS route. The route chosen to minimize the grade is a bit circumnavigous (it is basically the same route chose for US71 nearly a century ago.). The oft discussed OKLAHOMA routing (that has never been significantly considered beyond theory) is of similar length at what has been said to be a lesser grade / elevation.
The local communities south of Ft Smith are not really in any hurry to bring in economic change. There is at best mixed local support. This is going to be a slow EXPENSIVE process. My thinking is 2050 at the earliest absent some enhanced federal funding scheme.
If Arkansas could build 1 big bridge (I-49 Arkansas River or I-69 Mississippi River) and 1 stretch of road across predominately flat terrain (I-69) it would all work out. The problem is the urgency is on I-49 and I-69 is caught behind it on the priorities list.
I still am not a fan of the proposed routing for I-69 in Arkansas and to a lesser extent Louisiana too.
In 2020, ArDOT has 9.7 million for preliminary Engineering and after the toll study that the environmental was done so they were going ahead and doing a 2 lane from I 40 to Hwy.22 in Barling. That is in the proposal for 1/2 cent tax being extended. The Bridge was not mentioned but they have some Idea how it will be built. Maybe if they get the engineering done and if the Federal gov. does a infrastructure bill it will get built.Hopefully this decade, the government does some sort of large infrastructure bill that can finally complete the hundreds of miles of future interstate highways that have yet to be built. I-11, I-42, I-49, I-57 extension, I-69, I-73, I-87, I-530 extension, etc. along with thousands of miles of needed 6 lane widenings on many rural 4 lane interstate highways that cannot handle current traffic volumes, I-81, I-95, I-85, I-10, I-64, I-75, are just a few examples that come to mind, there's of course plenty more that need it.
Quote from: bwana39While the stretch from Fort Smith to Fayetteville got built in a fairly direct manner. UA is in Fayetteville. Tyson is in Springdale, Wal*Mart is in Bentonville. Connecting those elements with I-40, Little Rock and points beyond was politically and economically expedient.
I don't have any serious problems with the proposed routing of I-49 between Texarkana and Fort Smith, other than the tiny segment that clips a corner of Texas. IMHO, they should have keep the entire route within Arkansas to prevent potential bureaucratic & political headaches. I don't see TX DOT being in any rush to prioritize that segment of I-49 and a Red River bridge crossing to go with it. Not when they have so many other fish to fry in terms of highway projects. But it is what it is. The arguments about the routing farther North are moot. The road has to go around mountains for any alternative. None of really any better than the currently proposed route. No one is going to spend billions of dollars on tunnels to make the route more straight. 30 years ago tunnels might have been possible. Not now. We price ourselves out of those possibilities.
I think any ideas of routing I-49 through the Eastern edge of Oklahoma are silly. Just like that little segment of I-49 going over the Red River is a low priority for Texas, an I-49 segment on the far East edge would be a very low priority for Oklahoma to fund. The US-69 and US-75 corridors in Eastern OK are in far greater need of improvement. I-49 in the same area would be another expensive mouth to feed.
Couldn’t Oklahoma build such a conceptual section as one of their many toll Turnpikes?
It would provide access from the eastern part of the state towards the I-40 and Muskogee Turnpike corridors towards Tulsa and Oklahoma City.Couldn’t Oklahoma build such a conceptual section as one of their many toll Turnpikes?
Not likely; any I-49 corridor alternative that loops through OK still begins and ends in AR -- and to date all OK turnpikes have at least, trajectory-wise, aimed at the population/commercial center (the I-44 corridor) of the state. One that hugs the eastern state line and would provide financial benefits to only a small portion of OK residents while providing outsized benefits to both out-of-state/commercial drivers -- and begins and ends in adjoining AR -- would garner virtually no political support from OK political circles -- the reason the idea was discarded well before the turn of the century. AR is the only state that actually wants to pursue this corridor -- but just doesn't have the fiscal wherewithal to develop it as a singular project -- which means any actual development will probably be eked out over the next few decades.
They want to spend trillions of dollars on a lot of things, yet infrastructure seems nowhere to be found.
Couldn’t Oklahoma build such a conceptual section as one of their many toll Turnpikes?
Quote from: sprjus4Couldn’t Oklahoma build such a conceptual section as one of their many toll Turnpikes?
Just in terms of Oklahoma-based traffic an I-49 route along the East edge of the state would be a big waste of money. It probably wouldn't generate enough toll revenue to prevent the OTA from bleeding a lot of red ink. Tulsa-Texarakana is the only traffic play I see with that concept and it would still be a fairly crooked concept at that. Motorists in Arkansas would likely shun-pike the thing via US-71 as an alternative.
I wish Congress would do an Infrastructure bill based on the 538 electoral college so 1 Billion per electoral vote and pay with a gas tax increase.
SM-G950U
Quote from: sprjus4Couldn’t Oklahoma build such a conceptual section as one of their many toll Turnpikes?
Just in terms of Oklahoma-based traffic an I-49 route along the East edge of the state would be a big waste of money. It probably wouldn't generate enough toll revenue to prevent the OTA from bleeding a lot of red ink. Tulsa-Texarakana is the only traffic play I see with that concept and it would still be a fairly crooked concept at that. Motorists in Arkansas would likely shun-pike the thing via US-71 as an alternative.
Authorization for the Webbers Falls to Poteau and south turnpike is still listed in the statutes. I'll be Governor before it ever gets built. The intent was for it to tie into I-49 somewhere south of Mena. It was hoped by the members pimping it that a road from Tulsa to I-49 would 'create jobs'.
Tulsa already has one of the more expensive inland ports thanks to us taxpayers and the Corp of Engineers. If they want to reach ports on the gulf, they can send it down the Arkansas River.
Tulsa already has one of the more expensive inland ports thanks to us taxpayers and the Corp of Engineers. If they want to reach ports on the gulf, they can send it down the Arkansas River.
You can thank Robert S. Kerr for that. He and John McClellan had a LOT of stroke in the Senate in the late 50's and early 60's to get that boondoggle built.
Tulsa already has one of the more expensive inland ports thanks to us taxpayers and the Corp of Engineers. If they want to reach ports on the gulf, they can send it down the Arkansas River.
You can thank Robert S. Kerr for that. He and John McClellan had a LOT of stroke in the Senate in the late 50's and early 60's to get that boondoggle built.
And.....that big old lake/reservoir in eastern OK on the Arkansas River is named for him. One of the arms of that lake is where the I-40 bridge collapsed (w/loss of life) after being struck by a barge not quite 20 years ago.
Tulsa already has one of the more expensive inland ports thanks to us taxpayers and the Corp of Engineers. If they want to reach ports on the gulf, they can send it down the Arkansas River.
You can thank Robert S. Kerr for that. He and John McClellan had a LOT of stroke in the Senate in the late 50's and early 60's to get that boondoggle built.
And.....that big old lake/reservoir in eastern OK on the Arkansas River is named for him. One of the arms of that lake is where the I-40 bridge collapsed (w/loss of life) after being struck by a barge not quite 20 years ago.
Has it been that long? Seems like just a few years ago.
Coming up on 18 years -- May 26, 2002. I had come through WB in a Penske rental with the last of my GF's furniture about 2 weeks before it happened. IIRC, was raining like crazy all the way from Little Rock to well west of OKC. Tornado watch was out as well; fortunately didn't run into any of those that trip!
Oklahoma needs to stick to updating the US-75/US-69 corridor between DFW and KCMO. NAFTA traffic is looking to avoid OKC and Tulsa while heading north.
Oklahoma needs to stick to updating the US-75/US-69 corridor between DFW and KCMO. NAFTA traffic is looking to avoid OKC and Tulsa while heading north.
Serious question, and I've actually been wondering this for a long time: Why not just use I-35 for DFW-to-KC traffic? Isn't that what it's there for? Is OKC traffic really that bad? Are trucking companies that hard up to avoid the Kansas Turnpike tolls? And if the latter is a concern, is Oklahoma really going to do this without building a new turnpike and letting US 69 be a side road, if they ever do it at all?
Oklahoma needs to stick to updating the US-75/US-69 corridor between DFW and KCMO. NAFTA traffic is looking to avoid OKC and Tulsa while heading north.
Serious question, and I've actually been wondering this for a long time: Why not just use I-35 for DFW-to-KC traffic? Isn't that what it's there for? Is OKC traffic really that bad? Are trucking companies that hard up to avoid the Kansas Turnpike tolls? And if the latter is a concern, is Oklahoma really going to do this without building a new turnpike and letting US 69 be a side road, if they ever do it at all?
Not everything is headed to Kansas City (though US-69 and I-49 certainly gives them a *mostly* toll-free route). St. Louis and Chicago-bound traffic, for example, has a more direct route via US-75/69 than following I-35, or following I-30 to I-40, then up I-55. If Arkansas and Missouri finish their I-57 extension to Little Rock, that might change.
As far as Oklahoma building out the US-75/69 corridor as a toll road, that would be the smart thing to do, but they should have done that years ago as part of the 4-lane buildout. They *could* obliterate the 2nd carriageway and put the toll road aside the remaining 2 lanes, but that's a lot of money and displacements simply in the name of sticking it to long-haul truck traffic.
Oklahoma needs to stick to updating the US-75/US-69 corridor between DFW and KCMO. NAFTA traffic is looking to avoid OKC and Tulsa while heading north.
Serious question, and I've actually been wondering this for a long time: Why not just use I-35 for DFW-to-KC traffic? Isn't that what it's there for? Is OKC traffic really that bad? Are trucking companies that hard up to avoid the Kansas Turnpike tolls? And if the latter is a concern, is Oklahoma really going to do this without building a new turnpike and letting US 69 be a side road, if they ever do it at all?
As far as Oklahoma building out the US-75/69 corridor as a toll road, that would be the smart thing to do, but they should have done that years ago as part of the 4-lane buildout. They *could* obliterate the 2nd carriageway and put the toll road aside the remaining 2 lanes, but that's a lot of money and displacements simply in the name of sticking it to long-haul truck traffic.
If OK were actually engaging in intelligent corridor planning, the US 69/75 corridor would have been eked out as a full freeway over the years (screw the speedtrap towns!) while the iron was hot -- i.e., well before AR could try to identify funds to fully complete I-49 in their state.
If OK were actually engaging in intelligent corridor planning, the US 69/75 corridor would have been eked out as a full freeway over the years (screw the speedtrap towns!) while the iron was hot -- i.e., well before AR could try to identify funds to fully complete I-49 in their state.
If OK were actually engaging in intelligent corridor planning, the US 69/75 corridor would have been eked out as a full freeway over the years (screw the speedtrap towns!) while the iron was hot -- i.e., well before AR could try to identify funds to fully complete I-49 in their state.
Ooh, that's a good one. I have 2 words for you, Gene Stipe. Google him and then come back and tell me ODOT could ignore "the speedtrap towns". Was NEVER gonna happen.
We built a lot of "truck only corridors" between these major cities circa 1860-80.
I am assuming bjrush is talking about railroads here.
I am assuming bjrush is talking about railroads here.
Shifting gears without a clutch?
Mena has a 4-Lane 71 that's been re-striped as a 5-Lane
Is there anything going on with 49 south of the Ft Smith area? IMO, it seems that this area is reluctant/against any interstate development in that area! That hinders future revenue. Having lived in NWA could not image what NWA would be like without 540/49 running through it...
From what I understand, the foremost problem with i-49 between Texarkana and Fort Smith is, simply, finding the funds to build the facility -- particularly through the more mountainous sections north of Mena. Haven't heard of any significant organized local opposition to the upgrade -- although when the "overlay" portion around the US 270 junction is built, there will likely be a lot of grousing around road closures/delays along US 71 as construction commences. Not a lot of problems in that regard with the NWA portion in the '90's, as the portion through the more densely populated areas was intact when even I-540 was commissioned, and the portion from Alma to Fayetteville was new-terrain construction requiring no US 71 traffic interruptions. Unfortunately, the Ouachita mountain terrain isn't favorable to that sort of configuration, so some interim navigational difficulties are to be anticipated. As the old saying goes, sometimes you gotta break some eggs.................. :-/
If OK were actually engaging in intelligent corridor planning, the US 69/75 corridor would have been eked out as a full freeway over the years (screw the speedtrap towns!) while the iron was hot -- i.e., well before AR could try to identify funds to fully complete I-49 in their state.
Ooh, that's a good one. I have 2 words for you, Gene Stipe. Google him and then come back and tell me ODOT could ignore "the speedtrap towns". Was NEVER gonna happen.
Didn't have to google him -- my Broken Bow cousins (principally one in particular who is a perennial candidate for office) were bitching about him in the mid-80's. Apparently somewhere in that time period his wife was ticketed in Stringtown for speeding (although she vehemently denied it), and Stipe himself contacted the Stringtown mayor's office to try to get it dismissed. At that time there was talk that the speed trap actually constituted an organized criminal conspiracy, and investigations had begun, with the added presence of lawsuits by commercial trucking companies against the town. According to regional lore, Stipe negotiated an agreement whereby his wife's ticket would be dismissed and he would "go to bat" as necessary for the town and its continued over-the-road revenue stream. While purportedly a "champion of transportation", he effectively blockaded any bypass plans for Stringtown, Kiowa, and Atoka for the remainder of his term, which ended with his resignation -- under indictment -- in 2003 (he died in 2012). But he did direct funding to the US 69 (75) corridor during his term -- just as long as what was done maintained the status quo of the stretch between Bryan County and McAlester (which is why the freeway sections end at those locations).
But my cousins' beef with Stipe was largely based on the fact that he was able to direct funds toward his district (McAlester, Checotah, etc.) at the expense of other SE OK regions (they've been trying to get US 70 twinned all the way from Durant to the AR state line for decades). All that being said, the man's been effectively gone for 17 years -- but his replacement(s), affected by term limits instituted largely because of Stipe's 30+ year term of office, have invariably come from the anti "tax-and-spend" crowd -- so to them it's not a personal promise but a general demeanor. Either way, corridors don't get developed in any effectual fashion. X-(
Oklahoma needs to stick to updating the US-75/US-69 corridor between DFW and KCMO. NAFTA traffic is looking to avoid OKC and Tulsa while heading north.
Serious question, and I've actually been wondering this for a long time: Why not just use I-35 for DFW-to-KC traffic? Isn't that what it's there for? Is OKC traffic really that bad? Are trucking companies that hard up to avoid the Kansas Turnpike tolls? And if the latter is a concern, is Oklahoma really going to do this without building a new turnpike and letting US 69 be a side road, if they ever do it at all?
Oklahoma needs to stick to updating the US-75/US-69 corridor between DFW and KCMO. NAFTA traffic is looking to avoid OKC and Tulsa while heading north.
Serious question, and I've actually been wondering this for a long time: Why not just use I-35 for DFW-to-KC traffic? Isn't that what it's there for? Is OKC traffic really that bad? Are trucking companies that hard up to avoid the Kansas Turnpike tolls? And if the latter is a concern, is Oklahoma really going to do this without building a new turnpike and letting US 69 be a side road, if they ever do it at all?
It's an honest question.
For the most part, most logistics using trucks do use the I-35 routing.
However at many times I-35 south of OKC gets congested. In the last few years there have been many truck accidents where the northbound side gets closed for hours at a time causing several miles of backups.
A recent UPS order I made was sourced in the DFW metro. I followed its path and I thought it would interchange in OKC to go east. Instead they took it all the way from DFW to KCMO in a single day's drive. Looking at time to arrive, they had to have used I-35.
Today I-35 is the fastest way to go if no obstacles come into play. If OK does upgrade the 69-75 corridor and remove the local speed traps and increase the grade separations, it will be possible to cut the time by 30 to 45 minutes.
No they didn't. It followed the US 69 corridor on the UPRR.
few UPS trucks do longhaul. Most of the trailers are put on rail cars for long segments. Your package almost surely went via rail.
I am assuming bjrush is talking about railroads here.
By what measure are you concluding roads will never pay for themselves? You posted some perfectly valid points about the benefits of rail and then shift to an anti road vibe where make half true statements. Rail projects costs in the billions as well so how do those pay for themselves if roads don’t?I am assuming bjrush is talking about railroads here.
Indeed. I know it's heretical on this forum, but rail is much more fuel efficient, less labor intensive, more reliable, and cheaper than truck if they're going to the same place. Especially when you factor in the need to build billion dollar roadways which will never in a million years pay for themselves. Spend 1/10 of those billions and add parallel tracks and replace at grade crossings and you will improve commerce for much cheaper
By what measure are you concluding roads will never pay for themselves? You posted some perfectly valid points about the benefits of rail and then shift to an anti road vibe where make half true statements. Rail projects costs in the billions as well so how do those pay for themselves if roads don’t?I am assuming bjrush is talking about railroads here.
Indeed. I know it's heretical on this forum, but rail is much more fuel efficient, less labor intensive, more reliable, and cheaper than truck if they're going to the same place. Especially when you factor in the need to build billion dollar roadways which will never in a million years pay for themselves. Spend 1/10 of those billions and add parallel tracks and replace at grade crossings and you will improve commerce for much cheaper
I was always under the impression roads and rail, well basically all infrastructure, pays for itself in the way of allowing society to function and prosper.
Thank you for the information. That is very interesting and if you don’t mind me asking, how do you know this? Did you have a career in this field or just a hobby?By what measure are you concluding roads will never pay for themselves? You posted some perfectly valid points about the benefits of rail and then shift to an anti road vibe where make half true statements. Rail projects costs in the billions as well so how do those pay for themselves if roads don’t?I am assuming bjrush is talking about railroads here.
Indeed. I know it's heretical on this forum, but rail is much more fuel efficient, less labor intensive, more reliable, and cheaper than truck if they're going to the same place. Especially when you factor in the need to build billion dollar roadways which will never in a million years pay for themselves. Spend 1/10 of those billions and add parallel tracks and replace at grade crossings and you will improve commerce for much cheaper
I was always under the impression roads and rail, well basically all infrastructure, pays for itself in the way of allowing society to function and prosper.
The UPS/rail joint operation works just like any other "hub and spoke" system; air freight functions much the same. Trucks handle the short haul, but rail is used to get the goods between widely-spaced metro areas. But that all depends upon the railroad following a strict scheduling regimen regarding these particular movements. DFW-KC is ideal, because the UP (former MKT and MP) trackage it uses (and, yes, it goes up the 69/75 corridor) isn't on their transcontinental container routes, which tend to clog up rail traffic. But on those transcontinental routes (in UP's case, either L.A.-El Paso-DFW or Oakland-Salt Lake-Omaha-Chicago) where UPS trains have to queue between cargo coming out of West Coast ports, the service is parsed out into stuff that has to "be there yesterday", which will be, size permitting, placed on over-the-road trucks, and other less time-sensitive cargo will go by rail. Generally speaking, by and large the majority of UPS cargo on N-S corridors tends to go by rail regardless of time sensitivity, while E-W corridors receive the "split mode" approach. The only general N-S rail corridors that regularly exhibit the issues endemic to E-W corridors in general are those paralleling I-85 and/or I-95 on the East Coast (CSX or NS); split-mode is largely utilized there as well.
By what measure are you concluding roads will never pay for themselves? You posted some perfectly valid points about the benefits of rail and then shift to an anti road vibe where make half true statements. Rail projects costs in the billions as well so how do those pay for themselves if roads don’t?I am assuming bjrush is talking about railroads here.
Indeed. I know it's heretical on this forum, but rail is much more fuel efficient, less labor intensive, more reliable, and cheaper than truck if they're going to the same place. Especially when you factor in the need to build billion dollar roadways which will never in a million years pay for themselves. Spend 1/10 of those billions and add parallel tracks and replace at grade crossings and you will improve commerce for much cheaper
I was always under the impression roads and rail, well basically all infrastructure, pays for itself in the way of allowing society to function and prosper.
I am assuming bjrush is talking about railroads here.
Indeed. I know it's heretical on this forum, but rail is much more fuel efficient, less labor intensive, more reliable, and cheaper than truck if they're going to the same place. Especially when you factor in the need to build billion dollar roadways which will never in a million years pay for themselves. Spend 1/10 of those billions and add parallel tracks and replace at grade crossings and you will improve commerce for much cheaper
https://www.constructionequipmentguide.com/construction-on-bella-vista-bypass-i-49-interchange-still-on-track-near-bentonville/48660
Apparently they stopped construction for a few weeks on the SPUI project because an employee tested positive for COVID. Other than that, the rest of the article didn't give any new information.
https://www.constructionequipmentguide.com/construction-on-bella-vista-bypass-i-49-interchange-still-on-track-near-bentonville/48660
Apparently they stopped construction for a few weeks on the SPUI project because an employee tested positive for COVID. Other than that, the rest of the article didn't give any new information.
Everything is back to what passes for normal. I'm hoping to get up that way soon to update the I-49 Fakebook page.
I don't know if this Build I-49 FB setting will allow public viewing, but here is a view north of Rocky Hollow (old Gun Range Road) at the paving that is now going on NORTH of that crossing all the way to the MO state line.
(https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/116154901_10158635912673624_1043883607020873233_o.jpg?_nc_cat=108&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_ohc=yVeUYhi0sHgAX8_J704&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=7da5a84a8179f4bd5fe88c9f35fd3997&oe=5F408BB1)
https://www.facebook.com/288089113623/photos/pcb.10158635920753624/10158635912668624/?type=3&theater
They have put up an exit gore sign already?? 😮😮😮
I don't know if this Build I-49 FB setting will allow public viewing, but here is a view north of Rocky Hollow (old Gun Range Road) at the paving that is now going on NORTH of that crossing all the way to the MO state line.
(https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/116154901_10158635912673624_1043883607020873233_o.jpg?_nc_cat=108&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_ohc=yVeUYhi0sHgAX8_J704&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=7da5a84a8179f4bd5fe88c9f35fd3997&oe=5F408BB1)
https://www.facebook.com/288089113623/photos/pcb.10158635920753624/10158635912668624/?type=3&theater
They have put up an exit gore sign already?? 😮😮😮
I taking it to the Bank that the 49 corridor doesn't get started til 2025. I wish they would build it in segments like IH 22 in Alabama was done. There was hilly terrain there but they committed to it. Not to mention I have been ad nauseam in saying that make it rolled. 50 cents to a dollar for all the snowbirds and spring breakers
I taking it to the Bank that the 49 corridor doesn't get started til 2025. I wish they would build it in segments like IH 22 in Alabama was done. There was hilly terrain there but they committed to it. Not to mention I have been ad nauseam in saying that make it rolled. 50 cents to a dollar for all the snowbirds and spring breakers
You mean the Arkansas River Bridge or south of Ft Smith?
Tolls are not in the offerings for Arkansas. Simply, if it needs to be tolled, it just will not be built.Would rather see a toll bridge than no bridge.
Tolls are not in the offerings for Arkansas. Simply, if it needs to be tolled, it just will not be built.Would rather see a toll bridge than no bridge.
Like the old cliche' goes, the best way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time! But it's also wise not to start with trying to digest the tusks! If scarce available funds are to be allocated all over the state, a single project such as the remainder of I-49 is best tackled in a way, as stated in the previous post, that publicly shows progress on the corridor, regardless of how limited (like an initial Super-2 around Mena or De Queen). Enough of them, and for the most part it'll be a matter of connecting the dots except for the mountainous segment that'll essentially overlay US 71 between Mena and Waldron.
But the Arkansas River bridge is a whole 'nuther thing -- a high-level structure over a navigable waterway with significant floodplain crossing on either side! If anything calls for a SIU-type independent approach, Alma-Barling does! I'm guessing tolls are still somewhere on the discussion table; it's probably a matter of deciding just how much the market will bear vs. how long it'll take to make a dent in the initial bridge cost. But the saving grace of all of AR's share of I-49 is that the competing routes are I-44/35, which adds considerable miles to a commercial trip, or US 69 -- and I'd simply refer you to that thread to flesh out what's happening (or, more succinctly, not happening) there. If built -- and if TX comes close to completing the I-69/369 continuum at roughly the same time, I-49 will invariably be the N-S corridor of choice for regional travel. A few bucks in tolls won't deter commercial traffic, especially with ORT (although some subsidized structure will likely be politically necessary for locals). But the upshot is that the bridge project needs to be "broken out" into a separately addressed issue -- possibly with a dedicated funding/development/operating authority within the AR administrative structure. If I were ADOT, I'd start serious planning and ROW inquiries for whatever the initial non-bridge projects along I-49 will be -- it'll get the locals' interest up and potentially clamoring for funds for "their" segment(s) -- making them the proverbial "squeaky wheel". It's worked before; and worth at least a shot!
There is one other advantage to completing I-49 between US 75 at Texarkana and AR 255 in Fort Smith. It will create a need that does not exist yet (at least in regards to the general public's view).
Right now the I-49 Bridge doesn't connect to anything, at least in the view of a layman. By completing the rest of the Interstate you now have a visible reason to connect the gap
There is one other advantage to completing I-49 between US 75 at Texarkana and AR 255 in Fort Smith. It will create a need that does not exist yet (at least in regards to the general public's view).
Right now the I-49 Bridge doesn't connect to anything, at least in the view of a layman. By completing the rest of the Interstate you now have a visible reason to connect the gap
75 doesn't go through Texarkana. :)
The existing I-40/I-49 interchange has to be modified significantly, if not completely re-built for I-49 to extend South.
I was always under the impression roads and rail, well basically all infrastructure, pays for itself in the way of allowing society to function and prosper.
I was always under the impression roads and rail, well basically all infrastructure, pays for itself in the way of allowing society to function and prosper.
This is what conservatives don't understand. They think everything that the government and society do must be for a[profit, and they shouldn't do things just for the betterment of society. That is why the ones who actually understand the meaning of "socialism" oppose it so much. They get it wrong because without government investment, we would have no services and no modern society. And they also don't seem to understand that public roads and services are examples of socialism. The majority of conservatives believe "socialism" means "Stalinist communism" and think anybody to the left of Mussolini is a communist, even though they don't know the meaning of that word, either. We need a mass education effort in this country to straighten out the false beliefs and delusions that are so common today.
I was always under the impression roads and rail, well basically all infrastructure, pays for itself in the way of allowing society to function and prosper.
This is what conservatives don't understand. They think everything that the government and society do must be for a[profit, and they shouldn't do things just for the betterment of society. That is why the ones who actually understand the meaning of "socialism" oppose it so much. They get it wrong because without government investment, we would have no services and no modern society. And they also don't seem to understand that public roads and services are examples of socialism. The majority of conservatives believe "socialism" means "Stalinist communism" and think anybody to the left of Mussolini is a communist, even though they don't know the meaning of that word, either. We need a mass education effort in this country to straighten out the false beliefs and delusions that are so common today.
Bing maps is now showing in their roads layer that the Bella Vista Bypass is complete. However, it is not currently routable.
https://www.bing.com/maps?osid=44214785-7ea6-4981-84ec-a934a2e8df39&cp=36.516305~-94.330104&lvl=12&v=2&sV=2&form=S00027
Bing maps is now showing in their roads layer that the Bella Vista Bypass is complete. However, it is not currently routable.
https://www.bing.com/maps?osid=44214785-7ea6-4981-84ec-a934a2e8df39&cp=36.516305~-94.330104&lvl=12&v=2&sV=2&form=S00027
I see the map is co-signed I-49 and AR 549.
Looks like Missouri really has to finish their part of the BVP now!
I just hope none of this premature data is migrated into any automobile GPS systems. You might have people driving off into the wild blue yonder. The situation reminds me of the movie Speed (jeez, is that movie really 26 years old now?). There's the scene where they find out there's a gap in the freeway ahead:
Norwood: "Sir we have a serious problem."
Capt. McMahon: "What?"
Norwood: "This freeway isn't finished!"
Capt. McMahon: "What are you talking about?"
Norwood: "About 3 miles ahead there's a section missing!"
Capt. McMahon: "Section missing?" (reaches for map)
Capt. McMahon: "But it's on the map! It's finished! On the Goddamn map!"
Norwood: "I guess they fell behind!"
Capt. McMahon: "Fuck. You're fired. Everybody's fucking fired!"
Bing maps is now showing in their roads layer that the Bella Vista Bypass is complete. However, it is not currently routable.
https://www.bing.com/maps?osid=44214785-7ea6-4981-84ec-a934a2e8df39&cp=36.516305~-94.330104&lvl=12&v=2&sV=2&form=S00027
Yes, there is also the story of the couple in their rental SUV who followed their GPS blindly which took them up what was essentially a logging road and they got caught in a blizzard on a pass and nearly froze to death.
Google Maps is not a common sense replacement.
It's not good that Bing added it so early, but who actually uses Bing Maps? I'd think most people would have the common sense to not crash through a ROAD CLOSED sign.
That said, is it better (or worse) to add a road months ahead of time, or months after it is done? Given our reliance on those programs, I would say after.
The Bella Vista Bypass was planned to be a toll road: http://www.arkansashighways.com/BVB/Copy%20of%20bellavista.aspx. I assume plans to make it a toll road were abandoned long ago, right?
The Bella Vista Bypass was planned to be a toll road: http://www.arkansashighways.com/BVB/Copy%20of%20bellavista.aspx. I assume plans to make it a toll road were abandoned long ago, right?
Long ago. This was funded by the sales tax Arkansas passed about 8 years ago to fund road projects around the state. Toll roads have consistently been shown in studies to not pay back bonds in Arkansas.
The Bella Vista Bypass was planned to be a toll road: http://www.arkansashighways.com/BVB/Copy%20of%20bellavista.aspx. I assume plans to make it a toll road were abandoned long ago, right?
Long ago. This was funded by the sales tax Arkansas passed about 8 years ago to fund road projects around the state. Toll roads have consistently been shown in studies to not pay back bonds in Arkansas.
If my remembrances are correct, state highway law would have had to be changed to allow a public toll road.
OTOH, XNA was going to build a privately owned toll road from the 412 Bypass to the regional airport....emphasis WAS. They have since sweet-talked ARDOT into building a publicly funded access road for them.
It's not good that Bing added it so early, but who actually uses Bing Maps?
It's not good that Bing added it so early, but who actually uses Bing Maps?
I used to, back when the freeways were purple and the tollways were green, since it was much easier to "read" an area with those distinctions. Now, all the roads are various shades of yellow, although it's not as bad as Google Maps has become.
I was surprised to see the NB lanes of the BV bypass will be asphalt instead of concrete, which would have matched the existing SB lanes. I even emailed ARDOT to confirm it as they started the asphalt.
I’m sure it was all for cost reasons, but it still seems like such an Arkansas thing to do. I can’t think of many, if any interstates in Arkansas, at least, that have different surfaces on the parallel lanes of the interstate.
Oh well, at least it will be a fully functioning interstate in roughly a year from now.
I was surprised to see the NB lanes of the BV bypass will be asphalt instead of concrete, which would have matched the existing SB lanes. I even emailed ARDOT to confirm it as they started the asphalt.
I’m sure it was all for cost reasons, but it still seems like such an Arkansas thing to do. I can’t think of many, if any interstates in Arkansas, at least, that have different surfaces on the parallel lanes of the interstate.
Oh well, at least it will be a fully functioning interstate in roughly a year from now.
I was surprised to see the NB lanes of the BV bypass will be asphalt instead of concrete, which would have matched the existing SB lanes. I even emailed ARDOT to confirm it as they started the asphalt.The new lanes of US 67 by Jacksonville featured the same technique but the asphalt is for the base. They will have a thick layer of concrete on top of the asphalt.
I’m sure it was all for cost reasons, but it still seems like such an Arkansas thing to do. I can’t think of many, if any interstates in Arkansas, at least, that have different surfaces on the parallel lanes of the interstate.
Oh well, at least it will be a fully functioning interstate in roughly a year from now.
I was surprised to see the NB lanes of the BV bypass will be asphalt instead of concrete, which would have matched the existing SB lanes. I even emailed ARDOT to confirm it as they started the asphalt.The new lanes of US 67 by Jacksonville featured the same technique but the asphalt is for the base. They will have a thick layer of concrete on top of the asphalt.
I’m sure it was all for cost reasons, but it still seems like such an Arkansas thing to do. I can’t think of many, if any interstates in Arkansas, at least, that have different surfaces on the parallel lanes of the interstate.
Oh well, at least it will be a fully functioning interstate in roughly a year from now.
That should be correct. Once they’re ready to lay concrete, they’ll put in the rebar first. Then they’ll bring in the Gomaco and start putting in the final surface.I was surprised to see the NB lanes of the BV bypass will be asphalt instead of concrete, which would have matched the existing SB lanes. I even emailed ARDOT to confirm it as they started the asphalt.
I’m sure it was all for cost reasons, but it still seems like such an Arkansas thing to do. I can’t think of many, if any interstates in Arkansas, at least, that have different surfaces on the parallel lanes of the interstate.
Oh well, at least it will be a fully functioning interstate in roughly a year from now.
Based on what I have seen, it's likely an asphalt base topped with concrete.
So it's basically like whitetopping from Day 1, then? Or is there a fundamental difference?
So it's basically like whitetopping from Day 1, then? Or is there a fundamental difference?
The latter--it is full-depth concrete that goes on top of the base.
Just drove AR-549 2 directions for a job today. They are laying the concrete. Didn't see any asphalt up to the southern AR-72 exit.
Question, as I don't know how these things work:
In the next (hopefully) year or two when the Bella Vista Bypass is finished, would the AHTD change the sign at I-40 to I-49 from "Alma Fayetteville" (which is what I remember it being) to "Fayetteville Kansas City" given the new direct path from metro Fort Smith to one of America's largest metro areas? Or would KC be too far away for them to do that? I know that the current U S 67 signage had the mileage to St. Louis somewhere in the NLR limits or just above (Sherwood, Jacksonville) as I recall, so I'd guess there'll be a "Kansas City 200 miles" sign somewhere on Arkansas I-49 northbound above Alma.
Thank you in advance. ">)
Question, as I don't know how these things work:
In the next (hopefully) year or two when the Bella Vista Bypass is finished, would the AHTD change the sign at I-40 to I-49 from "Alma Fayetteville" (which is what I remember it being) to "Fayetteville Kansas City" given the new direct path from metro Fort Smith to one of America's largest metro areas? Or would KC be too far away for them to do that? I know that the current U S 67 signage had the mileage to St. Louis somewhere in the NLR limits or just above (Sherwood, Jacksonville) as I recall, so I'd guess there'll be a "Kansas City 200 miles" sign somewhere on Arkansas I-49 northbound above Alma.
Thank you in advance. ">)
Wouldn't be a bit surprised to see Joplin show up as a control city for NB I-49 either from the I-40 junction or some other point in NWA. If limited to 2 control cities on a BGS pull-through, it's possible that from I-40 the controls would be "Fayetteville/Joplin" (with KC showing up on NB I-49 mileage signs) until past Fayetteville; since most states prefer at least one in-state reference, possibly "Bentonville/Joplin" after that -- and finally "Joplin/Kansas City" once heading north from Bentonville.
All routes apart of the National Highway System get federal funding. There hasn't been a dedicated funding source for interstate highway projects in decades, and unfortunately, the federal government seems to have little incentive to produce an infrastructure package to accelerate funding toward improving existing interstate highways (bridge replacements, rehabilitation projects, major widening on certain routes, etc.) and construction / completion of newer corridors.
With the completion of the Belle Vista Bypass, I-49 will be complete between Fort Smith, AR and Kansas City, MO, connecting to I-29 and I-35 North. The biggest, most notable gap is obviously Fort Smith to Texarkana.
Thank you for the responses, all. It seems like I remember at West Memphis the I-55 northbound signs used to say "Blytheville St Louis" as the destination rather than "Cape Girardeau", so that's also why I wondered about the potential "Kansas City" I-49 counterparts in Alma. (Apologies, I don't have time in Google to go "drive" that route at WM to see what the signs indicate today.)
Thank you for the responses, all. It seems like I remember at West Memphis the I-55 northbound signs used to say "Blytheville St Louis" as the destination rather than "Cape Girardeau", so that's also why I wondered about the potential "Kansas City" I-49 counterparts in Alma. (Apologies, I don't have time in Google to go "drive" that route at WM to see what the signs indicate today.)
Streetview still has NB I-55 with Blytheville and St. Louis in West Memphis. (https://goo.gl/maps/bs4eNqqkdrjG8MNL6). I don't recall Cape Girardeau being mentioned much on I-55 except on the sections to Cape from Sikeston and St. Louis.
Thank you for the responses, all. It seems like I remember at West Memphis the I-55 northbound signs used to say "Blytheville St Louis" as the destination rather than "Cape Girardeau", so that's also why I wondered about the potential "Kansas City" I-49 counterparts in Alma. (Apologies, I don't have time in Google to go "drive" that route at WM to see what the signs indicate today.)
Streetview still has NB I-55 with Blytheville and St. Louis in West Memphis. (https://goo.gl/maps/bs4eNqqkdrjG8MNL6). I don't recall Cape Girardeau being mentioned much on I-55 except on the sections to Cape from Sikeston and St. Louis.
Revive 755, it may not happen this time, but knowing how every section of I-49 completed now is like replacing a new hose on a radiator that has had several other old hoses, and will put ever more pressure to finish the big Alma-to-Texarkana section...this highway will someday be as key of a trucking corridor as I-57 is, so I do expect to see a "Kansas City" turnoff sign some day at Alma. BTW, thanks also for the response.
Thank you for the responses, all. It seems like I remember at West Memphis the I-55 northbound signs used to say "Blytheville St Louis" as the destination rather than "Cape Girardeau", so that's also why I wondered about the potential "Kansas City" I-49 counterparts in Alma. (Apologies, I don't have time in Google to go "drive" that route at WM to see what the signs indicate today.)
Streetview still has NB I-55 with Blytheville and St. Louis in West Memphis. (https://goo.gl/maps/bs4eNqqkdrjG8MNL6). I don't recall Cape Girardeau being mentioned much on I-55 except on the sections to Cape from Sikeston and St. Louis.
Revive 755, it may not happen this time, but knowing how every section of I-49 completed now is like replacing a new hose on a radiator that has had several other old hoses, and will put ever more pressure to finish the big Alma-to-Texarkana section...this highway will someday be as key of a trucking corridor as I-57 is, so I do expect to see a "Kansas City" turnoff sign some day at Alma. BTW, thanks also for the response.
The last overhead for 49 at Bentonville has Joplin as the Control City
Kansas City doesn't appear until 49 gets to Joplin.
Thank you for the responses, all. It seems like I remember at West Memphis the I-55 northbound signs used to say "Blytheville St Louis" as the destination rather than "Cape Girardeau", so that's also why I wondered about the potential "Kansas City" I-49 counterparts in Alma. (Apologies, I don't have time in Google to go "drive" that route at WM to see what the signs indicate today.)
Streetview still has NB I-55 with Blytheville and St. Louis in West Memphis. (https://goo.gl/maps/bs4eNqqkdrjG8MNL6). I don't recall Cape Girardeau being mentioned much on I-55 except on the sections to Cape from Sikeston and St. Louis.
Revive 755, it may not happen this time, but knowing how every section of I-49 completed now is like replacing a new hose on a radiator that has had several other old hoses, and will put ever more pressure to finish the big Alma-to-Texarkana section...this highway will someday be as key of a trucking corridor as I-57 is, so I do expect to see a "Kansas City" turnoff sign some day at Alma. BTW, thanks also for the response.
The last overhead for 49 at Bentonville has Joplin as the Control City
Kansas City doesn't appear until 49 gets to Joplin.
Joplin is certainly growing, post-horrific 2011 tornado and now that it's the crossroads of two busy interstates. I'll hang loose and see what happens (as if I can do anything else about it ">) .
Thank you for the responses, all. It seems like I remember at West Memphis the I-55 northbound signs used to say "Blytheville St Louis" as the destination rather than "Cape Girardeau", so that's also why I wondered about the potential "Kansas City" I-49 counterparts in Alma. (Apologies, I don't have time in Google to go "drive" that route at WM to see what the signs indicate today.)
Streetview still has NB I-55 with Blytheville and St. Louis in West Memphis. (https://goo.gl/maps/bs4eNqqkdrjG8MNL6). I don't recall Cape Girardeau being mentioned much on I-55 except on the sections to Cape from Sikeston and St. Louis.
Just surprised that, considering the prominence of Wal-Mart and Bentonville in the general NWA area, the NB BGS shown above (in reply #2669) doesn't have Bentonville as a nearfield control city.
Arkansas State Highway Commissioner Keith Gibson of Fort Smith said Issue 1 funds, if approved by voters, would give the state enough money to begin construction on I-49 between Alma and Chaffee Crossing.
Gibson said funds from the proposed 0.5% sales tax for Issue 1 would secure $270 million for a two-lane stretch of the interstate from Alma to Chaffee Crossing to be constructed over the next 10 years. If approved, the Arkansas State Highway Commission would vote on the project with hopes of securing federal funding as well.
I wonder how they're going to do the Arkansas River bridge. Are they going to build a two lane bridge now and build a new one once they get funding or will they just build a four lane bridge? IMO, it seems like building the 4 lane bridge now would save money since the construction costs will just keep going up.
I wonder how they're going to do the Arkansas River bridge. Are they going to build a two lane bridge now and build a new one once they get funding or will they just build a four lane bridge? IMO, it seems like building the 4 lane bridge now would save money since the construction costs will just keep going up.
I wonder how they're going to do the Arkansas River bridge. Are they going to build a two lane bridge now and build a new one once they get funding or will they just build a four lane bridge? IMO, it seems like building the 4 lane bridge now would save money since the construction costs will just keep going up.
I didn't see where they were gonna build a bridge at all. What It read was the roads. Build the road then dare someone to not BRIDGE the gap.
The proposed I-49 route would cross Arkansas 162 near Hamer Road, then cross Frog Bayou near Waterfront Road before skirting the east side of Kibler at New Town Road, then proceed south and west over Thornhill Street, Westville Road and Gun Club Road before crossing the Arkansas River at Springhill Park into Barling, then connecting with I-549 at Arkansas 22.
What I don't like about the 1/2 cent tax is there is a lot the money spent in the Little rock area so it is not to help other areas with less population. The I30 crossing is over 600 million and they have a phase 2 planned also. Our commissioners need to see that the money is for projects that will help create jobs and growth like I49 will when finished.
What I don't like about the 1/2 cent tax is there is a lot the money spent in the Little rock area so it is not to help other areas with less population. The I30 crossing is over 600 million and they have a phase 2 planned also. Our commissioners need to see that the money is for projects that will help create jobs and growth like I49 will when finished.
That is how Arkansas works, sadly. Little Rock and NWA get the bulk of the money, everyone else fights over what's left.
I wonder how they're going to do the Arkansas River bridge. Are they going to build a two lane bridge now and build a new one once they get funding or will they just build a four lane bridge? IMO, it seems like building the 4 lane bridge now would save money since the construction costs will just keep going up.
If it's anything like (future) I-49 north if Bentonville, it will be built as 2 lanes, but right of way for 4.
That's what I'm hoping it will be as well, but who knows what ARDOT has planned.I wonder how they're going to do the Arkansas River bridge. Are they going to build a two lane bridge now and build a new one once they get funding or will they just build a four lane bridge? IMO, it seems like building the 4 lane bridge now would save money since the construction costs will just keep going up.
If it's anything like (future) I-49 north if Bentonville, it will be built as 2 lanes, but right of way for 4.
Can't really see a 2-lane bridge structure that would have to be twinned at some future point. More than likely the bridge itself will be 4 lanes (maybe initially striped for 2), but the approaches might well be constructed, like the original AR 549 along the Bella Vista bypass, as 2 lanes on a 4-lane ROW. If a DOT is for various reasons intent on kicking the proverbial can down the road re eking out the funding, that's about the only rational way to do so.
Can't really see a 2-lane bridge structure that would have to be twinned at some future point.
Quote from: sparkerCan't really see a 2-lane bridge structure that would have to be twinned at some future point.
A lot of new Interstate highway bridges are built as twin span structures, even seemingly non-descript bridges without suspension towers, truss structures or other decorative features. Maybe one bridge will be built for the initial 2 lanes and then a second bridge for the second set of lanes will be built later.
Quote from: sparkerCan't really see a 2-lane bridge structure that would have to be twinned at some future point.
A lot of new Interstate highway bridges are built as twin span structures, even seemingly non-descript bridges without suspension towers, truss structures or other decorative features. Maybe one bridge will be built for the initial 2 lanes and then a second bridge for the second set of lanes will be built later.
What I don't like about the 1/2 cent tax is there is a lot the money spent in the Little rock area so it is not to help other areas with less population. The I30 crossing is over 600 million and they have a phase 2 planned also. Our commissioners need to see that the money is for projects that will help create jobs and growth like I49 will when finished.
That is how Arkansas works, sadly. Littlr Rock and NWA get the bulk of the money, everyone else fights over what's left.
given that I-30 is having extra lanes added in TexarkanaFTFY
given that I-30 is having extra lanes added in TexarkanaFTFY
I-49, possible truck reroute bridge costs estimated in hundreds of millions
...
The estimated cost of the I-49 bridge on the other end of the city is at least $30 million greater than the total amount of sales tax revenue the state expects for the entire route from Chaffee to Alma in the next 10 years. But the Department of Transportation also receives money from the state diesel and gas taxes, Gibson explained.
Gibson said the state plans to construct a two-lane extension of the highway with the state funds in hopes that federal money will be sent their way after the project has begun. They would then extend it to four lanes, he said.
Adams used the Garrison Bridge, which is technically two bridges next to each other, as an example of how a bridge could be expanded from two lanes to four.
Gibson said he is "very optimistic" that I-49 will be constructed.
"We have the support of the governor, our legislative delegation, probably a majority of the state legislature. I can’t predict the future, but that’s the plan. The plan is to do it," Gibson said. "We have the funding for it now that’s in place."
https://www.swtimes.com/story/news/2020/12/12/i-49-bridge-and-possible-bridge-reroute-traffic-not-cheap/3868773001/
I would surmise that the Alma to Barling section will be paid for as part of a defense reauthorization bill due to its proximity to Fort Chaffee.
Fort Chaffee will need some sort of "upgrade" and the road money will be buried in there.
I would surmise that the Alma to Barling section will be paid for as part of a defense reauthorization bill due to its proximity to Fort Chaffee.
Fort Chaffee will need some sort of "upgrade" and the road money will be buried in there.
Fort Chaffee isn't a very high priority for the Dept. of Defense. They've tried to shut it down a few times over the past couple of decades now (BRAC, Base Realignment And Closure), but it continues to live on as a training base for the National Guard, with some Canadian troops popping down periodically for some warm weather training. It's actually the reason a good portion of the existing section of I-49 in Barling/Ft. Smith is complete, as they got the land basically donated.
I would surmise that the Alma to Barling section will be paid for as part of a defense reauthorization bill due to its proximity to Fort Chaffee.
Fort Chaffee will need some sort of "upgrade" and the road money will be buried in there.
Fort Chaffee isn't a very high priority for the Dept. of Defense. They've tried to shut it down a few times over the past couple of decades now (BRAC, Base Realignment And Closure), but it continues to live on as a training base for the National Guard, with some Canadian troops popping down periodically for some warm weather training. It's actually the reason a good portion of the existing section of I-49 in Barling/Ft. Smith is complete, as they got the land basically donated.
The section through Fort Chaffee was completed using funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). It was the only segment between Fort Smith and Texarkana that was deemed "shovel ready" and thus met the requirements to get funded.
I'm in agreement on the Arkansas River bridge. Bite the bullet now and build the segment in full. It will be far cheaper now than it will be in 10 to 20 years. Plus it'll be on the back burner after Leslie Rutledge or someone else who is non-NWA is elected the next governor.
Any word on a future highway deal. IMO its imperative for Arkansas to get one passed given both 49 and 57 need to get going and 30 SW of Little Rock needs a total overhaul, and I didn't even mention 69 because its probably 20 years away...
Not only does ADOT have too much on its plate to juggle that project among the more pressing ones, but there appears to be little pressure to advance beyond the 2-lane initial alignment between Monticello and McGehee, which would, for all intents and purposes, be an expandable project to address local needs. The reality is that Shreveport-Memphis is the proverbial "red-headed stepchild" of the I-69 corridor; it'll be dealt with well after more vital stuff is behind the various states' agencies -- if funding happens to be available when that occurs.
Not only does ADOT have too much on its plate to juggle that project among the more pressing ones, but there appears to be little pressure to advance beyond the 2-lane initial alignment between Monticello and McGehee, which would, for all intents and purposes, be an expandable project to address local needs. The reality is that Shreveport-Memphis is the proverbial "red-headed stepchild" of the I-69 corridor; it'll be dealt with well after more vital stuff is behind the various states' agencies -- if funding happens to be available when that occurs.
Yeah I'd say the Arkansas part of 69 is the least important section; traffic wanting to follow the 69 corridor could just use 30, 40, and 49 to get from Memphis to Shreveport. In fact, I feel that that route should be designated Temporary I-69.
I'm curious to see what the incoming federal administration will manage to do regarding roads. There is talk about a big infrastructure project.
I'm curious to see what the incoming federal administration will manage to do regarding roads. There is talk about a big infrastructure project.
We hear this every time a new President comes in, and nothing ever comes of it.
It is infuriating. For some odd reason I do feel like Biden will follow through with it but then again I was sure Trump was going to go big on infrastructure and nothing. Pretty soon we’re going to have major problems.I'm curious to see what the incoming federal administration will manage to do regarding roads. There is talk about a big infrastructure project.
We hear this every time a new President comes in, and nothing ever comes of it.
You noticed that too, huh? It doesn't seem to matter what political party the President is from, either. Same story. They enter office with big infrastructure plans, and then that's the last you ever hear of it.
My idea is do a 10 cent gas tax hike and give every state 1 Billion per electoral vote.
My idea is do a 10 cent gas tax hike and give every state 1 Billion per electoral vote.
Well, with this thread supposedly being about Arkansas specifically... good luck getting the voters in Arkansas to go along with that proposal!
I'm curious to see what the incoming federal administration will manage to do regarding roads. There is talk about a big infrastructure project.
We hear this every time a new President comes in, and nothing ever comes of it.
You noticed that too, huh? It doesn't seem to matter what political party the President is from, either. Same story. They enter office with big infrastructure plans, and then that's the last you ever hear of it.
I'm curious to see what the incoming federal administration will manage to do regarding roads. There is talk about a big infrastructure project.
We hear this every time a new President comes in, and nothing ever comes of it.
You noticed that too, huh? It doesn't seem to matter what political party the President is from, either. Same story. They enter office with big infrastructure plans, and then that's the last you ever hear of it.
That's mostly because the President can plan until they're blue in the face, but the power of the purse is with Congress. And there are enough penny-pinchers in Congress that any sort of project that spends money is laughably impossible.
I'm curious to see what the incoming federal administration will manage to do regarding roads. There is talk about a big infrastructure project.
We hear this every time a new President comes in, and nothing ever comes of it.
You noticed that too, huh? It doesn't seem to matter what political party the President is from, either. Same story. They enter office with big infrastructure plans, and then that's the last you ever hear of it.
That's mostly because the President can plan until they're blue in the face, but the power of the purse is with Congress. And there are enough penny-pinchers in Congress that any sort of project that spends money is laughably impossible.
Yet the same "penny-pinchers" have no problem voting for trillions of dollars in handouts, as we've seen during the past year with COVID-19. Seems hypocritical to me.
Now, earmarks are against the rules, so nobody has any incentive to get things done–you just vote against the infrastructure bill, crow to the poor deluded saps back home that you're "curbing wasteful spending," and hope to God they don't check what you actually voted down.
Quote from: Scott5114Now, earmarks are against the rules, so nobody has any incentive to get things done–you just vote against the infrastructure bill, crow to the poor deluded saps back home that you're "curbing wasteful spending," and hope to God they don't check what you actually voted down.
Getting rid of earmarks turned out to be a really stupid thing. First, the rule has done virtually nothing to slow down ballooning growth of federal debt. And this is prior to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and its stimulus legislation. Earmarks were an easy, "feel good" scapegoat but pretty insignificant compared to much larger drivers of the deficit. Interest on the federal debt is a giant budgetary cost just on its own.
Perhaps the more costly consequence of banning earmarks: it radically inflamed political polarization. There is very little incentive for Republicans and Democrats to work across party lines on anything substantial because very little REAL deal-making can be done. Cooperating across the aisle is now seen as weak or even an act of betrayal. It's easier to preach to the "base" extremists in a partisan echo-chamber. Both sides now play a zero sum game, treating members of the rival party as an enemy. 40 years ago Republicans and Democrats didn't like each other very much, but the tone (at least in public) was substantially more civil.
Quote from: Scott5114Now, earmarks are against the rules, so nobody has any incentive to get things done–you just vote against the infrastructure bill, crow to the poor deluded saps back home that you're "curbing wasteful spending," and hope to God they don't check what you actually voted down.
Getting rid of earmarks turned out to be a really stupid thing. First, the rule has done virtually nothing to slow down ballooning growth of federal debt. And this is prior to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and its stimulus legislation. Earmarks were an easy, "feel good" scapegoat but pretty insignificant compared to much larger drivers of the deficit. Interest on the federal debt is a giant budgetary cost just on its own.
Perhaps the more costly consequence of banning earmarks: it radically inflamed political polarization. There is very little incentive for Republicans and Democrats to work across party lines on anything substantial because very little REAL deal-making can be done. Cooperating across the aisle is now seen as weak or even an act of betrayal. It's easier to preach to the "base" extremists in a partisan echo-chamber. Both sides now play a zero sum game, treating members of the rival party as an enemy. 40 years ago Republicans and Democrats didn't like each other very much, but the tone (at least in public) was substantially more civil.
I can't emphasize how correct this is. I used to work for the OK Legislature and saw first hand how it all worked. Without the pork barrel horse trading, nothing ever got done when the balance was roughly 50-50. I never saw the kind of rhetoric that I see today. Sometimes I despair for our system.
I'd say bring back earmarks, but make them more transparent. The issue before was not so much earmarks themselves, but the corruption surrounding them. Another thing that would help is a constitutional amendment that requires the federal government to enact a full FY budget into law every year, no more of these "continuing appropriations resolutions" that have been running the government more or less for the last 12 years.
Quote from: I-39I'd say bring back earmarks, but make them more transparent. The issue before was not so much earmarks themselves, but the corruption surrounding them. Another thing that would help is a constitutional amendment that requires the federal government to enact a full FY budget into law every year, no more of these "continuing appropriations resolutions" that have been running the government more or less for the last 12 years.
It's exceedingly difficult for congress to pass a straight budget rather than an easier continuing resolution. That's all thanks to the hyper-partisan @$$holes on the far left and far right obstructing the process at any opportunity so they can publicly grand-stand and whore themselves to the gullible idiots in the extremes of their "base."
I'm all for making earmarks more transparent as well. But if we're going to make "transparent" budget reforms in one area it needs to be fiercely targeted to some others.
America's health care industrial complex knows no equal when it comes to corruption and wasting taxpayer money. How many hospitals and clinics in this fake free market system actually advertise any prices? The cost of one specific procedure can change radically from one hospital to the next or even one patient to the next in the same hospital. Let's not forget about all the add-on items that get tucked into a medical bill. I think all that stuff should be made public. Health care is a vital necessity. Yet there are no controls at all over what hospitals and clinics can charge to patients, insurance companies and taxpayers. The runaway costs are making programs like Medicare and Medicaid unsustainable. Meanwhile if a utility company like AEP wants to increase electricity prices for Oklahomans they have to make a case for it in front of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. They can't just push through the price hike.
Higher education is another industry that has been horribly abusing American taxpayers. The cost inflation rate is nearly as bad in that industry as it is in health care. And that's despite many universities, both "public" and "private" getting giant amounts of funding from taxpayers. Costs for attending a decent college have become so absurd that many universities have become increasingly dependent on attracting foreign-born students from parents with deep pockets. What's really bad is so many fields of study aren't worth the cost of the degree. Meanwhile wage levels for non-college skilled trades like mechanics, electricians, plumbers, etc are rising and even shooting past the earnings levels of some degreed fields.
so they can publicly grand-stand and whore themselves to the gullible idiots in the extremes of their "base."
So...back to the roadway itself....is there any activity planned in 2021 to move forward with studies or ROW acquisitions to move the project forward from Texarkana to Fort Smith? Also, what is the plan to connect the segment in Barling to the I-49 / I-40 interchange? That Barling segment seems very out-of-place.
So...back to the roadway itself....is there any activity planned in 2021 to move forward with studies or ROW acquisitions to move the project forward from Texarkana to Fort Smith? Also, what is the plan to connect the segment in Barling to the I-49 / I-40 interchange? That Barling segment seems very out-of-place.
Nothing concrete for either segment at this point until funds come about. Both have been considered for Super-2 after 4 lane ROW acquisition, but I would suspect that bypasses around Waldron, Mena, and DeQueen happen before the Super-2 construction starts, ala Fayetteville. Hope they don't design them in such as way as they need to be rearchitected like Fayetteville's northern one was.
Quote from: I-39
America's health care industrial complex knows no equal when it comes to corruption and wasting taxpayer money. How many hospitals and clinics in this fake free market system actually advertise any prices? The cost of one specific procedure can change radically from one hospital to the next or even one patient to the next in the same hospital. Let's not forget about all the add-on items that get tucked into a medical bill. I think all that stuff should be made public. Health care is a vital necessity. Yet there are no controls at all over what hospitals and clinics can charge to patients, insurance companies and taxpayers. The runaway costs are making programs like Medicare and Medicaid unsustainable. Meanwhile if a utility company like AEP wants to increase electricity prices for Oklahomans they have to make a case for it in front of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. They can't just push through the price hike.
Higher education is another industry that has been horribly abusing American taxpayers. The cost inflation rate is nearly as bad in that industry as it is in health care. And that's despite many universities, both "public" and "private" getting giant amounts of funding from taxpayers. Costs for attending a decent college have become so absurd that many universities have become increasingly dependent on attracting foreign-born students from parents with deep pockets. What's really bad is so many fields of study aren't worth the cost of the degree. Meanwhile wage levels for non-college skilled trades like mechanics, electricians, plumbers, etc are rising and even shooting past the earnings levels of some degreed fields.
Good points. I wish I could say more, but it would venture too off into politics.
ARDOT : building for yesterday, tomorrow .
Not only does ADOT have too much on its plate to juggle that project among the more pressing ones, but there appears to be little pressure to advance beyond the 2-lane initial alignment between Monticello and McGehee, which would, for all intents and purposes, be an expandable project to address local needs. The reality is that Shreveport-Memphis is the proverbial "red-headed stepchild" of the I-69 corridor; it'll be dealt with well after more vital stuff is behind the various states' agencies -- if funding happens to be available when that occurs.
Yeah I'd say the Arkansas part of 69 is the least important section; traffic wanting to follow the 69 corridor could just use 30, 40, and 49 to get from Memphis to Shreveport. In fact, I feel that that route should be designated Temporary I-69.
Having worked with health care (and yes, I am falling off the roadway here), hospitals can't advertise because employer based health care insurance conglomerates negotiate the rates and the contract does not permit them to advertise that rate. That is why you see an EOB with the hospital "cost", then you see a bill with what the insurance paid.Must depend on the state you're in. In Texas, hospitals advertise freely in print and broadcast. In fact they're some of the more lucrative advertisers.
For those without insurance, you *can* call around and ask for a price from different health providers. I know people who have done quite well by it. You ask for the cost first. Then you tell them you are paying cash and you want the cash price. Then you call them back in 48 hours with a competitive price and ask if they can do better.
If you are a hardship case, you can ask for a payment plan. The health care provider has to provide one or they will sell your receivable to a company who specializes in it. If you meet the income requirements, you can get financial aid, just like they do for college.
As for the stuff in your hospital room. You paid for it, its yours. The TP, the jamas, the sheets, just not the bed and if you have one the TV.
Ok, wheels are back over the shoulder now and headed down the road again.
Having worked with health care (and yes, I am falling off the roadway here), hospitals can't advertise because employer based health care insurance conglomerates negotiate the rates and the contract does not permit them to advertise that rate. That is why you see an EOB with the hospital "cost", then you see a bill with what the insurance paid.
For those without insurance, you *can* call around and ask for a price from different health providers. I know people who have done quite well by it. You ask for the cost first. Then you tell them you are paying cash and you want the cash price. Then you call them back in 48 hours with a competitive price and ask if they can do better.
Must depend on the state you're in. In Texas, hospitals advertise freely in print and broadcast. In fact they're some of the more lucrative advertisers.
Quote from: edwaleniHaving worked with health care (and yes, I am falling off the roadway here), hospitals can't advertise because employer based health care insurance conglomerates negotiate the rates and the contract does not permit them to advertise that rate. That is why you see an EOB with the hospital "cost", then you see a bill with what the insurance paid.
For those without insurance, you *can* call around and ask for a price from different health providers. I know people who have done quite well by it. You ask for the cost first. Then you tell them you are paying cash and you want the cash price. Then you call them back in 48 hours with a competitive price and ask if they can do better.
The price difference between what a hospital prints on a bill versus what insurance companies negotiate can be staggering. The insurance companies still pay out a fortune. But the price without insurance is an entirely different magnitude, which (again) varies widely from one medical facility to the next and one patient to the next. Mere individual patients have very little bargaining power to bring down those prices. Individuals have nowhere near the amount of clout as a big insurer. And individuals rarely have a lot of cash just laying around to get a reduced cash price for an emergency medical treatment.
Patients can only call around to compare prices for elective/non-emergency medical procedures. A person can't exactly call around to compare prices if he gets injured in a car accident or thinks me might be about to have a heart attack. But if hospitals and clinics are more publicly open with their pricing and advertise them then that would influence a patient's decision where to go in an emergency.
Last summer I badly injured one of my fingers in a lawn care accident and wound up having to spend a night in the hospital getting pumped with IV antibiotics following orthopedic surgery. I have health insurance through my employer. It's not a great policy, but better than nothing. The full bill was over $30,000. My share to pay was about $8000. I was able to reduce the bill by 30% by paying cash. I was lucky I had a good bit of savings in the bank.
One of my female friends had emergency gall bladder surgery about 2 years ago. She works in retail and is uninsured. She has a high school age son that has some mental disabilities. Her financial situation is not great. Even with some "charity" write-downs she was still stuck with a bill over $60,000. There is no way she'll ever be able to pay off that debt on her own. Nevertheless she gets hounded by collections people all the time. I wouldn't be surprised if the situation has totally trashed her credit rating.Quote from: Road HogMust depend on the state you're in. In Texas, hospitals advertise freely in print and broadcast. In fact they're some of the more lucrative advertisers.
I don't see anything like that in North Texas. Wichita Falls is part of our viewing market.
I don't see anything like that in North Texas. Wichita Falls is part of our viewing market.
For those without insurance, you *can* call around and ask for a price from different health providers. I know people who have done quite well by it. You ask for the cost first. Then you tell them you are paying cash and you want the cash price. Then you call them back in 48 hours with a competitive price and ask if they can do better.
Getting back to I-49 in Arkansas, Google Maps has Satellite images of the construction.
It shows the right of way, but doesn't show the paving. It is however, better than nothing.
(I wonder what the lead time is from the photo being taken to the image being posted on their website...)
https://www.google.com/maps/@36.4901318,-94.3927597,7373m/data=!3m1!1e3
I keep hearing how Arkansas is broke, lol. Hey...here's the Bridge money, lol.
https://talkbusiness.net/2021/02/arkansas-net-available-tax-revenue-surplus-tops-400-million/
I keep hearing how Arkansas is broke, lol. Hey...here's the Bridge money, lol.
https://talkbusiness.net/2021/02/arkansas-net-available-tax-revenue-surplus-tops-400-million/
It can't all go to building the I-49 bridge though.
I keep hearing how Arkansas is broke, lol. Hey...here's the Bridge money, lol.
https://talkbusiness.net/2021/02/arkansas-net-available-tax-revenue-surplus-tops-400-million/
It can't all go to building the I-49 bridge though.
It was a joke but Arkansas is making a habit of running surpluses. Now, even in pandemics.
I keep hearing how Arkansas is broke, lol. Hey...here's the Bridge money, lol.
https://talkbusiness.net/2021/02/arkansas-net-available-tax-revenue-surplus-tops-400-million/
Getting back to I-49 in Arkansas, Google Maps has Satellite images of the construction.
It shows the right of way, but doesn't show the paving. It is however, better than nothing.
(I wonder what the lead time is from the photo being taken to the image being posted on their website...)
https://www.google.com/maps/@36.4901318,-94.3927597,7373m/data=!3m1!1e3
When the imagery taken?
Getting back to I-49 in Arkansas, Google Maps has Satellite images of the construction.
It shows the right of way, but doesn't show the paving. It is however, better than nothing.
(I wonder what the lead time is from the photo being taken to the image being posted on their website...)
https://www.google.com/maps/@36.4901318,-94.3927597,7373m/data=!3m1!1e3
When the imagery taken?
I know for a fact that, although it may state 2021 at the bottom, that it was at least 3 months ago as all of the northbound bridges past the new tie-in are decked, the roadbed prepared along the entire stretch you can currently drive, and there's asphalt base from where you get on AR-549 northbound all the way until the 2nd AR-72 exit and has been for a couple of months now. The image also shows the roundabout still in use. That hasn't been the case since May, so the entire area was likely imaged before May of last year.
ARDOT ... always have more plans then finances.
Getting back to I-49 in Arkansas, Google Maps has Satellite images of the construction.
It shows the right of way, but doesn't show the paving. It is however, better than nothing.
(I wonder what the lead time is from the photo being taken to the image being posted on their website...)
https://www.google.com/maps/@36.4901318,-94.3927597,7373m/data=!3m1!1e3
When the imagery taken?
I know for a fact that, although it may state 2021 at the bottom, that it was at least 3 months ago as all of the northbound bridges past the new tie-in are decked, the roadbed prepared along the entire stretch you can currently drive, and there's asphalt base from where you get on AR-549 northbound all the way until the 2nd AR-72 exit and has been for a couple of months now. The image also shows the roundabout still in use. That hasn't been the case since May, so the entire area was likely imaged before May of last year.
My last visit was in July and the lanes north of the current terminus were being paved.
https://flic.kr/p/2jpPg2a
So after Bella Vista is done, my guess is that they'll focus on building south of Fort Smith, even if it's in small increments. Hey, better than nothing...
So after Bella Vista is done, my guess is that they'll focus on building south of Fort Smith, even if it's in small increments. Hey, better than nothing...
IF they can get the Arkansas River Bridge built.
So after Bella Vista is done, my guess is that they'll focus on building south of Fort Smith, even if it's in small increments. Hey, better than nothing...
IF they can get the Arkansas River Bridge built.
Even so, ArDOT might decide to go for some of the low-hanging fruit between Texarkana and Fort Smith, such as bypasses around some of the larger towns along the way. I would surmise they would take the same approach they've taken in other places: initially build the bypasses out to 2 lanes, and then expand to 4 lanes later on when additional funding becomes available.
I figure construction on the bridge will be announced before ASA! leaves office. I also figure that the west end of the 412 bypass/access road to XNA gets green lit as soon as Bella Vista wraps up this will magically include it stretching eastward to US 71B as well. If traffic snaps back quick after Covid, XNA's ambitious expansion should be wrapping up 2025/2026. They want up to 26 gates.
I figure construction on the bridge will be announced before ASA! leaves office. I also figure that the west end of the 412 bypass/access road to XNA gets green lit as soon as Bella Vista wraps up this will magically include it stretching eastward to US 71B as well. If traffic snaps back quick after Covid, XNA's ambitious expansion should be wrapping up 2025/2026. They want up to 26 gates.
I've seen a diagram showing a connection to 71B, but don't remember if it entirely a new road or an extension of something already there. Theoretically, 264 could be straightened and widened.
I figure construction on the bridge will be announced before ASA! leaves office. I also figure that the west end of the 412 bypass/access road to XNA gets green lit as soon as Bella Vista wraps up this will magically include it stretching eastward to US 71B as well. If traffic snaps back quick after Covid, XNA's ambitious expansion should be wrapping up 2025/2026. They want up to 26 gates.
I've seen a diagram showing a connection to 71B, but don't remember if it entirely a new road or an extension of something already there. Theoretically, 264 could be straightened and widened.
XNA with 26 gates? That has to be a joke.
But the land around it is getting developed pretty quick.
I still remember laughing when I drove through Cave Springs to get to the airport. My cousin was like "are you sure its out here?"
I figure construction on the bridge will be announced before ASA! leaves office. I also figure that the west end of the 412 bypass/access road to XNA gets green lit as soon as Bella Vista wraps up this will magically include it stretching eastward to US 71B as well. If traffic snaps back quick after Covid, XNA's ambitious expansion should be wrapping up 2025/2026. They want up to 26 gates.
I've seen a diagram showing a connection to 71B, but don't remember if it entirely a new road or an extension of something already there. Theoretically, 264 could be straightened and widened.
XNA with 26 gates? That has to be a joke.
But the land around it is getting developed pretty quick.
I still remember laughing when I drove through Cave Springs to get to the airport. My cousin was like "are you sure its out here?"
Land was cheap.
I figure construction on the bridge will be announced before ASA! leaves office. I also figure that the west end of the 412 bypass/access road to XNA gets green lit as soon as Bella Vista wraps up this will magically include it stretching eastward to US 71B as well. If traffic snaps back quick after Covid, XNA's ambitious expansion should be wrapping up 2025/2026. They want up to 26 gates.
I've seen a diagram showing a connection to 71B, but don't remember if it entirely a new road or an extension of something already there. Theoretically, 264 could be straightened and widened.
XNA with 26 gates? That has to be a joke.
But the land around it is getting developed pretty quick.
I still remember laughing when I drove through Cave Springs to get to the airport. My cousin was like "are you sure its out here?"
I'm still waiting to see what new projects they will select for the next round of the CAP. I haven't heard anything since November when the ballot measure passed.
Yes. There’s no sunset on that half cent sales tax now.I'm still waiting to see what new projects they will select for the next round of the CAP. I haven't heard anything since November when the ballot measure passed.
That vote made Arkansas' transportation sales tax permanent. Is that correct?
And... I could see Allegiant making it a base like they have Knoxville and Des Moines. Check out the frequencies to Nashville and Destin this summer from XNA (see apron space)
I figure construction on the bridge will be announced before ASA! leaves office. I also figure that the west end of the 412 bypass/access road to XNA gets green lit as soon as Bella Vista wraps up this will magically include it stretching eastward to US 71B as well. If traffic snaps back quick after Covid, XNA's ambitious expansion should be wrapping up 2025/2026. They want up to 26 gates.
I've seen a diagram showing a connection to 71B, but don't remember if it entirely a new road or an extension of something already there. Theoretically, 264 could be straightened and widened.
XNA with 26 gates? That has to be a joke.
But the land around it is getting developed pretty quick.
I still remember laughing when I drove through Cave Springs to get to the airport. My cousin was like "are you sure its out here?"
Land was cheap.
Won't be that way for too long anywhere in that area. Projections show as many as many as a million people in Benton and Washington Counties by mid-century.
Air travel totally sucks anymore. The experience isn't any better than riding on an old Greyhound bus. It's just a lot more expensive for all the nickle and dime fees they pile on to that "low" ticket price.
Air travel totally sucks anymore. The experience isn't any better than riding on an old Greyhound bus. It's just a lot more expensive for all the nickle and dime fees they pile on to that "low" ticket price.
It's all about the time savings.
And... I could see Allegiant making it a base like they have Knoxville and Des Moines. Check out the frequencies to Nashville and Destin this summer from XNA (see apron space)
Don't be fooled by Allegiant Air. They only have 3 "hubs". Las Vegas, Orlando Sanford and Tampa St Pete.
If you mean by "hub" in that they serve more than 1 destination, that would be about a third of the cities they serve and in many of those, they are the only provider or 1 of 2.
Allegiant is designed to pick up their tent and leave quickly when required, which they do often. They are strictly a point to point operator and provide no connections.
XNA is fortunate in that Allegiant serves both the west and the south vacation spots. But they arrive and leave at different intervals to keep the gate costs down.
St Louis-MidAmerica (Belleville) is a 2 gate airport only served by Allegiant and they produce way more landings there than they do at XNA. And Allegiant would leave that location at the drop of a hat if they had to.
My benefit with XNA is that they have a rental car exchange agreement with Springfield-Branson. You can fly into XNA and leave via Springfield and they won't dump a drop charge on you.
Lastly, with Allegiant, they charge you a web booking fee when using the online store. A fee that can only be avoided if you buy your ticket from a gate agent in advance at any desk Allegiant staffs (if you can catch them at the right time). But watch those gate agents try and squirm out of selling you a ticket for a future flight. They are trained to avoid selling you a future ticket at all costs. Even saying they can't do it (they can). They go to great lengths to get that ticket price appear low.
Air travel totally sucks anymore. The experience isn't any better than riding on an old Greyhound bus. It's just a lot more expensive for all the nickle and dime fees they pile on to that "low" ticket price.
It's all about the time savings.
Which explains why XNA is so expensive. Flying to Tulsa and renting a car is actually cheaper
My wife is from NW Arkansas. She wants to get back there. I've started spying homes on Realtor & Zillow. Properties are moving fast. Makes me wonder how sustainable the growth is and if the infrastructure plans can keep up with the growth.
Is there any movement on upgrading 412 corridor to a freeway? Oklahoma also needs to get its ass in gear and upgrade their portion to a freeway from Tulsa to Arkansas state line. Arkansas needs to at least connect that with a freeway to I-49.
*if* Tulsa ever gets it act together along with Oklahoma and decent growth happens in the metro NWA will have no choice to build some kind of East to west freeway connection from 412 in Oklahoma to I-49. Arkansas is dropping the ball big time on this. If they don’t that area will become notorious for bad traffic by 2050.Is there any movement on upgrading 412 corridor to a freeway? Oklahoma also needs to get its ass in gear and upgrade their portion to a freeway from Tulsa to Arkansas state line. Arkansas needs to at least connect that with a freeway to I-49.
No plans to do anything further with US-412 other than completing the Springdale Bypass and a future Harrison Bypass and sporadic climb lanes across the state. They blew the only reasonable shot of doing a limited access facility when they 6 laned US-412 through Siloam Springs rather than bypass it to the north like they should have. Now it's developing that direction, and the terrain to the south with the Illinois River and all of the creeks and hollows that empty into it would be rather rough going.
*if* Tulsa ever gets it act together along with Oklahoma and decent growth happens in the metro NWA will have no choice to build some kind of East to west freeway connection from 412 in Oklahoma to I-49. Arkansas is dropping the ball big time on this. If they don’t that area will become notorious for bad traffic by 2050.Is there any movement on upgrading 412 corridor to a freeway? Oklahoma also needs to get its ass in gear and upgrade their portion to a freeway from Tulsa to Arkansas state line. Arkansas needs to at least connect that with a freeway to I-49.
No plans to do anything further with US-412 other than completing the Springdale Bypass and a future Harrison Bypass and sporadic climb lanes across the state. They blew the only reasonable shot of doing a limited access facility when they 6 laned US-412 through Siloam Springs rather than bypass it to the north like they should have. Now it's developing that direction, and the terrain to the south with the Illinois River and all of the creeks and hollows that empty into it would be rather rough going.
My wife is from NW Arkansas. She wants to get back there. I've started spying homes on Realtor & Zillow. Properties are moving fast. Makes me wonder how sustainable the growth is and if the infrastructure plans can keep up with the growth.
The downtowns and around Beaver Lake/White River get snapped up almost as quick as they are posted, unless they are asking well above Zillow's estimate. If you're looking to come here, I recommend sooner rather than later. Area is becoming a tourist mecca for mountain biking, so it's not just Wal-Mart/Tyson/JB Hunt anymore, although their money is what's funding the amenities to draw in the younger workforce. The growth has been consistent and has accelerated over the last 10 years. No end in sight. Infrastructure keeping up is certainly a real concern. The streets of pretty much all of the cities up here are terrible with all of the trenching and patching for utility work.
EXIT 284
County RD 34
Highlands Rd (One sign says Highlands Blvd.)
EXIT 284
County RD 34
Highlands Rd (One sign says Highlands Blvd.)
284? OSM has that exit shown as 289, while 284 is the first interchange with AR-72.
Air travel totally sucks anymore. The experience isn't any better than riding on an old Greyhound bus. It's just a lot more expensive for all the nickle and dime fees they pile on to that "low" ticket price.
It's all about the time savings.
Which explains why XNA is so expensive. Flying to Tulsa and renting a car is actually cheaper
Not so much on a connecting flight, only on direct flights and you are talking to someone that flys Southwest a lot from Tulsa. New York and Chicago from XNA was cheap. Kinda like Denver from TUL due to United and Southwest.
My son and I are looking at going to LA for in the fall for Hollywood Haunted Nights at Universal because our trip last fall was Covided. On our dates as of right now for Nonstop on AA from XNA is 35 bucks per passenger cheaper than it is from Tulsa $252 to $287 on the same equipment(E175).
Air travel totally sucks anymore. The experience isn't any better than riding on an old Greyhound bus. It's just a lot more expensive for all the nickle and dime fees they pile on to that "low" ticket price.
It's all about the time savings.
Which explains why XNA is so expensive. Flying to Tulsa and renting a car is actually cheaper
Not so much on a connecting flight, only on direct flights and you are talking to someone that flys Southwest a lot from Tulsa. New York and Chicago from XNA was cheap. Kinda like Denver from TUL due to United and Southwest.
My son and I are looking at going to LA for in the fall for Hollywood Haunted Nights at Universal because our trip last fall was Covided. On our dates as of right now for Nonstop on AA from XNA is 35 bucks per passenger cheaper than it is from Tulsa $252 to $287 on the same equipment(E175).
Southwest needs to get to XNA ASAP. With all their recent adds, it’s got to be a low hanging fruit.
Air travel totally sucks anymore. The experience isn't any better than riding on an old Greyhound bus. It's just a lot more expensive for all the nickle and dime fees they pile on to that "low" ticket price.
It's all about the time savings.
Which explains why XNA is so expensive. Flying to Tulsa and renting a car is actually cheaper
Not so much on a connecting flight, only on direct flights and you are talking to someone that flys Southwest a lot from Tulsa. New York and Chicago from XNA was cheap. Kinda like Denver from TUL due to United and Southwest.
My son and I are looking at going to LA for in the fall for Hollywood Haunted Nights at Universal because our trip last fall was Covided. On our dates as of right now for Nonstop on AA from XNA is 35 bucks per passenger cheaper than it is from Tulsa $252 to $287 on the same equipment(E175).
Southwest needs to get to XNA ASAP. With all their recent adds, it’s got to be a low hanging fruit.
They easily have 7 daily flights on their 737-800s just sitting there with the connections they offer. 7 seems to be the minimum Southwest wants to start a station.
EXIT 284
County RD 34
Highlands Rd (One sign says Highlands Blvd.)
284? OSM has that exit shown as 289, while 284 is the first interchange with AR-72.
Couldn't read my handwriting.
Speaking of the airport, I found this page for the XNA Access Road: https://xnaaccess.transportationplanroom.com/
Looks like they already have a preferred alternative, according to the video at https://xnaaccess.transportationplanroom.com/introduction-video. Estimated cost of $85.6 million.
Air travel totally sucks anymore. The experience isn't any better than riding on an old Greyhound bus. It's just a lot more expensive for all the nickle and dime fees they pile on to that "low" ticket price.
It's all about the time savings.
Which explains why XNA is so expensive. Flying to Tulsa and renting a car is actually cheaper
Not so much on a connecting flight, only on direct flights and you are talking to someone that flys Southwest a lot from Tulsa. New York and Chicago from XNA was cheap. Kinda like Denver from TUL due to United and Southwest.
My son and I are looking at going to LA for in the fall for Hollywood Haunted Nights at Universal because our trip last fall was Covided. On our dates as of right now for Nonstop on AA from XNA is 35 bucks per passenger cheaper than it is from Tulsa $252 to $287 on the same equipment(E175).
Southwest needs to get to XNA ASAP. With all their recent adds, it’s got to be a low hanging fruit.
They easily have 7 daily flights on their 737-800s just sitting there with the connections they offer. 7 seems to be the minimum Southwest wants to start a station.
I could see BWI, BNA, MDW, DEN and DAL started easily.
Maybe it’s a pipe dream but what isn’t is a real traffic issue resulting from no freeway. They should at the very least secure ROW and lease out any homes and businesses until they become closer to being shovel ready.
Haven’t driven it but I did see that on Google maps. It would be nice to see tolls removed but if tolls are what gets it built then I’m all for it as long as a non tolled road parallels it. Oklahoma seems to be fine as long as West Siloam Springs doesn’t see some kind of an unexpected development boom.Maybe it’s a pipe dream but what isn’t is a real traffic issue resulting from no freeway. They should at the very least secure ROW and lease out any homes and businesses until they become closer to being shovel ready.
PluPan, you do know the Cherokee Turnpike was built from just east of Chouteau to about 10 miles west of Siloam Springs. The part between the turnpike end and about 2 miles from the State line could easily be made into a freeway as it was built on a new alignment in the late 70's. Same goes for 412 from Catoosa to the western end of the turnpike. Easy upgrade. They already have interchanges at OK88 (Inola) and US69 (Chouteau). However, ODOT is moving slower than a snail in upgrading.
Speaking of the airport, I found this page for the XNA Access Road: https://xnaaccess.transportationplanroom.com/
Looks like they already have a preferred alternative, according to the video at https://xnaaccess.transportationplanroom.com/introduction-video. Estimated cost of $85.6 million.
We agree that DAL and DEN are no brainers. I know that Southwest flys STL over MDW from Tulsa, Wichita and Little Rock. MDW would be a nice difference in the middle of those two but leads me to believe it would be STL. As for the Southeast, ATL actually offers a few more southeastern connections than BNA at moment. Southwest has been growing ATL recently but either would suffice. I don't see BWI from the start but in time. I believe XNA would get either PHX or LAS as well based on TUL, ICT and LIT patterns. I can see Houston Hobby as a year round or seasonal route due to the Latin America connectionsand Orlando Sat only service be nice but neither LIT ot TUL has that, so it's a longshot.
As just an observation, Southwest either needs to buyout Alaska or add Anchorage to their map as well.
Getting back to I-49 in Arkansas, Google Maps has Satellite images of the construction.
It shows the right of way, but doesn't show the paving. It is however, better than nothing.
(I wonder what the lead time is from the photo being taken to the image being posted on their website...)
https://www.google.com/maps/@36.4901318,-94.3927597,7373m/data=!3m1!1e3
Edit: If you work your way south on future I-49, Google also has shots of the construction of the new Northbound lanes for I-49 almost all the way to the US-71 interchange. Not much imagery of the interchange construction itself, however.
From CR 34 (current terminus) north, it appears fully paved and much of the signage is in place, I almost drove it, but didn't want to get caught. :pan:
Getting back to I-49 in Arkansas, Google Maps has Satellite images of the construction.
It shows the right of way, but doesn't show the paving. It is however, better than nothing.
(I wonder what the lead time is from the photo being taken to the image being posted on their website...)
https://www.google.com/maps/@36.4901318,-94.3927597,7373m/data=!3m1!1e3
Edit: If you work your way south on future I-49, Google also has shots of the construction of the new Northbound lanes for I-49 almost all the way to the US-71 interchange. Not much imagery of the interchange construction itself, however.
Checked on Google Earth Pro, which is the same view, and the date is 3/4/2020, so almost a year old at this point. Much has been done since then. Google really needs more than annual refreshes in this area or it's almost useless with the rate of development.
Getting back to I-49 in Arkansas, Google Maps has Satellite images of the construction.
It shows the right of way, but doesn't show the paving. It is however, better than nothing.
(I wonder what the lead time is from the photo being taken to the image being posted on their website...)
https://www.google.com/maps/@36.4901318,-94.3927597,7373m/data=!3m1!1e3
Edit: If you work your way south on future I-49, Google also has shots of the construction of the new Northbound lanes for I-49 almost all the way to the US-71 interchange. Not much imagery of the interchange construction itself, however.
Checked on Google Earth Pro, which is the same view, and the date is 3/4/2020, so almost a year old at this point. Much has been done since then. Google really needs more than annual refreshes in this area or it's almost useless with the rate of development.
I wish Google would update more often, but it’s hard to get every area of the country annually.
The total project is expected to cost $85.6 million, which includes $5.8 million for right-of-way acquisition, English said. The Arkansas Highway Commission recently released the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program for 2021-2024, and it shows project development would be funded in federal fiscal year 2023, which starts Oct. 1, 2022. Project development for the 3.6-mile project would cost a total of $11 million, according to the program.
The overall project is expected to be paid for with receipts from the half-cent sales tax that voters permanently extended in November. Also, XNA has about $14 million in federal money reserved for the project, English said.
(https://i.prcdn.co/img?regionKey=J8ZeLiSH6hvjvO4SUVBaCA%3D%3D)
Low resolution, but you get the idea.
(https://i.prcdn.co/img?regionKey=J8ZeLiSH6hvjvO4SUVBaCA%3D%3D)
Low resolution, but you get the idea.
Has it started to take shape yet from what you can see on the ground?
I’m wondering now which end will get done first, the Missouri end or the Arkansas end?
I think the Highway between the ends of the project will be ready well before the two US 71 interchanges...
I’m wondering now which end will get done first, the Missouri end or the Arkansas end?
I think the Highway between the ends of the project will be ready well before the two US 71 interchanges...
I vote Arkansas. Even though the exit with US-71 is large, they were simply farther along with their planning and engineering than Missouri was when the money dropped in their lap.
I’m wondering now which end will get done first, the Missouri end or the Arkansas end?
I think the Highway between the ends of the project will be ready well before the two US 71 interchanges...
I vote Arkansas. Even though the exit with US-71 is large, they were simply farther along with their planning and engineering than Missouri was when the money dropped in their lap.
I’m wondering now which end will get done first, the Missouri end or the Arkansas end?
I think the Highway between the ends of the project will be ready well before the two US 71 interchanges...
I vote Arkansas. Even though the exit with US-71 is large, they were simply farther along with their planning and engineering than Missouri was when the money dropped in their lap.
Theoretically, they are supposed to finish around the same time.
I just checked MoDOT's website: https://www.modot.org/i-49-missouriarkansas-connector
They are saying completion is scheduled for Sept. 30, 2021
I'm sure if the weather continues to be relatively mild, it may be sooner.
I just checked MoDOT's website: https://www.modot.org/i-49-missouriarkansas-connector
They are saying completion is scheduled for Sept. 30, 2021
I'm sure if the weather continues to be relatively mild, it may be sooner.
It would be nice if they had some progress photos on their website. Also, not sure how much impact to the construction schedule February's "polar vortex" had on completing I-49. A lot of construction activity couldn't happen with subfreezing temperatures and snow.
I’m wondering now which end will get done first, the Missouri end or the Arkansas end?
I think the Highway between the ends of the project will be ready well before the two US 71 interchanges...
I vote Arkansas. Even though the exit with US-71 is large, they were simply farther along with their planning and engineering than Missouri was when the money dropped in their lap.
Theoretically, they are supposed to finish around the same time.
If Missouri builds from the border north and does the US-71 ramps last and Arkansas finishes their ramps last, then yes, I could see this happening. But I still think ArDOT will finish their ramps before Missouri does.
Either way, they can't open the route until both are done anyway.
The same contractor is doing Arkansas and Missouri, other than the interchange in Bentonville. The Arkansas side will be likely see more headway as that contractor started on the Arkansas side first before Missouri was gifted with their funding. Now that doesn't mean that they can't pull another crew in to work from the north southward, but I can't see them pulling the crew they have in Arkansas working until they get to a logical stopping place for that phase of the work to move into Missouri.
The same contractor is doing Arkansas and Missouri, other than the interchange in Bentonville. The Arkansas side will be likely see more headway as that contractor started on the Arkansas side first before Missouri was gifted with their funding. Now that doesn't mean that they can't pull another crew in to work from the north southward, but I can't see them pulling the crew they have in Arkansas working until they get to a logical stopping place for that phase of the work to move into Missouri.
I'm sure they have plenty of manpower for both projects plus several others.
The same contractor is doing Arkansas and Missouri, other than the interchange in Bentonville. The Arkansas side will be likely see more headway as that contractor started on the Arkansas side first before Missouri was gifted with their funding. Now that doesn't mean that they can't pull another crew in to work from the north southward, but I can't see them pulling the crew they have in Arkansas working until they get to a logical stopping place for that phase of the work to move into Missouri.
I'm sure they have plenty of manpower for both projects plus several others.
Yeah I would think they would. Along with the I-49 projects, they're currently working on the I-70 Climbing Lanes project. I believe they were also the contractor on the I-70/I-435 interchange and the I-44 Bridges project in SW Missouri that were completed last year.
The same contractor is doing Arkansas and Missouri, other than the interchange in Bentonville. The Arkansas side will be likely see more headway as that contractor started on the Arkansas side first before Missouri was gifted with their funding. Now that doesn't mean that they can't pull another crew in to work from the north southward, but I can't see them pulling the crew they have in Arkansas working until they get to a logical stopping place for that phase of the work to move into Missouri.
I'm sure they have plenty of manpower for both projects plus several others.
Yeah I would think they would. Along with the I-49 projects, they're currently working on the I-70 Climbing Lanes project. I believe they were also the contractor on the I-70/I-435 interchange and the I-44 Bridges project in SW Missouri that were completed last year.
APAC is a large company They've been around seemingly forever.
The same contractor is doing Arkansas and Missouri, other than the interchange in Bentonville. The Arkansas side will be likely see more headway as that contractor started on the Arkansas side first before Missouri was gifted with their funding. Now that doesn't mean that they can't pull another crew in to work from the north southward, but I can't see them pulling the crew they have in Arkansas working until they get to a logical stopping place for that phase of the work to move into Missouri.
I'm sure they have plenty of manpower for both projects plus several others.
Yeah I would think they would. Along with the I-49 projects, they're currently working on the I-70 Climbing Lanes project. I believe they were also the contractor on the I-70/I-435 interchange and the I-44 Bridges project in SW Missouri that were completed last year.
APAC is a large company They've been around seemingly forever.
Oh I was thinking it was Emery Sapp and Sons. They won the Missouri Bella Vista Bypass project so when I saw that they were doing the Arkansas side, I thought it was them.
Why are climbing lanes needed on I-70 in Missouri? I figured no climbing lanes would've been needed anywhere between Denver and Breezewood.
Why are climbing lanes needed on I-70 in Missouri? I figured no climbing lanes would've been needed anywhere between Denver and Breezewood.
There are climbing lanes on I-470 though?Why are climbing lanes needed on I-70 in Missouri? I figured no climbing lanes would've been needed anywhere between Denver and Breezewood.
The fact that there are no climbing lanes on I-470 near the Ohio River is nothing less than surprising to me.
Arkansas: almost finished on its side of the BVB "Arkansas-Missouri connector".
Missouri expects the entire project to be complete by the end of September, this year. :wow:
Dig the video footage (with new signage on the Arkansas side, just south of the line).: https://www.4029tv.com/article/missouri-portion-of-bella-vista-bypass-on-schedule/35906021
^
The design plans for the Missouri portion of the project did indicate a narrow median from the state line to I-49. This is reasonable, given the terrain in the area.
^
The design plans for the Missouri portion of the project did indicate a narrow median from the state line to I-49. This is reasonable, given the terrain in the area.
So do those design plans have cable barriers in the median then? I don't know how to read these design plans otherwise I'd look for myself.
EDIT: I guess I answered my own question. I found this on the project site: https://www.modot.org/sites/default/files/documents/Typical%20Section.pdf. It looks like a concrete barrier in the median.
It’ll probably be posted at 70 mph in Missouri. As for Arkansas, 70 or 75 mph, depends what they go for north of Bentonville.
It’ll probably be posted at 70 mph in Missouri. As for Arkansas, 70 or 75 mph, depends what they go for north of Bentonville.
70mph in Arkansas.
https://www.4029tv.com/article/missouri-portion-of-bella-vista-bypass-on-schedule/35906021
@ 1:05, you can clearly see an already posted 70mph sign.
That makes sense, the area could probably be 75 mph, but considering it's not much of a distance between the urban segment in Bentonville and Missouri, where the speed limit is capped at 70 mph, they probably did not want a variability in speed limit (70 mph -> 75 mph -> 70 mph) and decided to keep it uniform throughout. If Missouri ever goes to 75 mph, I could see Arkansas I-49 north of US-71 being increased to 75 mph as well.It’ll probably be posted at 70 mph in Missouri. As for Arkansas, 70 or 75 mph, depends what they go for north of Bentonville.
70mph in Arkansas.
https://www.4029tv.com/article/missouri-portion-of-bella-vista-bypass-on-schedule/35906021
@ 1:05, you can clearly see an already posted 70mph sign.
Can we get IH 49 (between Ft Smith and Texarkana built in segments like IH 22 was built in NW Alabama? Im guessing that is the best route to go fundingwise? With that said, land clearing should have started 10+ years ago
That makes sense, the area could probably be 75 mph, but considering it's not much of a distance between the urban segment in Bentonville and Missouri, where the speed limit is capped at 70 mph, they probably did not want a variability in speed limit (70 mph -> 75 mph -> 70 mph) and decided to keep it uniform throughout. If Missouri ever goes to 75 mph, I could see Arkansas I-49 north of US-71 being increased to 75 mph as well.It’ll probably be posted at 70 mph in Missouri. As for Arkansas, 70 or 75 mph, depends what they go for north of Bentonville.
70mph in Arkansas.
https://www.4029tv.com/article/missouri-portion-of-bella-vista-bypass-on-schedule/35906021
@ 1:05, you can clearly see an already posted 70mph sign.
Can we get IH 49 (between Ft Smith and Texarkana built in segments like IH 22 was built in NW Alabama? Im guessing that is the best route to go fundingwise? With that said, land clearing should have started 10+ years ago
Can we get IH 49 (between Ft Smith and Texarkana built in segments like IH 22 was built in NW Alabama? Im guessing that is the best route to go fundingwise? With that said, land clearing should have started 10+ years ago
There were a few I-49 projects that were listed as potential projects for the next round of the Connecting Arkansas program. But they were only for two lanes and I don't know which projects got selected.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/12408_29_01_20_5_30_10.jpeg)
That makes sense, the area could probably be 75 mph, but considering it's not much of a distance between the urban segment in Bentonville and Missouri, where the speed limit is capped at 70 mph, they probably did not want a variability in speed limit (70 mph -> 75 mph -> 70 mph) and decided to keep it uniform throughout. If Missouri ever goes to 75 mph, I could see Arkansas I-49 north of US-71 being increased to 75 mph as well.It’ll probably be posted at 70 mph in Missouri. As for Arkansas, 70 or 75 mph, depends what they go for north of Bentonville.
70mph in Arkansas.
https://www.4029tv.com/article/missouri-portion-of-bella-vista-bypass-on-schedule/35906021
@ 1:05, you can clearly see an already posted 70mph sign.
That's what I figure as well. I can't help but think this northern portion that Arkansas is doing right now will have to be redone in 12-15 years as it appears as though it's asphalt rather than concrete like the lanes that were done prior to now. I'm also wondering how much of the northbound lanes they're working on now will actually be surfaced in concrete to match the current Super-2 southbound lanes.
That makes sense, the area could probably be 75 mph, but considering it's not much of a distance between the urban segment in Bentonville and Missouri, where the speed limit is capped at 70 mph, they probably did not want a variability in speed limit (70 mph -> 75 mph -> 70 mph) and decided to keep it uniform throughout. If Missouri ever goes to 75 mph, I could see Arkansas I-49 north of US-71 being increased to 75 mph as well.It’ll probably be posted at 70 mph in Missouri. As for Arkansas, 70 or 75 mph, depends what they go for north of Bentonville.
70mph in Arkansas.
https://www.4029tv.com/article/missouri-portion-of-bella-vista-bypass-on-schedule/35906021
@ 1:05, you can clearly see an already posted 70mph sign.
That's what I figure as well. I can't help but think this northern portion that Arkansas is doing right now will have to be redone in 12-15 years as it appears as though it's asphalt rather than concrete like the lanes that were done prior to now. I'm also wondering how much of the northbound lanes they're working on now will actually be surfaced in concrete to match the current Super-2 southbound lanes.
75 to 79 mph will be the standard for the half that know the Troopers won't bother you for up to 9 over in this state. I have over 25 years of driving back and forth to know this fact. I also know most still won't go over 80 in the 75mph zones, most that do are out of staters.
That makes sense, the area could probably be 75 mph, but considering it's not much of a distance between the urban segment in Bentonville and Missouri, where the speed limit is capped at 70 mph, they probably did not want a variability in speed limit (70 mph -> 75 mph -> 70 mph) and decided to keep it uniform throughout. If Missouri ever goes to 75 mph, I could see Arkansas I-49 north of US-71 being increased to 75 mph as well.It’ll probably be posted at 70 mph in Missouri. As for Arkansas, 70 or 75 mph, depends what they go for north of Bentonville.
70mph in Arkansas.
https://www.4029tv.com/article/missouri-portion-of-bella-vista-bypass-on-schedule/35906021
@ 1:05, you can clearly see an already posted 70mph sign.
That's what I figure as well. I can't help but think this northern portion that Arkansas is doing right now will have to be redone in 12-15 years as it appears as though it's asphalt rather than concrete like the lanes that were done prior to now. I'm also wondering how much of the northbound lanes they're working on now will actually be surfaced in concrete to match the current Super-2 southbound lanes.
Took these pictures a couple of days ago to show the latest progress on the northern end of Arkansas' portion.
Rocky Dell Hollow exit northbound (https://app.photobucket.com/u/mttrace05/a/2dd33b0f-e66b-4503-8a17-25834896458a/p/abaafc9d-d278-4716-910b-74ff2b663c12)
Rocky Dell Hollow exit southbound (https://app.photobucket.com/u/mttrace05/a/2dd33b0f-e66b-4503-8a17-25834896458a/p/212b1b4e-6604-4504-becc-68514a7623aa)
Are they going to re-number the exits along I-49 between I-40 and Bella Vista when the bypass opens?
Are they going to re-number the exits along I-49 between I-40 and Bella Vista when the bypass opens?
I would assume so, since all the exits on AR-549 currently use the new mileage and don't continue the old mileage.
Are they going to re-number the exits along I-49 between I-40 and Bella Vista when the bypass opens?
I would assume so, since all the exits on AR-549 currently use the new mileage and don't continue the old mileage.
And then I would presume the focus shifts to getting the Texarkana to Fort Smith section done after they open the Bella Vista Bypass. Well, assuming it takes 40 years to complete the stretch between Texarkana and Fort Smith, I might still be alive--but well into my 80s--when it's finished. unfortunately, in its current form, Biden's infrastructure plan doesn't bear a lot of good news for big road projects like finishing I-49 and I-69.
A western bypass near Little Rock??? Tease Me? And why is that necessary? 640 can handle enough traffic as it stands now, IMO. Then again I'm curious to see if there has been growth there in population?
A western bypass near Little Rock??? Tease Me? And why is that necessary? 640 can handle enough traffic as it stands now, IMO. Then again I'm curious to see if there has been growth there in population?
They've been fighting over the western bypass of Little Rock (extension of I/AR-440 to meet I-40/I-430 west of Little Rock) for as long as I can remember. Ten years ago I was stationed at Little Rock AFB, and the newspapers then had articles detailing that fight. The Army has long opposed the I-440 concept as it would cut through Camp Roberts.
I kinda forgot completing US-67/Future I-57 to Missouri, but I think you're right in that is closer to getting done than the unbuilt sections of I-49 or I-69. Once the last substandard section through Jacksonville is rebuilt and widened, then they'll focus on finishing the road between Walnut Ridge and Missouri.
A western bypass near Little Rock??? Tease Me? And why is that necessary? 640 can handle enough traffic as it stands now, IMO. Then again I'm curious to see if there has been growth there in population?
They've been fighting over the western bypass of Little Rock (extension of I/AR-440 to meet I-40/I-430 west of Little Rock) for as long as I can remember. Ten years ago I was stationed at Little Rock AFB, and the newspapers then had articles detailing that fight. The Army has long opposed the I-440 concept as it would cut through Camp Roberts.
I kinda forgot completing US-67/Future I-57 to Missouri, but I think you're right in that is closer to getting done than the unbuilt sections of I-49 or I-69. Once the last substandard section through Jacksonville is rebuilt and widened, then they'll focus on finishing the road between Walnut Ridge and Missouri.
Camp Roberts? Lol.
You mean like a big loop between Conway and Benton? I might be for that, but the hilly terrain west of Little Rock would make it tough.Are they going to re-number the exits along I-49 between I-40 and Bella Vista when the bypass opens?
I would assume so, since all the exits on AR-549 currently use the new mileage and don't continue the old mileage.
And then I would presume the focus shifts to getting the Texarkana to Fort Smith section done after they open the Bella Vista Bypass. Well, assuming it takes 40 years to complete the stretch between Texarkana and Fort Smith, I might still be alive--but well into my 80s--when it's finished. unfortunately, in its current form, Biden's infrastructure plan doesn't bear a lot of good news for big road projects like finishing I-49 and I-69.
Doubtful (IMO). There are plans for extending AR 612 (the 412 Bypass) and XNA south access road. NW Arkansas and Central Arkansas get the lion's share of highway money,
There's focus on US 67/I-57 in Central Arkansas plus talk of a western bypass near Little Rock.
Are they going to re-number the exits along I-49 between I-40 and Bella Vista when the bypass opens?
I would assume so, since all the exits on AR-549 currently use the new mileage and don't continue the old mileage.
You mean like a big loop between Conway and Benton? I might be for that, but the hilly terrain west of Little Rock would make it tough.Are they going to re-number the exits along I-49 between I-40 and Bella Vista when the bypass opens?
I would assume so, since all the exits on AR-549 currently use the new mileage and don't continue the old mileage.
And then I would presume the focus shifts to getting the Texarkana to Fort Smith section done after they open the Bella Vista Bypass. Well, assuming it takes 40 years to complete the stretch between Texarkana and Fort Smith, I might still be alive--but well into my 80s--when it's finished. unfortunately, in its current form, Biden's infrastructure plan doesn't bear a lot of good news for big road projects like finishing I-49 and I-69.
Doubtful (IMO). There are plans for extending AR 612 (the 412 Bypass) and XNA south access road. NW Arkansas and Central Arkansas get the lion's share of highway money,
There's focus on US 67/I-57 in Central Arkansas plus talk of a western bypass near Little Rock.
Earmarks would help get I-49 complete
SPRINGDALE, Arkansas – Congress needs earmarked federal spending to complete projects like Interstate 49, Rep. Steve Womack told the Kiwanis Club here on Thursday.
"If we're going to complete I-49 in our lifetimes, we need a new bridge over the Arkansas River and about 12 miles of new interstate near it," Womack, R-Ark., told the gathering of about 50 people in First United Methodist Church.
Such a project will get done much faster if individual members of Congress are able to set some of the specific priorities in spending, he said. He and other members of Congress should be allowed to earmark those projects in budget bills, within limits, Womack said.
https://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/arkansas/story/2021/apr/04/earmarks-would-help-get-i-49-complete/865988/
QuoteEarmarks would help get I-49 complete
SPRINGDALE, Arkansas – Congress needs earmarked federal spending to complete projects like Interstate 49, Rep. Steve Womack told the Kiwanis Club here on Thursday.
"If we're going to complete I-49 in our lifetimes, we need a new bridge over the Arkansas River and about 12 miles of new interstate near it," Womack, R-Ark., told the gathering of about 50 people in First United Methodist Church.
Such a project will get done much faster if individual members of Congress are able to set some of the specific priorities in spending, he said. He and other members of Congress should be allowed to earmark those projects in budget bills, within limits, Womack said.
https://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/arkansas/story/2021/apr/04/earmarks-would-help-get-i-49-complete/865988/
QuoteEarmarks would help get I-49 complete
SPRINGDALE, Arkansas – Congress needs earmarked federal spending to complete projects like Interstate 49, Rep. Steve Womack told the Kiwanis Club here on Thursday.
"If we're going to complete I-49 in our lifetimes, we need a new bridge over the Arkansas River and about 12 miles of new interstate near it," Womack, R-Ark., told the gathering of about 50 people in First United Methodist Church.
Such a project will get done much faster if individual members of Congress are able to set some of the specific priorities in spending, he said. He and other members of Congress should be allowed to earmark those projects in budget bills, within limits, Womack said.
https://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/arkansas/story/2021/apr/04/earmarks-would-help-get-i-49-complete/865988/
Don't count on it. Only 5% of the proposed multi-trillion "infrastructure" bill in Congress is dedicated to roads. Most of it is for Amtrak, solar, alternative energies and social programs.
QuoteEarmarks would help get I-49 complete
SPRINGDALE, Arkansas — Congress needs earmarked federal spending to complete projects like Interstate 49, Rep. Steve Womack told the Kiwanis Club here on Thursday.
"If we're going to complete I-49 in our lifetimes, we need a new bridge over the Arkansas River and about 12 miles of new interstate near it," Womack, R-Ark., told the gathering of about 50 people in First United Methodist Church.
Such a project will get done much faster if individual members of Congress are able to set some of the specific priorities in spending, he said. He and other members of Congress should be allowed to earmark those projects in budget bills, within limits, Womack said.
https://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/arkansas/story/2021/apr/04/earmarks-would-help-get-i-49-complete/865988/
Don't count on it. Only 5% of the proposed multi-trillion "infrastructure" bill in Congress is dedicated to roads. Most of it is for Amtrak, solar, alternative energies and social programs.
which honestly doesn't bother me too much. it would be nice to have better rail!
For passenger rail to be profitable (sustainable) you have to create volume. I just do not see the volumes coming to pass outside population dense areas (major cities).
QuoteEarmarks would help get I-49 complete
SPRINGDALE, Arkansas – Congress needs earmarked federal spending to complete projects like Interstate 49, Rep. Steve Womack told the Kiwanis Club here on Thursday.
"If we're going to complete I-49 in our lifetimes, we need a new bridge over the Arkansas River and about 12 miles of new interstate near it," Womack, R-Ark., told the gathering of about 50 people in First United Methodist Church.
Such a project will get done much faster if individual members of Congress are able to set some of the specific priorities in spending, he said. He and other members of Congress should be allowed to earmark those projects in budget bills, within limits, Womack said.
https://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/arkansas/story/2021/apr/04/earmarks-would-help-get-i-49-complete/865988/
Don't count on it. Only 5% of the proposed multi-trillion "infrastructure" bill in Congress is dedicated to roads. Most of it is for Amtrak, solar, alternative energies and social programs.
which honestly doesn't bother me too much. it would be nice to have better rail!
Rail... Good rail transit is a good thing. Freight rail has become profitable through shedding all but the most lucrative types of cargo. For passenger rail to be profitable (sustainable) you have to create volume. I just do not see the volumes coming to pass outside population dense areas (major cities) . If the government were to incentivize a transition from truck cartage back to cargo rail, it might do more to help the highway problems than either intensive construction or ridding us of cars.
we don't design our cities for anything other than a car. trains would still be great for large city to large city travel. give you an alternative to flying.
The cost per mile of the planned 520-mile California high-speed rail system, assuming it could actually be built for the current estimate of $80 billion, is $154 million per mile. And Amtrak’s own estimates for replacing its existing Northeast Corridor with true high-speed rail work out to over $500 million per mile.
we don't design our cities for anything other than a car. trains would still be great for large city to large city travel. give you an alternative to flying.That's the benefit that Texas Central Railroad is banking on. Downtown Houston to downtown Dallas in 90 minutes. A flight might take under an hour, but the shuttles and/or rental cars might more than double it. There are multiple examples of this train advantage in the Northeast.
QuoteEarmarks would help get I-49 complete
SPRINGDALE, Arkansas – Congress needs earmarked federal spending to complete projects like Interstate 49, Rep. Steve Womack told the Kiwanis Club here on Thursday.
"If we're going to complete I-49 in our lifetimes, we need a new bridge over the Arkansas River and about 12 miles of new interstate near it," Womack, R-Ark., told the gathering of about 50 people in First United Methodist Church.
Such a project will get done much faster if individual members of Congress are able to set some of the specific priorities in spending, he said. He and other members of Congress should be allowed to earmark those projects in budget bills, within limits, Womack said.
https://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/arkansas/story/2021/apr/04/earmarks-would-help-get-i-49-complete/865988/
Don't count on it. Only 5% of the proposed multi-trillion "infrastructure" bill in Congress is dedicated to roads. Most of it is for Amtrak, solar, alternative energies and social programs.
which honestly doesn't bother me too much. it would be nice to have better rail!
Rail... Good rail transit is a good thing. Freight rail has become profitable through shedding all but the most lucrative types of cargo. For passenger rail to be profitable (sustainable) you have to create volume. I just do not see the volumes coming to pass outside population dense areas (major cities) . If the government were to incentivize a transition from truck cartage back to cargo rail, it might do more to help the highway problems than either intensive construction or ridding us of cars.
we don't design our cities for anything other than a car. trains would still be great for large city to large city travel. give you an alternative to flying.
If we had a system that could produce similar results it would be practical. Flying from Fort Wayne to Albuquerque takes two flights and 6 hours while a train ride from Waterloo (30 minutes from town) to Albuquerque is 34 hours. It would be EXPENSIVE to develop a system that doesn't cut current service AND gets that trip to <12 hours.
SNCF construction costs per mile vary by line but average about 15 million euros/km, or about 28 million USD/mile. (source) (https://www.statista.com/statistics/764486/cost-construction-lines-lgv-by-kilometer-la-france/)
For a US example, the price tag on California's High speed rail was $80 million per mile. (source) (https://reason.org/commentary/on-high-speed-rail-look-at-the-costs-and-results-before-you-leap/)QuoteThe cost per mile of the planned 520-mile California high-speed rail system, assuming it could actually be built for the current estimate of $80 billion, is $154 million per mile. And Amtrak’s own estimates for replacing its existing Northeast Corridor with true high-speed rail work out to over $500 million per mile.
To do this on a national scale would be like rebuilding the interstate system for well over 10x the cost, if we want to achieve similar results to existing, functioning systems. It just isn't financially feasible to do this at the current time, not with our current economy and technologies. I am not anti-train by any means, it's just that the cost-benefit ratio is just too high and we won't ever see this within our lifetimes.
we don't design our cities for anything other than a car. trains would still be great for large city to large city travel. give you an alternative to flying.
If we had a system that could produce similar results it would be practical. Flying from Fort Wayne to Albuquerque takes two flights and 6 hours while a train ride from Waterloo (30 minutes from town) to Albuquerque is 34 hours. It would be EXPENSIVE to develop a system that doesn't cut current service AND gets that trip to <12 hours.
SNCF construction costs per mile vary by line but average about 15 million euros/km, or about 28 million USD/mile. (source) (https://www.statista.com/statistics/764486/cost-construction-lines-lgv-by-kilometer-la-france/)
For a US example, the price tag on California's High speed rail was $80 million per mile. (source) (https://reason.org/commentary/on-high-speed-rail-look-at-the-costs-and-results-before-you-leap/)QuoteThe cost per mile of the planned 520-mile California high-speed rail system, assuming it could actually be built for the current estimate of $80 billion, is $154 million per mile. And Amtrak’s own estimates for replacing its existing Northeast Corridor with true high-speed rail work out to over $500 million per mile.
To do this on a national scale would be like rebuilding the interstate system for well over 10x the cost, if we want to achieve similar results to existing, functioning systems. It just isn't financially feasible to do this at the current time, not with our current economy and technologies. I am not anti-train by any means, it's just that the cost-benefit ratio is just too high and we won't ever see this within our lifetimes.
I'm thinking bullet trains, and I don't understand why it costs so much to build it here vs. other countries. But honestly why not have an interstate highway system for trains? regionally it could work, nationally probably not, especially out west (flyover country)
Drove AR-549 southbound yesterday from the Gravette AR-72 entrance ramp, and most of the new northbound asphalt lanes have rumble strips etched, so they are mostly done other than striping and signing. The cable barrier posts are all done all the way to the jersey barrier section in the southern end, but no cable strung yet. They are still working on the US-71 intersection/overpass and don't have approaches or decking/railing yet.
AR-549 BVB Current Southern Terminus 4-14-21 (https://ibb.co/FxPgscC)
Drove AR-549 southbound yesterday from the Gravette AR-72 entrance ramp, and most of the new northbound asphalt lanes have rumble strips etched, so they are mostly done other than striping and signing. The cable barrier posts are all done all the way to the jersey barrier section in the southern end, but no cable strung yet. They are still working on the US-71 intersection/overpass and don't have approaches or decking/railing yet.
AR-549 BVB Current Southern Terminus 4-14-21 (https://ibb.co/FxPgscC)
Thanks for the update Mikie. I've been watching the ArDOT traffic cams to see the progress on the 49/71 interchange. I looks like they will start adding concrete to the 71 overpass soon, but the approach from the Bentonville side is still dirt with most of the wall blocks up to shape the approach. Still a good bit of dirt work to do before they start paving the new roadway.
Drove AR-549 southbound yesterday from the Gravette AR-72 entrance ramp, and most of the new northbound asphalt lanes have rumble strips etched, so they are mostly done other than striping and signing. The cable barrier posts are all done all the way to the jersey barrier section in the southern end, but no cable strung yet. They are still working on the US-71 intersection/overpass and don't have approaches or decking/railing yet.
AR-549 BVB Current Southern Terminus 4-14-21 (https://ibb.co/FxPgscC)
Thanks for the update Mikie. I've been watching the ArDOT traffic cams to see the progress on the 49/71 interchange. I looks like they will start adding concrete to the 71 overpass soon, but the approach from the Bentonville side is still dirt with most of the wall blocks up to shape the approach. Still a good bit of dirt work to do before they start paving the new roadway.
And I wonder how long before they start work on the SPUI under the overpass as well for US-71/71B.
Drove AR-549 southbound yesterday from the Gravette AR-72 entrance ramp, and most of the new northbound asphalt lanes have rumble strips etched, so they are mostly done other than striping and signing. The cable barrier posts are all done all the way to the jersey barrier section in the southern end, but no cable strung yet. They are still working on the US-71 intersection/overpass and don't have approaches or decking/railing yet.
AR-549 BVB Current Southern Terminus 4-14-21 (https://ibb.co/FxPgscC)
Thanks for the update Mikie. I've been watching the ArDOT traffic cams to see the progress on the 49/71 interchange. I looks like they will start adding concrete to the 71 overpass soon, but the approach from the Bentonville side is still dirt with most of the wall blocks up to shape the approach. Still a good bit of dirt work to do before they start paving the new roadway.
And I wonder how long before they start work on the SPUI under the overpass as well for US-71/71B.
Per the ArDOT cameras, the crews are starting the dirt work for the new on-ramp from US71 to I49 SB.
Bet they aren't making much headway today with all of the snowing. I'm so over winter...
Bet they aren't making much headway today with all of the snowing. I'm so over winter...
So who made Hell freeze over?
Look at what Arkansas wants to connect to it
https://talkbusiness.net/2021/05/new-highway-west-of-interstate-49-would-connect-2-bypasses/
I Imagine this is the greater vision of the airport Connector from 412 bypass.
Look at what Arkansas wants to connect to it
https://talkbusiness.net/2021/05/new-highway-west-of-interstate-49-would-connect-2-bypasses/
I Imagine this is the greater vision of the airport Connector from 412 bypass.
That's been discussed off and on for several months. The XNA access would be state maintained instead of a private toll road.
Look at what Arkansas wants to connect to it
https://talkbusiness.net/2021/05/new-highway-west-of-interstate-49-would-connect-2-bypasses/
I Imagine this is the greater vision of the airport Connector from 412 bypass.
That's been discussed off and on for several months. The XNA access would be state maintained instead of a private toll road.
I seem to have missed the connecting to the Bella Vista Bypass part.
Bella Vista should be the Breezewood of AR.
Bella Vista is definitely not the Breezewood of Arkansas. At least the Bella Vista Bypass will be completed. The Breezewood gap will never be "completed".
Per iDriveArkansas traffic cams, the crews are laying down some asphalt on US-71 where the SB traffic on 71 will enter ramp onto I-49. it's slowly taking shape!
Stupid question but, is I-49 gonna be TOTSO? (https://www.google.com/maps/@36.5686742,-94.3858087,3a,27.2y,152.53h,90.18t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1s1XGzcbgh4TIGoZ1JCB5CSg!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3D1XGzcbgh4TIGoZ1JCB5CSg%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D183.80063%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192)No, I-49 will be the straight movement, US-71 will be a left exit. It will be adequately signed so that I-49 is not an “exit” itself just because it’s to the right.
Stupid question but, is I-49 gonna be TOTSO? (https://www.google.com/maps/@36.5686742,-94.3858087,3a,27.2y,152.53h,90.18t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1s1XGzcbgh4TIGoZ1JCB5CSg!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3D1XGzcbgh4TIGoZ1JCB5CSg%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D183.80063%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192)No, I-49 will be the straight movement, US-71 will be a left exit. It will be adequately signed so that I-49 is not an “exit” itself just because it’s to the right.
Stupid question but, is I-49 gonna be TOTSO? (https://www.google.com/maps/@36.5686742,-94.3858087,3a,27.2y,152.53h,90.18t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1s1XGzcbgh4TIGoZ1JCB5CSg!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3D1XGzcbgh4TIGoZ1JCB5CSg%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D183.80063%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192)No, I-49 will be the straight movement, US-71 will be a left exit. It will be adequately signed so that I-49 is not an “exit” itself just because it’s to the right.
Per the rules that the straight through or major element through ALWAYS uses the leftmost lane(s), yes it would be TOTSO.I wouldn’t consider merely a left exit as being a TOTSO for the mainline. The mainline isn’t exiting.
US 71/I-49 split at Pineville.
(https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/160014219_10159223871043624_2849692658310435489_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=973b4a&_nc_ohc=VNUpsULcS0cAX8cFgek&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=819a7da600668c1487ff5fad61281a89&oe=60E1A9A7)
I'll have more on the I-49 Fakebook page in a day or two.
So how long before Fritz Owl and the gang proposes a I-249 around NWA?
Per the rules that the straight through or major element through ALWAYS uses the leftmost lane(s), yes it would be TOTSO.I wouldn’t consider merely a left exit as being a TOTSO for the mainline. The mainline isn’t exiting.
I-49 at I-44 is a TOTSO.
Stupid question but, is I-49 gonna be TOTSO? (https://www.google.com/maps/@36.5686742,-94.3858087,3a,27.2y,152.53h,90.18t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1s1XGzcbgh4TIGoZ1JCB5CSg!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3D1XGzcbgh4TIGoZ1JCB5CSg%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D183.80063%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192)
So how long before Fritz Owl and the gang proposes a I-249 around NWA?
That has been brought up in passing by the regional development commission. No current plans, but it has been discussed in passing for the future.
Stupid question but, is I-49 gonna be TOTSO? (https://www.google.com/maps/@36.5686742,-94.3858087,3a,27.2y,152.53h,90.18t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1s1XGzcbgh4TIGoZ1JCB5CSg!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3D1XGzcbgh4TIGoZ1JCB5CSg%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D183.80063%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192)
Better question. Is US 71 going to stay on its arterial alignment? Or will it follow I-49 into AR with a state route number be given present US 71?
Stupid question but, is I-49 gonna be TOTSO? (https://www.google.com/maps/@36.5686742,-94.3858087,3a,27.2y,152.53h,90.18t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1s1XGzcbgh4TIGoZ1JCB5CSg!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3D1XGzcbgh4TIGoZ1JCB5CSg%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D183.80063%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192)No, I-49 will be the straight movement, US-71 will be a left exit. It will be adequately signed so that I-49 is not an “exit” itself just because it’s to the right.
Per the rules that the straight through or major element through ALWAYS uses the leftmost lane(s), yes it would be TOTSO.
I manage to mess up I-20 EB at I-635 in southeast Dallas because you execute to the left to take a right turn. For some years, I-20 turned off of LBJ Freeway(**) to the right. At some point, they completely rebuilt the intersection to eliminate the I-20 exit and create an exit to the right for I-635. Now, it is counterintuitive to me and I wind up going on to US-80 freeway to make the turn to the east. That said, we no longer turn off to stay on....
** Originally LBJ Freeway was signed as IH-635 from I-35 to I-35. To the north, I-635 (LBJ) has since extended to SH-121 north of DFW Airport. I-20 was rerouted around the south of Dallas along LBJ and I-635 was truncated at I-20.
If US 71 is eventually rerouted along the Bella Vista Bypass with Interstate 49, maybe existing 71 through Bella Vista and into Missouri could become Business Route 49.
If US 71 is eventually rerouted along the Bella Vista Bypass with Interstate 49, maybe existing 71 through Bella Vista and into Missouri could become Business Route 49.
This project will save what 5 minutes of travel time?
Don’t even waste your time questioning. He’s just trolling, he’s virtually anti-anything expansion/growth with seemingly no personal experience with the area in question, despite how much it’s needed.This project will save what 5 minutes of travel time?
Compared to what?
Don’t even waste your time questioning. He’s just trolling, he’s virtually anti-anything expansion/growth with seemingly no personal experience with the area in question, despite how much it’s needed.This project will save what 5 minutes of travel time?
Compared to what?
Don’t even waste your time questioning. He’s just trolling, he’s virtually anti-anything expansion/growth with seemingly no personal experience with the area in question, despite how much it’s needed.This project will save what 5 minutes of travel time?
Compared to what?
I might need to change my avatar. But, the more I think about it, US-412 has more relevance in my area than almost any other. So, I guess I'll keep it and post relevant, useful information about the area I live in that others in other areas might still care about.
Don’t even waste your time questioning. He’s just trolling, he’s virtually anti-anything expansion/growth with seemingly no personal experience with the area in question, despite how much it’s needed.This project will save what 5 minutes of travel time?
Compared to what?
I might need to change my avatar. But, the more I think about it, US-412 has more relevance in my area than almost any other. So, I guess I'll keep it and post relevant, useful information about the area I live in that others in other areas might still care about.
Don’t even waste your time questioning. He’s just trolling, he’s virtually anti-anything expansion/growth with seemingly no personal experience with the area in question, despite how much it’s needed.This project will save what 5 minutes of travel time?
Compared to what?
I might need to change my avatar. But, the more I think about it, US-412 has more relevance in my area than almost any other. So, I guess I'll keep it and post relevant, useful information about the area I live in that others in other areas might still care about.
If you're still posting here a few years down the road, you just may have a shiny red, white, and blue shield occupying or paralleling the section of US 412 nearest your residence, with an equally new number on it. That could conceivably be your new avatar -- one that you don't have to share with our own Dr. No!
It could be simply when a number is established, even if it’s not built for another 20 years.
The 71/49 intersection is shaping up nicely. there are even new light poles & traffic lites installed.
It could be simply when a number is established, even if it’s not built for another 20 years.
I'm surprised they didn't just go ahead and put the number in the legislation like they did for I-57. I guess because it isn't extending a pre-existing Interstate. Still, seems like an oversight to not just go ahead and get I-50 on the books and make Lowell/Springdale the "crossroads" of the Interstate Highway System with I-49 being as close to the middle of the numbering as it is.
It could be simply when a number is established, even if it’s not built for another 20 years.
I'm surprised they didn't just go ahead and put the number in the legislation like they did for I-57. I guess because it isn't extending a pre-existing Interstate. Still, seems like an oversight to not just go ahead and get I-50 on the books and make Lowell/Springdale the "crossroads" of the Interstate Highway System with I-49 being as close to the middle of the numbering as it is.
It's possible that the yearly USDOT outlay bill hasn't been marked up yet -- possibly awaiting some resolution of the larger infrastructure proposals. That's where any legislation regarding establishing a new Interstate corridor would end up. East of Tulsa, the US 412 corridor is also HPC #8; since that's where virtually all of the new construction would be located, the section from Tulsa to Springdale would be parsed out and designated as an Interstate via an amendment to the original 1991 ISTEA corridor authorization. If a specific number is selected prior to the insertion of such an amendment, it would be added to the FHWA Interstate list with a cross-reference to the "future Interstate" designation in this year's bill (that's how I-11 was added to a portion of HPC #26 in AZ and NV and later to HPC #68 for the extension to I-80). If anyone wants I-50 (or another number), now's the time to contact the authors of the general corridor legislation and put your two cents in (particularly if you're a constituent)!
Looks like SB 49 has the asphalt base laid down today
Will it be topped by concrete? They will lay the rebar on top of the base and will then bring one of those Gomaco concrete setters. At that point you can start the 4-month timer for opening.Looks like SB 49 has the asphalt base laid down today
Still rolling it at this very moment!
Will it be topped by concrete? They will lay the rebar on top of the base and will then bring one of those Gomaco concrete setters. At that point you can start the 4-month timer for opening.Looks like SB 49 has the asphalt base laid down today
Still rolling it at this very moment!
Will it be topped by concrete? They will lay the rebar on top of the base and will then bring one of those Gomaco concrete setters. At that point you can start the 4-month timer for opening.Looks like SB 49 has the asphalt base laid down today
Still rolling it at this very moment!
Based on how the rest of the area looks, i would assume a concrete layer is coming. They did lay down a concrete curb in the middle of the roadway from the overpass to existing I49. That makes it more likely that the surface will be concrete.
Temporary routing... That is such a can of worms. Back in the 1920's and 30's when the US Highway system was getting numbered. US-59 initially had a gap from Boston Tx (The then Bowie County Seat today it is just a part of New Boston, the current county seat) to Page OK because there was no Red River Bridge on what is currently TX-8 and AR-41.. In the thirties, they approved a "temporary routing" following US-67 from Maud to Texarkana, US-71 to Mena, and US-270 to Page OK. The only change since then was to follow then SH-47 from Linden to Texarkana via Atlanta. This temporary routing is still in place a century later more or less. Temporary routings create excuses to never build the permanent one.
I am not sure what the originally proposed routing was. I have heard AR-41 to DeQueen AR and US-70 to Broken Bow OK. Then following the approximate US-259 route to Page OK.
What is the price tag per mile for this pork project?Have you ever driven through the area at peak hours?
What is the price tag per mile for this pork project?Have you ever driven through the area at peak hours?
Prediction: you won’t respond to this.
Wow, I'm surprised you acknowledged it.What is the price tag per mile for this pork project?Have you ever driven through the area at peak hours?
Prediction: you won’t respond to this.
Yes
Every MSA has traffic.
"Every MSA has traffic". Is that statement intended to provide justification for inaction to relieve it? Maybe there's a world view floating around out there that states or implies that people are supposed to endure obstacles and hardships without attempting to do something about them -- and that somehow collective action toward relief is untoward/unwarranted/blasphemy? NWA's been growing by leaps and bounds for at least the past three decades; getting it efficiently connected to the rest of the country would by any measure be in the top three list of regional "things to do"; the fact that it took this long just goes to show the sorry state transportation funding is in these days -- in fact, I was originally surprised that Wal Mart didn't step up with some sort of private financing package when both states were scrambling to come up with the bypass funding, just to have a free-flow path from their HQ area north to I-44 and KC (but in retrospect not really shocked, as their business plan calls for as little unsecured outflow as possible).Wow, I'm surprised you acknowledged it.What is the price tag per mile for this pork project?Have you ever driven through the area at peak hours?
Prediction: you won’t respond to this.
Yes
Every MSA has traffic.
Now, the DOT is building a bypass of the congested area to provide a free-flowing route to link two unjoined portions of interstates to provide a continuous route for regional and through traffic. How is this a bad thing?
I noticed today tat MoDOT is starting to pave their section of I-49
I noticed today tat MoDOT is starting to pave their section of I-49
Which part of I-49 did you see, the Northern interchange with US 71, the MO 90 interchange, or something else?
"Every MSA has traffic". Is that statement intended to provide justification for inaction to relieve it? Maybe there's a world view floating around out there that states or implies that people are supposed to endure obstacles and hardships without attempting to do something about them -- and that somehow collective action toward relief is untoward/unwarranted/blasphemy? NWA's been growing by leaps and bounds for at least the past three decades; getting it efficiently connected to the rest of the country would by any measure be in the top three list of regional "things to do"; the fact that it took this long just goes to show the sorry state transportation funding is in these days -- in fact, I was originally surprised that Wal Mart didn't step up with some sort of private financing package when both states were scrambling to come up with the bypass funding, just to have a free-flow path from their HQ area north to I-44 and KC (but in retrospect not really shocked, as their business plan calls for as little unsecured outflow as possible).Wow, I'm surprised you acknowledged it.What is the price tag per mile for this pork project?Have you ever driven through the area at peak hours?
Prediction: you won’t respond to this.
Yes
Every MSA has traffic.
Now, the DOT is building a bypass of the congested area to provide a free-flowing route to link two unjoined portions of interstates to provide a continuous route for regional and through traffic. How is this a bad thing?
Despite naysayers, eventually identified and sufficiently warranted projects to address unfulfilled needs on a local and/or regional (and occasionally national) basis will be undertaken. Nobody really wants to wear that hair shirt for any length of time!
"Every MSA has traffic". Is that statement intended to provide justification for inaction to relieve it? Maybe there's a world view floating around out there that states or implies that people are supposed to endure obstacles and hardships without attempting to do something about them -- and that somehow collective action toward relief is untoward/unwarranted/blasphemy? NWA's been growing by leaps and bounds for at least the past three decades; getting it efficiently connected to the rest of the country would by any measure be in the top three list of regional "things to do"; the fact that it took this long just goes to show the sorry state transportation funding is in these days -- in fact, I was originally surprised that Wal Mart didn't step up with some sort of private financing package when both states were scrambling to come up with the bypass funding, just to have a free-flow path from their HQ area north to I-44 and KC (but in retrospect not really shocked, as their business plan calls for as little unsecured outflow as possible).Wow, I'm surprised you acknowledged it.What is the price tag per mile for this pork project?Have you ever driven through the area at peak hours?
Prediction: you won’t respond to this.
Yes
Every MSA has traffic.
Now, the DOT is building a bypass of the congested area to provide a free-flowing route to link two unjoined portions of interstates to provide a continuous route for regional and through traffic. How is this a bad thing?
Despite naysayers, eventually identified and sufficiently warranted projects to address unfulfilled needs on a local and/or regional (and occasionally national) basis will be undertaken. Nobody really wants to wear that hair shirt for any length of time!
Walmart knows better. They know that the government will bend over backwards for them.
"Every MSA has traffic". Is that statement intended to provide justification for inaction to relieve it? Maybe there's a world view floating around out there that states or implies that people are supposed to endure obstacles and hardships without attempting to do something about them -- and that somehow collective action toward relief is untoward/unwarranted/blasphemy? NWA's been growing by leaps and bounds for at least the past three decades; getting it efficiently connected to the rest of the country would by any measure be in the top three list of regional "things to do"; the fact that it took this long just goes to show the sorry state transportation funding is in these days -- in fact, I was originally surprised that Wal Mart didn't step up with some sort of private financing package when both states were scrambling to come up with the bypass funding, just to have a free-flow path from their HQ area north to I-44 and KC (but in retrospect not really shocked, as their business plan calls for as little unsecured outflow as possible).Wow, I'm surprised you acknowledged it.What is the price tag per mile for this pork project?Have you ever driven through the area at peak hours?
Prediction: you won’t respond to this.
Yes
Every MSA has traffic.
Now, the DOT is building a bypass of the congested area to provide a free-flowing route to link two unjoined portions of interstates to provide a continuous route for regional and through traffic. How is this a bad thing?
Despite naysayers, eventually identified and sufficiently warranted projects to address unfulfilled needs on a local and/or regional (and occasionally national) basis will be undertaken. Nobody really wants to wear that hair shirt for any length of time!
Walmart knows better. They know that the government will bend over backwards for them.
Walmart has distribution centers scattered to the four winds today, and execs and MVPs will fly in via XNA.The only reasons they would push for improved traffic in NWA is for altruistic ones unrelated to their business model.
I noticed today tat MoDOT is starting to pave their section of I-49
Which part of I-49 did you see, the Northern interchange with US 71, the MO 90 interchange, or something else?
North interchange at the 71/49 split
Walmart has distribution centers scattered to the four winds today, and execs and MVPs will fly in via XNA.The only reasons they would push for improved traffic in NWA is for altruistic ones unrelated to their business model.
XNA turned into a nice little cargo airport, as it was intended to be.
As for I-49, Walmart, Tyson and JB Hunt all had a certain amount of influence.
Walmart has distribution centers scattered to the four winds today, and execs and MVPs will fly in via XNA.The only reasons they would push for improved traffic in NWA is for altruistic ones unrelated to their business model.
XNA turned into a nice little cargo airport, as it was intended to be.
As for I-49, Walmart, Tyson and JB Hunt all had a certain amount of influence.
Bingo
Nashville bent over backwards for Dell, Titans, and a slew of other companies. Dell was a near flop and a shell of what it once was.
There are abandoned mainline railroads, but are there abandoned interstates?
I used to joke that Bentonville would some day be "the Orlando of the business world". It is said Walt Disney chose Orlando for his Disney World site when he saw, during an aerial tour, how the then-future interstate through Orlando would link it with the rest of America. NWA will be almost squarely in the middle of the corridor between Winnipeg/Twin Cities and Houston-Mexico/New Orleans some day, the most direct North American International corridor of all. More importantly, many are saying NWA is turning into a metropolitan entity (not only with its corporate headquarters but also the burgeoning arts scene and nature attractions) that no one can quite define, except to say it's getting bigger and bigger.
Now that area is about more things than business. And I feel certain the more I-49 Arkansas is completed the more profound its effects on NWA will be in ways we can't yet predict.
There are abandoned mainline railroads, but are there abandoned interstates?
I used to joke that Bentonville would some day be "the Orlando of the business world". It is said Walt Disney chose Orlando for his Disney World site when he saw, during an aerial tour, how the then-future interstate through Orlando would link it with the rest of America. NWA will be almost squarely in the middle of the corridor between Winnipeg/Twin Cities and Houston-Mexico/New Orleans some day, the most direct North American International corridor of all. More importantly, many are saying NWA is turning into a metropolitan entity (not only with its corporate headquarters but also the burgeoning arts scene and nature attractions) that no one can quite define, except to say it's getting bigger and bigger.
Now that area is about more things than business. And I feel certain the more I-49 Arkansas is completed the more profound its effects on NWA will be in ways we can't yet predict.
There are abandoned mainline railroads, but are there abandoned interstates?
I used to joke that Bentonville would some day be "the Orlando of the business world". It is said Walt Disney chose Orlando for his Disney World site when he saw, during an aerial tour, how the then-future interstate through Orlando would link it with the rest of America. NWA will be almost squarely in the middle of the corridor between Winnipeg/Twin Cities and Houston-Mexico/New Orleans some day, the most direct North American International corridor of all. More importantly, many are saying NWA is turning into a metropolitan entity (not only with its corporate headquarters but also the burgeoning arts scene and nature attractions) that no one can quite define, except to say it's getting bigger and bigger.
Now that area is about more things than business. And I feel certain the more I-49 Arkansas is completed the more profound its effects on NWA will be in ways we can't yet predict.
Unfortunately there are limits to how much NWA will build out. Some of them are physical, i.e. the presence of Beaver Lake to the east and the mountainous terrain to the south. Others are political, i.e. the state lines with Oklahoma and Missouri to the west and north respectively. NWA will eventually be boxed-in by the middle of this century and credit for growth will accrue to neighboring states.
The biggest drawback is the lack of a dominant city in the mix. Springdale, Rogers and Bentonville are all destined to be about the same size. Fayetteville should be the big dog with the university, but is already landlocked by surrounding cities. Springdale has some room, but won't grow enough to be an identifiable center.
The biggest drawback is the lack of a dominant city in the mix. Springdale, Rogers and Bentonville are all destined to be about the same size. Fayetteville should be the big dog with the university, but is already landlocked by surrounding cities. Springdale has some room, but won't grow enough to be an identifiable center.
If I'm not mistaking? Isn't the NWA one of the fastest growing areas in the country especially among retirees? And this has been going on for 20 years. Keep in mind a lot of people from California and the Northeast will continue to move there because of the low cost of living. Add that to whenever someone's house gets destroyed by California wildfires. One of the first places they relocate to is NWA
If I'm not mistaking? Isn't the NWA one of the fastest growing areas in the country especially among retirees? And this has been going on for 20 years. Keep in mind a lot of people from California and the Northeast will continue to move there because of the low cost of living. Add that to whenever someone's house gets destroyed by California wildfires. One of the first places they relocate to is NWA
https://findingnwa.com/incentive/ (https://findingnwa.com/incentive/)
Northwest Arkansas is a great place to work, live and play: for recent grads, families, career changers, entrepreneurs, artists and more. We’re offering top remote working talent — maybe you? — a $10,000 cash incentive to move to the region. The funds will help with everything you need to set up your new life in Northwest Arkansas.
In addition to $10,000, incentive recipients will be gifted a street or mountain bicycle to help you take advantage of the 162 miles of paved trails, the 37-mile Razorback Regional Greenway and the 322 miles of world-class mountain biking trails that has made outdoor enthusiasts flock to the area. Alternatively, participants can choose an annual membership to one of our world-class arts and cultural institutions.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/northwest-arkansas-news/more-than-26000-people-applied-for-10000-cash-incentive-to-move-to-nwa/ (https://www.nwahomepage.com/northwest-arkansas-news/more-than-26000-people-applied-for-10000-cash-incentive-to-move-to-nwa/)
According to a press release from the Northwest Arkansas Council on Monday, the Life Works Here program drew more than 26,000 applications from people in more than 115 countries and all 50 states.
The first 25 recipients of the $10,000 incentive have been selected, according to the Northwest Arkansas Council. They include:
An executive chef and James Beard Foundation Impact Fellow from Atlanta
A digital marketing manager from Denver
A music producer and creative community curator from Los Angeles
A gaming producer from Los Angeles
And a cloud technology manager from San Francisco
https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2020/apr/13/planners-consider-how-to-fit-1-milllion/ (https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2020/apr/13/planners-consider-how-to-fit-1-milllion/)
New projections by the Arkansas Economic Development Institute at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock are predicting 974,275 residents in Benton and Washington counties in 25 years. Benton County is predicted to have 545,893 and Washington County 428,382.
U.S. 412 is the only major highway and truck route from Tulsa to northeastern Arkansas, and it cuts right through the city. The 412 Bypass is being built in stages on the northern edge of town.
"East and west was always a challenge, with 412 going through the middle of Springdale. One of the things I think will help traffic congestion is to get the bypass all the way over to Highway 265 so a lot of that truck traffic that's just going through the region doesn't have to come through Springdale," Christie said.
The city is adding another overpass across Interstate 49 to continue to move traffic across the interstate to the ever-growing west side. Residential and commercial developments are regularly being approved by the city near Arvest Ballpark and Arkansas Children's Northwest hospital, both west of the interstate.
I am still looking for some recent demographics on where these people are coming from.
If I'm not mistaking? Isn't the NWA one of the fastest growing areas in the country especially among retirees? And this has been going on for 20 years. Keep in mind a lot of people from California and the Northeast will continue to move there because of the low cost of living. Add that to whenever someone's house gets destroyed by California wildfires. One of the first places they relocate to is NWA
If the influx into NWA continues unabated, you can bet your last dollar that housing costs will at least steadily rise if not shoot up dramatically! As far as CA outflow is concerned, NWA is just one of the regions, along with Boise, the I-35 corridor between San Antonio and Austin, and the upper Mississippi Valley between La Crosse and the Twin Cities that have become desirable relocation spots. The availability of appropriate jobs is a prime factor driving those other than retirees; but occasionally the prevailing attitudes of a region become a deciding factor. Back about 1992 a business colleague, who is gay, bought, with his partner, a house on a sizeable piece of land outside Rogers, AR primarily to take advantage of the difference in the cost of living compared to the South Bay area. They were back in Sunnyvale by 1995; they never felt welcomed or even accepted by the local population at large. Granted that their experience might have been something of an anomaly -- but nevertheless some regions may be more accommodating and even desirable to those who share similar sociopolitical views with a region's dominant paradigm. Of course continued influx may result in something of a shift in that paradigm, but that's something that would come about over time -- even decades!
If I'm not mistaking? Isn't the NWA one of the fastest growing areas in the country especially among retirees? And this has been going on for 20 years. Keep in mind a lot of people from California and the Northeast will continue to move there because of the low cost of living. Add that to whenever someone's house gets destroyed by California wildfires. One of the first places they relocate to is NWA
If the influx into NWA continues unabated, you can bet your last dollar that housing costs will at least steadily rise if not shoot up dramatically! As far as CA outflow is concerned, NWA is just one of the regions, along with Boise, the I-35 corridor between San Antonio and Austin, and the upper Mississippi Valley between La Crosse and the Twin Cities that have become desirable relocation spots. The availability of appropriate jobs is a prime factor driving those other than retirees; but occasionally the prevailing attitudes of a region become a deciding factor. Back about 1992 a business colleague, who is gay, bought, with his partner, a house on a sizeable piece of land outside Rogers, AR primarily to take advantage of the difference in the cost of living compared to the South Bay area. They were back in Sunnyvale by 1995; they never felt welcomed or even accepted by the local population at large. Granted that their experience might have been something of an anomaly -- but nevertheless some regions may be more accommodating and even desirable to those who share similar sociopolitical views with a region's dominant paradigm. Of course continued influx may result in something of a shift in that paradigm, but that's something that would come about over time -- even decades!
Prices have gone nuts around here for sure. Subdivisions and apartment complexes being built as fast as humanly possible, but not fast enough. Since graduating from the U of A in 1997, I've lived in 2 houses. Still have them both, but changing over the little old house in downtown Bentonville from long term rental to an AirBnB, likely beginning next week after we get our documentation and insurance policy together now that the remodeling is wrapped up. If you believe Zillow estimates, and I'm sure real estate agencies likely wouldn't, the house we live in just outside of Fayetteville in Wedington Woods has close to doubled in price since we bought at what we thought was the worst possible time in 2008. The little old house in Bentonville has gone up 6 fold, not because of the house, but because of proximity to all of the attractions/amenities that have developed since Benton County went wet and the Walton grandkids started investing in their hometown along with the Walton Foundation. Little houses like mine are all being snapped up at what I would consider ridiculous prices, then an excavator comes in and places into dumpsters so that a 2 story with detached garage and an AirBnB apartment overhead can be built. Or 3 story townhouses across the entire face of the block if close to the downtown core a block and a half away.
If I'm not mistaking? Isn't the NWA one of the fastest growing areas in the country especially among retirees? And this has been going on for 20 years. Keep in mind a lot of people from California and the Northeast will continue to move there because of the low cost of living. Add that to whenever someone's house gets destroyed by California wildfires. One of the first places they relocate to is NWA
If the influx into NWA continues unabated, you can bet your last dollar that housing costs will at least steadily rise if not shoot up dramatically! As far as CA outflow is concerned, NWA is just one of the regions, along with Boise, the I-35 corridor between San Antonio and Austin, and the upper Mississippi Valley between La Crosse and the Twin Cities that have become desirable relocation spots. The availability of appropriate jobs is a prime factor driving those other than retirees; but occasionally the prevailing attitudes of a region become a deciding factor. Back about 1992 a business colleague, who is gay, bought, with his partner, a house on a sizeable piece of land outside Rogers, AR primarily to take advantage of the difference in the cost of living compared to the South Bay area. They were back in Sunnyvale by 1995; they never felt welcomed or even accepted by the local population at large. Granted that their experience might have been something of an anomaly -- but nevertheless some regions may be more accommodating and even desirable to those who share similar sociopolitical views with a region's dominant paradigm. Of course continued influx may result in something of a shift in that paradigm, but that's something that would come about over time -- even decades!
Prices have gone nuts around here for sure. Subdivisions and apartment complexes being built as fast as humanly possible, but not fast enough. Since graduating from the U of A in 1997, I've lived in 2 houses. Still have them both, but changing over the little old house in downtown Bentonville from long term rental to an AirBnB, likely beginning next week after we get our documentation and insurance policy together now that the remodeling is wrapped up. If you believe Zillow estimates, and I'm sure real estate agencies likely wouldn't, the house we live in just outside of Fayetteville in Wedington Woods has close to doubled in price since we bought at what we thought was the worst possible time in 2008. The little old house in Bentonville has gone up 6 fold, not because of the house, but because of proximity to all of the attractions/amenities that have developed since Benton County went wet and the Walton grandkids started investing in their hometown along with the Walton Foundation. Little houses like mine are all being snapped up at what I would consider ridiculous prices, then an excavator comes in and places into dumpsters so that a 2 story with detached garage and an AirBnB apartment overhead can be built. Or 3 story townhouses across the entire face of the block if close to the downtown core a block and a half away.
Wow -- NWA's getting the type of "teardown" RE purchases now common here in the San Jose area. Small houses -- if they're on a reasonably sized lot -- are fetching well over $1M (primarily for the lot & location), to be replaced in short order with a house usually between 3K and 4K of floor space that comes damn close to the side property lines (to the consternation of some of the older long-time area residents!). And those things are either presold or sell within a week or two of the landscaping going in. Closer to downtown, row houses/townhouses are being built rapidly as well. Sounds like the dynamics of NWA development are following the pattern seen in areas with longstanding high-end pricing. Sacramento, 110 miles distant, is seeing comparable pricing to San Jose these days for similar properties; "infill" is being placed where physically possible. The one limitation I can see with NWA is that while it's "filling out nicely" and expanding outward as needed, the closest comparable metro area would be Tulsa -- likely an impetus for the effort to establish an Interstate corridor between the areas. Since OK seems to have relatively lax zoning practices (at least according to my cousins who live there), it wouldn't be difficult to imagine housing eventually being built along the present US 412 corridor (and along the original route in turnpike country) -- sporadically at first, but then infill would eventually kick in, so 30 or so years down the line after the E-W interstate is established, it'll be pretty much continuous development between the outskirts of Tulsa and Springdale. In terms of topology being at least relatively benign toward housing deployment, west of the I-49 "spine" constitutes the path of least resistance with NWA.
The NWA region has seen a lot of rapid growth in recent years. Maybe not as much as certain regions in Texas, but pretty significant nonetheless. Unfortunately for the NWA region it is NOT a transportation hub and it will not be able to function as a transportation hub for many years.
Within the Plains region, the Oklahoma City and Kansas City metro areas are very clearly the central transport hubs of the US. Perhaps more so for Kansas City since it has both an extremely major highway hub and rail hub. But Oklahoma City is at the junction of I-35 and I-40 (as well as I-44 and historic US-66).
The NWA region has no cross country Interstate routes. It will be a long time before the I-49 gap between Fort Smith and Texarkana is filled. And when it is finally filled it will be far from a direct route due to some mountainous terrain along the way. Commercial traffic doesn't like that stuff. Even though US-69 in Oklahoma is infected with some speed traps and other stupid nonsense, the direct nature of it between the DFW metro and junction at I-44 in Big Cabin will continue to make the route very attractive to truckers and other commercial vehicles.
There will never be a cross country East-West freeway going through the NWA region. The proposed Interstate upgrade for US-412 will be a short distance regional route.
As for all the real estate trends, a bunch of this feels an awful lot like 2006 all over again. But maybe even worse this time. Home valuations have soared so far out of whack in relation to real wage growth that the whole thing smells like an even worse Ponzi scheme. It is very clearly an absolutely unsustainable situation. There are already dire warning signs. Demand for commercial office space in major cities like NYC, LA and the Bay Area has fallen dramatically. California reported its first year over year net loss in population (over -180,000 residents) since they started keeping records over 100 years ago. "Flyover country" areas like Texas have been gaining new residents due to the migration. But living costs are now soaring there too. The price gouging just can't keep going on and on without consequence. At some point people have to actually start paying for all this $#!+ and when the bill comes due this economy is going to slam into a mountain-thick steel wall.
True, the US-412 corridor will never be the backbone of a cross-country Interstate, as we don't even have a handful of those going E/W anyway due to mountain ranges. But I really don't see US-69 being anything other than a 4-lane US highway in our lifetimes as Oklahoma doesn't have the political will or the willingness to tax themselves to invest in highway infrastructure. It may be the most direct route between Dallas and KC, but other than the occasional bypass around some of the more notorious speedtraps, I don't see any push toward making a limited access facility along any significant portion of Oklahoma or Kansas south of Ft. Scott.
The housing market at no point in the last 25 years in NWA has taken more than 1 or 2 year breather, without any discernible down-tick, and there aren't any shortage of job openings or new businesses starting up. There's no bubble here, regardless of what may happen in other urban areas around the country that are overvalued.
It's going to be a long time before I-49 gets completed between Fort Smith and Texarkana. The NWA region is growing. Meanwhile the same isn't true for Fort Smith and areas on South from there. That's going to threaten any prioritization the Fort Smith to Texarkana segment of I-49 receives. Let's also not forget Texas has its own little hook of I-49 to complete (and I-49 isn't exactly a big priority for Texas). The Arkansas state legislature isn't keen on using tolls as a means of getting highways built any faster. So unless there is a giant amount of federal funding put forth for new Interstates the unfinished portion of I-49 is just as likely to languish as neglected corridors in Oklahoma.
The pop projections for the 2040 to 2045 time frame is 1 million for NWA. XNA's own funded study showed that XNA would handle 2 mil plus enplanements before then due to the folks moving here being from a distance away and why it would need 26 gates. That's right at the Memphis numbers of 2019.
I think those population numbers will be higher with all 4 of the population centers in NWA Annexing land to the east and west. In 20 years the Tulsa suburbs will be an hour drive from NWA if it isn't now?
It's going to be a long time before I-49 gets completed between Fort Smith and Texarkana. The NWA region is growing. Meanwhile the same isn't true for Fort Smith and areas on South from there. That's going to threaten any prioritization the Fort Smith to Texarkana segment of I-49 receives. Let's also not forget Texas has its own little hook of I-49 to complete (and I-49 isn't exactly a big priority for Texas). The Arkansas state legislature isn't keen on using tolls as a means of getting highways built any faster. So unless there is a giant amount of federal funding put forth for new Interstates the unfinished portion of I-49 is just as likely to languish as neglected corridors in Oklahoma.
It's going to be a long time before I-49 gets completed between Fort Smith and Texarkana. The NWA region is growing. Meanwhile the same isn't true for Fort Smith and areas on South from there. That's going to threaten any prioritization the Fort Smith to Texarkana segment of I-49 receives. Let's also not forget Texas has its own little hook of I-49 to complete (and I-49 isn't exactly a big priority for Texas). The Arkansas state legislature isn't keen on using tolls as a means of getting highways built any faster. So unless there is a giant amount of federal funding put forth for new Interstates the unfinished portion of I-49 is just as likely to languish as neglected corridors in Oklahoma.
My thinking is The priority list in Arkansas is
1)US-412 Upgrade (I-49 to Tulsa)
2) I-57
3) I-530. I could honestly see it completed to Monroe before I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana.
4) I-49 to Texarkana
Put three or four more unnamed projects in the list then.....
7) I-69
US-65 to Branson would provide a north outlet from Little Rock. US-412 could extend across the rest of northern Arkansas. US-82 could become freeway from Texarkana to Greenville (MS).
My take is when Bob Moore is gone from the Arkansas State Highway Commission that what little support there is for I-69 as it is tentatively planned will erode to the point of nothingness. I am not saying I-69 will be completely abandoned, but it will be more direct and of service to a greater populace.
Actually, those numbers, along with the time frame, are what's projected for Boise (ID) and its Treasure Valley metro area -- also getting a sizeable influx of folks relocating from CA (and, if weather patterns continue to wreak havoc nationwide, other locations as well). NWA, as well as much of the Midwest, gets floods & tornadoes; the West gets recurring heat domes with 100+ days (as does western Canada!), and the Gulf and East Coasts see extended storm/hurricane seasons. One moves, and, increasingly, adverse weather of one sort or the other welcomes you in your new abode! Welcome to the new reality!
And as far as US-82, I’m more willing to bet I-69 would be built before a US-82 upgrade. I-69 has more utility than US-82 would. The most US-82 needs is a 65 mph 4 lane divided highway. It’s connecting smaller towns into the interstate system, it’s not carrying long distance traffic between major cities in the sense I-69 would between Memphis, Shreveport, Texarkana, Houston, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen, Laredo, etc.
Quote from: sprjus4And as far as US-82, I’m more willing to bet I-69 would be built before a US-82 upgrade. I-69 has more utility than US-82 would. The most US-82 needs is a 65 mph 4 lane divided highway. It’s connecting smaller towns into the interstate system, it’s not carrying long distance traffic between major cities in the sense I-69 would between Memphis, Shreveport, Texarkana, Houston, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen, Laredo, etc.
US-82 to the North of the Dallas-Fort Worth metro has some serious Interstate upgrade potential, simply because so much of the growth in DFW is spreading North in that direction. The segment between Gainesville and Sherman is threatening to be another difficult pickle like US-380 to the South. TX DOT was asleep at the wheel on US-380 and now has a pretty difficult upgrade situation on its hands. They're going to face the same problem with US-82 in the future. Really US-82 could be upgraded to a regional freeway (or toll road) from Henrietta and US-287 to New Boston and I-30.
I think those population numbers will be higher with all 4 of the population centers in NWA Annexing land to the east and west. In 20 years the Tulsa suburbs will be an hour drive from NWA if it isn't now?
I think those population numbers will be higher with all 4 of the population centers in NWA Annexing land to the east and west. In 20 years the Tulsa suburbs will be an hour drive from NWA if it isn't now?
According to Google maps, its about 1 hr 20 minutes from the I-44/US 412/Creek Turnpike/Will Rogers Turnpike/OK 364 (I almost forgot that one) interchange at Catoosa to the junction of US 412 and old AR 68 west of Tontitown where the divided highway ends. If Tulsa builds towards Inola and NWA builds toward Siloam Springs, it is entirely possible for it to become a 1 hour trip.
I think those population numbers will be higher with all 4 of the population centers in NWA Annexing land to the east and west. In 20 years the Tulsa suburbs will be an hour drive from NWA if it isn't now?
According to Google maps, its about 1 hr 20 minutes from the I-44/US 412/Creek Turnpike/Will Rogers Turnpike/OK 364 (I almost forgot that one) interchange at Catoosa to the junction of US 412 and old AR 68 west of Tontitown where the divided highway ends. If Tulsa builds towards Inola and NWA builds toward Siloam Springs, it is entirely possible for it to become a 1 hour trip.
That one hour will only be one hour for about a year. After a year it will be a much longer trip due to the sprawl that will come along with it.
I just forgot that it is 60 miles from Joplin to Bentonville. In 10 years that area could be a combined metropolitan statistical area...
I just forgot that it is 60 miles from Joplin to Bentonville. In 10 years that area could be a combined metropolitan statistical area...
McDonald County would make for a sure bet in real estate right now. Fixing to uncork in October.
Don't see US 82 from US 287 east to New Boston/I-30 being upgraded to Interstate status unless US 287 Ft. Worth>Amarillo is likewise constructed. But even with that longer corridor functioning as 82's western connection, most of the traffic on 82 (or the future I-3X) would be generated locally; a "bridge" between the two halves of the DFW-to-I-40 composite connector would be functionally pointless unless it eventually serves as a northern bypass of metro DFW with something like I-49 between Shreveport and Texarkana as the completion of that "arc".
OTOH, it's likely that many of the Interstate corridors that will be proposed over the next few decades will be similar "relief routes", as the original system, laid out as it was as "connect-the-dots" between major cities, becomes increasingly overwhelmed with the combination of shorter-distance commutes and through commercial movements.
Quote from: sprjus4And as far as US-82, I’m more willing to bet I-69 would be built before a US-82 upgrade. I-69 has more utility than US-82 would. The most US-82 needs is a 65 mph 4 lane divided highway. It’s connecting smaller towns into the interstate system, it’s not carrying long distance traffic between major cities in the sense I-69 would between Memphis, Shreveport, Texarkana, Houston, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen, Laredo, etc.
US-82 to the North of the Dallas-Fort Worth metro has some serious Interstate upgrade potential, simply because so much of the growth in DFW is spreading North in that direction. The segment between Gainesville and Sherman is threatening to be another difficult pickle like US-380 to the South. TX DOT was asleep at the wheel on US-380 and now has a pretty difficult upgrade situation on its hands. They're going to face the same problem with US-82 in the future. Really US-82 could be upgraded to a regional freeway (or toll road) from Henrietta and US-287 to New Boston and I-30.
I agree with the point that I-69 has a greater utility to the national highway grid. I am just talking about the Arkansas priorities.
US-82 from in Grayson and Fannin Counties has the ROW in place. Cooke County is another story. I think US 82 east of Wichita Falls should be four-lane divided highway. The setup in Grayson and Fannin counties would be an excellent pattern. This would be really nice in Arkansas too. I put US-82 across Arkansas into my analogy as to point out how low I-69 is outside of Southeast Arkansas and particularly Desha and Arkansas counties.
Yes US-380 is a mess. Even 2 decades ago no one expected over a million people in Collin County and nearly a million in Denton County. These figures are higher than Dallas and Tarrant Counties when the original interstates were built.
I have never driven US-67 past Searcy and that was 15 years ago or so. I get the impression from Arkansas sources (a limited opinion) that if Oklahoma will commit to US-412 being upgraded that Arkansas will follow suit. Wal*Mart wants it done. I agree that I-57 (the US-67 corridor) is a more pressing need. I just kind of think NWA has more push this time especially if Oklahoma does their part.
Arkansas wants to see I-30 and I-40 east of NLR expanded to 6 to 8 lanes. It will be as major as the upgrades on US-75 from Richardson to Anna. Pretty much EVERYTHING will need to be replaced.
Quote from: sparkerDon't see US 82 from US 287 east to New Boston/I-30 being upgraded to Interstate status unless US 287 Ft. Worth>Amarillo is likewise constructed. But even with that longer corridor functioning as 82's western connection, most of the traffic on 82 (or the future I-3X) would be generated locally; a "bridge" between the two halves of the DFW-to-I-40 composite connector would be functionally pointless unless it eventually serves as a northern bypass of metro DFW with something like I-49 between Shreveport and Texarkana as the completion of that "arc".
I see a number of possibilities happening with US-82. The most likely thing in the short term is US-82 being upgraded to a freeway between Gainesville and Sherman. TX DOT has studied building a US-82 relief route around Gainesville. The first study was for an option to the South, but others want a North option. It's possible a loop could end up being built. US-82 is already a freeway in Sherman and has had some additional improvements.
Existing US-82 between Gainesville and Sherman is currently a 4-lane divided route with four isolated freeway style exits. For much of that segment there is enough room to upgrade the main lanes and add flanking frontage roads. Closer to Gainesville it turns into a tighter squeeze; it's likely some buildings might have to be cleared.
West of Gainesville to Henrietta, that segment of US-82 would likely not be turned into an Interstate class facility unless the same was done to US-287 from at least Wichita Falls to Fort Worth, if not the whole Amarillo to Fort Worth leg.
US-82 going East of Sherman has better upgrade potential. The route is a hybrid of 4-lane freeway and divided expressway to Bonham where it drops to a hybrid Super-2 arrangement to Honey Grove. All of that can be brought up to Interstate standards fairly easily. The last stretch to Paris is regular 2-lane route. A freeway there might have to be on a new terrain alignment due to various properties hugging the corridor. I could see such a freeway upgrade connecting to Paris and then upgrading the odd Loop 286 road to full Interstate standards. Getting a new freeway built from Paris to New Boston (and I-30) would probably depend on other corridors like US-287 being further improved.
. It may turn out like NW Louisiana where businesses abandoned US 71 and moved to I-49.
I too have been puzzled by the lack of services along I-49 in Louisiana. Perhaps the worst stretch of freeway in that regard east of the 100th meridian. You can't make it go by faster because the smokey bears are crawling like flies on that freeway. It's a hard 3 hours from Shreveport to Lafayette.
I too have been puzzled by the lack of services along I-49 in Louisiana. Perhaps the worst stretch of freeway in that regard east of the 100th meridian. You can't make it go by faster because the smokey bears are crawling like flies on that freeway. It's a hard 3 hours from Shreveport to Lafayette.
That freeway has been open for longer than 2 decades and once or twice I've sweated out making a gas station. Even in places like Nachitoches and Alexandria there might be one place to get gas. Once you hit Opelousas, you can get your boudin refills all day long.
I've been on I-49 in various stages of its development from the early 1980's into the 1990's. The first bits of I-49 were built going North of Lafayette and I-10 up to US-190. Then various segments on Northward were finished.
Regardless of the overall lack of services along I-49 between Shreveport and Opelousas it's still a far faster alternative than US-71 or LA-1. I've taken that trip on those roads and it's a pain. And I-49 isn't all that badly devoid of fuel stations along the way. The situation is certainly better than it used to be in the early 1990's. Web sites like Gas Buddy make it easy to chart out road trip stops. There are worse stretches of Interstates and other highway types that go longer distances between fuel stations.
McDonald is extremely rural for the most part. It may turn out like NW Louisiana where businesses abandoned US 71 and moved to I-49.
Minor Update
SB US 71 traffic will begin using a new ramp to NB AR 549 starting Monday, (https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/new-highway-71-ramp-to-bella-vista-bypass-opens-wednesday-in-bentonville/?fbclid=IwAR2UOi1lFd4gp79_d1VvAUuYgiju29bJ6rOKQN4Aa7JlPN2HvCWFMfsY4Oo)
Minor Update
SB US 71 traffic will begin using a new ramp to NB AR 549 starting Monday, (https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/new-highway-71-ramp-to-bella-vista-bypass-opens-wednesday-in-bentonville/?fbclid=IwAR2UOi1lFd4gp79_d1VvAUuYgiju29bJ6rOKQN4Aa7JlPN2HvCWFMfsY4Oo)
Minor Update
SB US 71 traffic will begin using a new ramp to NB AR 549 starting Monday, (https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/new-highway-71-ramp-to-bella-vista-bypass-opens-wednesday-in-bentonville/?fbclid=IwAR2UOi1lFd4gp79_d1VvAUuYgiju29bJ6rOKQN4Aa7JlPN2HvCWFMfsY4Oo)
I was looking at this as I drove south on 549 this afternoon. Does this mean the NB traffic will start using the NB lanes? Otherwise, how does the traffic get to the southbound lanes? The center wall is basically complete.
I live off the first exit on 549, and the NB lanes were striped almost all the way to that first exit. It seems feasible that could be completed by Wednesday.
I-49 on the map
An extension of Interstate 49 between Barling and Alma has also been listed as “programmed” in the state’s plans. Arkansas officials in recent years have pushed for the completion of I-49, which would run from New Orleans to Kansas City, Mo., once complete.
According to this article about road improvements in the Fort Smith area, I-49 between Barling and Alma has been "programmed"
https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2021/jul/18/state-says-most-fort-smith-highways-to-be-improved/QuoteI-49 on the map
An extension of Interstate 49 between Barling and Alma has also been listed as “programmed” in the state’s plans. Arkansas officials in recent years have pushed for the completion of I-49, which would run from New Orleans to Kansas City, Mo., once complete.
Minor Update
SB US 71 traffic will begin using a new ramp to NB AR 549 starting Monday, (https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/new-highway-71-ramp-to-bella-vista-bypass-opens-wednesday-in-bentonville/?fbclid=IwAR2UOi1lFd4gp79_d1VvAUuYgiju29bJ6rOKQN4Aa7JlPN2HvCWFMfsY4Oo)
I was looking at this as I drove south on 549 this afternoon. Does this mean the NB traffic will start using the NB lanes? Otherwise, how does the traffic get to the southbound lanes? The center wall is basically complete.
I live off the first exit on 549, and the NB lanes were striped almost all the way to that first exit. It seems feasible that could be completed by Wednesday.
No change on northbound traffic. Still have to do a U-turn at Peach Orchard Rd. and go back south as the only access onto AR-549 is still a right-turn-only off US-71B. They appear to have only changed the intersection onto the entrance ramp for the southbound traffic onto AR-549 at this point.
Minor Update
SB US 71 traffic will begin using a new ramp to NB AR 549 starting Monday, (https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/new-highway-71-ramp-to-bella-vista-bypass-opens-wednesday-in-bentonville/?fbclid=IwAR2UOi1lFd4gp79_d1VvAUuYgiju29bJ6rOKQN4Aa7JlPN2HvCWFMfsY4Oo)
I was looking at this as I drove south on 549 this afternoon. Does this mean the NB traffic will start using the NB lanes? Otherwise, how does the traffic get to the southbound lanes? The center wall is basically complete.
I live off the first exit on 549, and the NB lanes were striped almost all the way to that first exit. It seems feasible that could be completed by Wednesday.
No change on northbound traffic. Still have to do a U-turn at Peach Orchard Rd. and go back south as the only access onto AR-549 is still a right-turn-only off US-71B. They appear to have only changed the intersection onto the entrance ramp for the southbound traffic onto AR-549 at this point.
Sorry, I probably wasn’t clear in my earlier post. I was referring to once drivers are on northbound 549. Currently they are traveling north in one of the SB lanes. Will that change later this week? Will we now have 2 lanes each direction on 549?
But they still don't have money for the bridges over the Arkansas River.
According to this article about road improvements in the Fort Smith area, I-49 between Barling and Alma has been "programmed"
https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2021/jul/18/state-says-most-fort-smith-highways-to-be-improved/QuoteI-49 on the map
An extension of Interstate 49 between Barling and Alma has also been listed as “programmed” in the state’s plans. Arkansas officials in recent years have pushed for the completion of I-49, which would run from New Orleans to Kansas City, Mo., once complete.
But they still don't have money for the bridges over the Arkansas River.
According to this article about road improvements in the Fort Smith area, I-49 between Barling and Alma has been "programmed"
https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2021/jul/18/state-says-most-fort-smith-highways-to-be-improved/QuoteI-49 on the map
An extension of Interstate 49 between Barling and Alma has also been listed as “programmed” in the state’s plans. Arkansas officials in recent years have pushed for the completion of I-49, which would run from New Orleans to Kansas City, Mo., once complete.
But they still don't have money for the bridges over the Arkansas River.
What’s the current $$ estimate for completing the entire segment between Alma and Barling, including the bridge?
I think it was in the $600 million range. Pretty crazy.
Quote from: US71But they still don't have money for the bridges over the Arkansas River.
I'm wondering if there are any specific provisions in the hard infrastructure bill currently being debated in the US Congress. There's not a chance in hell the larger soft "infrastructure" bill will pass. Stuff like roads and bridges can attract a good amount of bipartisan support.
I would think the I-49 project in the Fort Smith area would kind of be a spotlight project since it has been in the planning stages for so many years. That's the biggest stumbling block for getting I-49 completed between Fort Smith and Texarkana. The rest of that (aside from Texas' Red River crossing) can be pieced together over time.
Maybe I'm just used to CA-level outlays, but $600M to complete (a) the navigable-waterway bridge (b) the rest of the I-40/49 interchange (c) the approach roads, including any bridge breaches needed for the floodplain doesn't seem completely out of line.
Well, I think the "hard" infrastructure bill is more practical. The Democrats could force the larger "soft" bill through reconciliation, but I think if they do so they will pay serious political consequences in doing so. I think they won a simple majority in Congress on the backs of moderate voters. Moderates like roads and bridges. The stuff in the "soft" bill has little to do with that and seems like a giant gift to progressives. The "soft" bill could turn off a lot of moderates and cost the Democrats big time in the mid term elections. I'm no fan of the GOP either, btw. I find some of the stunts they're pulling regarding our elections to be very offensive. They're on a slippery slope toward authoritarianism.Quote from: sparkerMaybe I'm just used to CA-level outlays, but $600M to complete (a) the navigable-waterway bridge (b) the rest of the I-40/49 interchange (c) the approach roads, including any bridge breaches needed for the floodplain doesn't seem completely out of line.
The bridges in question aren't going to be high rise in nature. Clearance for barge traffic is considerably lower than ship traffic. The bridges aren't going to be "fancy" at all in terms of design. They'll look like any standard concrete highway bridges spanning rivers and creeks. No suspension cable towers or overhead truss work.
Well, I think the "hard" infrastructure bill is more practical. The Democrats could force the larger "soft" bill through reconciliation, but I think if they do so they will pay serious political consequences in doing so. I think they won a simple majority in Congress on the backs of moderate voters. Moderates like roads and bridges. The stuff in the "soft" bill has little to do with that and seems like a giant gift to progressives. The "soft" bill could turn off a lot of moderates and cost the Democrats big time in the mid term elections. I'm no fan of the GOP either, btw. I find some of the stunts they're pulling regarding our elections to be very offensive. They're on a slippery slope toward authoritarianism.
Is pursuing that strategy the best for the country?
Well, I think the "hard" infrastructure bill is more practical. The Democrats could force the larger "soft" bill through reconciliation, but I think if they do so they will pay serious political consequences in doing so. I think they won a simple majority in Congress on the backs of moderate voters. Moderates like roads and bridges. The stuff in the "soft" bill has little to do with that and seems like a giant gift to progressives. The "soft" bill could turn off a lot of moderates and cost the Democrats big time in the mid term elections. I'm no fan of the GOP either, btw. I find some of the stunts they're pulling regarding our elections to be very offensive. They're on a slippery slope toward authoritarianism.Quote from: sparkerMaybe I'm just used to CA-level outlays, but $600M to complete (a) the navigable-waterway bridge (b) the rest of the I-40/49 interchange (c) the approach roads, including any bridge breaches needed for the floodplain doesn't seem completely out of line.
The bridges in question aren't going to be high rise in nature. Clearance for barge traffic is considerably lower than ship traffic. The bridges aren't going to be "fancy" at all in terms of design. They'll look like any standard concrete highway bridges spanning rivers and creeks. No suspension cable towers or overhead truss work.
I'm sure a large part of the price escalation can be chocked up to the inflation we've undergone in the past year. However, I'm sure the Arkansas River Flood of 2019 changed some calculations on 100 year flood events, which likely bumped up the elevation of both the roadbed through the floodplain and the approaches to the bridges. So, in the short term, we're likely to get an "AR-59 Bypass" with 2 lanes until funding comes around for the other carriageway, which is the Arkansas way for new terrain development these days.
Whoopie another Super Two.
Whoopie another Super Two.
.........but infinitely better than a Super Zero!
Whoopie another Super Two.
.........but infinitely better than a Super Zero!
As a Super-2 with a 65 MPH speed limit, it'd still trim 7-8 minutes off my trips to Charleston to visit family and friends. Drives me nuts to drive 5 miles west then swing back southeast across the river at Barling. Should also jumpstart development of Chaffee Crossing once it's seen as actually progressing towards connectivity.
Just went for a drive after work today along AR-549 (BVB). They have lane closure signs on the new northbound carriageway closing off the left lane with several miles of barrels. Likely just about ready to close off the southbound carriageway's inner lane for re-striping and finally do away with opposing traffic. Could be tough to pass slow moving vehicles for the next several weeks, though. They still have a little bit of inner shoulder work closer to the split from just past the jersey barrier for the overpass at the SPUI, but other than cable barrier, which is likely the main reason for closing off the left lane northbound, they only have a bit of striping work to do where the asphalt transitions to and from the concrete stretches that were done under the overpasses previously and closed off. Starting to get real up to Rocky Dell Hollow Rd.
Afterwards, drove MO-90 to see the I-49 crossing there. No pavement either north or south from there within sight yet, but putting rebar down on the roadbed to prepare for concrete, so late Sept./early Oct. will be here before we know it. I'll have to do some picture editing and then will post in a couple of days when work slacks up.
Something tells me that the intermediate section from Texarkana to Ft. Smith will also be a temporary Super-2, and I wouldn't be surprised in the least.Likely all signed as AR-549 until they get the second carriageway built. For the initial segment between I-40 and AR-22, everyone seems to think the bridge over the Arkansas River will be the most expensive part, but let's not forget about tying the new road into the existing I-40/I-49 North interchange. I think there will be a lot of money spent there too.
The question for me is there a need to build a tunnel somewhere between Mansfield and Mena?
If so, shouldn't they build that first, or build everything else with a diversion to US-71 until a tunnel is done last.
It is one of the few places I have not driven, so I don't have personal experience with the legacy route.
Hence why I am asking.
The question for me is there a need to build a tunnel somewhere between Mansfield and Mena?
If so, shouldn't they build that first, or build everything else with a diversion to US-71 until a tunnel is done last.
It is one of the few places I have not driven, so I don't have personal experience with the legacy route.
Hence why I am asking.
If this project was being built 30 years ago tunnels would have been a realistic option. But not now. The United States has quickly priced itself out of being able to do things like that.
Whoopie another Super Two.
.........but infinitely better than a Super Zero!
As a Super-2 with a 65 MPH speed limit, it'd still trim 7-8 minutes off my trips to Charleston to visit family and friends. Drives me nuts to drive 5 miles west then swing back southeast across the river at Barling. Should also jumpstart development of Chaffee Crossing once it's seen as actually progressing towards connectivity.
Just went for a drive after work today along AR-549 (BVB). They have lane closure signs on the new northbound carriageway closing off the left lane with several miles of barrels. Likely just about ready to close off the southbound carriageway's inner lane for re-striping and finally do away with opposing traffic. Could be tough to pass slow moving vehicles for the next several weeks, though. They still have a little bit of inner shoulder work closer to the split from just past the jersey barrier for the overpass at the SPUI, but other than cable barrier, which is likely the main reason for closing off the left lane northbound, they only have a bit of striping work to do where the asphalt transitions to and from the concrete stretches that were done under the overpasses previously and closed off. Starting to get real up to Rocky Dell Hollow Rd.
Afterwards, drove MO-90 to see the I-49 crossing there. No pavement either north or south from there within sight yet, but putting rebar down on the roadbed to prepare for concrete, so late Sept./early Oct. will be here before we know it. I'll have to do some picture editing and then will post in a couple of days when work slacks up.
Thanks for the update MikieTimT. I hope I'm still able to drive (I'm 47 now...hopefully not too old) by the time this river crossing gets done.
With the imminent opening of the Bella Vista Bypass portion of I-49, I wonder how long it will take Google to update Maps to reflect the new reality? To say nothing of Street View or satellite imagery.
With the imminent opening of the Bella Vista Bypass portion of I-49, I wonder how long it will take Google to update Maps to reflect the new reality? To say nothing of Street View or satellite imagery.
It looks like Google has deprecated any further map updates from with the standalone Google Earth Pro application. The layers Borders & Labels, Places and Roads all have "outdated" listed next to them. I'm not a big fan of the web-based version of Google Earth. It doesn't work as smoothly.The web-based Google Earth feels like a gimmick to me. Too bad that they seem to have deprecated the standalone, as that one is actually useful and something I use for work whenever I need to see city/town/village boundaries (via our KML file) or reference markers (ditto), or when I need to make maps for our railroad grade crossing IPP/FDRs.
Yeah I've noticed Google satellite imagery shows absolutely no work done on the I-69 flyover in Nacogdoches, despite work commencing in 2019.With the imminent opening of the Bella Vista Bypass portion of I-49, I wonder how long it will take Google to update Maps to reflect the new reality? To say nothing of Street View or satellite imagery.
Hell, OKC has multiple major public works projects that have been open for over a year and still aren't shown on satellite imagery. I feel like Google straight-up doesn't care about providing quality data for non-coastal cities.
Google updates it every 3 years apparently. Too bad they can’t invest in more satellite cams and street view cars.Yeah I've noticed Google satellite imagery shows absolutely no work done on the I-69 flyover in Nacogdoches, despite work commencing in 2019.With the imminent opening of the Bella Vista Bypass portion of I-49, I wonder how long it will take Google to update Maps to reflect the new reality? To say nothing of Street View or satellite imagery.
Hell, OKC has multiple major public works projects that have been open for over a year and still aren't shown on satellite imagery. I feel like Google straight-up doesn't care about providing quality data for non-coastal cities.
Google updates it every 3 years apparently. Too bad they can’t invest in more satellite cams and street view cars.Yeah I've noticed Google satellite imagery shows absolutely no work done on the I-69 flyover in Nacogdoches, despite work commencing in 2019.With the imminent opening of the Bella Vista Bypass portion of I-49, I wonder how long it will take Google to update Maps to reflect the new reality? To say nothing of Street View or satellite imagery.
Hell, OKC has multiple major public works projects that have been open for over a year and still aren't shown on satellite imagery. I feel like Google straight-up doesn't care about providing quality data for non-coastal cities.
It looks like Google has deprecated any further map updates from with the standalone Google Earth Pro application. The layers Borders & Labels, Places and Roads all have "outdated" listed next to them. I'm not a big fan of the web-based version of Google Earth. It doesn't work as smoothly.The web-based Google Earth feels like a gimmick to me. Too bad that they seem to have deprecated the standalone, as that one is actually useful and something I use for work whenever I need to see city/town/village boundaries (via our KML file) or reference markers (ditto), or when I need to make maps for our railroad grade crossing IPP/FDRs.
Great. They're taking away all the customization options. Now instead of international/state/county borders and leave coastlines and names off, it's all or nothing. Same for transportation - can't have just roads and rail turned on.It looks like Google has deprecated any further map updates from with the standalone Google Earth Pro application. The layers Borders & Labels, Places and Roads all have "outdated" listed next to them. I'm not a big fan of the web-based version of Google Earth. It doesn't work as smoothly.The web-based Google Earth feels like a gimmick to me. Too bad that they seem to have deprecated the standalone, as that one is actually useful and something I use for work whenever I need to see city/town/village boundaries (via our KML file) or reference markers (ditto), or when I need to make maps for our railroad grade crossing IPP/FDRs.
Google has just announced that they are replacing the Labels, Places, Roads, and Borders layers (https://support.google.com/earth/thread/117930184/new-layers-set-in-google-earth-pro?hl=en) in Google Earth Pro “over the next few months” . It might be necessary to use the new 7.3.4 version of Google Earth Pro (https://support.google.com/earth/thread/118357890/announcing-google-earth-pro-7-3-4?hl=en) to see them.
Talk Business, August 4th, 2021
Gibson also discussed future Interstate 49 projects.
“Lots of leaders involved in Arkansas want to see Interstate 49 to be completed and started as soon as possible,” he said.
Through Issue 1, Arkansas has dedicated $270 million for the I-40 at Alma to Highway 22 13.7-mile project that includes a two-lane bridge over the Arkansas River, and another $270 million for the south part of the interstate from Greenwood to Y City, Gibson said. Both projects are only two lanes, though it will eventually be four lanes, he said. A consultant has been selected for the design work of the project. The shovel ready project will be started in 2025.
“We could take the south to Greenwood project and say let’s just do four lanes and get that done. Or we could abandon that part because there are a lot of people who would like to see the Y City to Greenwood part done. But what we prefer to do is what we promised to do, and that is to build two lanes of both of those,” Gibson said. “We hope that the federal government through an infrastructure plan and earmarks and other things will provide the money once they see Arkansas building half that interstate and come in and say, let’s pump money into finishing it.”
The remaining cost to complete 136 miles of I-49 from Fort Smith to the Texas state line is $4.1 billion, he said.
https://talkbusiness.net/2021/08/updates-provided-on-greenwood-and-van-buren-road-projects/
This line about the Greenwood bypass puzzled me, too: "The route would also help with safety concerns, according to the city. If a bridge is out or flooded between downtown and the east side of the city, emergency personnel would have a 60-mile detour." If that's always been a concern, why is it only being solved now?
This line about the Greenwood bypass puzzled me, too: "The route would also help with safety concerns, according to the city. If a bridge is out or flooded between downtown and the east side of the city, emergency personnel would have a 60-mile detour." If that's always been a concern, why is it only being solved now?
I thought 71 WAS the "Greenwod Bypass" ?
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210810/7c25311e239ee363452709045629b5d0.jpg)What would this make the US71 interchange, 278?
To get to the border crossing at this point, you must be on one of the construction crews, know someone at one of the DOTs, or have a willingness to travel non-open roads knowing that the authorities ticket such behavior. Interesting pics nonetheless!Oh look we have a Boy Scout over here.
Questions:I’m not sure where you’re talking about, but as far as I could see from the top of both Highlands Blvd and Edinburgh bridges there were no clearing or signage indicating a rest area.
1. Have they started clearing land for the new AR side visitor's center yet? (South of the old Gun Range Rd.)
2. Wonder where the commercial action (i.e. convenience stores and/or fast food restaurants) will be in the 3 exits from Hiwasse to the state line on the Arkansas side?
To get to the border crossing at this point, you must be on one of the construction crews, know someone at one of the DOTs, or have a willingness to travel non-open roads knowing that the authorities ticket such behavior. Interesting pics nonetheless!
I’ve seen two different State Troopers “inspect the pavement” as well. No dust cloud, it’s striped, signed and ready to open.To get to the border crossing at this point, you must be on one of the construction crews, know someone at one of the DOTs, or have a willingness to travel non-open roads knowing that the authorities ticket such behavior. Interesting pics nonetheless!
Baloney. Anyone with a truck (preferably a white one) and a yellow flasher up top could drive right on and no one would care unless you decided to test your speed, by which you would have created such a large dust cloud, they would automatically know you are a not involved joyrider.
My cousin used to drive up and down new roads and when asked he said he was a pavement inspector. No one asked him anything further. He was "inspecting" the pavement.....for himself.
Questions:I’m not sure where you’re talking about, but as far as I could see from the top of both Highlands Blvd and Edinburgh bridges there were no clearing or signage indicating a rest area.
1. Have they started clearing land for the new AR side visitor's center yet? (South of the old Gun Range Rd.)
2. Wonder where the commercial action (i.e. convenience stores and/or fast food restaurants) will be in the 3 exits from Hiwasse to the state line on the Arkansas side?
If anyone wants to go to the state line do not take Edinburgh from Highlands as the road is pretty washed out and would need a high clearance vehicle.
iPhone
There’s not any exits between the state line and the current terminus, Rocky Dell Rd/Highlands Blvd. so no rest areaQuestions:I’m not sure where you’re talking about, but as far as I could see from the top of both Highlands Blvd and Edinburgh bridges there were no clearing or signage indicating a rest area.
1. Have they started clearing land for the new AR side visitor's center yet? (South of the old Gun Range Rd.)
2. Wonder where the commercial action (i.e. convenience stores and/or fast food restaurants) will be in the 3 exits from Hiwasse to the state line on the Arkansas side?
If anyone wants to go to the state line do not take Edinburgh from Highlands as the road is pretty washed out and would need a high clearance vehicle.
iPhone
Seems that I'd heard the new Arkansas Visitor's Center will be south of the northernmost Arkansas exit (it used to be called Gun Range Rd.), and on the west side of the highway. Forget where I heard it.
Time to narc...To get to the border crossing at this point, you must be on one of the construction crews, know someone at one of the DOTs, or have a willingness to travel non-open roads knowing that the authorities ticket such behavior. Interesting pics nonetheless!
Baloney. Anyone with a truck (preferably a white one) and a yellow flasher up top could drive right on and no one would care unless you decided to test your speed, by which you would have created such a large dust cloud, they would automatically know you are a not involved joyrider.
My cousin used to drive up and down new roads and when asked he said he was a pavement inspector. No one asked him anything further. He was "inspecting" the pavement.....for himself.
There’s not any exits between the state line and the current terminus, Rocky Dell Rd/Highlands Blvd. so no rest areaQuestions:I’m not sure where you’re talking about, but as far as I could see from the top of both Highlands Blvd and Edinburgh bridges there were no clearing or signage indicating a rest area.
1. Have they started clearing land for the new AR side visitor's center yet? (South of the old Gun Range Rd.)
2. Wonder where the commercial action (i.e. convenience stores and/or fast food restaurants) will be in the 3 exits from Hiwasse to the state line on the Arkansas side?
If anyone wants to go to the state line do not take Edinburgh from Highlands as the road is pretty washed out and would need a high clearance vehicle.
iPhone
Seems that I'd heard the new Arkansas Visitor's Center will be south of the northernmost Arkansas exit (it used to be called Gun Range Rd.), and on the west side of the highway. Forget where I heard it.
I’ve seen two different State Troopers “inspect the pavement” as well. No dust cloud, it’s striped, signed and ready to open.To get to the border crossing at this point, you must be on one of the construction crews, know someone at one of the DOTs, or have a willingness to travel non-open roads knowing that the authorities ticket such behavior. Interesting pics nonetheless!
Baloney. Anyone with a truck (preferably a white one) and a yellow flasher up top could drive right on and no one would care unless you decided to test your speed, by which you would have created such a large dust cloud, they would automatically know you are a not involved joyrider.
My cousin used to drive up and down new roads and when asked he said he was a pavement inspector. No one asked him anything further. He was "inspecting" the pavement.....for himself.
Combined population: 791,035North Dakota: 779,094
North Dakota: 779,094Since Arkansas now needs it more than ND, just remove a chunk of I-29 and move it to the new I-49 alignment between Texarkana and Ft Smith. :-)
North Dakota: 779,094Since Arkansas now needs it more than ND, just remove a chunk of I-29 and move it to the new I-49 alignment between Texarkana and Ft Smith. :-)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210810/7c25311e239ee363452709045629b5d0.jpg)
I’d guess no since they recently put new exit signs up with the old exit numbers
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210810/7c25311e239ee363452709045629b5d0.jpg)
Has ARDOT any plans to replace the I-540 Exit numbers and mileposts with the correct I-49 ones in the near future? Since the new section will be correctly signed...
Not trying to take you literally here, but the need isn't Arkansas versus North Dakota, it's people who need to use the I-49 corridor versus people who need to use the I-29 corridor.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210810/7c25311e239ee363452709045629b5d0.jpg)
Has ARDOT any plans to replace the I-540 Exit numbers and mileposts with the correct I-49 ones in the near future? Since the new section will be correctly signed...
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210810/7c25311e239ee363452709045629b5d0.jpg)
Has ARDOT any plans to replace the I-540 Exit numbers and mileposts with the correct I-49 ones in the near future? Since the new section will be correctly signed...
North of 71 at Bella Vista. ARDOT uses the I-49 exit numbers
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51274110175_ff489f08b4_z_d.jpg)
Any opinion as to whether ADOT will change the rest of I-49 numbers (despite the aforementioned old-540-number sign replacement) north of I-40 once the Bella Vista bypass opens, or just wait until more mileage is deployed south of I-40, including the Arkansas River bridge?
September 30th completion, the Joplin Globe says:Story is from March. Who knows what the timeline is now. Might be sooner, might be later.
https://www.joplinglobe.com/news/local_news/missouri-s-section-of-bella-vista-bypass-scheduled-for-completion-in-fall/article_d40917d0-91a2-11eb-ab12-7fdb05ab4357.html?fbclid=IwAR1NxlqQwMu031eGhvuJU3jeT7ffMI4guZXMm6ZNzPP_X2DXBDHyaEVl6hc
(https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/joplinglobe.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/85/c85a6a52-916f-11eb-8fac-77be31ccca1d/606348fd5d8ca.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C726)
Story is from March. Who knows what the timeline is now. Might be sooner, might be later.
Story is from March. Who knows what the timeline is now. Might be sooner, might be later.
Story is from March. Who knows what the timeline is now. Might be sooner, might be later.
Thanks, Road Hog. Apologies for this. I didn't realize the work was so near completion on the Arkansas side then. Should'a looked at the trees. :pan:
Northbound lanes are open from the 71 ramp to Highlands. Well at least 1 lane is
Story is from March. Who knows what the timeline is now. Might be sooner, might be later.
Thanks, Road Hog. Apologies for this. I didn't realize the work was so near completion on the Arkansas side then. Should'a looked at the trees. :pan:
The only thing left in Arkansas is the SPUI at US 71 (Bentonville) and paving the NB lanes (which may already be finished)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210816/b002aeeeacfd486b218bec4b5ef0c5ce.jpg)
Story is from March. Who knows what the timeline is now. Might be sooner, might be later.
Thanks, Road Hog. Apologies for this. I didn't realize the work was so near completion on the Arkansas side then. Should'a looked at the trees. :pan:
The only thing left in Arkansas is the SPUI at US 71 (Bentonville) and paving the NB lanes (which may already be finished)
Oddly, I haven't clinched an inch of I-49 yet except to cross it, but I have been on I-29 in the dead of winter. Not too much traffic, and they didn't do much to control the snow and ice except to let it blow over the 4 lanes for the week I was there.
Oddly, I haven't clinched an inch of I-49 yet except to cross it, but I have been on I-29 in the dead of winter. Not too much traffic, and they didn't do much to control the snow and ice except to let it blow over the 4 lanes for the week I was there.I've clinched the original section of I-49 between Lafayette and Shreveport--twice. The first time was before any of the I-49 northward extension was built, so I guess it counts as a clinch under the original mileage, but then my clinch got taken away with parts of the northward extension opening up. I did drive most of the new section between Shreveport and Texarkana, but haven't driven any of the new I-49 north of that point.
Oddly, I haven't clinched an inch of I-49 yet except to cross it, but I have been on I-29 in the dead of winter. Not too much traffic, and they didn't do much to control the snow and ice except to let it blow over the 4 lanes for the week I was there.I've clinched the original section of I-49 between Lafayette and Shreveport--twice. The first time was before any of the I-49 northward extension was built, so I guess it counts as a clinch under the original mileage, but then my clinch got taken away with parts of the northward extension opening up. I did drive most of the new section between Shreveport and Texarkana, but haven't driven any of the new I-49 north of that point.
Looks like part of the new overpass is open per the iDriveArkansas.com cameras. Traffic is using 1 lane of the SB I49 roadway.
Looks like part of the new overpass is open per the iDriveArkansas.com cameras. Traffic is using 1 lane of the SB I49 roadway.
ARDOT is doing some "touchup" work around there.
Guardrails and such.Looks like part of the new overpass is open per the iDriveArkansas.com cameras. Traffic is using 1 lane of the SB I49 roadway.
ARDOT is doing some "touchup" work around there.
Is "touchup" code for blasting rock and fixing the face of the hill or fixing some other "feature" of the road work?
Guardrails and such.Looks like part of the new overpass is open per the iDriveArkansas.com cameras. Traffic is using 1 lane of the SB I49 roadway.
ARDOT is doing some "touchup" work around there.
Is "touchup" code for blasting rock and fixing the face of the hill or fixing some other "feature" of the road work?
iPhone
Looks like part of the new overpass is open per the iDriveArkansas.com cameras. Traffic is using 1 lane of the SB I49 roadway.
ARDOT is doing some "touchup" work around there.
Is "touchup" code for blasting rock and fixing the face of the hill or fixing some other "feature" of the road work?
Guardrails and such.Looks like part of the new overpass is open per the iDriveArkansas.com cameras. Traffic is using 1 lane of the SB I49 roadway.
ARDOT is doing some "touchup" work around there.
Is "touchup" code for blasting rock and fixing the face of the hill or fixing some other "feature" of the road work?
iPhone
Drove it late last night on the way home from a job in Gravette for the first time. Makes the southbound trip quite a bit quicker now, unless you actually want to exit onto 71B south. The bridge is open due to the closure of the southbound offramp due to falling rock and also probably to make it easier to complete the SPUI underneath. They are going to blast another 100 ft. from the top of the hillside to notch it out better to prevent rocks from falling onto the offramp when everything opens up. Hasn't been an issue yet due to low traffic counts, but would assuredly result in the rude surprise of a rock coming through a windshield or onto a hood or roof, not to mention the hazard of avoiding large debris on the ramp itself once I-49 is opened onto the BVB. Resulted in some lane shifts from my previous trip a couple of weeks ago southbound from Hiwasse.
The I Drive Arkansas camera by the US 71 I-49 interchange has a nice view of the open southbound lanes. Though the vast majority of southbound traffic is from US 71 south.
https://idrivearkansas.com/
The I Drive Arkansas camera by the US 71 I-49 interchange has a nice view of the open southbound lanes. Though the vast majority of southbound traffic is from US 71 south.
https://idrivearkansas.com/
Agreed! the NB camera view is great to see the flow & updates on the construction. i'm interested to see the "touchup" work on the hill face across from the camera.
Now, I'm guessing it will take 15 years for the Ft Smith to Texarkana stretch to be completed? When completed. IMO, IH 49 in Arkansas will be one of the most scenic interstates in the midsouth, it should considered a high priority economic corridor to the feds with the amount of interstate commerce that go from Canada to Mexico via IH 4915 years? You have a lot of faith in ARdot
Now, I'm guessing it will take 15 years for the Ft Smith to Texarkana stretch to be completed? When completed. IMO, IH 49 in Arkansas will be one of the most scenic interstates in the midsouth, it should considered a high priority economic corridor to the feds with the amount of interstate commerce that go from Canada to Mexico via IH 4915 years? You have a lot of faith in ARdot
Now, I'm guessing it will take 15 years for the Ft Smith to Texarkana stretch to be completed? When completed. IMO, IH 49 in Arkansas will be one of the most scenic interstates in the midsouth, it should considered a high priority economic corridor to the feds with the amount of interstate commerce that go from Canada to Mexico via IH 4915 years? You have a lot of faith in ARdot
I'm 47 & I never expect to see 49 completed in my lifetime. 25-30 years it optimistic with the way things move in DC.Does ARDoT have a plan for completing I-49? Do they have the route broken down into phases with a list of priorities indicating in what order segments will be built? That's essential to being able to attract funding, federal or state.
yeah, I was optomistic about 49, then I forgot that ARDOT Is in charge. With that in mind, IH 30 and 40 projects will take priority
yeah, I was optomistic about 49, then I forgot that ARDOT Is in charge. With that in mind, IH 30 and 40 projects will take priority
They will certainly get the lion's share of funds, and rightfully so with AADT counts. However, the perpetuation of the 1/2 cent sales tax after its original sunset was predicated on progress on the 4 Corners with 4 lanes idea that they've bandied about for a few decades now. And a Super-2 from Ft. Smith to Y City was one of the routes on the marketing push from ARDOT to get the sales tax extended. None of that binds them to a timeline, however, but politicians including our "Republican" governor hitched their wagon to this infrastructure push, so they've got to show something for our continued sales tax support, and not just in Central AR/NWA.
The I Drive Arkansas camera by the US 71 I-49 interchange has a nice view of the open southbound lanes. Though the vast majority of southbound traffic is from US 71 south.
https://idrivearkansas.com/
Agreed! the NB camera view is great to see the flow & updates on the construction. i'm interested to see the "touchup" work on the hill face across from the camera.
A timelapse of that feed over the next few weeks would be cool to watch the hillside disappear chunks at a time.
And it just goes to show how overdue this final segment of I-49 has been these past few decades. Bella Vista is fixing to be pleasant to drive for the residents.
Will the new roadway be signed I-49 immediately?
Will the new roadway be signed I-49 immediately?
Yes.
Technically, it already is, but the signs are covered. There are maybe 3 or 4 549 signa left at US 71 in Bella Vista.
Will the new roadway be signed I-49 immediately?
Yes.
Technically, it already is, but the signs are covered. There are maybe 3 or 4 549 signa left at US 71 in Bella Vista.
Most of the signs aren't even covered anymore. It's I-49 (with left lane closed in both directions for striping/shoulder/median/cable barrier work) already pretty much except at the south end. Still no news from ARDOT on the exit renumbering south of Bella Vista yet. I emailed them a few weeks ago, and they were pretty vague on the plan in the response.
I’m going to head up there in an hour or so and I’ll take more pics. I’ve seen 3 549 signs recently, two at 71B and one on Highlands, a to 549 sign. They are sandbagged tho, not in the ground. Idk about the AR72 exitsWill the new roadway be signed I-49 immediately?
Yes.
Technically, it already is, but the signs are covered. There are maybe 3 or 4 549 signa left at US 71 in Bella Vista.
Most of the signs aren't even covered anymore. It's I-49 (with left lane closed in both directions for striping/shoulder/median/cable barrier work) already pretty much except at the south end. Still no news from ARDOT on the exit renumbering south of Bella Vista yet. I emailed them a few weeks ago, and they were pretty vague on the plan in the response.
That's news to me. As of a week ago (8/24) most of the signs were still covered.
I’m going to head up there in an hour or so and I’ll take more pics. I’ve seen 3 549 signs recently, two at 71B and one on Highlands, a to 549 sign. They are sandbagged tho, not in the ground. Idk about the AR72 exitsWill the new roadway be signed I-49 immediately?
Yes.
Technically, it already is, but the signs are covered. There are maybe 3 or 4 549 signa left at US 71 in Bella Vista.
Most of the signs aren't even covered anymore. It's I-49 (with left lane closed in both directions for striping/shoulder/median/cable barrier work) already pretty much except at the south end. Still no news from ARDOT on the exit renumbering south of Bella Vista yet. I emailed them a few weeks ago, and they were pretty vague on the plan in the response.
That's news to me. As of a week ago (8/24) most of the signs were still covered.
iPhone
The signs at the junctions to the entrance ramps are likely still covered. I'm thinking about the confidence signage on the road itself. I don't remember seeing anything northbound that says AR-549 once you get up the hill from the south entrance. I'll be up there in about 3 hours after I wrap up some work stuff and refresh my memory up to Rocky Dell Hollow Rd. and back.
Some are some are notWill the new roadway be signed I-49 immediately?
Yes.
Technically, it already is, but the signs are covered. There are maybe 3 or 4 549 signa left at US 71 in Bella Vista.
Most of the signs aren't even covered anymore. It's I-49 (with left lane closed in both directions for striping/shoulder/median/cable barrier work) already pretty much except at the south end. Still no news from ARDOT on the exit renumbering south of Bella Vista yet. I emailed them a few weeks ago, and they were pretty vague on the plan in the response.
That's news to me. As of a week ago (8/24) most of the signs were still covered.
Some are some are not
That's news to me. As of a week ago (8/24) most of the signs were still covered.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210831/a5b4340fafae75993495bdc94b94052f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210831/20c84cef9d30e2806d9ee9ef37d69816.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210831/a5e010e417301cc081d13f6d2af68db1.jpg)
The second sign has the old exit numbers
Projected ribbon cutting is September 30th at 10am at the state line
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210901/c4da0a15212d216bcc5c8dda9b9e7e07.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210901/54190d1a81d32861aa7b72de116a318a.jpg)
This is the missouri side, from MO 90 and the 71 split at Pineville. They are coming along nicely but 30 day? Ehhh I don’t know. Arkansas? Yes. Which is weird. But victory for ARdot
I’m going to head up there in an hour or so and I’ll take more pics. I’ve seen 3 549 signs recently, two at 71B and one on Highlands, a to 549 sign. They are sandbagged tho, not in the ground. Idk about the AR72 exitsWill the new roadway be signed I-49 immediately?
Yes.
Technically, it already is, but the signs are covered. There are maybe 3 or 4 549 signa left at US 71 in Bella Vista.
Most of the signs aren't even covered anymore. It's I-49 (with left lane closed in both directions for striping/shoulder/median/cable barrier work) already pretty much except at the south end. Still no news from ARDOT on the exit renumbering south of Bella Vista yet. I emailed them a few weeks ago, and they were pretty vague on the plan in the response.
That's news to me. As of a week ago (8/24) most of the signs were still covered.
iPhone
The signs at the junctions to the entrance ramps are likely still covered. I'm thinking about the confidence signage on the road itself. I don't remember seeing anything northbound that says AR-549 once you get up the hill from the south entrance. I'll be up there in about 3 hours after I wrap up some work stuff and refresh my memory up to Rocky Dell Hollow Rd. and back.
Sounds ambitious to get it all done in less than 30 days, but apparently AR is hellbent on having the whole thing open while MO has been sandbagging the project all along.
Sounds ambitious to get it all done in less than 30 days, but apparently AR is hellbent on having the whole thing open while MO has been sandbagging the project all along.
Missouri started later than Arkansas, but was supposed to finish around the same time (same contractor, IIRC)
Sounds ambitious to get it all done in less than 30 days, but apparently AR is hellbent on having the whole thing open while MO has been sandbagging the project all along.
Missouri started later than Arkansas, but was supposed to finish around the same time (same contractor, IIRC)
Missouri started later because the money they had allocated to the project disappeared when Arkansas didn't have ours ready as they apparently have other needs in their state, go figure. Then, Missouri for the last several years has had funding issues all around for road building and maintenance. It took the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission to put in the application for the BUILD grant that Missouri got to complete Missouri's funding needs as they didn't have enough for their part until that point.
IIRC, much of the I-49 funding in Missouri was spent on upgrading US 71 to Interstate standards
Sounds ambitious to get it all done in less than 30 days, but apparently AR is hellbent on having the whole thing open while MO has been sandbagging the project all along.
Missouri started later than Arkansas, but was supposed to finish around the same time (same contractor, IIRC)
Missouri started later because the money they had allocated to the project disappeared when Arkansas didn't have ours ready as they apparently have other needs in their state, go figure. Then, Missouri for the last several years has had funding issues all around for road building and maintenance. It took the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission to put in the application for the BUILD grant that Missouri got to complete Missouri's funding needs as they didn't have enough for their part until that point.
IIRC, much of the I-49 funding in Missouri was spent on upgrading US 71 to Interstate standards
I may be wrong but didn’t Arkansas give Missouri like 25M to help complete it?Sounds ambitious to get it all done in less than 30 days, but apparently AR is hellbent on having the whole thing open while MO has been sandbagging the project all along.
Missouri started later than Arkansas, but was supposed to finish around the same time (same contractor, IIRC)
Missouri started later because the money they had allocated to the project disappeared when Arkansas didn't have ours ready as they apparently have other needs in their state, go figure. Then, Missouri for the last several years has had funding issues all around for road building and maintenance. It took the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission to put in the application for the BUILD grant that Missouri got to complete Missouri's funding needs as they didn't have enough for their part until that point.
IIRC, much of the I-49 funding in Missouri was spent on upgrading US 71 to Interstate standards
I may be wrong but didn’t Arkansas give Missouri like 25M to help complete it?Sounds ambitious to get it all done in less than 30 days, but apparently AR is hellbent on having the whole thing open while MO has been sandbagging the project all along.
Missouri started later than Arkansas, but was supposed to finish around the same time (same contractor, IIRC)
Missouri started later because the money they had allocated to the project disappeared when Arkansas didn't have ours ready as they apparently have other needs in their state, go figure. Then, Missouri for the last several years has had funding issues all around for road building and maintenance. It took the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission to put in the application for the BUILD grant that Missouri got to complete Missouri's funding needs as they didn't have enough for their part until that point.
IIRC, much of the I-49 funding in Missouri was spent on upgrading US 71 to Interstate standards
That's correct. Prior to its conversion to I-49 in late 2012, the section of US-71 between Pineville and Kansas City was a 4-lane divided highway, with some controlled-access sections and other sections that had at-grade intersections and some driveway accesses. Missouri focused on upgrading that portion of US-71 (roughly 180 miles) by eliminating the at-grade intersections by building interchanges and overpasses in some locations and closing off cross-roads into cul-de-sacs in other places. They also built frontage roads in a few places to eliminate any remaining driveway accesses to complete the conversion to an interstate-grade freeway.Sounds ambitious to get it all done in less than 30 days, but apparently AR is hellbent on having the whole thing open while MO has been sandbagging the project all along.
Missouri started later than Arkansas, but was supposed to finish around the same time (same contractor, IIRC)
Missouri started later because the money they had allocated to the project disappeared when Arkansas didn't have ours ready as they apparently have other needs in their state, go figure. Then, Missouri for the last several years has had funding issues all around for road building and maintenance. It took the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission to put in the application for the BUILD grant that Missouri got to complete Missouri's funding needs as they didn't have enough for their part until that point.
IIRC, much of the I-49 funding in Missouri was spent on upgrading US 71 to Interstate standards
When the application was put in by the NWARPC, McDonald County was considered part of the NWA MSA. It was removed for some reason a few years ago, but I GUARANTEE that it will be put back into the MSA within the next 10-15 years as there's no way the growth here doesn't spill northward due to land prices in Benton/Washington/~Madison Counties. If I had a spare penny to my name right now, I'd be real estate speculating along the MO-90 exit vicinity.I may be wrong but didn’t Arkansas give Missouri like 25M to help complete it?Sounds ambitious to get it all done in less than 30 days, but apparently AR is hellbent on having the whole thing open while MO has been sandbagging the project all along.
Missouri started later than Arkansas, but was supposed to finish around the same time (same contractor, IIRC)
Missouri started later because the money they had allocated to the project disappeared when Arkansas didn't have ours ready as they apparently have other needs in their state, go figure. Then, Missouri for the last several years has had funding issues all around for road building and maintenance. It took the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission to put in the application for the BUILD grant that Missouri got to complete Missouri's funding needs as they didn't have enough for their part until that point.
IIRC, much of the I-49 funding in Missouri was spent on upgrading US 71 to Interstate standards
You're thinking of the BUILD grant. The NWARPC put in the application on behalf of Missouri, as Missouri really hasn't put much priority on McDonald County until these past 2 years when it became apparent they would get federal money to help complete the BVB.
That's correct. Prior to its conversion to I-49 in late 2012, the section of US-71 between Pineville and Kansas City was a 4-lane divided highway, with some controlled-access sections and other sections that had at-grade intersections and some driveway accesses. Missouri focused on upgrading that portion of US-71 (roughly 180 miles) by eliminating the at-grade intersections by building interchanges and overpasses in some locations and closing off cross-roads into cul-de-sacs in other places. They also built frontage roads in a few places to eliminate any remaining driveway accesses to complete the conversion to an interstate-grade freeway.Sounds ambitious to get it all done in less than 30 days, but apparently AR is hellbent on having the whole thing open while MO has been sandbagging the project all along.
Missouri started later than Arkansas, but was supposed to finish around the same time (same contractor, IIRC)
Missouri started later because the money they had allocated to the project disappeared when Arkansas didn't have ours ready as they apparently have other needs in their state, go figure. Then, Missouri for the last several years has had funding issues all around for road building and maintenance. It took the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission to put in the application for the BUILD grant that Missouri got to complete Missouri's funding needs as they didn't have enough for their part until that point.
IIRC, much of the I-49 funding in Missouri was spent on upgrading US 71 to Interstate standards
MoDOT wanted to continue I-49 past I-435 to end at I-70, but a court settlement from 1985 prevents MoDOT from upgrading three signalized intersections on US-71 at Gregory Blvd, 59th St, and 55th St, on the south side of KC to full interchanges. Until another judge reverses that court order, US-71 between I-435 and I-70 cannot be upgraded to I-49.
Sounds ambitious to get it all done in less than 30 days, but apparently AR is hellbent on having the whole thing open while MO has been sandbagging the project all along.
Missouri started later than Arkansas, but was supposed to finish around the same time (same contractor, IIRC)
Missouri started later because the money they had allocated to the project disappeared when Arkansas didn't have ours ready as they apparently have other needs in their state, go figure. Then, Missouri for the last several years has had funding issues all around for road building and maintenance. It took the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission to put in the application for the BUILD grant that Missouri got to complete Missouri's funding needs as they didn't have enough for their part until that point.
Missouri's BVB Funding (https://www.joplinglobe.com/news/local_news/missouri-s-section-of-bella-vista-bypass-scheduled-for-completion-in-fall/article_d40917d0-91a2-11eb-ab12-7fdb05ab4357.html)
IIRC, much of the I-49 funding in Missouri was spent on upgrading US 71 to Interstate standards
It didn't take much. They really only needed to build a handful of overpasses and exit/entrance ramps as the road itself was mostly through farmland, other than a handful of cities which already had limited access connections. I don't even think they had to do much in the way of access roads.
Sounds ambitious to get it all done in less than 30 days, but apparently AR is hellbent on having the whole thing open while MO has been sandbagging the project all along.
Missouri started later than Arkansas, but was supposed to finish around the same time (same contractor, IIRC)
Missouri started later because the money they had allocated to the project disappeared when Arkansas didn't have ours ready as they apparently have other needs in their state, go figure. Then, Missouri for the last several years has had funding issues all around for road building and maintenance. It took the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission to put in the application for the BUILD grant that Missouri got to complete Missouri's funding needs as they didn't have enough for their part until that point.
Missouri's BVB Funding (https://www.joplinglobe.com/news/local_news/missouri-s-section-of-bella-vista-bypass-scheduled-for-completion-in-fall/article_d40917d0-91a2-11eb-ab12-7fdb05ab4357.html)
IIRC, much of the I-49 funding in Missouri was spent on upgrading US 71 to Interstate standards
I may be wrong but didn’t Arkansas give Missouri like 25M to help complete it?
You're thinking of the BUILD grant. The NWARPC put in the application on behalf of Missouri, as Missouri really hasn't put much priority on McDonald County until these past 2 years when it became apparent they would get federal money to help complete the BVB.
When the application was put in by the NWARPC, McDonald County was considered part of the NWA MSA. It was removed for some reason a few years ago, but I GUARANTEE that it will be put back into the MSA within the next 10-15 years as there's no way the growth here doesn't spill northward due to land prices in Benton/Washington/~Madison Counties. If I had a spare penny to my name right now, I'd be real estate speculating along the MO-90 exit vicinity.
Sounds ambitious to get it all done in less than 30 days, but apparently AR is hellbent on having the whole thing open while MO has been sandbagging the project all along.
Missouri started later than Arkansas, but was supposed to finish around the same time (same contractor, IIRC)
Missouri started later because the money they had allocated to the project disappeared when Arkansas didn't have ours ready as they apparently have other needs in their state, go figure. Then, Missouri for the last several years has had funding issues all around for road building and maintenance. It took the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission to put in the application for the BUILD grant that Missouri got to complete Missouri's funding needs as they didn't have enough for their part until that point.
Missouri's BVB Funding (https://www.joplinglobe.com/news/local_news/missouri-s-section-of-bella-vista-bypass-scheduled-for-completion-in-fall/article_d40917d0-91a2-11eb-ab12-7fdb05ab4357.html)
IIRC, much of the I-49 funding in Missouri was spent on upgrading US 71 to Interstate standards
That's correct. Prior to its conversion to I-49 in late 2012, the section of US-71 between Pineville and Kansas City was a 4-lane divided highway, with some controlled-access sections and other sections that had at-grade intersections and some driveway accesses. Missouri focused on upgrading that portion of US-71 (roughly 180 miles) by eliminating the at-grade intersections by building interchanges and overpasses in some locations and closing off cross-roads into cul-de-sacs in other places. They also built frontage roads in a few places to eliminate any remaining driveway accesses to complete the conversion to an interstate-grade freeway.
MoDOT wanted to continue I-49 past I-435 to end at I-70, but a court settlement from 1985 prevents MoDOT from upgrading three signalized intersections on US-71 at Gregory Blvd, 59th St, and 55th St, on the south side of KC to full interchanges. Until another judge reverses that court order, US-71 between I-435 and I-70 cannot be upgraded to I-49.
That's about as likely to happen in the next 30 years as me hitting the lottery. And I don't play the lottery.
"Official" word on I-49 Connector: likely first or second week of October, but nothing definite yet.
Checking the iDriveArkansas live camera at the south end of the US-71 interchange, looks like the mountain is in the process of taking its big dump on the offramp. As far back as they're working on the top of the hill, it amazes me that this issue wasn't foreseen earlier in the construction, like when they blasted the hill the first time!
OT, is there any overhead light on any stretch of 49 in NWA? IMO, it should have overhead lighting from the Boston mountains up to the Missouri line. With the amout of deer and fog in the winter months from Alma to Springdale. This should have been implemented 20+ years agoPretty sure there isn’t
Bella Vista Bypass to open Oct. 1 as part of Interstate 49
The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ArDOT) announced Friday (Sept. 17) the Bella Vista Bypass, or Missouri-Arkansas Connector, will open to traffic on Oct. 1. The completed highway will become a part of Interstate 49.
At 10 a.m. on Sept. 30, a ribbon-cutting celebration will take place to mark the completion of the 18.9-mile project. According to a news release, the new I-49 segment consisted of six projects totaling more than $220 million beginning in February 2011. Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and Missouri Gov. Mike Parson will join state officials and legislators at the Arkansas-Missouri state line for the celebration.
https://talkbusiness.net/2021/09/bella-vista-bypass-to-open-oct-1-as-part-of-interstate-49/
I-49: MO holds up the new construction BVB for a long while, focusing more on upgrading the existing US 71 Expressway, but heh, better later than never!
View from afar: I-49 vs I-57 seems like a tale of two new interstates
I-49: MO holds up the new construction BVB for a long while, focusing more on upgrading the existing US 71 Expressway, but heh, better later than never!
I-57: MO already has funding authorized and construction scheduled for the 2-lane US 67 upgrade south of Poplar Bluff to the AR state line, leaving the existing US 60 Expressway upgrades as the “final” box to check for 57
View from afar: I-49 vs I-57 seems like a tale of two new interstates
I-49: MO holds up the new construction BVB for a long while, focusing more on upgrading the existing US 71 Expressway, but heh, better later than never!
I-57: MO already has funding authorized and construction scheduled for the 2-lane US 67 upgrade south of Poplar Bluff to the AR state line, leaving the existing US 60 Expressway upgrades as the “final” box to check for 57
If I were Arkansas, I'd ditch I-69 and pitch a dual-corridor I-49/57 effort to Louisiana. Now that all of south Louisiana has experienced a major hurricane within one calendar year, it should be *very* easy to sell an extension of I-57 all the way to Iowa-Lake Charles. I-69 is practically DOA in Louisiana anyway. And I-57 and I-49 complete to I-10 opens up a lot of Arkansas and Missouri for coastal evacuees (much more than the current routes open them to travelers who only look at interstates) as well as tourists. I-57 to the Gulf makes the Lake Charles area more attractive as a port and gives Louisiana more port redundancy.
Sorry for the diversion, but I feel that Arkansas should see having *both* I-49 and I-57 complete to the Gulf as beneficial to them. And they need to remember how the three-state effort is what gave them I-49 in the first place.
Well, 57 is supposed to terminate at I-40, so no trip to the Gulf for it.
Well, 57 is supposed to terminate at I-40, so no trip to the Gulf for it.
According to which indelible and irrevocable decree?
If I were Arkansas, I'd ditch I-69 and pitch a dual-corridor I-49/57 effort to Louisiana. Now that all of south Louisiana has experienced a major hurricane within one calendar year, it should be *very* easy to sell an extension of I-57 all the way to Iowa-Lake Charles. I-69 is practically DOA in Louisiana anyway. And I-57 and I-49 complete to I-10 opens up a lot of Arkansas and Missouri for coastal evacuees (much more than the current routes open them to travelers who only look at interstates) as well as tourists. I-57 to the Gulf makes the Lake Charles area more attractive as a port and gives Louisiana more port redundancy.
I laid out why in my post.If I were Arkansas, I'd ditch I-69 and pitch a dual-corridor I-49/57 effort to Louisiana. Now that all of south Louisiana has experienced a major hurricane within one calendar year, it should be *very* easy to sell an extension of I-57 all the way to Iowa-Lake Charles. I-69 is practically DOA in Louisiana anyway. And I-57 and I-49 complete to I-10 opens up a lot of Arkansas and Missouri for coastal evacuees (much more than the current routes open them to travelers who only look at interstates) as well as tourists. I-57 to the Gulf makes the Lake Charles area more attractive as a port and gives Louisiana more port redundancy.
AR 530 is completely 2-laned south of where it departs from I-530 in Pine Bluff. And there’s a gap in between 2 parts near the southern end.I laid out why in my post.If I were Arkansas, I'd ditch I-69 and pitch a dual-corridor I-49/57 effort to Louisiana. Now that all of south Louisiana has experienced a major hurricane within one calendar year, it should be *very* easy to sell an extension of I-57 all the way to Iowa-Lake Charles. I-69 is practically DOA in Louisiana anyway. And I-57 and I-49 complete to I-10 opens up a lot of Arkansas and Missouri for coastal evacuees (much more than the current routes open them to travelers who only look at interstates) as well as tourists. I-57 to the Gulf makes the Lake Charles area more attractive as a port and gives Louisiana more port redundancy.
It's not a bad idea. I doubt I'll see it in my lifetime.
How much of the route is 4 lanes south of Monticello (or wherever I-530 is supposed to meet with I-69)?
AR 530 is completely 2-laned south of where it departs from I-530 in Pine Bluff. And there’s a gap in between 2 parts near the southern end.I laid out why in my post.If I were Arkansas, I'd ditch I-69 and pitch a dual-corridor I-49/57 effort to Louisiana. Now that all of south Louisiana has experienced a major hurricane within one calendar year, it should be *very* easy to sell an extension of I-57 all the way to Iowa-Lake Charles. I-69 is practically DOA in Louisiana anyway. And I-57 and I-49 complete to I-10 opens up a lot of Arkansas and Missouri for coastal evacuees (much more than the current routes open them to travelers who only look at interstates) as well as tourists. I-57 to the Gulf makes the Lake Charles area more attractive as a port and gives Louisiana more port redundancy.
It's not a bad idea. I doubt I'll see it in my lifetime.
How much of the route is 4 lanes south of Monticello (or wherever I-530 is supposed to meet with I-69)?
iPhone
My bad. I was asking about the US 425 and US165 highways south of Monticello which I assume is the route jbnv was talking about in his post (please correct me if I'm wrong).
AR 530 is completely 2-laned south of where it departs from I-530 in Pine Bluff. And there’s a gap in between 2 parts near the southern end.I laid out why in my post.If I were Arkansas, I'd ditch I-69 and pitch a dual-corridor I-49/57 effort to Louisiana. Now that all of south Louisiana has experienced a major hurricane within one calendar year, it should be *very* easy to sell an extension of I-57 all the way to Iowa-Lake Charles. I-69 is practically DOA in Louisiana anyway. And I-57 and I-49 complete to I-10 opens up a lot of Arkansas and Missouri for coastal evacuees (much more than the current routes open them to travelers who only look at interstates) as well as tourists. I-57 to the Gulf makes the Lake Charles area more attractive as a port and gives Louisiana more port redundancy.
It's not a bad idea. I doubt I'll see it in my lifetime.
How much of the route is 4 lanes south of Monticello (or wherever I-530 is supposed to meet with I-69)?
iPhone
My bad. I was asking about the US 425 and US165 highways south of Monticello which I assume is the route jbnv was talking about in his post (please correct me if I'm wrong).
AR 530 is completely 2-laned south of where it departs from I-530 in Pine Bluff. And there’s a gap in between 2 parts near the southern end.I laid out why in my post.If I were Arkansas, I'd ditch I-69 and pitch a dual-corridor I-49/57 effort to Louisiana. Now that all of south Louisiana has experienced a major hurricane within one calendar year, it should be *very* easy to sell an extension of I-57 all the way to Iowa-Lake Charles. I-69 is practically DOA in Louisiana anyway. And I-57 and I-49 complete to I-10 opens up a lot of Arkansas and Missouri for coastal evacuees (much more than the current routes open them to travelers who only look at interstates) as well as tourists. I-57 to the Gulf makes the Lake Charles area more attractive as a port and gives Louisiana more port redundancy.
It's not a bad idea. I doubt I'll see it in my lifetime.
How much of the route is 4 lanes south of Monticello (or wherever I-530 is supposed to meet with I-69)?
iPhone
My bad. I was asking about the US 425 and US165 highways south of Monticello which I assume is the route jbnv was talking about in his post (please correct me if I'm wrong).
Oh sorry, I didn’t realize what you were asking. South of Monticello it’s 2 lanes in Arkansas. And 4 lanes in Louisiana. The 425 to 165 combo is completely 4 lanes. 425 going southeast isn’t 4 lanes again until Rayville.
iPhone
OT, is there any overhead light on any stretch of 49 in NWA? IMO, it should have overhead lighting from the Boston mountains up to the Missouri line. With the amout of deer and fog in the winter months from Alma to Springdale. This should have been implemented 20+ years agoPretty sure there isn’t
iPhone
I just don’t see the purpose of extending 57 over I-530 and then into Louisiana. It doesn’t make sense as a long distance corridor to go SW into Little Rock, SE into Louisiana, then SW again to Lake Charles.
I-530 extended (some) as it’s own 4 lane corridor? Sure, maybe. I don’t see a huge need to have it go all the way to Monroe. In Louisiana, our 4 lane corridors like US 165/US 425 and US 167 serve us fine.
iPhone
Also, you can justify a freeway extension along US 165/US 425 to Monticello independently of an I-69 routing.
I'd disagree, because Shreveport has a really BIG incentive to build out I-69: access to the Port of Shreveport-Bossier and "completing" the Inner Loop/LA 3132 (which would use portions of the segment of proposed I-69 between I-49 and I-20). It may be second fiddle right now to the I-49 ICC, but it's not pushed back that far in the basement either.
Arkansas, OTOH, probably doesn't have the money to even do the bridge across the Mississippi, let alone finish their segment of I-69, and the same goes with Mississippi.
If AR and MS do decide to bail out on I-69, and TX decides to call it a decade and simply build to Texarkana and use I-30/I-40/I-55/I-155 (or I-30/I-57/upgraded US 60) to declare I-69 "finished", then a Lake Charles/Alex/Monroe/Bastrop/Monticello/Pine Bluff freeway becomes that much more viable. It's needed anyway for LA just to finish the freeway system off with a SW/NE connection that would seriously renew Lake Charles and provide an added evac route for the new "major hurricane a year" reality.
All I'm saying is that regardless of what happens with I-69, a SW/NE freeway upgrade of US 165/425 is more than needed. Only issue is how to get it through Alexandria/Pineville.
Though I don't remember the details offhand, I seem to recall AHTD/ArDOT's lighting policy is suitably insane that it's been the subject of repeated rounds of criticism here in the past–I think someone even confronted the AHTD rep here over it when they were around.
Regarding all the fictional projects in the SE half of the state bisected by US 67, good luck. The NW half is where the economic action is and traffic counts indicate this. Just fill potholes in Warren and El Dorado and they will be fine.
Regarding all the fictional projects in the SE half of the state bisected by US 67, good luck. The NW half is where the economic action is and traffic counts indicate this. Just fill potholes in Warren and El Dorado and they will be fine.
Well, yeah. Everything in the SE half pretty much depends on Louisiana working with them to have any chance of coming to fruition and not being roads to nowhere. By the same token, the action in Louisiana is along I-10 and the Future I-49 South corridor. I'm not even sure that Louisiana really cares about I-49 north of Shreveport any more.
Regarding all the fictional projects in the SE half of the state bisected by US 67, good luck. The NW half is where the economic action is and traffic counts indicate this. Just fill potholes in Warren and El Dorado and they will be fine.
Well, yeah. Everything in the SE half pretty much depends on Louisiana working with them to have any chance of coming to fruition and not being roads to nowhere. By the same token, the action in Louisiana is along I-10 and the Future I-49 South corridor. I'm not even sure that Louisiana really cares about I-49 north of Shreveport any more.
I thought I-49 in Northern Louisiana was completed? (Outside of Shreveport's ICC that is).
It is completed, other than in Shreveport itself. I think jbnv is referring to the laughable maintenance since completed. It's basically closed after ice or snow precipitation of any significance.
It is completed, other than in Shreveport itself. I think jbnv is referring to the laughable maintenance since completed. It's basically closed after ice or snow precipitation of any significance.
I was referring to the parts that aren't finished outside of Louisiana, namely Texarkana to Fort Smith. I wasn't aware of the laughable maintenance.
Now I understand you were not referring to Louisiana at all. You're probably right in that using political capital to help Arkansas at this stage of I-49 development isn't high on their priority list, what with the large amount of I-49 still to be done in Louisiana itself within Shreveport, Lafayette, and the US-90 corridor.
That makes sense, the area could probably be 75 mph, but considering it's not much of a distance between the urban segment in Bentonville and Missouri, where the speed limit is capped at 70 mph, they probably did not want a variability in speed limit (70 mph -> 75 mph -> 70 mph) and decided to keep it uniform throughout. If Missouri ever goes to 75 mph, I could see Arkansas I-49 north of US-71 being increased to 75 mph as well.It’ll probably be posted at 70 mph in Missouri. As for Arkansas, 70 or 75 mph, depends what they go for north of Bentonville.
70mph in Arkansas.
https://www.4029tv.com/article/missouri-portion-of-bella-vista-bypass-on-schedule/35906021
@ 1:05, you can clearly see an already posted 70mph sign.
(From the 40/29 story 2 posts above) AR-DOT officials said they have plans for a new state-of-the-art welcome center that will be built at the first exit for Highway 72 on the bypass.
Now I understand you were not referring to Louisiana at all. You're probably right in that using political capital to help Arkansas at this stage of I-49 development isn't high on their priority list, what with the large amount of I-49 still to be done in Louisiana itself within Shreveport, Lafayette, and the US-90 corridor.
The bigger question I would wonder is whether Texas would be willing to use political capital (whether joined or not by Louisiana) on this unfinished segment, especially given it will bump up to their state line. A finished Arkansas I-49 might mean more to the Greater Houston Area and the Brownsville region than it even would to Baton Rouge/New Orleans.
The bigger question I would wonder is whether Texas would be willing to use political capital (whether joined or not by Louisiana) on this unfinished segment, especially given it will bump up to their state line. A finished Arkansas I-49 might mean more to the Greater Houston Area and the Brownsville region than it even would to Baton Rouge/New Orleans.
It doesn't just bump up on their line; it currently ends right on it and part of that stretch will pass through Texas. So yes, Arkansas needs Texas to care about the stretch at all for it to get done. And maybe there's private conversation between the two states that's moving this forward behind the scenes.
What benefit does Louisiana get from I-49 complete in Arkansas anyway? The only one I can think of is better access to NWA for evacuations.
The bigger question I would wonder is whether Texas would be willing to use political capital (whether joined or not by Louisiana) on this unfinished segment, especially given it will bump up to their state line. A finished Arkansas I-49 might mean more to the Greater Houston Area and the Brownsville region than it even would to Baton Rouge/New Orleans.
It doesn't just bump up on their line; it currently ends right on it and part of that stretch will pass through Texas. So yes, Arkansas needs Texas to care about the stretch at all for it to get done. And maybe there's private conversation between the two states that's moving this forward behind the scenes.
What benefit does Louisiana get from I-49 complete in Arkansas anyway? The only one I can think of is better access to NWA for evacuations.
I doubt that many evacuees would go all the way to NWA in the event of a hurricane as they are always tropical storm level or less by the time they work their way to the LA/AR border. They'd be just as likely to go to Texarkana or Little Rock as continuing up a completed I-49. In most storms, they likely wouldn't need to go further than Shreveport, unless flooding was a major concern as it sometimes still can be with remnants.
I doubt that many evacuees would go all the way to NWA in the event of a hurricane as they are always tropical storm level or less by the time they work their way to the LA/AR border. They'd be just as likely to go to Texarkana or Little Rock as continuing up a completed I-49. In most storms, they likely wouldn't need to go further than Shreveport, unless flooding was a major concern as it sometimes still can be with remnants.
I have a relative that lives "down the bayou" that got slammed by Ida. I heard she had gone all the way to Fredricksburg, Texas. I've heard of people evacuating to places like Atlanta and St. Louis. The simple fact is that hotels along the interstates fill up quickly in these situations and the states need places to send people. Also, NWA has the University of Arkansas. I figure that if it's not a home-game weekend, NWA should have plenty of hotel rooms that can accommodate evacuees.
For the record, you're supporting my argument that Louisiana gets little benefit from the completion of I-49 from Texarkana to Ft. Smith.
I doubt that many evacuees would go all the way to NWA in the event of a hurricane as they are always tropical storm level or less by the time they work their way to the LA/AR border. They'd be just as likely to go to Texarkana or Little Rock as continuing up a completed I-49. In most storms, they likely wouldn't need to go further than Shreveport, unless flooding was a major concern as it sometimes still can be with remnants.
I have a relative that lives "down the bayou" that got slammed by Ida. I heard she had gone all the way to Fredricksburg, Texas. I've heard of people evacuating to places like Atlanta and St. Louis. The simple fact is that hotels along the interstates fill up quickly in these situations and the states need places to send people. Also, NWA has the University of Arkansas. I figure that if it's not a home-game weekend, NWA should have plenty of hotel rooms that can accommodate evacuees.
For the record, you're supporting my argument that Louisiana gets little benefit from the completion of I-49 from Texarkana to Ft. Smith.
You would be surprised. I knew people from Houma, LA after Hurricane Ida that had to travel as far as Hot Springs. That’s still a ways from NWA but further than I would have thought you could find accommodations.The bigger question I would wonder is whether Texas would be willing to use political capital (whether joined or not by Louisiana) on this unfinished segment, especially given it will bump up to their state line. A finished Arkansas I-49 might mean more to the Greater Houston Area and the Brownsville region than it even would to Baton Rouge/New Orleans.
It doesn't just bump up on their line; it currently ends right on it and part of that stretch will pass through Texas. So yes, Arkansas needs Texas to care about the stretch at all for it to get done. And maybe there's private conversation between the two states that's moving this forward behind the scenes.
What benefit does Louisiana get from I-49 complete in Arkansas anyway? The only one I can think of is better access to NWA for evacuations.
If Texas doesn't connect to the short segment in their state with some sort of NW bypass of Texarkana, I question their will to want any of I-49 in their state as they'd be on the hook for half of the Red River crossing. I certainly see Arkansas' desire for splitting the cost. I swear this state has more river border crossings...
I doubt that many evacuees would go all the way to NWA in the event of a hurricane as they are always tropical storm level or less by the time they work their way to the LA/AR border. They'd be just as likely to go to Texarkana or Little Rock as continuing up a completed I-49. In most storms, they likely wouldn't need to go further than Shreveport, unless flooding was a major concern as it sometimes still can be with remnants.
The bigger question I would wonder is whether Texas would be willing to use political capital (whether joined or not by Louisiana) on this unfinished segment, especially given it will bump up to their state line. A finished Arkansas I-49 might mean more to the Greater Houston Area and the Brownsville region than it even would to Baton Rouge/New Orleans.
It doesn't just bump up on their line; it currently ends right on it and part of that stretch will pass through Texas. So yes, Arkansas needs Texas to care about the stretch at all for it to get done. And maybe there's private conversation between the two states that's moving this forward behind the scenes.
What benefit does Louisiana get from I-49 complete in Arkansas anyway? The only one I can think of is better access to NWA for evacuations.
What benefit does Louisiana get from I-49 complete in Arkansas anyway? The only one I can think of is better access to NWA for evacuations.
BVB WEEK BEGINS!
(EDIT: It appears to be the lead story in today's Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette - it's at the top of their web site right now, regardless. The I-49 pincer is about to shut to between Alma and north Texarkana.):
Missing link in I-49 ready to open, ribbon cutting set
https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2021/sep/26/missing-link-in-i-49-ready-to-open-ribbon-cutting/
The rock cut could be completed after the opening & just leave that ramp closed & 1 lane over the BVB. The NB painting could be done this week pretty quickly. It looks like most of the SPUI is done, but it's hard to tell with the 1 camera.
So after the BVB opens to complete the Ft. Smith-Kansas City link, what will happen next?
Something tells me that they'll work from Alma south to Texarkana, aside from the short piece of freeway that's already completed southeast of Ft. Smith. It's better this way anyway, because it's still unknown how or when TX wants to do their small part, which would make working from Texarkana north a nonstarter. Plus, the south end of new I-49/old I-540 is easily connectable to the stub in Ft. Smith, so there's that.
So after the BVB opens to complete the Ft. Smith-Kansas City link, what will happen next?
Something tells me that they'll work from Alma south to Texarkana, aside from the short piece of freeway that's already completed southeast of Ft. Smith. It's better this way anyway, because it's still unknown how or when TX wants to do their small part, which would make working from Texarkana north a nonstarter. Plus, the south end of new I-49/old I-540 is easily connectable to the stub in Ft. Smith, so there's that.
Something tells me that they'll work from Alma south to Texarkana, aside from the short piece of freeway that's already completed southeast of Ft. Smith. It's better this way anyway, because it's still unknown how or when TX wants to do their small part, which would make working from Texarkana north a nonstarter.
Quote from: HenrySomething tells me that they'll work from Alma south to Texarkana, aside from the short piece of freeway that's already completed southeast of Ft. Smith. It's better this way anyway, because it's still unknown how or when TX wants to do their small part, which would make working from Texarkana north a nonstarter.
The Alma-Barling segment in metro Fort Smith will (hopefully) get its 2-lane partial start in the near future. The bridge is a time-sensitive project due to the ever-present factor of cost inflation over time. The sooner they get the entire thing completed the less it will ultimately cost.
After that it's anyone's guess what AR DOT will choose to build. There is a lot of different ways to "skin the cat" on completing the Fort Smith to Texarkana leg of I-49.
If it was up to me, I'd build the bypasses for Mansfield, Waldron, Mena, De Queen and Ashdown first then connect the gaps between later. It would be for the same reason the bridge between Alma and Barling needs to be built ASAP: cost inflation as well as getting ahead of real estate development. Plus there is bound to be at least some speculative real estate squatters looking to gobble up land they think is in the ROW to make AR DOT pay even more for it. The situation will get worse the longer AR DOT puts off building the bypasses. I think the squatter factor would be guaranteed to happen if AR DOT chooses to build out I-49 in a linear fashion from Fort Smith downward. It will be more predictable where the next projects will be built. If they mix things up, building projects in different disconnected locations, it will do more to throw off the land speculators.
One thing I think AR DOT should consider: initially building out much of the Fort Smith-Texarkana I-49 leg as a Super-2 even with some at-grade intersections to cut costs. It doesn't have to be immediately signed as an Interstate. They did so with the I-530 corridor South of Pine Bluff in order to secure the ROW path. They might want to do some of the same thing here.
If it was up to me, I'd build the bypasses for Mansfield, Waldron, Mena, De Queen and Ashdown first then connect the gaps between later. It would be for the same reason the bridge between Alma and Barling needs to be built ASAP: cost inflation as well as getting ahead of real estate development. Plus there is bound to be at least some speculative real estate squatters looking to gobble up land they think is in the ROW to make AR DOT pay even more for it. The situation will get worse the longer AR DOT puts off building the bypasses. I think the squatter factor would be guaranteed to happen if AR DOT chooses to build out I-49 in a linear fashion from Fort Smith downward. It will be more predictable where the next projects will be built. If they mix things up, building projects in different disconnected locations, it will do more to throw off the land speculators.
If it was up to me, I'd build the bypasses for Mansfield, Waldron, Mena, De Queen and Ashdown first then connect the gaps between later. It would be for the same reason the bridge between Alma and Barling needs to be built ASAP: cost inflation as well as getting ahead of real estate development. Plus there is bound to be at least some speculative real estate squatters looking to gobble up land they think is in the ROW to make AR DOT pay even more for it. The situation will get worse the longer AR DOT puts off building the bypasses. I think the squatter factor would be guaranteed to happen if AR DOT chooses to build out I-49 in a linear fashion from Fort Smith downward. It will be more predictable where the next projects will be built. If they mix things up, building projects in different disconnected locations, it will do more to throw off the land speculators.
Arkansas could have more control over the I-49 corridor if they had the political will to do so.
From the "Build I-49" FB page - hope this image shows up - that hulk of a structure was there forever without signage at the Pineville split:
(https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/243519635_10159649700513624_9086514090800374683_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=nH0XmG6EqPEAX9ZsJBP&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=26024549ddef2253026d6de605078f20&oe=61791247)
If there is no other way, yes, Super-2's will allow you to get the right-of-way, however I'm not a huge fan, as it means you have to build on the same real estate twice.
An exception to this is the Bridge. The bridge freeway should be built as one unit and the US 71 interchange should be completed so that you have a completed freeway from the state line to south of Fort Smith. I don't think the uncompleted interchange could handle the volume of southbound traffic coming from the bridge.
Arkansas could have more control over the I-49 corridor if they had the political will to do so. Several states, including FL, IL and IN (but apparently not AR according to a survey I read), have a "corridor protection" law that, once a corridor is identified and recorded, developers who want to build must notify the state DOT and the state basically has first right of refusal to buy the property, or let the development happen.
According to our favorite iDrive Arkansas webcam, the northbound lanes of Future I-49 at the US 71 interchange are now mostly striped.
The yellow lines and dashed white lines are done. The white line on the shoulder is partially done.
I wonder if some additional webcams are doing to pop up going North to the state line?
Thank you, mvak36!Sure. I think you posted it correctly. I looked on the Tapatalk app and I could see your picture fine. I guess I just couldn’t see it on my Firefox browser.
Found this video online of a virtual drive through the new connector. Quite interesting, and I noticed that there are a number of sections with only a concrete divider in the middle (in Missouri especially). However, this will be a welcome connection.
I think they are getting ready to open it. The video quality is lousy on my phone at the moment. But our favorite traffic cam was showing vehicles with yellow flashing lights in the Northbound lanes and it looks like the barrels in the Southbound lanes are gone or moved.
I think they are getting ready to open it. The video quality is lousy on my phone at the moment. But our favorite traffic cam was showing vehicles with yellow flashing lights in the Northbound lanes and it looks like the barrels in the Southbound lanes are gone or moved.
MoDOT says 49 should open by 9am Friday.
Correction: it opened at 9:30 pm this evening.
From the "Build I-49" FB page - hope this image shows up - that hulk of a structure was there forever without signage at the Pineville split:I thought they still used clearview instead of Highway Gothic? Or are they simultaneous?
(https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/243519635_10159649700513624_9086514090800374683_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=nH0XmG6EqPEAX9ZsJBP&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=26024549ddef2253026d6de605078f20&oe=61791247)
I thought they still used clearview instead of Highway Gothic? Or are they simultaneous?
Oops. I thought this was Arkansas. NVM then.I thought they still used clearview instead of Highway Gothic? Or are they simultaneous?
I wasn't aware that Missouri ever used Clearview.
I drove northbound from Springdale to the first Hwy 72 exit (exit 284). When northbound motorists get off at exit 93 (Walton Blvd), they are funneled down to the new SPUI. Now I want to know the plan for the one-lane exit ramp that’s been used the past year or so.
Are they tearing that bridge out? I believe with a few tweaks it could be used for the Razorback Greenway connecting Bentonville to Lake Bella Vista. Has anybody heard anything?
Did my first drive on it yesterday morning after a job in Bentonville. The wife and I got off at Pineville after a very short ride from the SPUI to the northbound onramp of I-49 from US-71 northbound. Witnessed a semi blow through a left turn clearly not paying attention to his own set of lights, but no one wants to ram a semi, so he proceeded unscathed. Clearly needs to be better signage/light obscuring to help the general public with this hitherto unknown intersection type. The new bypass saved 10 minutes during a non-rush hour, but during rushes, likely saves 15-20 minutes each way, so commuters from north of Pineville or along MO-90 will get a great deal of life back. It actually connects Noel, MO to Bentonville a lot better now as well, so I expect that town to start showing signs of growth, which they could desperately use. The Elk River will be more heavily used for weekend floats going forward now as well, I predict.
Did my first drive on it yesterday morning after a job in Bentonville. The wife and I got off at Pineville after a very short ride from the SPUI to the northbound onramp of I-49 from US-71 northbound. Witnessed a semi blow through a left turn clearly not paying attention to his own set of lights, but no one wants to ram a semi, so he proceeded unscathed. Clearly needs to be better signage/light obscuring to help the general public with this hitherto unknown intersection type. The new bypass saved 10 minutes during a non-rush hour, but during rushes, likely saves 15-20 minutes each way, so commuters from north of Pineville or along MO-90 will get a great deal of life back. It actually connects Noel, MO to Bentonville a lot better now as well, so I expect that town to start showing signs of growth, which they could desperately use. The Elk River will be more heavily used for weekend floats going forward now as well, I predict.
As goes Noel, so will (likely) go Grove, OK, a hub of activity in its own right.
A Buc'ees would be nice in that stretch and would bring a lot of jobs!
I could see a workmans thereA Buc'ees would be nice in that stretch and would bring a lot of jobs!
More likely a Love's or local talent. :)
I could see a workmans thereA Buc'ees would be nice in that stretch and would bring a lot of jobs!
More likely a Love's or local talent. :)
iPhone
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211003/1cd8f512d0792c570a0e8b1832cb65f7.jpg)When can we expect Google Maps to street view this new bypass?
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When can we expect Google Maps to street view this new bypass?I would guess next year. Google doesn’t even seem to acknowledge that the bypass is open at the moment.
Anyone else surprised they already pulled 71B from Bentonville but left 71 through BV instead of piggybacking 71 on 49? I guess because Missouri typically doesn’t to Business US routes
Anyone else surprised they already pulled 71B from Bentonville but left 71 through BV instead of piggybacking 71 on 49? I guess because Missouri typically doesn’t to Business US routes
Anyone else surprised they already pulled 71B from Bentonville but left 71 through BV instead of piggybacking 71 on 49? I guess because Missouri typically doesn’t to Business US routes
They do very much do Business Interstates, though.
Moving US 71 to I-49 here would require MoDOT and ArDOT to collaborate on the paperwork. My guess is that as long as both states intend to keep the old road through Bella Vista state maintained, there's not really much benefit to going through the trouble of moving the US route and getting some other designation (like Biz I-49 or some state route designation) approved.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211003/1cd8f512d0792c570a0e8b1832cb65f7.jpg)When can we expect Google Maps to street view this new bypass?
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I would also like to see a Whataburger, and/or maybe Jack in the Box, somewhere along either 40, 49 or 30 in West Arkansas, the food options are pretty limited west of Little Rock, Hot Springs is too far away from IH 30 and there is relatively nothing between Little Rock and Fayetteville. Unless there are options in Russellville? I can't wait to go out there in 9 months
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211003/1cd8f512d0792c570a0e8b1832cb65f7.jpg)When can we expect Google Maps to street view this new bypass?
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Seems to me this stretch of interstate would do well to have the I-49 shield painted on the right lanes and the U S 71 badge painted on the left. From the skid marks it looks like someone came close to having a problem already and we're just one weekend into this. Then again, there's only one center lane so my idea mightn't work at all. :wow:
When they replaced the exit signs you’d think they would’ve went ahead and changed them. There is room for 3 digit exit numbers on the signs, however. Maybe they are waiting on the new Arkansas river bridge. Which will hopefully be built in my lifetime.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211003/1cd8f512d0792c570a0e8b1832cb65f7.jpg)When can we expect Google Maps to street view this new bypass?
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Seems to me this stretch of interstate would do well to have the I-49 shield painted on the right lanes and the U S 71 badge painted on the left. From the skid marks it looks like someone came close to having a problem already and we're just one weekend into this. Then again, there's only one center lane so my idea mightn't work at all. :wow:
Those aren't skidmarks. That's where they ground off the old shoulder lines. They would do well to have the shields painted on the lanes, though, like they do on I-49 southbound in Fayetteville after you crest the hill past Clear Creek where AR-112 and the Fulbright Expressway exit off. Still wondering when they're going to replace the old I-540 era milemarkers/exit numbers south of Bella Vista. Never got a good answer from ARDOT when I emailed them.
Google maps has the new stretch of I-49 up.Also, the SPUI at the southern end isn't even complete, with the movements to and from the BVB missing. And there never was a reason for MO 549 to exist, as before the bypass existed, I-49 was simply an upgraded US 71 freeway.
https://www.google.com/maps/@36.4853735,-94.3463068,23726m/data=!3m1!1e3
But it's labeled 549, even in Missouri...
(https://www.dictionary.com/e/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/picard-facepalm.jpg)
Google maps has the new stretch of I-49 up.Also, the SPUI at the southern end isn't even complete, with the movements to and from the BVB missing. And there never was a reason for MO 549 to exist, as before the bypass existed, I-49 was simply an upgraded US 71 freeway.
https://www.google.com/maps/@36.4853735,-94.3463068,23726m/data=!3m1!1e3
But it's labeled 549, even in Missouri...
(https://www.dictionary.com/e/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/picard-facepalm.jpg)
Looks like Google doesn't recognize it as a freeway either. It seems to be drawn as an arterial.Howso?
Freeway is a separate layer, it looks different, is bolder, etc.Looks like Google doesn't recognize it as a freeway either. It seems to be drawn as an arterial.Howso?
They have 2 separate carriageways and all the interchanges…Looks very “Freeway” to me on Google Maps
Looks like Google doesn't recognize it as a freeway either. It seems to be drawn as an arterial.Howso?
They have 2 separate carriageways and all the interchanges…Looks very “Freeway” to me on Google Maps
i need to find another construction project to watch since this is 99.99% complete. Something more interesting than a Zoom meeting
Only project we got is Wedington interchange and the forever ROW acquisition for the airport connectori need to find another construction project to watch since this is 99.99% complete. Something more interesting than a Zoom meeting
Next up, AR-612's western leg in NWA. They are still actively working in the Jacksonville, AR area on projects for Future I-57 as well.
The routing not properly working is normal with new roadways for the first week or so.Looks like Google doesn't recognize it as a freeway either. It seems to be drawn as an arterial.Howso?
They have 2 separate carriageways and all the interchanges…Looks very “Freeway” to me on Google Maps
Depends on the zoom level you're looking at. It's missing altogether at the zoom level that has the mileage scale for 20 miles, and looks like a 2 lane road at most others until you zoom right into it. I know there's a fair chunk of the new mileage that's on relatively narrow ROW with a concrete divider, but not a 2-lane's worth. The navigation of Google Maps is still dumping everyone off on US-71. Thankfully, most people aren't buying everything that the Goog is selling and staying on the new route. I had a job in Bella Vista today, and it was confused as soon as I got onto the overpass. Took a few minutes after getting to the job site to submit a correction in Google Maps about a missing road. Had to trace pretty much all of the new mileage with my phone and label it I-49, requesting they also correct the road designation, put the route on the navigation portion, and correct the routing. We'll see how long it takes for them to get it all together. You'd think there must be several other areas of the U.S. that have had over a dozen miles of new Interstate Highway open recently or something with their lag time.
Now that the Bella Vista Bypass is completed, how long until they renumber the old Interstate 540-mileage exits into Interstate 49-mileage exits? I think those exits should have been renumbered in 2014, when the Interstate 540-to-Interstate 49 conversion occurred.My guess is that those changes won't take place until the entire interstate is completed.
Does anyone know about the IH 49/Wedington interchange improvements? Tease the folks? Will it be a SPUI? Or a DDI or just minor additions that just serve as a bandaid on a bullet wound? That interchange was crazy congested when I lived there 20 years ago, ditto for US 62 and 412 at IH49, total cluster####s
Only project we got is Wedington interchange and the forever ROW acquisition for the airport connectori need to find another construction project to watch since this is 99.99% complete. Something more interesting than a Zoom meeting
Next up, AR-612's western leg in NWA. They are still actively working in the Jacksonville, AR area on projects for Future I-57 as well.
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The routing not properly working is normal with new roadways for the first week or so.Looks like Google doesn't recognize it as a freeway either. It seems to be drawn as an arterial.Howso?
They have 2 separate carriageways and all the interchanges…Looks very “Freeway” to me on Google Maps
Depends on the zoom level you're looking at. It's missing altogether at the zoom level that has the mileage scale for 20 miles, and looks like a 2 lane road at most others until you zoom right into it. I know there's a fair chunk of the new mileage that's on relatively narrow ROW with a concrete divider, but not a 2-lane's worth. The navigation of Google Maps is still dumping everyone off on US-71. Thankfully, most people aren't buying everything that the Goog is selling and staying on the new route. I had a job in Bella Vista today, and it was confused as soon as I got onto the overpass. Took a few minutes after getting to the job site to submit a correction in Google Maps about a missing road. Had to trace pretty much all of the new mileage with my phone and label it I-49, requesting they also correct the road designation, put the route on the navigation portion, and correct the routing. We'll see how long it takes for them to get it all together. You'd think there must be several other areas of the U.S. that have had over a dozen miles of new Interstate Highway open recently or something with their lag time.
Regardless of how the road is designated, soon enough the routing should be accurate.
The routing not properly working is normal with new roadways for the first week or so.Looks like Google doesn't recognize it as a freeway either. It seems to be drawn as an arterial.Howso?
They have 2 separate carriageways and all the interchanges…Looks very “Freeway” to me on Google Maps
Depends on the zoom level you're looking at. It's missing altogether at the zoom level that has the mileage scale for 20 miles, and looks like a 2 lane road at most others until you zoom right into it. I know there's a fair chunk of the new mileage that's on relatively narrow ROW with a concrete divider, but not a 2-lane's worth. The navigation of Google Maps is still dumping everyone off on US-71. Thankfully, most people aren't buying everything that the Goog is selling and staying on the new route. I had a job in Bella Vista today, and it was confused as soon as I got onto the overpass. Took a few minutes after getting to the job site to submit a correction in Google Maps about a missing road. Had to trace pretty much all of the new mileage with my phone and label it I-49, requesting they also correct the road designation, put the route on the navigation portion, and correct the routing. We'll see how long it takes for them to get it all together. You'd think there must be several other areas of the U.S. that have had over a dozen miles of new Interstate Highway open recently or something with their lag time.
Regardless of how the road is designated, soon enough the routing should be accurate.
Looks like they at least have the route and designation fixed. Don't know about the navigation part yet.
https://www.google.com/maps/@36.4930877,-94.3474906,11z (https://www.google.com/maps/@36.4930877,-94.3474906,11z)
112 should have been widened 20 years ago
OT, I Was hoping that there would be more development south and east of Fayetteville. There should be more hotels and Truck stops in the Greenland area! Has that area grown any? US 71 south of Fayetteville near the airport is awful IMO but should be a prime area for development? Has there been any expansion out there?
112 should have been widened 20 years ago
OT, I Was hoping that there would be more development south and east of Fayetteville. There should be more hotels and Truck stops in the Greenland area! Has that area grown any? US 71 south of Fayetteville near the airport is awful IMO but should be a prime area for development? Has there been any expansion out there?
There's less business growth in Fayetteville for such a need. Most new jobs are Springdale and North. The Fayetteville City Council is too concerned with woke issues and mask mandates for economic development.
112 should have been widened 20 years ago
OT, I Was hoping that there would be more development south and east of Fayetteville. There should be more hotels and Truck stops in the Greenland area! Has that area grown any? US 71 south of Fayetteville near the airport is awful IMO but should be a prime area for development? Has there been any expansion out there?
There's less business growth in Fayetteville for such a need. Most new jobs are Springdale and North. The Fayetteville City Council is too concerned with woke issues and mask mandates for economic development.
Greenland and West Fork suffer from harder to develop land compared to Farmington/Prairie Grove and Elkins plus there further away from core that's steadily shifting North.
I can see ADot dropping down from the future US 412/AR612 western interchange to PG/Lincoln before going further east with AR612 than Old Wire Road/AR265
Local TV report on traffic and development issues since opening of the bypass.If the GPS systems aren't updated for I-49, shouldn't they just be sending people down US 71 like they always did?
https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/bella-vista-bypass-minor-dilemma-surrounding-communities/527-5496d427-91d0-4d2b-af65-3661b869f310
Local TV report on traffic and development issues since opening of the bypass.If mom-and-pops are making more money, where's the dilemma?
https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/bella-vista-bypass-minor-dilemma-surrounding-communities/527-5496d427-91d0-4d2b-af65-3661b869f310
Local TV report on traffic and development issues since opening of the bypass.If mom-and-pops are making more money, where's the dilemma?
https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/bella-vista-bypass-minor-dilemma-surrounding-communities/527-5496d427-91d0-4d2b-af65-3661b869f310
Local TV report on traffic and development issues since opening of the bypass.Problem with Americans, rely on damn phones instead of common sense
https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/bella-vista-bypass-minor-dilemma-surrounding-communities/527-5496d427-91d0-4d2b-af65-3661b869f310
Looks like the Google's GPS routing on the maps is getting better at least today. It no longer routes on either US-71 or has folks getting off at Hiwasse if you put Sam's Club in Bentonville and an endpoint of Neosho, MO. Who knows about the navigation functionality, though.And I-49 has been designated on the bypass for once.
Looks like the Google's GPS routing on the maps is getting better at least today. It no longer routes on either US-71 or has folks getting off at Hiwasse if you put Sam's Club in Bentonville and an endpoint of Neosho, MO. Who knows about the navigation functionality, though.And I-49 has been designated on the bypass for once.
Now, when will I-49 from AR-225 to I-40 be built?
..Looks like the Google's GPS routing on the maps is getting better at least today. It no longer routes on either US-71 or has folks getting off at Hiwasse if you put Sam's Club in Bentonville and an endpoint of Neosho, MO. Who knows about the navigation functionality, though.And I-49 has been designated on the bypass for once.
Now, when will I-49 from AR-225 to I-40 be built?
Looks like the Google's GPS routing on the maps is getting better at least today. It no longer routes on either US-71 or has folks getting off at Hiwasse if you put Sam's Club in Bentonville and an endpoint of Neosho, MO. Who knows about the navigation functionality, though.And I-49 has been designated on the bypass for once.
Now, when will I-49 from AR-225 to I-40 be built?
Barring a total economic collapse (and I don't say that lightly), I think we're finished hearing about I-49 this year. My gut feeling tells me in 2022 we'll get more than one story next year about both the current environmental studies of the I-49 Arkansas River bridge and possibly even the initial timetable for its construction, then if all goes well it starts in 2023 and we learn how long the extended bridge over the floodplain and the River bridge will take. It was good to see a 40/29 report from this July indicating that the current design of the I-49 Alma interchange was created to be extended southward. Again, the money is scheduled to start rolling in for it beginning in 2023, and they've allocated it for this section and the Greenwood-Y City one, even if they're the "Super 2" model. It's a totally different scenario now for the remainder of I-49 Arkansas in multiple ways.
Anyway, Buc-ee's has become rather picky where they choose to open new "Big Store" locations. They seem to prefer sites adjacent to Interstates near key highway junctions and/or on the outer fringes of major metro areas. The new one off I-10 in Alabama seems like it's in an isolated spot, but that's the main exit for Gulf Shores. So traffic is crazy at that location. The one in Leeds, AL off I-20 is at the first exit East of the I-20/I-459 interchange. And there's a big outlet mall nearby.
There's already a couple of Workmans off I-49 in Crawford and Benton counties, Exit 24 and Exit 78, at least until they redo the exit numbers to align with mileage to LA. The Gravette exit, Exit 287, seems primed for a great deal of development. Would be a no-brainer for something to crop up there.I could see a workmans thereA Buc'ees would be nice in that stretch and would bring a lot of jobs!
More likely a Love's or local talent. :)
iPhone
There's already a couple of Workmans off I-49 in Crawford and Benton counties, Exit 24 and Exit 78, at least until they redo the exit numbers to align with mileage to LA. The Gravette exit, Exit 287, seems primed for a great deal of development. Would be a no-brainer for something to crop up there.I could see a workmans thereA Buc'ees would be nice in that stretch and would bring a lot of jobs!
More likely a Love's or local talent. :)
iPhone
They have QT locations in NWA? If so, when did this happen? Outside of Dallas, I haven't seen a QT west of the Mississippi...
They have QT locations in NWA? If so, when did this happen? Outside of Dallas, I haven't seen a QT west of the Mississippi...
Look for more population shifting towards Gravette as the drive time just went down 25-30%.
Inquiries for commercial property at the AR-72 exit are in flight. Don't be shocked if a Circle K or QT shows up by next spring.
Look for more population shifting towards Gravette as the drive time just went down 25-30%.
Inquiries for commercial property at the AR-72 exit are in flight. Don't be shocked if a Circle K or QT shows up by next spring.
I wouldn't ignore Casey's. They are becoming more and more of a presence.
They have QT locations in NWA? If so, when did this happen? Outside of Dallas, I haven't seen a QT west of the Mississippi...
QT is building a new location in OKC(first in the region) but it’ll be a new format travel store. It’ll have truck fueling spots and showers. I’d imagine they will expand on this concept and building on the new I-49 segment seems like a no brainer.
QT is building a new location in OKC(first in the region) but it’ll be a new format travel store. It’ll have truck fueling spots and showers. I’d imagine they will expand on this concept and building on the new I-49 segment seems like a no brainer.
On an weird (maybe) side note, I once got gas at Quik Trip store number 1, completely by happenstance. Digging into the matter, though, I found that there have been a few number 1 stores.
QT is building a new location in OKC(first in the region) but it’ll be a new format travel store. It’ll have truck fueling spots and showers. I’d imagine they will expand on this concept and building on the new I-49 segment seems like a no brainer.
On an weird (maybe) side note, I once got gas at Quik Trip store number 1, completely by happenstance. Digging into the matter, though, I found that there have been a few number 1 stores.
Wal-Mart has had several different #1 stores.
They have QT locations in NWA? If so, when did this happen? Outside of Dallas, I haven't seen a QT west of the Mississippi...
I wouldn't ignore Casey's. They are becoming more and more of a presence.
Casey's target market for years has been small towns in rural USA where there is little to no competition after 6PM local.
They don't make money on the gas, its on the fried chicken and pizza later in the evenings.
They have QT locations in NWA? If so, when did this happen? Outside of Dallas, I haven't seen a QT west of the Mississippi...
QT is headquartered in Tulsa.....I wouldn't ignore Casey's. They are becoming more and more of a presence.
Casey's target market for years has been small towns in rural USA where there is little to no competition after 6PM local.
They don't make money on the gas, its on the fried chicken and pizza later in the evenings.
Their corporate strategy seems to have changed, as they bought up all of the Circle Ks in the Oklahoma City metro. Lots of C-store competition here.
They have QT locations in NWA? If so, when did this happen? Outside of Dallas, I haven't seen a QT west of the Mississippi...
QT is headquartered in Tulsa.....I wouldn't ignore Casey's. They are becoming more and more of a presence.
Casey's target market for years has been small towns in rural USA where there is little to no competition after 6PM local.
They don't make money on the gas, its on the fried chicken and pizza later in the evenings.
Their corporate strategy seems to have changed, as they bought up all of the Circle Ks in the Oklahoma City metro. Lots of C-store competition here.
Springdale has a new Casey's across from Kum & Go
They have QT locations in NWA? If so, when did this happen? Outside of Dallas, I haven't seen a QT west of the Mississippi...
QT is headquartered in Tulsa.....I wouldn't ignore Casey's. They are becoming more and more of a presence.
Casey's target market for years has been small towns in rural USA where there is little to no competition after 6PM local.
They don't make money on the gas, its on the fried chicken and pizza later in the evenings.
Their corporate strategy seems to have changed, as they bought up all of the Circle Ks in the Oklahoma City metro. Lots of C-store competition here.
Springdale has a new Casey's across from Kum & Go
And another one off Exit 65 just past the Subaru dealership in Fayetteville. Casey's are the ones growing fastest around here, not just in the small towns either.
OT, does anyone know why there aren't any if no Truck stops on 49 north of IH 40 north of Alma, before the series of elevated viaducts? I should have asked this 10 years ago?
Any updates on the timing to finish the exit from 49SB to US71? My wife drove the BVB last night for the first time. It's a huge upgrade. She was very pleased with it and how nice it was to skip the traffic in Bella Vista.
Any updates on the timing to finish the exit from 49SB to US71? My wife drove the BVB last night for the first time. It's a huge upgrade. She was very pleased with it and how nice it was to skip the traffic in Bella Vista.
Question for the board about I-49 in Fayetteville...why does the interstate have the weird curve where Fulbright Expressway connects? This seems like a very weird an possibly unsafe bend in the road.
Question for the board about I-49 in Fayetteville...why does the interstate have the weird curve where Fulbright Expressway connects? This seems like a very weird an possibly unsafe bend in the road.
Because the Fullbright Expressway was a bypass of Fayetteville that existed prior to I-49...or should I say...I-540 at the time. The weird curves you see were the result of connecting newer sections of then-I-540 to the Fullbright.
So, now that it has been a few weeks, do we have a feel for what is Arkansas next big priority?As far as bulldozers on the ground, I'm thinking Arkansas will take a breather on I-49 for a while and concentrate on finishing the I-30 project and the widening through Jacksonville. That doesn't mean they won't be working on funding for the river bridge and other I-49 segments, though.
So, now that it has been a few weeks, do we have a feel for what is Arkansas next big priority?
(https://www.trains.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/TRN_CP_KCS_traffic_map.jpg)
(https://www.trains.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/TRN_CP_KCS_Logos.jpg)
CP and KCS project dramatic rise in daily train counts
The Canadian Pacific-Kansas City Southern merger application highlights projected increases in traffic on the new railroad’s north-south spine, as well as planned capacity improvements. (Trains.com, with information from CP-KCS)
WASHINGTON — Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern say their proposed merger will generate significant traffic growth, with daily train counts on the combined system’s north-south spine projected to more than double within three years.
The traffic details were among those included in the railways’ 4,342-page, 1-gigabyte merger application filed with U.S. regulators late Friday. The document, posted to the Surface Transportation Board website overnight Monday, includes Canadian Pacific Kansas City’s operating plans, outlines capacity expansion projects, and makes projections for traffic and job growth that would flow from the creation of the first railroad to link Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.
https://www.trains.com/trn/news-reviews/news-wire/cp-and-kcs-project-dramatic-rise-in-daily-train-counts/?fbclid=IwAR0O-VcBN4JrVVuCyd8iUsNgSw8rbYAddESBAuadLV-c5f5p4x_H8HNXfmo
This is an article today from TRAINS magazine on the impending Canadian Pacific/Kansas City Southern merger. Though not a perfect parallel between Omaha and Winnipeg, it's fascinating how closely this network will parallel the Laredo/Brownsville-Houston-Minneapolis and Winnipeg-New Orleans corridors which the Texas I-69 and I-49 highway network will also serve. The CPKC's marketing team is optimistically hoping to gain freight (as always) by taking trucks off the road. Guessing they'll want to build brand loyalty between Kansas City and Laredo/Brownsville before the highways are complete. Sharing this on the Texas I-69 thread as well.:Quote(https://www.trains.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/TRN_CP_KCS_traffic_map.jpg)
(https://www.trains.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/TRN_CP_KCS_Logos.jpg)
CP and KCS project dramatic rise in daily train counts
The Canadian Pacific-Kansas City Southern merger application highlights projected increases in traffic on the new railroad’s north-south spine, as well as planned capacity improvements. (Trains.com, with information from CP-KCS)
WASHINGTON — Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern say their proposed merger will generate significant traffic growth, with daily train counts on the combined system’s north-south spine projected to more than double within three years.
The traffic details were among those included in the railways’ 4,342-page, 1-gigabyte merger application filed with U.S. regulators late Friday. The document, posted to the Surface Transportation Board website overnight Monday, includes Canadian Pacific Kansas City’s operating plans, outlines capacity expansion projects, and makes projections for traffic and job growth that would flow from the creation of the first railroad to link Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.
https://www.trains.com/trn/news-reviews/news-wire/cp-and-kcs-project-dramatic-rise-in-daily-train-counts/?fbclid=IwAR0O-VcBN4JrVVuCyd8iUsNgSw8rbYAddESBAuadLV-c5f5p4x_H8HNXfmo
Even though there is a really serious shortage of truck drivers (as well as shortage of drivers for anything else that requires a CDL) an increase in rail traffic on a corridor from a merged CP/KCS network isn't going to make all that much of a dent in truck traffic on I-35. The line running along the OK/AR border isn't exactly the Southern Transcon. And there is still huge numbers of trucks on the I-44/I-40 combo despite upwards of 100 trains per day on the Southern Transcon.
Freight rail is very important to the nation's infrastructure. But it doesn't go everywhere, or even to a lot of locations it used to serve. Thousands of miles worth of track has been removed just within the last 30 years. Even with some improvements, such as double-track upgrades to the main lines, trucks on highways are still going to be very necessary to get shipments to their destinations.
Even though there is a really serious shortage of truck drivers (as well as shortage of drivers for anything else that requires a CDL) an increase in rail traffic on a corridor from a merged CP/KCS network isn't going to make all that much of a dent in truck traffic on I-35. The line running along the OK/AR border isn't exactly the Southern Transcon. And there is still huge numbers of trucks on the I-44/I-40 combo despite upwards of 100 trains per day on the Southern Transcon.
Freight rail is very important to the nation's infrastructure. But it doesn't go everywhere, or even to a lot of locations it used to serve. Thousands of miles worth of track has been removed just within the last 30 years. Even with some improvements, such as double-track upgrades to the main lines, trucks on highways are still going to be very necessary to get shipments to their destinations.
True. But the line running along the OK/AR border is about to be something even the east-west "transcons" aren't - a seamless link between North America's three biggest nations. That same TRAINS article has maps indicating they're going to be running dedicated intermodals along the original Kansas City Southern Kansas City-Port Arthur mainline. Unfortunately, the maps are smaller and poor quality on the web article. As it is, the KCS has just been running manifest freights with a bunch of intermodal cars trailing at the end and never full container/trailer trains as they are planning now. They're also planning on investing a LOT of money putting in sidings and other changes to this line, so there will be some benefit to the AR/OK region while that goes on.
Apologies for the bad humor about the trucks, as they will never be replaced despite the problems that industry faces right now. That being said, it's still amazing to me just how important this particluar corridor is becoming not just for the interstates but also the railroads. IMO, the I-49 corridor and the CPKC may end up complementing one another, as has happened in many other U.S. transit routes.
Any updates on the timing to finish the exit from 49SB to US71? My wife drove the BVB last night for the first time. It's a huge upgrade. She was very pleased with it and how nice it was to skip the traffic in Bella Vista.
I'm told this coming Friday.
Even though there is a really serious shortage of truck drivers (as well as shortage of drivers for anything else that requires a CDL) an increase in rail traffic on a corridor from a merged CP/KCS network isn't going to make all that much of a dent in truck traffic on I-35. The line running along the OK/AR border isn't exactly the Southern Transcon. And there is still huge numbers of trucks on the I-44/I-40 combo despite upwards of 100 trains per day on the Southern Transcon.
Freight rail is very important to the nation's infrastructure. But it doesn't go everywhere, or even to a lot of locations it used to serve. Thousands of miles worth of track has been removed just within the last 30 years. Even with some improvements, such as double-track upgrades to the main lines, trucks on highways are still going to be very necessary to get shipments to their destinations.
True. But the line running along the OK/AR border is about to be something even the east-west "transcons" aren't - a seamless link between North America's three biggest nations. That same TRAINS article has maps indicating they're going to be running dedicated intermodals along the original Kansas City Southern Kansas City-Port Arthur mainline. Unfortunately, the maps are smaller and poor quality on the web article. As it is, the KCS has just been running manifest freights with a bunch of intermodal cars trailing at the end and never full container/trailer trains as they are planning now. They're also planning on investing a LOT of money putting in sidings and other changes to this line, so there will be some benefit to the AR/OK region while that goes on.
Apologies for the bad humor about the trucks, as they will never be replaced despite the problems that industry faces right now. That being said, it's still amazing to me just how important this particluar corridor is becoming not just for the interstates but also the railroads. IMO, the I-49 corridor and the CPKC may end up complementing one another, as has happened in many other U.S. transit routes.
I read the same article in Trains.
While the railroads would "like" to replace trucks, that actually isn't what is occurring.
Shippers rely heavily on trucks to dray containers to their endpoints, most of which are nowhere near a rail spur or terminal.
There are some cases of long distance drays, recently discovered was that shippers were trucking containers to Idaho from the Port of Los Angeles.
That was recently adjusted as UP is now creating blocks of containers to push up to Salt Lake City and have shipper dray them from there.
No matter where they get dropped, you still need drivers and chassis to get them to their endpoint.
CSX recently gave up on switching containers into Michigan, Indiana and Ohio and told shippers to dray the containers out of Chicago instead.
Back to KCS-CP, the big products up front will be a direct route for CP to get Alberta shale oil to the US Petro Coast and in return auto parts from Mexico to Michigan and Canadian auto assemblies.
Those will be the backbone products that make the route a winner. When Alberta signed that major oil export and carriage deal with CN and CP, they both had customers on each side of Canada, but only CN had a direct route to the Petro Coast. Now with the merger, CP does as well.
How does impact I-49 (or I-35)?
Looking at it from a shipper perspective, there might be opportunities to get containers drayed from KC instead of from Houston. This would reduce the amount of truck volume out of Texas going north. But most shippers are not going to dray out of KC and drive back down to say Joplin/Springfield via I-49.
The one stumbling block for cross border rail from Mexico to the US, is the lack of rail capacity relative to the volumes. This is why there are so many trucks coming up out of south Texas. The railroads are just not efficient at these movements.
I don't think CP-KCS has the silver bullet so much as direct access to the Mexican suppliers. This requires little or no humping/switching/transfer at the US border. This gets them a time to market edge.
As long as trucks can move product north more effectively than trains can, then capacity for highways will always be required.
Anyone know how much it was to build 49 from Greenland to Alma? I guessing it would be that cost times 8, so you are right, it could be 1.2 to 2 billion, I forgot to add in the Arkansas River Bridge cost...Most likely it will be built in segments like IH 22 Was... But that took 25+ years
I’m curious if that cost is for the whole four lane roadway or the two lanes that ARDOT was planning to build first.Anyone know how much it was to build 49 from Greenland to Alma? I guessing it would be that cost times 8, so you are right, it could be 1.2 to 2 billion, I forgot to add in the Arkansas River Bridge cost...Most likely it will be built in segments like IH 22 Was... But that took 25+ years
If I'm reading this correctly, it's projected to be $235.4 million for the Arkansas River Bridge plus and additional $235.4 million to construct the roadway to Hwy 22
https://www.interstate-guide.com/i-049/
I have heard that Ft. Smith is a decaying city that needs more revenue???
Does anyone know or can guess how much 49 between Ft. Smith and Texarkana will cost.
Maybe they can just build all 4 lanes now that the infrastructure bill has passed. Cheaper than having to back and do it at a higher price (due to inflation).Let's hope. Between inflation on a high-cost part of the project and the utility of that segment, I would think getting it all done if the funding can be found would be a prudent course of action.
Cheesewhiz... IMO, Walmart, JB Hunt and Tyson would benefit to add to the funding, as well as adding warehouses and logistics facilities along That route which would bring jobs to those areas from Ft Smith Southward? I have heard that Ft. Smith is a decaying city that needs more revenue??? I heard this 15 years ago from someone I hangout with a lot when I was in Fayetteville...
Cheesewhiz... IMO, Walmart, JB Hunt and Tyson would benefit to add to the funding, as well as adding warehouses and logistics facilities along That route which would bring jobs to those areas from Ft Smith Southward? I have heard that Ft. Smith is a decaying city that needs more revenue??? I heard this 15 years ago from someone I hangout with a lot when I was in Fayetteville...
The Big 3 helped to bring 71/540/49 to NW Arkansas with the help of their political connections.
One would think with all the advances that have been made in technology and engineering over the past few decades the innovations would have led to things like highway projects getting designed and completed much faster. If anything the progress has slowed way the hell down and costs have spiked over the moon.
One would think with all the advances that have been made in technology and engineering over the past few decades the innovations would have led to things like highway projects getting designed and completed much faster. If anything the progress has slowed way the hell down and costs have spiked over the moon.
The map showing the CPKC merger plan showed mostly modest increases in train traffic across the network. The leg between Kansas City and Shreveport currently carries 11 trains per day and is forecast to increase to 25 trains per day. That's a big increase, but maybe not enough to force a double-track upgrade for the entire leg. The busiest rail routes in the US carry upwards of 100 trains per day or even more along some stretches, like the BNSF Racetrack in the Chicago area or the UP main thru North Platte. The Bailey Yard in North Platte is the largest rail yard in the world. I-80 runs nearby.
Hopefully upgrades planned for parts of the CPKC network, such as that KC to Shreveport leg, will lead to some economic growth on the AR/OK border. The NWA region would need to see quite a bit more growth in order to attract something like passenger rail service. The Heartland Flyer route might pose a conflict since it is in relatively close proximity. Amtrak is enhancing the existing services on the existing Heartland Flyer line. The line will soon be extended North from Oklahoma City up to Wichita and Newton, KS where it will connect with the main Southwest Chief line (Chicago-LA). Those plans might compete with any future efforts to put passenger rail service parallel to the I-49 corridor.
Quote from: TomakawkinI have heard that Ft. Smith is a decaying city that needs more revenue???
Fort Smith is kind of a mixed bag. They've been doing some work to spruce up the downtown. The improvements aren't as big in scale as a city like Pueblo. Garrison Avenue looks pretty decent approaching the riverfront. Some other parts of Fort Smith look pretty trashy. It reminds me of Lawton in some respects. Blight is pretty common in communities where much of the population is struggling with relatively low, stagnant incomes.Quote from: TomakawkinDoes anyone know or can guess how much 49 between Ft. Smith and Texarkana will cost.
Considering how many years will pass before the Fort Smith-Texarkana leg of I-49 is completed it's almost pointless to even guess at a final cost. The total will easily run into the billions. How many billions depends on how many decades they burn past building the highway. At the current pace we'll be lucky to see the Alma-Barling segment of I-49 fully complete before 2030. That segment alone may end up costing over a billion. It may be another 30 years past that before the rest of the freeway is completed.
One would think with all the advances that have been made in technology and engineering over the past few decades the innovations would have led to things like highway projects getting designed and completed much faster. If anything the progress has slowed way the hell down and costs have spiked over the moon.
Oklahoma won't pay to upgrade a US 69 that runs right through the middle of it. Why would they pay for an I-49 that goes from Arkansas to Arkansas?And besides, I-49 will not go anywhere near OK, so that's a nonstarter for them.
Any updates on the timing to finish the exit from 49SB to US71? My wife drove the BVB last night for the first time. It's a huge upgrade. She was very pleased with it and how nice it was to skip the traffic in Bella Vista.
Oklahoma won't pay to upgrade a US 69 that runs right through the middle of it. Why would they pay for an I-49 that goes from Arkansas to Arkansas?
Oklahoma won't pay to upgrade a US 69 that runs right through the middle of it. Why would they pay for an I-49 that goes from Arkansas to Arkansas?
I tend to agree. If the feds were to dictate the route, they might play ball but otherwise no. One irony is that it is virtually the same mileage wise and the grade would be far less.
Oklahoma won't pay to upgrade a US 69 that runs right through the middle of it. Why would they pay for an I-49 that goes from Arkansas to Arkansas?
Oklahoma won't pay to upgrade a US 69 that runs right through the middle of it. Why would they pay for an I-49 that goes from Arkansas to Arkansas?
Makes you wonder why Texas is doing just that, with a Red River bridge thrown in as an extra expense!
looks like the next piece to be done is the tiny gap between 40 and 22.
looks like the next piece to be done is the tiny gap between 40 and 22.
As soon as they quit building side roads near 49 in Benton County ;)
"but seriously folks"... it will likely be 2 lanes only to start, then expanded later to 4 lanes as more money becomes available.
Honest question, why wasn't 540 considered as the route for 49 through here? I don't know the area well and I don't read every response here so maybe it's been answered.
I wonder what we’ll see first, the next section of I-49 or the next section of I-57?
57, will be 1st, Bank on it. The terrain in NEA is a lot flatter and with the added money from the Feds, Missouri will get onto IH 57 as well. If Im not mistaking Missouri only has to complete 80-100 miles in the state???
Honest question, why wasn't 540 considered as the route for 49 through here? I don't know the area well and I don't read every response here so maybe it's been answered.
Even though there is a really serious shortage of truck drivers (as well as shortage of drivers for anything else that requires a CDL) an increase in rail traffic on a corridor from a merged CP/KCS network isn't going to make all that much of a dent in truck traffic on I-35. The line running along the OK/AR border isn't exactly the Southern Transcon. And there is still huge numbers of trucks on the I-44/I-40 combo despite upwards of 100 trains per day on the Southern Transcon.
Freight rail is very important to the nation's infrastructure. But it doesn't go everywhere, or even to a lot of locations it used to serve. Thousands of miles worth of track has been removed just within the last 30 years. Even with some improvements, such as double-track upgrades to the main lines, trucks on highways are still going to be very necessary to get shipments to their destinations.
Even though there is a really serious shortage of truck drivers (as well as shortage of drivers for anything else that requires a CDL) an increase in rail traffic on a corridor from a merged CP/KCS network isn't going to make all that much of a dent in truck traffic on I-35. The line running along the OK/AR border isn't exactly the Southern Transcon. And there is still huge numbers of trucks on the I-44/I-40 combo despite upwards of 100 trains per day on the Southern Transcon.
Freight rail is very important to the nation's infrastructure. But it doesn't go everywhere, or even to a lot of locations it used to serve. Thousands of miles worth of track has been removed just within the last 30 years. Even with some improvements, such as double-track upgrades to the main lines, trucks on highways are still going to be very necessary to get shipments to their destinations.
It isn't because there is a lack of drivers. The problem is the lack of drivers who can pass a DOT physical. The drug screen is a real stopping block for the physical pass rate.
We should do a far better job of doing trailer trains and containers to places closer to the end delivery point. Even WalMart is figuring out how cost effective rail CAN be.
I'd rather our truck drivers not have drug or alcohol issues...
The logistics of building an Arkansas River Bridge preclude the construction of a Super-2. You can't build half a span and come back and build the other half on the cheap. So Alma to Barling will be built in full when it happens.
The prospect of physical exams and drug tests up front along with random screenings definitely turns away some people. At my workplace (a sign design and manufacturing company) everybody is subject to random drug screenings since all our crane truck drivers are subject to the screenings. If they have to pee in a cup we all do. It's only fair. But I've literally seen people come in to fill out job applications, get to the notice about random drug/alcohol screenings and leave the application un-finished as they walk out the door. Oh well.
I certainly don't advocate the government to ease requirements for drivers to be clean and sober. The insurance industry absolutely wouldn't ever stand for it. Coverage rates would spike if the government eased up restrictions for drug use on and off the clock. The fact so many people can't pass a piss test or choose drugs over a job with decent pay is a pretty sorry statement about the people of our nation. It makes us look weak as hell.
There is no reliable testing method to measure if someone is too high to drive. Any evidence of drug use in urine or the blood stream is damning. It doesn't matter if the person smoked a blunt that morning or two weeks ago. Plus there is the whole spectrum of drug types, all of which would vary in being able to evaluate if someone was high on that drug or not. It's far more complicated than the BAC tests for alcohol.
I certainly don't advocate the government to ease requirements for drivers to be clean and sober. The insurance industry absolutely wouldn't ever stand for it. Coverage rates would spike if the government eased up restrictions for drug use on and off the clock. The fact so many people can't pass a piss test or choose drugs over a job with decent pay is a pretty sorry statement about the people of our nation. It makes us look weak as hell.You don't know why people are declining the drug tests. They might just not like the humiliation of being forced to pee in a cup for their employer. People don't like being treated like criminals, and the days when people were willing to do anything for a dollar are long gone.
Technically, all they need is a hair sample and they can tell if you have ingested THC in the past 30 days.How does knowing someone ingested THC in the past 30 days tell you anything about whether they're high right now (which realistically would need to be proven for a DUI conviction)?
When what employees do off the clock affects their job performance and safety (e.g., drinking or getting high before their start time), it very much matters. So, drug screenings at the workplace are highly appropriate.But still, it only matters if they're drunk or high at work (and therefore on the clock). Employers shouldn't have a right to care what employees do if it doesn't affect work. And that company that says "if any workers have to get screened, they all do" is especially ridiculous.
That said, those that desire to work baked have various other professions they could pursue.
I am all for prescreenings of everyone rather than finding out after an incident someone had done a good job covering up their impaired state.Technically, all they need is a hair sample and they can tell if you have ingested THC in the past 30 days.How does knowing someone ingested THC in the past 30 days tell you anything about whether they're high right now (which realistically would need to be proven for a DUI conviction)?When what employees do off the clock affects their job performance and safety (e.g., drinking or getting high before their start time), it very much matters. So, drug screenings at the workplace are highly appropriate.But still, it only matters if they're drunk or high at work (and therefore on the clock). Employers shouldn't have a right to care what employees do if it doesn't affect work. And that company that says "if any workers have to get screened, they all do" is especially ridiculous.
That said, those that desire to work baked have various other professions they could pursue.
Which is why the KCS routing goes that way as railroads are far more grade sensitive. So, Poteau has gotten as much road as it's ever going to get despite its being the same size as Greenwood, AR.
I'd rather our truck drivers not have drug or alcohol issues...
I am all for prescreenings of everyone rather than finding out after an incident someone had done a good job covering up their impaired state.Technically, all they need is a hair sample and they can tell if you have ingested THC in the past 30 days.How does knowing someone ingested THC in the past 30 days tell you anything about whether they're high right now (which realistically would need to be proven for a DUI conviction)?When what employees do off the clock affects their job performance and safety (e.g., drinking or getting high before their start time), it very much matters. So, drug screenings at the workplace are highly appropriate.But still, it only matters if they're drunk or high at work (and therefore on the clock). Employers shouldn't have a right to care what employees do if it doesn't affect work. And that company that says "if any workers have to get screened, they all do" is especially ridiculous.
That said, those that desire to work baked have various other professions they could pursue.
I agree completely. A decade + ago the model was amphetamines and Vicodin. Neither conducive to safe driving.
This I agree with.I am all for prescreenings of everyone rather than finding out after an incident someone had done a good job covering up their impaired state.Technically, all they need is a hair sample and they can tell if you have ingested THC in the past 30 days.How does knowing someone ingested THC in the past 30 days tell you anything about whether they're high right now (which realistically would need to be proven for a DUI conviction)?When what employees do off the clock affects their job performance and safety (e.g., drinking or getting high before their start time), it very much matters. So, drug screenings at the workplace are highly appropriate.But still, it only matters if they're drunk or high at work (and therefore on the clock). Employers shouldn't have a right to care what employees do if it doesn't affect work. And that company that says "if any workers have to get screened, they all do" is especially ridiculous.
That said, those that desire to work baked have various other professions they could pursue.
Might be justified for positions where a fuck-up means someone might actually get hurt, but it shouldn't be allowed just because Jerry the retail manager gets a power boner at the thought of controlling his cashiers' lives 24/7.
Keep in mind that you do live in a state with state-licensed medical marijuana. People with a medical marijuana card range from people who use it from time to time as needed (as I do, for insomnia) to people whose quality of life is greatly negatively impacted without it (my wife, who has chronic migraine so bad that before she was on cannabis she usually missed work one or two days a week).
Colorado has an active THC field analyzer for DWUI cases. After cannabis was made legal CHP started getting reports of excessively slow drivers on I-25 between Denver and Boulder.
Sales of artificial genitalia with a urine holding sac are at all time highs, mostly for people who have to perform frequent/regular pee tests and need to pass.
Smoking a joint after work is not a "drug issue". The actual issue is the fact that they test for a mostly benign substance that stays in the system for months after all effects from the substance have long subsided.
Our sign company doesn't have the random screening policy in place just to be puritanical jerks over drinking and drug use. We have to comply with federal law.
Years ago our company only required employees who drove the crane trucks to be subject to drug/alcohol screenings. It turned into a pretty big morale problem. Anyone who operated a crane truck was held to one standard while everyone else could do whatever they wanted. Some staff members quit over the situation.
We clearly don’t have to comply with federal law given the fact that we don’t, we tax it, and violate federal so that argument is thrown out the window. There is nothing wrong with smoking a joint after work regardless of what your profession is. Get with the times!
can we talk about roads and not weed? :-D
Does anyone think any of us will see a completed Interstate 49 between New Orleans, LA and Kansas City, MO within our lifetimes? Considering how long it will take to complete 49 between Interstates 30 and 40, and how slowly the upgrades are coming to US 90 between Lafayette and New Orleans, I would say no.
Federal law can be unjust. Just because something is the law doesn't mean it should be.
It sounds like your coworkers are babies.
Does anyone think any of us will see a completed Interstate 49 between New Orleans, LA and Kansas City, MO within our lifetimes? Considering how long it will take to complete 49 between Interstates 30 and 40, and how slowly the upgrades are coming to US 90 between Lafayette and New Orleans, I would say no.
Except no one is advocating for allowing coworkers to come into work drunk or high.
No, not really. They just figure it's bull$#!+ if they have to comply to one standard and another co-worker can do drugs at home or even come to work drunk or high and not be subject to any scrutiny.
Does anyone think any of us will see a completed Interstate 49 between New Orleans, LA and Kansas City, MO within our lifetimes? Considering how long it will take to complete 49 between Interstates 30 and 40, and how slowly the upgrades are coming to US 90 between Lafayette and New Orleans, I would say no.
Does anyone think any of us will see a completed Interstate 49 between New Orleans, LA and Kansas City, MO within our lifetimes? Considering how long it will take to complete 49 between Interstates 30 and 40, and how slowly the upgrades are coming to US 90 between Lafayette and New Orleans, I would say no.
It could get done if the Louisiana and Arkansas Congressional delegations would grow a pair and demand that infrastructure bills fund actual specific projects, not just block grants to states. I've commented on the infrastructure money in the Louisiana I-49 threads so I won't repeat it here. Suffice it to say that we're giving the states these big piles of money and trusting them to spend it responsibly. That's trust I don't have in the Louisiana Legislature.
Quote from: Scott5114It sounds like your coworkers are babies.
No, not really. They just figure it's bull$#!+ if they have to comply to one standard and another co-worker can do drugs at home or even come to work drunk or high and not be subject to any scrutiny.
They figure incorrectly. It's not bullshit at all.
Why did they get into a line of work that requires a CDL if they didn't want to get tested? That requirement isn't going to change no matter where they work, so comparing with a graphic designer at the same company is irrelevant.Quote from: Scott5114They figure incorrectly. It's not bullshit at all.
It does not matter if you think they "figure incorrectly." The employees still feel how they feel about the issue. Telling them they're "wrong" doesn't change a Goddamned thing, especially how they feel. If they're pissed off enough about the situation they quit. And that sucks, especially if the person who walks is a good employee. I already witnessed the situation as it played out in reality. Once everyone in the company was subject to the random screenings the morale problems over that issue ended. No one was getting "special treatment" anymore.
That would most certainly be on brand for Arkansas. Penny wise and pound foolish. Can't build now while it'll be as cheap as it will ever be.Quote from: Road HogThe logistics of building an Arkansas River Bridge preclude the construction of a Super-2. You can't build half a span and come back and build the other half on the cheap. So Alma to Barling will be built in full when it happens.
They could build a twin bridge span. Build one two-lane bridge for the initial Super-2 segment and then add the second bridge later. The Arkansas River at Fort Smith doesn't require a super high clearance like the Mississippi River. More modest, conventional highway bridge designs can be used. This crossing doesn't require a visual "signature" bridge such as a cable-stayed suspension bridge. Cost estimates don't appear to allow for that at all. Building up berms across flood plain and other grading work is going to eat up much of the budget. The bridge (or bridges) that end up being built will be fairly ordinary looking.
Downtown Little Rock is dead? What the hell happened there? It seems like NWA will continue to attract new residents from the left coast and Texas. IMO, Little Rock isn't as attractive a place to move to in comparison to NWA. It wasn't like that 30+ years ago
ARDOT said in the preliminary review they have 3 ways they were looking at build 2 lane bridge, build 2 lanes and build the concrete supports in the River for the second bridge the same time, or build a 4 lane build. But they are still just starting the designs so who knows what they will decide.
Why did they get into a line of work that requires a CDL if they didn't want to get tested?
Realistically, we need a test that can test for whether someone is high at the moment rather than whether they used any drugs at any time within the past several days/weeks, but I suspect the reason we don't have such a thing is because of the War on Drugs.
None of the co-workers I've had thru the years who drove crane trucks had any problem getting tested. What many of them didn't like was that while they had to live to a cleaner (and more sober) standard certain others who didn't need a CDL were flagrantly pushing their luck. Certain staff members would miss work more often, with partying too hard the night before being a reason. Some would show up to work high and/or drunk. That affects other people in the workplace by fouling up productivity. In the years after making the random screening policy company-wide, we've seen more people fail the alcohol side of the test. A couple of employees were even fired for repeat violations.Yikes. I can't even imagine being drunk or high at work.
I'm betting the issue has more to do with medical science rather than politics. There is a pretty big money-making incentive to develop sobriety tests for drugs that work as they do for alcohol. There is no profit motive for refusing to develop the testing technology if such a thing is already possible.Not until states started legalizing marijuana, there wouldn't have been. Even now, it's still fully legal under federal law, so anything federally regulated can just say "I don't care when you were high, it's illegal". This is also why it's illegal to buy marijuana in one state (or Canada) and bring it home to another, even if it's legal in both places and everywhere in between.
Yikes. I can't even imagine being drunk or high at work.
Not until states started legalizing marijuana, there wouldn't have been. Even now, it's still fully legal under federal law, so anything federally regulated can just say "I don't care when you were high, it's illegal". This is also why it's illegal to buy marijuana in one state (or Canada) and bring it home to another, even if it's legal in both places and everywhere in between.
Oklahoma is kind of an odd state with its medical marijuana setup. It's not hard for anyone to get a medical marijuana card, which makes the "medical" part a mere formality. .... It's also not hard to open a dispensary or grow house. The licensing costs are minimal compared to other states and there appears to be no limit on how many dispensaries or grow houses can operate in a county. I've lost track of how many signs, window wraps and other graphics I've designed for such places.
Are there any exits planned between I-40 and AR 255 along I-49 there or just the river bridge?
I think the state of Arkansas is literally leaving lots of money on the table by not getting the Alma to Barling segment of I-49 built quickly.
For quite a few years now the Fort Smith region and state of Arkansas in general has wanted to re-develop the Fort Chaffee area (which no longer has active duty troops permanently stationed there). They've wanted to re-vamp the area as both a distribution hub and even possibly a retail/outlet hub. None of that is fully feasible without a direct freeway link to I-40. They did get one segment of Future I-49 built between US-71 and AR-255. That doesn't do a whole lot to spur development without that physical link to I-40.
Additionally, the area just East of Van Buren could see a good bit of new retail or residential growth once the Alma-Barling I-49 segment is finished. Not much can be built right next to the river due to possible flooding issues. But there is about 30 square miles of land between the river and I-40 that can be developed.
Does anyone think any of us will see a completed Interstate 49 between New Orleans, LA and Kansas City, MO within our lifetimes? Considering how long it will take to complete 49 between Interstates 30 and 40, and how slowly the upgrades are coming to US 90 between Lafayette and New Orleans, I would say no.
The hardest part in the whole I-49 project is the Alma to Barling segment. Once they can get that finished the segments proceeding farther South will be easier to build. No long bridges over rivers.
The new terrain segments will take a good bit of grading work, but there are few properties in the way to clear either. I think I said it earlier: they can "flesh-out" much of the corridor, reserving needed ROW, by building a Super 2 just like they did with AR-530 farther East. The second set of lanes and limited access exits can be added as funding becomes available. I think AR DOT may have to use this approach with the bypasses around towns along the route.
The hardest part in the whole I-49 project is the Alma to Barling segment. Once they can get that finished the segments proceeding farther South will be easier to build. No long bridges over rivers.
The new terrain segments will take a good bit of grading work, but there are few properties in the way to clear either. I think I said it earlier: they can "flesh-out" much of the corridor, reserving needed ROW, by building a Super 2 just like they did with AR-530 farther East. The second set of lanes and limited access exits can be added as funding becomes available. I think AR DOT may have to use this approach with the bypasses around towns along the route.
The hardest part in the whole I-49 project is the Alma to Barling segment. Once they can get that finished the segments proceeding farther South will be easier to build. No long bridges over rivers.
The new terrain segments will take a good bit of grading work, but there are few properties in the way to clear either. I think I said it earlier: they can "flesh-out" much of the corridor, reserving needed ROW, by building a Super 2 just like they did with AR-530 farther East. The second set of lanes and limited access exits can be added as funding becomes available. I think AR DOT may have to use this approach with the bypasses around towns along the route.
You have got to be kidding! The mountains are the WORST part.
The hardest part in the whole I-49 project is the Alma to Barling segment. Once they can get that finished the segments proceeding farther South will be easier to build. No long bridges over rivers.
The new terrain segments will take a good bit of grading work, but there are few properties in the way to clear either. I think I said it earlier: they can "flesh-out" much of the corridor, reserving needed ROW, by building a Super 2 just like they did with AR-530 farther East. The second set of lanes and limited access exits can be added as funding becomes available. I think AR DOT may have to use this approach with the bypasses around towns along the route.
You have got to be kidding! The mountains are the WORST part.
Not on a cost per mile basis.
The hardest part in the whole I-49 project is the Alma to Barling segment. Once they can get that finished the segments proceeding farther South will be easier to build. No long bridges over rivers.
The new terrain segments will take a good bit of grading work, but there are few properties in the way to clear either. I think I said it earlier: they can "flesh-out" much of the corridor, reserving needed ROW, by building a Super 2 just like they did with AR-530 farther East. The second set of lanes and limited access exits can be added as funding becomes available. I think AR DOT may have to use this approach with the bypasses around towns along the route.
You have got to be kidding! The mountains are the WORST part.
Not on a cost per mile basis.
I will give you that. On the other hand, the cost of the segment from Mena to Waldron will have cost over-runs, delays, and problems.
It has been a while since there has been significant freeway built in the mountains. There is no telling what the cost will be. While the per-mile cost may (perhaps even probably) be less than the river crossing , the per traffic mile and segment cost will almost surely be higher.
There is some movement afoot to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level. That would make it a lot easier for dispensaries and grow house businesses to do their banking. Oklahoma is kind of an odd state with its medical marijuana setup. It's not hard for anyone to get a medical marijuana card, which makes the "medical" part a mere formality. It's practically recreational, but there are limits where you can use the drug. You can't just blaze-up while walking down the sidewalk. It's also not hard to open a dispensary or grow house. The licensing costs are minimal compared to other states and there appears to be no limit on how many dispensaries or grow houses can operate in a county. I've lost track of how many signs, window wraps and other graphics I've designed for such places. I think it has done a pretty good job of killing the illegal pot business in the state. Still, we have plenty of pushers selling coke, meth and fake pills laced with fentanyl. Lots of people are dying of it too, more than 100,000 Americans between April 2020 and April 2021.
I-49 is planned to be built on top of current US 71-270 through Foran Gap, split off somewhere north of the CR 70 intersection, then head south to bypass Mena to the east and south. It will cross CR 70 about a half mile east of the current US 71-270/CR 70 intersection. I suspect the exit will be built at CR 70. It would be cheaper than building a trumpet. If this happens, US 71-270 will likely hop off of I-49 at CR 70, and follow what is now CR 70 from I-49 to current US 71-270. Current US 71-270 from CR 70 north to the point where I-49 leaves the US 71-270 alignment will be a dead end road. Current CR 70 will have to be upgraded to state highway standards, and the 71/270/70 intersection will be reconfigured so 71/270 will seamlessly transition to the CR 70 alignment. That is what would make the most sense, anyway. Some sort of grade separation will have to be built where I-49 will cross the Ouachita Trail. Here's a satellite view of the area.
https://www.google.com/maps/@34.6619976,-94.1576687,3519m/data=!3m1!1e3
I-49 is planned to be built on top of current US 71-270 through Foran Gap, split off somewhere north of the CR 70 intersection, then head south to bypass Mena to the east and south. It will cross CR 70 about a half mile east of the current US 71-270/CR 70 intersection. I suspect the exit will be built at CR 70. It would be cheaper than building a trumpet. If this happens, US 71-270 will likely hop off of I-49 at CR 70, and follow what is now CR 70 from I-49 to current US 71-270. Current US 71-270 from CR 70 north to the point where I-49 leaves the US 71-270 alignment will be a dead end road. Current CR 70 will have to be upgraded to state highway standards, and the 71/270/70 intersection will be reconfigured so 71/270 will seamlessly transition to the CR 70 alignment. That is what would make the most sense, anyway. Some sort of grade separation will have to be built where I-49 will cross the Ouachita Trail. Here's a satellite view of the area.
https://www.google.com/maps/@34.6619976,-94.1576687,3519m/data=!3m1!1e3
The I-49 route between Mansfield and Mena would be a lot better if it was possible to fund and build 3 or more tunnels. Mansfield down to Waldron should be a more direct route, but a tunnel would be required. Waldron to Y City has a good bend to that route segment. Y City down to Acorn is a big "S" shape that could be much more straight and level via one or even two different tunnels. Obviously we're talking billions of dollars to build such a thing.
The I-49 route between Mansfield and Mena would be a lot better if it was possible to fund and build 3 or more tunnels. Mansfield down to Waldron should be a more direct route, but a tunnel would be required. Waldron to Y City has a good bend to that route segment. Y City down to Acorn is a big "S" shape that could be much more straight and level via one or even two different tunnels. Obviously we're talking billions of dollars to build such a thing.
Unless things have changed, I was under the impression that Hopper tunnel was "one and done." I suppose that could change deepening on who is on the highway commission.
Oh I'm sure they would find any excuse to run up the cost of any tunnel project by multiple billions of dollars, even if they can use a cost effective method to get the job done. That's just how Americans do infrastructure -blow up the cost and take decades to finish it. Meanwhile other rival nations (China and Japan in particular) build really serious tunnels like it's not all that big a deal. Just building one in the US is damned near impossible. The situation is pretty pathetic.
In the end, I-49 between Mansfield and Mena is not going to be any fun for truckers. The route is really going to suck in any kind of bad weather. Two or three tunnels to make the route more level and direct would make I-49 safer, faster and more efficient. But that just can't happen here in America. We price ourselves out of stuff like that.
The I-49 route between Mansfield and Mena would be a lot better if it was possible to fund and build 3 or more tunnels. Mansfield down to Waldron should be a more direct route, but a tunnel would be required. Waldron to Y City has a good bend to that route segment. Y City down to Acorn is a big "S" shape that could be much more straight and level via one or even two different tunnels. Obviously we're talking billions of dollars to build such a thing.
The Eisenhower Tunnel on I-70 is almost 1.7 miles long. I get the feeling if that tunnel didn't already exist and was going to be proposed today it might not ever get built. Drivers on I-70 going from Denver to Utah would be stuck taking US-6.
The Eisenhower Tunnel on I-70 is almost 1.7 miles long. I get the feeling if that tunnel didn't already exist and was going to be proposed today it might not ever get built. Drivers on I-70 going from Denver to Utah would be stuck taking US-6.
The Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnel cost about $1.1 billion in 2021 dollars, but construction was spread out over several years. Eisenhower bore (1973) and the Johnson bore (1979)
Since it is 2.7km long and used boring machines and not blast, it was done much, much cheaper than the Hopper Tunnel on a per meter basis.
The Eisenhower Tunnel on I-70 is almost 1.7 miles long. I get the feeling if that tunnel didn't already exist and was going to be proposed today it might not ever get built. Drivers on I-70 going from Denver to Utah would be stuck taking US-6.
The Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnel cost about $1.1 billion in 2021 dollars, but construction was spread out over several years. Eisenhower bore (1973) and the Johnson bore (1979)
Since it is 2.7km long and used boring machines and not blast, it was done much, much cheaper than the Hopper Tunnel on a per meter basis.
We just need to put it out for bids and have the Boring Company put in the low bid. Surely sandstone and shale aren't more difficult to bore through than what they wallowed out from Elon's parking lot.
The Eisenhower Tunnel on I-70 is almost 1.7 miles long. I get the feeling if that tunnel didn't already exist and was going to be proposed today it might not ever get built. Drivers on I-70 going from Denver to Utah would be stuck taking US-6.
The Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnel cost about $1.1 billion in 2021 dollars, but construction was spread out over several years. Eisenhower bore (1973) and the Johnson bore (1979)
Since it is 2.7km long and used boring machines and not blast, it was done much, much cheaper than the Hopper Tunnel on a per meter basis.
We just need to put it out for bids and have the Boring Company put in the low bid. Surely sandstone and shale aren't more difficult to bore through than what they wallowed out from Elon's parking lot.
Next I-49 work plans to extend new highway across River Valley, south to Y City
The department's next project is building a section of interstate from Arkansas 22 near Barling in Sebastian County to the interchange of Interstate 40 and Interstate 49 at Alma in Crawford County.
"That piece from the river up, it certainly will benefit a lot of people," said Chad Adams, a district engineer with the Transportation Department. "Everybody south of the river, it's going to improve their connectivity up to Fayetteville and Bentonville and to I-40 east and west."
The timeline is undetermined. Adams said some preparation work has been done for the section north of the Arkansas River, but the portion south of the river is still in the planning stages. Crews are out doing survey, environmental and geological work required to decide how and where to build across the river bottoms.
"I think there's an incentive to get that started before the end of this decade, if not sooner," Adams said. "I would say sooner. Probably within the next three to four years we'll see a project let."
Adams said some dirt could be moved as early as 2023.
"Typically, you see a dirt project to build the subgrade, and you have to get enough of that accomplished before you have a paving contract," Adams said. "They're usually separate contracts. It's not going to be one gigantic project, at least historically."
...
Keith Gibson, a state highway commissioner from Fort Smith, said the approval of Issue 1 and a new federal infrastructure bill mean there's finally money available to start pushing I-49 farther south. The ultimate goal is filling in the current gap by connecting Fort Smith and Texarkana with an interstate. That would complete the I-49 corridor from the Mississippi River in Louisiana to Canada.
Getting the initial 13-mile section completed will have a big impact on economic development in the River Valley, he said.
"That part from Alma to Barling and connecting to the interstate there is so critically important for dragging traffic, particularly truck traffic and industrial transportation into the Chaffee Crossing area, thus the Fort Smith area," Gibson said. "I think that's a critical need right now and, particularly with the potential and maybe now likelihood of the development of an Intermodal Port in this area. That would be a huge economic driver to western Arkansas."
Gibson said getting I-49 done would mean jobs for western Arkansas. There are also safety and convenience aspects, he said.
"There's just not a good way to get to Hot Springs, and there's not a real good way to get to Texarkana and those two things need to be improved," Gibson said.
Gibson said better connections between the bigger cities in western Arkansas would send economic ripples across the state. Plans also call for improvements to U.S. 270, the highway between Hot Springs and Y City, he noted.
"If you look, there's really not a good way to get from Fort Smith to Hot Springs and that's really unfortunate because those two communities, there could be a lot of mutual benefit in having a better route to the central part of Arkansas," Gibson said. (EDIT: there "could"?)
...
https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2021/nov/28/next-i-49-work-plans-to-extend-new-highway-across/?news-arkansas&fbclid=IwAR0RSFpmN49sbdfM0ULQMw1g06pCxTkLAImF3Oiwulc9jVtEALFWOUvdf1s
So, it's a Super-2 bypass of I-40/I-540/AR-59 the Arkansas River in the short term, then. Certainly helpful, but won't be much draw to Chaffee Crossing's development until movement is made on the final carriageway to complete I-49 (current AR-549) at least to its current terminus at US-71 close to the community of Jenny Lind. Hopefully it wouldn't take very many years before the other two lanes are built.
An intermodal port would be a no-brainer with the rail, road, and river access in the area, moreso on the north side of the river where UP's line is close, not to mention the Arkansas/Missouri Railroad.
So, it's a Super-2 bypass of I-40/I-540/AR-59 the Arkansas River in the short term, then. Certainly helpful, but won't be much draw to Chaffee Crossing's development until movement is made on the final carriageway to complete I-49 (current AR-549) at least to its current terminus at US-71 close to the community of Jenny Lind. Hopefully it wouldn't take very many years before the other two lanes are built.
An intermodal port would be a no-brainer with the rail, road, and river access in the area, moreso on the north side of the river where UP's line is close, not to mention the Arkansas/Missouri Railroad.R
The new Canadian Pacific Kansas City railroad will also have access to Fort Smith.
So, it's a Super-2 bypass of I-40/I-540/AR-59 the Arkansas River in the short term, then. Certainly helpful, but won't be much draw to Chaffee Crossing's development until movement is made on the final carriageway to complete I-49 (current AR-549) at least to its current terminus at US-71 close to the community of Jenny Lind. Hopefully it wouldn't take very many years before the other two lanes are built.
An intermodal port would be a no-brainer with the rail, road, and river access in the area, moreso on the north side of the river where UP's line is close, not to mention the Arkansas/Missouri Railroad.R
The new Canadian Pacific Kansas City railroad will also have access to Fort Smith.
That's right. There is a spur line that goes into Ft. Smith from Poteau. Not really close to I-49, though. Guess it does intertie with Van Buren's UP across the AR-MO RR bridge, so the intermodal facility could be either on the Ft. Smith side or Van Buren side at the end of the day.
It wouldn't make sense to build the highway due north of Acorn, because it will bypass Mena to the south and east, and if it tunneled through Fourche Mountain, it would have to swing east to bypass the town.
It wouldn't make sense to build the highway due north of Acorn, because it will bypass Mena to the south and east, and if it tunneled through Fourche Mountain, it would have to swing east to bypass the town.
I wonder if leaders there would feel pressured if Texas built their segment.
I wonder if leaders there would feel pressured if Texas built their segment.
I wonder if leaders there would feel pressured if Texas built their segment.
TxDOT has already said they wont do anything until ArDOT does.
I wonder if leaders there would feel pressured if Texas built their segment.
TxDOT has already said they wont do anything until ArDOT does.
and ArDOT already built its part of I-49 from I-30 upwards and ends at the TX/AR state line. What is TxDOT waiting for? ArDOT to build the other section of I-49 north of Texas border to Ashdown and moving south to Texas border? It makes no sense.
I wonder if leaders there would feel pressured if Texas built their segment.
TxDOT has already said they wont do anything until ArDOT does.
and ArDOT already built its part of I-49 from I-30 upwards and ends at the TX/AR state line. What is TxDOT waiting for? ArDOT to build the other section of I-49 north of Texas border to Ashdown and moving south to Texas border? It makes no sense.
I wonder if leaders there would feel pressured if Texas built their segment.
TxDOT has already said they wont do anything until ArDOT does.
and ArDOT already built its part of I-49 from I-30 upwards and ends at the TX/AR state line. What is TxDOT waiting for? ArDOT to build the other section of I-49 north of Texas border to Ashdown and moving south to Texas border? It makes no sense.
The only other segment that makes sense to focus on from the southern end would be from the Texas border to all the way around DeQueen to better connect up to US-70. Not that there's a ton of traffic on US-70, but likely almost as much as US-59 and US-270 north of Mena. I really don't see much progress on anything until some bypasses are accomplished, though, as that's typically how Arkansas develops new terrain routes, with Super-2's connecting to preexisting bypasses for the most part, other than how I-49 happened north of I-40 and south of Fayetteville.
I wonder if leaders there would feel pressured if Texas built their segment.
TxDOT has already said they wont do anything until ArDOT does.
and ArDOT already built its part of I-49 from I-30 upwards and ends at the TX/AR state line. What is TxDOT waiting for? ArDOT to build the other section of I-49 north of Texas border to Ashdown and moving south to Texas border? It makes no sense.
The only other segment that makes sense to focus on from the southern end would be from the Texas border to all the way around DeQueen to better connect up to US-70. Not that there's a ton of traffic on US-70, but likely almost as much as US-59 and US-270 north of Mena. I really don't see much progress on anything until some bypasses are accomplished, though, as that's typically how Arkansas develops new terrain routes, with Super-2's connecting to preexisting bypasses for the most part, other than how I-49 happened north of I-40 and south of Fayetteville.
I don't think this map shows the currently proposed route from Ashdown to DeQueen. It SEEMS to me the current route runs significantly farther west (going close to Horatio) and may even intersect US-70 WEST of DeQueen.
Assuming the map is not current, this just doesn't work. I-49 is planned to skirt ASHDOWN to the west. They already routed AR-32 back to town on a new alignment, but that takes you to the south side of town, just north of where US-71 traffic slows down from 65. It would add around ten miles and cost as many or more minutes. That one is a non-starter. Arkansas could build a loop around to US-71 north of town, but that really is short term and would be severely underutilized when I-49 was actually completed to DeQueen. I don't see that money being spent.
It makes zero sense for TXDOT to build anything until the Arkansas portion is well underway: THE ENTIRE PORTION to DEQUEEN.
I just looked at the ArcGIS maps of Little River County, While they aren't down to the parcel level yet (to see how much ROW ArDOT owns) it does provide some good granularity on the routing.
It appears I-49 is planned to run parallel of US-71 to the west at the same NW routing until it hits the AR-32 Bypass south of Ashdown. It will then turn north using a old railroad easement and powerline easement and turn straight north.
The reason it will run a couple of miles parallel west of US-71 is due to a Domtar (Formerly Nekoosa) paper mill south of Ashdown.
Once it turns north, west of Ashdown, it will re-merge with the current US-71 ROW with a bridge over the KCS railroad south of Wilton.
As it gets closer to the Little River, it will be widened next to another existing powerline easement west of the US-71 ROW and I assume a new Little River bridge will be built there.
It will continue to overlay until Ben Lemond where it appears it will use a different ravine east of Falls Chapel on Winter Creek to avoid the residential and church properties in Falls Chapel.
Another small jog around a church and houses around Pennys, then it is a straight shot to just before US-371 south of Lockesburg.
Sevier County also doesn't have per parcel granularity but you can still interpolate the plan.
South of Lockesburg, I-49 will turn to the NNW again following a route to avoid a large strip mine east of the Little Crossatot River.
After that the ROW will take a straight NW direction towards DeQueen and it looks like the exit ramps for US-71 will be just east of Gentry Chevrolet around Pepper Creek where there is a large high power transmission line easement.
Of course this could all change based on parcel acquisitions, high costs, unknown sinkholes, lawsuits etc.
Forgive me, I am on mobile.
So, we kind of know how I-49 is going to connect with Fort Smith's section, going from north to south: by snaking between Alma and Kibler. But, I want to talk about a potential route from the section in Fort Smith to Texarkana and that involves straightening out the current route of 71 as much as possible by establishing a linkage to 49 for Greenwood, Huntington, Mansfield, Waldron, Mena, Wickes, Grannis, DeQueen, Horatio, and then link up with 71 at Ashdown; upgrade 71 to interstate standards and then link former 71 (Ashdown to I-49 Mileage = Decommissioned/redesignated) with an interchange for 49 and US 71 South at the current terminus of I-49.
Now, I know this does not account for: potential grade separation, other rivers, valleys, mountains, or any other scenario such as the Ouachita National Forest. But it kinda/sorta takes as much of a pre-existing route as possible. Thoughts?
Forgive me, I am on mobile.
So, we kind of know how I-49 is going to connect with Fort Smith's section, going from north to south: by snaking between Alma and Kibler. But, I want to talk about a potential route from the section in Fort Smith to Texarkana and that involves straightening out the current route of 71 as much as possible by establishing a linkage to 49 for Greenwood, Huntington, Mansfield, Waldron, Mena, Wickes, Grannis, DeQueen, Horatio, and then link up with 71 at Ashdown; upgrade 71 to interstate standards and then link former 71 (Ashdown to I-49 Mileage = Decommissioned/redesignated) with an interchange for 49 and US 71 South at the current terminus of I-49.
Now, I know this does not account for: potential grade separation, other rivers, valleys, mountains, or any other scenario such as the Ouachita National Forest. But it kinda/sorta takes as much of a pre-existing route as possible. Thoughts?
I can't find anything on paper, but it seems to me that there is either no place to build the bridge and or EIS issues at the current Little River Crossing. It probably is dramatically less expensive to build the bridges and the road elsewhere. (It definitely would be around a dozen miles closer.)
It seems to me like it seemed pretty much set in stone until 5 or 6 years ago to follow this map you have (it may have even contained some land purchases) It seems to me like the last map put out by ARDOT went in a relatively straight line from the bridges from Texas to DeQueen with the road closer to Horatio and Alleen than to Wilton and Lockesburg.
Politically both county seats are serviced by the Interstate so this route I am talking about serves counties both equally as well as the one on the map.
I may be completely wrong. I have been before, but this time, I don't think so. The one thing I am certain of is that I didn't just pluck it out of thin air. I might have seen it in local media or Facebook.
I mentioned this previously on a different thread https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=14100.msg2607602#msg2607602
It won't be until they get some solid Phased engineering done, the proposed route will get more solid and a centerline established.And ARDOT has not been shy about buying right of way, years before it is needed unlike some other states. I think they have acquired all of the I-69 corridor from McGehee to the Mississippi River, with nothing on the horizon for constructing the roadway section or the river crossing.
Yes, ARDOT has acquired the ROW for I-69 from US-65 to the Mississippi River, which would constitute its side of the Charles W. Dean Bridge. Nothing has been done on the Mississippi side, and it looks like that will be the case for the foreseeable future.It won't be until they get some solid Phased engineering done, the proposed route will get more solid and a centerline established.And ARDOT has not been shy about buying right of way, years before it is needed unlike some other states. I think they have acquired all of the I-69 corridor from McGehee to the Mississippi River, with nothing on the horizon for constructing the roadway section or the river crossing.
Will there be any tunnels?As has been posted before, doubtful. The Foran Gap is not that treacherous and you can drive it easily at posted speed on the existing 2-lane. The sightlines will be that much better with modern engineering.
I wonder if leaders there would feel pressured if Texas built their segment.
The Next Austin? How About (Northwest) Arkansas. Seriously.
This isn't just throwing a dart at the map and arbitrarily calling something the next Austin. Northwest Arkansas has both idiosyncratic and macro factors that make it a logical heir to the role played by Austin for so long.
...
Northwestern Arkansas also benefits from the continued growth of Texas in the same way that Austin benefited from the growth of the economy in California. There's intense competition from universities in neighboring states to raise their profile and fill seats by recruiting students from Texas, and more than 25% of the student body of the University of Arkansas hails from Texas. Fayetteville is an 8-hour drive from Austin and a 5.5-hour drive from Dallas, so to the extent the Texas metros get too crowded or expensive for locals, northwest Arkansas already has a diaspora of Lone Star expats that should make it a sensible place to consider while remaining less than a day's drive away from "home."
https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2021-11-30/austin-s-mega-growth-rubs-off-on-walmart-s-arkansas
I get why Texas won't move until Arkansas does. I also didn't know that UAF had THAT many Texans. When Texas I-69 is completed alongside the long-finished Texas I-30, Texarkana is going to become an upside-down sieve into the Natural State.
The most direct route between DFW and NWA remains via US 69 through Oklahoma. I'll leave it there.
The most direct route between DFW and NWA remains via US 69 through Oklahoma. I'll leave it there.
The I-30 to (a completed) I-49 would be the closest all freeway route UNLESS US-69 or 75 gets upgraded to I-40. Even absent the upgrade, the difference in mileage is big enough to have 90% of traffic keep going through Atoka and beyond.
The most direct route between DFW and NWA remains via US 69 through Oklahoma. I'll leave it there.
The I-30 to (a completed) I-49 would be the closest all freeway route UNLESS US-69 or 75 gets upgraded to I-40. Even absent the upgrade, the difference in mileage is big enough to have 90% of traffic keep going through Atoka and beyond.
Agreed, DFW-NWA is a US-69/US-412 deal.
Once TxDOT has I-69/I-369 to Marshall done between Houston and Tenaha, and I-49 is done, perhaps there will be some drain off, but not very much. I-49 is more about KCMO to Gulf than NWA.
The most direct route between DFW and NWA remains via US 69 through Oklahoma. I'll leave it there.
The I-30 to (a completed) I-49 would be the closest all freeway route UNLESS US-69 or 75 gets upgraded to I-40. Even absent the upgrade, the difference in mileage is big enough to have 90% of traffic keep going through Atoka and beyond.
Agreed, DFW-NWA is a US-69/US-412 deal.
Once TxDOT has I-69/I-369 to Marshall done between Houston and Tenaha, and I-49 is done, perhaps there will be some drain off, but not very much. I-49 is more about KCMO to Gulf than NWA.
Actually, US-69/I-40/I-49 is quicker and only about 8 miles longer than US-69/US-412 as Muskogee, OK and Siloam Springs have to be transited with all the congestion and lights they have, as well as a couple of other towns along US-69 north of I-40. The Cherokee Turnpike toll as cheap as it is still likely also dissuades some folks from using that route, so it just isn't worth saving a few miles to take a longer amount of time and deal with the cities along the way.
Every time I've gone to Dallas/Ft. Worth from here in NWA, it's been I-49/I-40/US-69. US-69/US-412 be a better looking line on the map, but it'd take Siloam Springs, Muskogee, and Wagoner bypasses to make the route quicker. The real push should be for OK to handle US-69 south of I-40, which makes all the aforementioned routes quicker. If they don't handle that stretch, then anything north of I-40 for US-69 is kinda moot.
2 months after the opening, it looks like the bypass has taken 10,000 cars per day out of Bella Vista. The BVB will also likely result in more holiday travel through NWA now that there's a completed Interstate.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/ (https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/)
The most direct route between DFW and NWA remains via US 69 through Oklahoma. I'll leave it there.
The I-30 to (a completed) I-49 would be the closest all freeway route UNLESS US-69 or 75 gets upgraded to I-40. Even absent the upgrade, the difference in mileage is big enough to have 90% of traffic keep going through Atoka and beyond.
Agreed, DFW-NWA is a US-69/US-412 deal.
Once TxDOT has I-69/I-369 to Marshall done between Houston and Tenaha, and I-49 is done, perhaps there will be some drain off, but not very much. I-49 is more about KCMO to Gulf than NWA.
Actually, US-69/I-40/I-49 is quicker and only about 8 miles longer than US-69/US-412 as Muskogee, OK and Siloam Springs have to be transited with all the congestion and lights they have, as well as a couple of other towns along US-69 north of I-40. The Cherokee Turnpike toll as cheap as it is still likely also dissuades some folks from using that route, so it just isn't worth saving a few miles to take a longer amount of time and deal with the cities along the way.
Every time I've gone to Dallas/Ft. Worth from here in NWA, it's been I-49/I-40/US-69. US-69/US-412 be a better looking line on the map, but it'd take Siloam Springs, Muskogee, and Wagoner bypasses to make the route quicker. The real push should be for OK to handle US-69 south of I-40, which makes all the aforementioned routes quicker. If they don't handle that stretch, then anything north of I-40 for US-69 is kinda moot.
They are doing it VERY slowly. The McAlester stretch should be fully freeway in the next 5-7 years meaning Checotah to Savanna will be freeway. Red River to Caddo will also be done by then. Not sure if Atoka will ever be bypassed :)
The most direct route between DFW and NWA remains via US 69 through Oklahoma. I'll leave it there.
The I-30 to (a completed) I-49 would be the closest all freeway route UNLESS US-69 or 75 gets upgraded to I-40. Even absent the upgrade, the difference in mileage is big enough to have 90% of traffic keep going through Atoka and beyond.
Agreed, DFW-NWA is a US-69/US-412 deal.
Once TxDOT has I-69/I-369 to Marshall done between Houston and Tenaha, and I-49 is done, perhaps there will be some drain off, but not very much. I-49 is more about KCMO to Gulf than NWA.
Actually, US-69/I-40/I-49 is quicker and only about 8 miles longer than US-69/US-412 as Muskogee, OK and Siloam Springs have to be transited with all the congestion and lights they have, as well as a couple of other towns along US-69 north of I-40. The Cherokee Turnpike toll as cheap as it is still likely also dissuades some folks from using that route, so it just isn't worth saving a few miles to take a longer amount of time and deal with the cities along the way.
Every time I've gone to Dallas/Ft. Worth from here in NWA, it's been I-49/I-40/US-69. US-69/US-412 be a better looking line on the map, but it'd take Siloam Springs, Muskogee, and Wagoner bypasses to make the route quicker. The real push should be for OK to handle US-69 south of I-40, which makes all the aforementioned routes quicker. If they don't handle that stretch, then anything north of I-40 for US-69 is kinda moot.
They are doing it VERY slowly. The McAlester stretch should be fully freeway in the next 5-7 years meaning Checotah to Savanna will be freeway. Red River to Caddo will also be done by then. Not sure if Atoka will ever be bypassed :)
The owners of all the new businesses along 69 in the south side of Atoka don't think it will ever be bypassed....
2 months after the opening, it looks like the bypass has taken 10,000 cars per day out of Bella Vista. The BVB will also likely result in more holiday travel through NWA now that there's a completed Interstate.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/ (https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/)
AR-72 around Hiwasse will blossom, especially around Exit 287.
2 months after the opening, it looks like the bypass has taken 10,000 cars per day out of Bella Vista. The BVB will also likely result in more holiday travel through NWA now that there's a completed Interstate.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/ (https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/)
AR-72 around Hiwasse will blossom, especially around Exit 287.
Hiwasse could also be incorporated as well if it grows quickly like the rest of Springdale area.
2 months after the opening, it looks like the bypass has taken 10,000 cars per day out of Bella Vista. The BVB will also likely result in more holiday travel through NWA now that there's a completed Interstate.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/ (https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/)
AR-72 around Hiwasse will blossom, especially around Exit 287.
Hiwasse could also be incorporated as well if it grows quickly like the rest of Springdale area.
Hiwasse was absorbed into Gravette a few years back. It's not really it's own town anymore as a result.
The owners of all the new businesses along 69 in the south side of Atoka don't think it will ever be bypassed....
Quote from: dchristyThe owners of all the new businesses along 69 in the south side of Atoka don't think it will ever be bypassed....
All the road-side businesses that have been built along US-69 on the South side of Atoka were built for commercial truckers and other road-trippers. Population growth in Atoka is stagnant, aging and slowly losing residents to death or out-migration. It was 3100 in 2010 and barely 3000 now. There isn't a good jobs base to attract young adults. Like other small town and rural school districts across Oklahoma the one in Atoka struggles. Young adults wanting to build families want to live in well-funded districts, such as Edmond.
If I had my way Atoka would be located on a considerably more important highway junction than it is now. Not only do I believe I-45 should be extended along US-69 up to Big Cabin, I think Oklahoma needs another diagonal turnpike from the Panhandle region thru OKC and down to the Texarkana region to connect into I-49 going to the Gulf. Anyway, Atoka is at the intersection of both roads. In that scenario Atoka could be attractive as a distribution hub.
As long as US-69/75 going thru Tushka, Atoka and Stringtown is kept as is those towns will continue to wither. The OKC and Tulsa metros are the only ones in the state seeing any significant growth. Everywhere else state-wide is seeing population stagnation or loss. If the US-69/75 corridor was upgraded to Interstate quality from the Red River to I-40 it would do more to put those stagnant towns on the map. If they're only known for stop lights and speed traps highway travelers will look for other alternative corridors in the region, like I-35 or the emerging I-49 corridor.
Turnpike widening, Gilcrease Expressway part of $5 billion road plan for Oklahoma
In related action, Gatz called attention to a section of the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that provides an interstate designation for U.S. 412 from Interstate 35 east to Interstate 49 in Arkansas.
“That would include the Cimarron and Cherokee turnpikes and the section of 412 really between state Highway 99 and the end of the Cherokee Turnpike that is the Oklahoma Department of Transportation section,” Gatz said.
The designation can only be put on that section of U.S. 412 after the length is brought up to interstate standards, Gatz said.
“It means after we do the work to bring the corridor up to interstate standards, it is already approved to have an interstate shield put on it, designating it as the best facility available.
https://tulsaworld.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/turnpike-widening-gilcrease-expressway-part-of-5-billion-road-plan-for-oklahoma/article_9da908dc-56d5-11ec-98b8-179f51b609b6.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&utm_campaign=user-share&fbclid=IwAR0EatY2YHgRsiOgwO6atbMdDvwIxi-toomsV5aa-tRgJ6VDrtUB6IArSzY
2 months after the opening, it looks like the bypass has taken 10,000 cars per day out of Bella Vista. The BVB will also likely result in more holiday travel through NWA now that there's a completed Interstate.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/ (https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/)
AR-72 around Hiwasse will blossom, especially around Exit 287.
Hiwasse could also be incorporated as well if it grows quickly like the rest of Springdale area.
Hiwasse was absorbed into Gravette a few years back. It's not really it's own town anymore as a result.
Hiwasse faced a great division in 2007—2008, when two groups faced off over the incorporation of Hiwasse. In the end, the voters decided not to incorporate, with adjacent Gravette annexing the community in 2012.
2 months after the opening, it looks like the bypass has taken 10,000 cars per day out of Bella Vista. The BVB will also likely result in more holiday travel through NWA now that there's a completed Interstate.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/ (https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/)
AR-72 around Hiwasse will blossom, especially around Exit 287.
Hiwasse could also be incorporated as well if it grows quickly like the rest of Springdale area.
Hiwasse was absorbed into Gravette a few years back. It's not really it's own town anymore as a result.
Hiwasse faced a great division in 2007—2008, when two groups faced off over the incorporation of Hiwasse. In the end, the voters decided not to incorporate, with adjacent Gravette annexing the community in 2012.
Interesting, although on google maps, it appears that Gravette is far from the boundaries of Hiwasse.
2 months after the opening, it looks like the bypass has taken 10,000 cars per day out of Bella Vista. The BVB will also likely result in more holiday travel through NWA now that there's a completed Interstate.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/ (https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/bella-vista-bypass-benefits-those-in-the-area/)
AR-72 around Hiwasse will blossom, especially around Exit 287.
Hiwasse could also be incorporated as well if it grows quickly like the rest of Springdale area.
Hiwasse was absorbed into Gravette a few years back. It's not really it's own town anymore as a result.
Hiwasse faced a great division in 2007—2008, when two groups faced off over the incorporation of Hiwasse. In the end, the voters decided not to incorporate, with adjacent Gravette annexing the community in 2012.
Interesting, although on google maps, it appears that Gravette is far from the boundaries of Hiwasse.
Since Hiwasse didn't elect to incorporate, Gravette, foreseeing the day when I-49 would be completed, annexed along AR-72 to get to that exit knowing that its future growth was headed that way. It's what happened with Bella Vista as well with Lake Bella Vista. Bentonville annexed all the way up to and including Lake Bella Vista since Bella Vista was an unincorporated village at the time. They wanted to keep their Cooper Community origins, but with Bentonville grabbing them from the south, they finally did incorporate a year later to keep from being slowly absorbed into Bentonville. Now despite their resistance to change, they even have an elementary school, which is certainly not something that retirement communities typically fund. And the Walton Foundation has sponsored the construction of a rather extensive mountain bike trail system throughout the community since the terrain is so conducive to it and there's so much open space between areas of development there.
Interesting how Bella Vista was in the same boat as Hiwasse at one point.
Whats the next town to Sprawl in the NWA area. I would think that Greenland, Goshen, and Farmington would see a lot of growth due to the fact of the close distance to campus? Does anyone know if the NWACC Population has increased over the last 15 years???
IMO Greenland would and should serve as a area for large truckstops hotels, and restaurants, especially since everything would be close to IH 49
Thanks for the 411. I didnt know there was a Harps in West Fork. I love that store and hope that they Expand along Towns on the 40 corridor. Im kinda curious as to why Wal Mart hasnt opened a neighborhood market store in those areas...?
Interesting how Bella Vista was in the same boat as Hiwasse at one point.
BV was carved out as a retirement community in the late 60's/early 70's IIRC. They finally incorporated when Bentonville tried to annex them.
Hiwasse was courted by Bentonville and Gravette, IIRC. They opted for Gravette.
Will there be any tunnels?As has been posted before, doubtful. The Foran Gap is not that treacherous and you can drive it easily at posted speed on the existing 2-lane. The sightlines will be that much better with modern engineering.
The prosperity is very uneven in NWA, I've noticed.
While some cities are booming, others like Greenland and West Fork have languished for some reason, and Decatur (off the beaten path, granted) had to go 8-man to keep its football team. These towns should grow just for the attractiveness of living in a small town.
The prosperity is very uneven in NWA, I've noticed.
While some cities are booming, others like Greenland and West Fork have languished for some reason, and Decatur (off the beaten path, granted) had to go 8-man to keep its football team. These towns should grow just for the attractiveness of living in a small town.
While some cities are booming, others like Greenland and West Fork have languished for some reason, and Decatur (off the beaten path, granted) had to go 8-man to keep its football team. These towns should grow just for the attractiveness of living in a small town.
My wife and I are looking to move to the NWA area in late 2022. She grew up 90 miles south & wants to find something outside the sprawl of the big cities in the area. However, we also want the options of recreation, food, entertainment, etc. that comes with a bigger city. You all bring up some good points. How do you find the best value for housing, but have it in a place that is progressing and not fading away?
It's difficult finding the right balance. Heck some of the small towns around here are suffering simply because their local Internet service stinks. Bigger towns and bigger cities have access to bigger "pipes" and much faster access. The Internet isn't just for streaming Netflix either. Businesses are getting more dependent on good quality Internet access.
You make a very good point while sort of proving mine.The prosperity is very uneven in NWA, I've noticed.
While some cities are booming, others like Greenland and West Fork have languished for some reason, and Decatur (off the beaten path, granted) had to go 8-man to keep its football team. These towns should grow just for the attractiveness of living in a small town.
It sort of is like North Texas. While Farmersville and Melissa are (finally) growing rapidly, Blue Ridge and Trenton are still outside the sprawl. Even Greenville is not growing anything akin to Fate or Anna. Outside the footprint of the sprawl, small communities in North Texas as well as the rest of the United States (including Northwest Arkansas) are still declining.
My wife and I are looking to move to the NWA area in late 2022. She grew up 90 miles south & wants to find something outside the sprawl of the big cities in the area. However, we also want the options of recreation, food, entertainment, etc. that comes with a bigger city. You all bring up some good points. How do you find the best value for housing, but have it in a place that is progressing and not fading away?
My wife and I are looking to move to the NWA area in late 2022. She grew up 90 miles south & wants to find something outside the sprawl of the big cities in the area. However, we also want the options of recreation, food, entertainment, etc. that comes with a bigger city. You all bring up some good points. How do you find the best value for housing, but have it in a place that is progressing and not fading away?
My wife and I are looking to move to the NWA area in late 2022. She grew up 90 miles south & wants to find something outside the sprawl of the big cities in the area. However, we also want the options of recreation, food, entertainment, etc. that comes with a bigger city. You all bring up some good points. How do you find the best value for housing, but have it in a place that is progressing and not fading away?
NWA has lots of lakes for boating or swimming. For food/entertainment Fayetteville gets the nod, but there is stuff all over. Housing-wise, the whole area is exploding, New housing can't keep up with demand. IMO, you'd have better luck with the bedroom communities (Greenland, West Fork, Elkins, Farmington). My sister lives in Fayetteville, but the next street over is Elkins.
Luckily my wife has family in the area. We will spend some time in the area looking around during the Christmas holidays. Please keep posting your insights and thoughts.
I-49 isn't going anywhere near Horatio. It will cross US 59/70/71/371 several miles east of De Queen.
When I-49 is completed in the Fort Smith area, it will provide a good connection between I-49 south and I-40 east. However, to go from NB I-49 to WB I-40 or from EB I-40 to SB I-49, it will take quite a bit of backtracking.
I think AR DOT needs to work on improving the 4.5 mile segment of US-71 between I-540 and the south end of current AR-549 to limited access. It might involve a few property removals, but I think such a project is do-able. I think the agency will need to do that mainly for the matters of NB I-49 traffic going directly into Fort Smith. It would also be possible for I-49 drivers to use the same segment to take I-540 into Oklahoma where it turns into US-271. They could take that over to Spiro to get on US-59 and then go up to Salisaw. I have a feeling a lot of people driving NB I-49 to WB I-40 will just stay on I-49 until Alma in order to stay on Interstates all the way.
Finally got to drive the BVB on the way south for Christmas. That's such a HUGE improvement over taking 71 thru Bella Vista. After 12 hours in the car, fighting the traffic in Bella Vista always sucked. The bypass is well worth the $$.
Looking in the future, the ArDOT has their hands full with extending the road across 64 & the river area. Has anyone seen any proposals for the routing or is it way too early for that level of detail?
So there would only be two exits between AR 22 and Interstate 40? Seems about right. Will any rest areas be constructed along future Interstate 49 between Interstate 30 and Interstate 40? I've noticed that a lot of newer long-distance freeways seem to lack them.
If I-49 can actually be completed between Fort Smith and Texarkana I think chances would be decent for at least one or two rest areas. I think a rest area in the Foran Gap area between Mena and Waldron might be decent. There are some scenic opportunities there.
Another possible outcome: one or more commercial service plazas in the median of the Interstate, in the style of Oklahoma's turnpike service plazas. I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana will pass thru some very sparsely populated areas, not every town along the way is going to have 24/7 operating service businesses. Rest areas also come in more handy in Western states where roads go thru more desolate territory for the same reasons.
If I-49 can actually be completed between Fort Smith and Texarkana I think chances would be decent for at least one or two rest areas. I think a rest area in the Foran Gap area between Mena and Waldron might be decent. There are some scenic opportunities there.Unless federal law has changed, service plazas on free interstates will not be happening. You'll be lucky to get a vending machine that works half the time.
Another possible outcome: one or more commercial service plazas in the median of the Interstate, in the style of Oklahoma's turnpike service plazas. I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana will pass thru some very sparsely populated areas, not every town along the way is going to have 24/7 operating service businesses. Rest areas also come in more handy in Western states where roads go thru more desolate territory for the same reasons.
I-49 would have to be built as a toll road for service plazas to be allowed, and I-49 between Texarkana and Fort Smith likely would not generate enough traffic for tolls to be a viable option.If I-49 can actually be completed between Fort Smith and Texarkana I think chances would be decent for at least one or two rest areas. I think a rest area in the Foran Gap area between Mena and Waldron might be decent. There are some scenic opportunities there.Unless federal law has changed, service plazas on free interstates will not be happening. You'll be lucky to get a vending machine that works half the time.
Another possible outcome: one or more commercial service plazas in the median of the Interstate, in the style of Oklahoma's turnpike service plazas. I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana will pass thru some very sparsely populated areas, not every town along the way is going to have 24/7 operating service businesses. Rest areas also come in more handy in Western states where roads go thru more desolate territory for the same reasons.
If I-49 can actually be completed between Fort Smith and Texarkana I think chances would be decent for at least one or two rest areas. I think a rest area in the Foran Gap area between Mena and Waldron might be decent. There are some scenic opportunities there.
Another possible outcome: one or more commercial service plazas in the median of the Interstate, in the style of Oklahoma's turnpike service plazas. I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana will pass thru some very sparsely populated areas, not every town along the way is going to have 24/7 operating service businesses. Rest areas also come in more handy in Western states where roads go thru more desolate territory for the same reasons.
Looking at the 1997 FEIS to see where the route has an exit near Elm Park, it looks like there'll be an exit on AR-378 within a mile or so of US-71, so with that being the case, I'd bet they actually don't build another rest area, but instead put signage directing traffic to the already existing one that will be within 2 miles of the exit.That’s too far of the highway to be a viable rest area for interstate traffic. If a rest area were to be located off an exit, it would have to be in the immediate vicinity. An easy on-off situation. That doesn’t appear to be one, having traffic drive a mile or two each way.
Looking at the 1997 FEIS to see where the route has an exit near Elm Park, it looks like there'll be an exit on AR-378 within a mile or so of US-71, so with that being the case, I'd bet they actually don't build another rest area, but instead put signage directing traffic to the already existing one that will be within 2 miles of the exit.That’s too far of the highway to be a viable rest area for interstate traffic. If a rest area were to be located off an exit, it would have to be in the immediate vicinity. An easy on-off situation. That doesn’t appear to be one, having traffic drive a mile or two each way.
Easy solution is to close the existing US-71 rest area, and either construct two new ones on the mainline (one northbound, one southbound), or construct a single rest area off one of the exits that’s accessible by both directions. The latter would have less cost and still be viable if it’s immediately off the exit and well signed.
^
IIRC, a welcome center is planned at the AR-72 interchange off the new I-49 Bella Vista Bypass segment.
Google Maps now has Bella Vista Bypass imagery
Google Maps now has Bella Vista Bypass imageryThe imagery I'm seeing has been there for a while.
That is nice to hear that google finally updated their imagery of the bypass.
That is nice to hear that google finally updated their imagery of the bypass.
Just went to Google Maps and I'm still seeing the old imagery that shows the BVB under construction from US-71 south of BV to the Missouri state line. How do I see the latest imagery in Google Maps?
That is nice to hear that google finally updated their imagery of the bypass.
Just went to Google Maps and I'm still seeing the old imagery that shows the BVB under construction from US-71 south of BV to the Missouri state line. How do I see the latest imagery in Google Maps?
So what I'm seeing is it's updated in Google Earth but not Google maps.
What I'm seeing in Google Earth and the Google Maps webapp looks pretty janky with the curvature matching the terrain differences.
He is exactly correct. None of that imagery is even close to being new. The last time the Street View car passed through was almost 4 years ago in May 2018. Google is long overdue for a trip to Northwest Arkansas.
Okay, so I loaded Google Earth and I see the nearly-completed BVB. What I find interesting is they paved the new NB lanes from US-71 to CR-34 with asphalt (the SB lanes on this stretch are concrete). So you have the NB side mostly asphalt, save for short concrete sections at the interchanges with CR-34, AR-72, and the second AR-72.He is exactly correct. None of that imagery is even close to being new. The last time the Street View car passed through was almost 4 years ago in May 2018. Google is long overdue for a trip to Northwest Arkansas.
No doubt about it. Trouble is, they're likely trying to figure when the best opportunity is to catch it in a state that isn't going to change dramatically in 2 years, and I can tell you that there's massive amounts of cranes, red dirt, dump trucks, construction crews, etc. as Benton County is one of the fastest growing counties in the U.S. right now. It's starting from a low population compared to what everyone considers metropolitan, but with decades now of ~25% growth, it makes for a lot of change.
Okay, so I loaded Google Earth and I see the nearly-completed BVB. What I find interesting is they paved the new NB lanes from US-71 to CR-34 with asphalt (the SB lanes on this stretch are concrete). So you have the NB side mostly asphalt, save for short concrete sections at the interchanges with CR-34, AR-72, and the second AR-72.He is exactly correct. None of that imagery is even close to being new. The last time the Street View car passed through was almost 4 years ago in May 2018. Google is long overdue for a trip to Northwest Arkansas.
No doubt about it. Trouble is, they're likely trying to figure when the best opportunity is to catch it in a state that isn't going to change dramatically in 2 years, and I can tell you that there's massive amounts of cranes, red dirt, dump trucks, construction crews, etc. as Benton County is one of the fastest growing counties in the U.S. right now. It's starting from a low population compared to what everyone considers metropolitan, but with decades now of ~25% growth, it makes for a lot of change.
New aerial imagery in Google Earth. It hasn't yet made it over to Google Maps (which shows older imagery) as of last night.What I'm seeing in Google Earth and the Google Maps webapp looks pretty janky with the curvature matching the terrain differences.
In other words, there is new aerial imagery (that follows the earth contours when blown up to ground-level view), but no new Street View to match. The Street View is from 2018, and it is missing from Rt 34 to the I-69/US 71 junction in MO (where I-49 didn't exist in 2018). I also see that there is a piece of new aerial missing at the south end of BVB, from 2 miles west of US 71 to just east of Rt 72.
Saw a video on Youtube that filmed 49 south from Bella Vista to The Boston mountains. Excluding the Interchanges with US 62, Wedington Rd. and 412, I was very impressed with the interchange improvements in the area. Why hasnt anything been done to The Wedington Rd interchange? Also Why is there no overhead lighting on that stretch? Considering all the foggy days that The Fayetteville area gets this time of the year? LED Lighting would be enough because it does emit as much light pollution as the standard ones used to
There should be overhead lighting at the Fulbright expressway interchange. That interchange can be confusing for out of towners, IMO
Construction on I-49 corridor connecting Chaffee Crossing to Alma starting this fall
The project has been in the works for over 20 years.
Updated: 7:39 PM CST January 7, 2022
BARLING, Ark. – The Arkansas Department of Transportation and the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority (FCRA) has announced that construction on the I-49 corridor between Chaffee Crossing and Alma will begin this fall.
Funding to complete the 13.5-mile stretch of I-49 between Highway 22 in Sebastian County to I-40 in Crawford County was approved by voters in 2020 as part of Issue 1 on the ballot.
"We are sincerely thankful for ARDOT's fulfillment of promises to Arkansas voters following passage of Issue 1 in November 2020," FCRA CEO Daniel Mann said.
The new stretch of interstate is part of a long-term congressional plan to connect Shreveport, Louisiana, to Kansas City, Missouri.
Construction will begin in the fall of 2022, but no details about a completion date have been shared.
"It will be a great pleasure to plan the groundbreaking this fall and see real work begin in the near future," Mann said. "I-49 is a major transportation corridor that will open up the Fort Smith regional market to greater domestic and international trade."
Please check back for updates to this developing story.
https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/interstate-49-corridor-construction-chaffee-crossing-barling-alma-arkansas-start-date/527-950b0b7c-70e0-4cf3-9570-edc25d518f83?fbclid=IwAR3t-w6eUkKDTly9BTX3IWLLDQNfmphfECge_M9KVkN7PMtMzHcYtQ3HeXs
Saw a video on Youtube that filmed 49 south from Bella Vista to The Boston mountains. Excluding the Interchanges with US 62, Wedington Rd. and 412, I was very impressed with the interchange improvements in the area. Why hasnt anything been done to The Wedington Rd interchange? Also Why is there no overhead lighting on that stretch? Considering all the foggy days that The Fayetteville area gets this time of the year? LED Lighting would be enough because it does emit as much light pollution as the standard ones used toThat's a longtime function of AHTD/ARDOT farming out responsibility of lighting interchanges to the county or municipality with jurisdiction over the interchange.
There should be overhead lighting at the Fulbright expressway interchange. That interchange can be confusing for out of towners, IMO
Saw a video on Youtube that filmed 49 south from Bella Vista to The Boston mountains. Excluding the Interchanges with US 62, Wedington Rd. and 412, I was very impressed with the interchange improvements in the area. Why hasnt anything been done to The Wedington Rd interchange? Also Why is there no overhead lighting on that stretch? Considering all the foggy days that The Fayetteville area gets this time of the year? LED Lighting would be enough because it does emit as much light pollution as the standard ones used toThat's a longtime function of AHTD/ARDOT farming out responsibility of lighting interchanges to the county or municipality with jurisdiction over the interchange.
There should be overhead lighting at the Fulbright expressway interchange. That interchange can be confusing for out of towners, IMO
Finally! Our tax dollars at work. I just wonder about whether they do a Super-2 initially as nothing has been stated publicly that I've seen on how this is going to be built out. It would seem to be difficult to twin the span over the Arkansas River, so maybe they just do all 4 lanes with a Jersey barrier like I-540 and just stripe for 2 lanes initially?
Does anyone have a link to an exit list of the old I-540 exit numbers?
There were 2 different exit number sequences, one for S of I-40 and another for N of I-40.
ISTR the northern section started at 0 or 1 or something, not 20 as it does now, though my memory may be wrong here.
If so, we could be looking at the second renumbering along this section once ARDOT renumbers exits to fit the statewide I-49 mileage & eliminate the 186-mile jump at the Bella Vista exit.
Edit:
Old wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Interstate_540_(Arkansas)&oldid=410633771
Looks like the norther section always started at 20. Exits 15 & 20 @ I-40 accounts for the 5-mile overlap, and explains starting the northern bit at 20.
So the southern bit was... just numbered backwards. Sure guys. That makes sense.
Finally! Our tax dollars at work. I just wonder about whether they do a Super-2 initially as nothing has been stated publicly that I've seen on how this is going to be built out. It would seem to be difficult to twin the span over the Arkansas River, so maybe they just do all 4 lanes with a Jersey barrier like I-540 and just stripe for 2 lanes initially?
Probably wishful thinking but since they didn't specifically say maybe we will get all four lanes.
If they do the Super 2, I do think they should go ahead and do the 4 lane bridge even if it only services 2 lanes at the beginning. Whether that is twin spans or a four lane divided remains to be seen.
With all the earthwork involved and the bridge, they might as well put in both main lanes at the same time. After all that costly construction work, paving a lane would be a drop in the bucket.Finally! Our tax dollars at work. I just wonder about whether they do a Super-2 initially as nothing has been stated publicly that I've seen on how this is going to be built out. It would seem to be difficult to twin the span over the Arkansas River, so maybe they just do all 4 lanes with a Jersey barrier like I-540 and just stripe for 2 lanes initially?
Probably wishful thinking but since they didn't specifically say maybe we will get all four lanes.
If they do the Super 2, I do think they should go ahead and do the 4 lane bridge even if it only services 2 lanes at the beginning. Whether that is twin spans or a four lane divided remains to be seen.
Even a Super-2 at 65MPH knocks 10 minutes off the trip from Alma to Barling. It won't stay that way for long as it'll get quite a lot of traffic from the south side of the Arkansas River east of Barling bound for NWA and the converse. Not to mention US-71 through traffic.
With all the earthwork involved and the bridge, they might as well put in both main lanes at the same time. After all that costly construction work, paving a lane would be a drop in the bucket.Finally! Our tax dollars at work. I just wonder about whether they do a Super-2 initially as nothing has been stated publicly that I've seen on how this is going to be built out. It would seem to be difficult to twin the span over the Arkansas River, so maybe they just do all 4 lanes with a Jersey barrier like I-540 and just stripe for 2 lanes initially?
Probably wishful thinking but since they didn't specifically say maybe we will get all four lanes.
If they do the Super 2, I do think they should go ahead and do the 4 lane bridge even if it only services 2 lanes at the beginning. Whether that is twin spans or a four lane divided remains to be seen.
Even a Super-2 at 65MPH knocks 10 minutes off the trip from Alma to Barling. It won't stay that way for long as it'll get quite a lot of traffic from the south side of the Arkansas River east of Barling bound for NWA and the converse. Not to mention US-71 through traffic.
Quote from: bugoWhen I-49 is completed in the Fort Smith area, it will provide a good connection between I-49 south and I-40 east. However, to go from NB I-49 to WB I-40 or from EB I-40 to SB I-49, it will take quite a bit of backtracking.
Are you saying the planned modification of the I-40/I-49 interchange in Alma is going to be missing a couple of ramps? Are there any schematics or other diagrams available?
The mainline I-49 overpasses are WAY up at the top of the stack.
https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2018-05-01_Public-Meeting-I49-Concept-Exhibits_FINAL-DRAFT-4_I-40.pdfAm I missing something? I don't see any missing ramps in the diagram.
Maybe this will light a fire under OK to finish US 75/US 69:bigass:
https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2018-05-01_Public-Meeting-I49-Concept-Exhibits_FINAL-DRAFT-4_I-40.pdfAm I missing something? I don't see any missing ramps in the diagram.
So the finished interchange will be a 4-level directional stack. Good. A directional stack in that location is not really an extravagance considering two of the existing flyover ramps will remain.
I think it does make sense to replace the existing SB I-49 to WB I-40 ramp with a new ramp that will join with a new NB I-49 to WB I-40 flyover ramp. That will reduce any merge conflicts with I-49 traffic entering WB I-40.Quote from: MikieTimTThe mainline I-49 overpasses are WAY up at the top of the stack.
In retro-fitting an existing Y interchange into a full stack they have don't have any other choice. What else could they do? Tunnel the main lanes of I-49 under I-40?
It's not necessarily a bad thing to place the main lanes of one highway at the top level of a 4-level directional stack interchange. Others exist that have done so. the I-45/I-30 interchange in Dallas is one example. The Bush Turnpike and US-75 in Plano is another. The US-101/CA-110 interchange in downtown LA is old but iconic.
Anyway, when the I-40/I-49 interchange is completed it will no doubt be used a lot more by motorists coming up I-49 and going into Oklahoma as opposed to leaving I-49 South of Fort Smith and taking other roads to reach I-40 in Salisaw. There are 7 traffic signals along the 4.5 mile stretch of US-71 between the future I-49/US-71 interchange and I-540. Once I-540 enters Oklahoma, turning into US-271, there is at least a couple more traffic signals along the way in towns like Spiro. Taking I-49 up to Alma to pick up I-40 might indeed involve some back-tracking to go West into Oklahoma. But that's going to be a lot faster than any alternatives.
Now that the Bella Vista Bypass is completed, it is high time the old Interstate 540 exit numbers 20-88 become Interstate 49 exit numbers 206-274!
It's not the part of I-49 in Arkansas that's the focus of this thread, but I drove on I-49 around Texarkana yesterday, and the bridges were painted a most unusual hot pink color, which was an interesting change of pace from the rest of my trip.Maybe it was Breast Cancer Awareness Month when they submitted the bridge designs that called for the girders to be painted hot pink. :-D
It's not the part of I-49 in Arkansas that's the focus of this thread, but I drove on I-49 around Texarkana yesterday, and the bridges were painted a most unusual hot pink color, which was an interesting change of pace from the rest of my trip.Maybe it was Breast Cancer Awareness Month when they submitted the bridge designs that called for the girders to be painted hot pink. :-D
So, it's confirmed that it will be Super-2 from Alma to Y-City, and they hope that the feds pitch in once they see progress made by the state.Any type of progress, however small, is great news. Getting it as far down as Y City is a lot more than I thought they would do.
https://talkbusiness.net/2022/01/i-49-alma-fort-smith-route-might-be-complete-by-end-of-the-decade/ (https://talkbusiness.net/2022/01/i-49-alma-fort-smith-route-might-be-complete-by-end-of-the-decade/)
Substantial progress won't be evident until 2024-2025, so guess the groundbreaking noted earlier will be predominantly ROW, utility, and engineering.
So, it's confirmed that it will be Super-2 from Alma to Y-City, and they hope that the feds pitch in once they see progress made by the state.Any type of progress, however small, is great news. Getting it as far down as Y City is a lot more than I thought they would do.
https://talkbusiness.net/2022/01/i-49-alma-fort-smith-route-might-be-complete-by-end-of-the-decade/ (https://talkbusiness.net/2022/01/i-49-alma-fort-smith-route-might-be-complete-by-end-of-the-decade/)
Substantial progress won't be evident until 2024-2025, so guess the groundbreaking noted earlier will be predominantly ROW, utility, and engineering.
Wait so does that mean major construction won’t happen until 24/25 or they mean substantial completion by then?The latter.
Okay good deal. Even if they could just start out with a super between this project and Texarkana that would be a huge improvement. It would be nice if they could start on that by the time this wraps up. One can dream, right?Wait so does that mean major construction won’t happen until 24/25 or they mean substantial completion by then?The latter.
Wait, I misread it.Okay good deal. Even if they could just start out with a super between this project and Texarkana that would be a huge improvement. It would be nice if they could start on that by the time this wraps up. One can dream, right?Wait so does that mean major construction won’t happen until 24/25 or they mean substantial completion by then?The latter.
Ah, that is a bummer then.Wait, I misread it.Okay good deal. Even if they could just start out with a super between this project and Texarkana that would be a huge improvement. It would be nice if they could start on that by the time this wraps up. One can dream, right?Wait so does that mean major construction won’t happen until 24/25 or they mean substantial completion by then?The latter.
It’s the former.
Substantial construction will not begin until 2024-25.
End of decade for 2 lanes across the river from Alma to AR-22 with substantial construction beginning in 2024, and the $270M is for the Super-2 segment from the current south end of AR-549 to Y-City how I read the article. $4.1B is the total price tag for all 4 lanes from Alma to Texarkana.Sorry I didn’t look into it, how much is Arkansas getting from the infrastructure bill?
End of decade for 2 lanes across the river from Alma to AR-22 with substantial construction beginning in 2024, and the $270M is for the Super-2 segment from the current south end of AR-549 to Y-City how I read the article. $4.1B is the total price tag for all 4 lanes from Alma to Texarkana.Sorry I didn’t look into it, how much is Arkansas getting from the infrastructure bill?
Any word on where those funds are going? Or I’m guessing ARDOT still hasn’t made public any plans.End of decade for 2 lanes across the river from Alma to AR-22 with substantial construction beginning in 2024, and the $270M is for the Super-2 segment from the current south end of AR-549 to Y-City how I read the article. $4.1B is the total price tag for all 4 lanes from Alma to Texarkana.Sorry I didn’t look into it, how much is Arkansas getting from the infrastructure bill?
For highway programs, $3.6B.
Bridge replacement and repairs, $278M
I think those numbers are over a 5 year window.
Wouldn't shock me if they did, particularly the bypass around Waldron, which if I recall correctly has sufficient ROW space. This is almost entirely rural, so ARDOT is paying for pasture, which is way cheaper.So, it's confirmed that it will be Super-2 from Alma to Y-City, and they hope that the feds pitch in once they see progress made by the state.Any type of progress, however small, is great news. Getting it as far down as Y City is a lot more than I thought they would do.
https://talkbusiness.net/2022/01/i-49-alma-fort-smith-route-might-be-complete-by-end-of-the-decade/ (https://talkbusiness.net/2022/01/i-49-alma-fort-smith-route-might-be-complete-by-end-of-the-decade/)
Substantial progress won't be evident until 2024-2025, so guess the groundbreaking noted earlier will be predominantly ROW, utility, and engineering.
$270M for two lanes all the way down to Y City (50 miles from the US-71/AR-549 interchange) seems a bit low. Are they planning to use the existing US-71 alignment in certain spots as a cost-saving measure?
Wouldn't shock me if they did, particularly the bypass around Waldron, which if I recall correctly has sufficient ROW space. This is almost entirely rural, so ARDOT is paying for pasture, which is way cheaper.So, it's confirmed that it will be Super-2 from Alma to Y-City, and they hope that the feds pitch in once they see progress made by the state.Any type of progress, however small, is great news. Getting it as far down as Y City is a lot more than I thought they would do.
https://talkbusiness.net/2022/01/i-49-alma-fort-smith-route-might-be-complete-by-end-of-the-decade/ (https://talkbusiness.net/2022/01/i-49-alma-fort-smith-route-might-be-complete-by-end-of-the-decade/)
Substantial progress won't be evident until 2024-2025, so guess the groundbreaking noted earlier will be predominantly ROW, utility, and engineering.
$270M for two lanes all the way down to Y City (50 miles from the US-71/AR-549 interchange) seems a bit low. Are they planning to use the existing US-71 alignment in certain spots as a cost-saving measure?
I don't recall the Y City-Acorn passage as particularly treacherous.
Granted it was June last time I drove it, but that section moved at posted speeds and wasn't terrible. Curves and slopes were comparably very gentle. Very comparable to AR7 between Dover and the top of the mountain in Jasper but a lot shorter.
Earthwork will obviously need to be done to widen the ROW, but this gap is not the money trap it's made out to be.
Issue will be bridges and cuts through a few ridges as the Ouachitas are the only E/W running mountain range in the continental US, and the road is N/S.
Issue will be bridges and cuts through a few ridges as the Ouachitas are the only E/W running mountain range in the continental US, and the road is N/S.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Umtanum_Ridge (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Umtanum_Ridge)
Mesocene era mountains that predate the Cascades.
Drive I-82 from Yakima to Ellensburg as a reference.
Does anyone have a link to an exit list of the old I-540 exit numbers?
There were 2 different exit number sequences, one for S of I-40 and another for N of I-40.
ISTR the northern section started at 0 or 1 or something, not 20 as it does now, though my memory may be wrong here.
If so, we could be looking at the second renumbering along this section once ARDOT renumbers exits to fit the statewide I-49 mileage & eliminate the 186-mile jump at the Bella Vista exit.
Edit:
Old wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Interstate_540_(Arkansas)&oldid=410633771
Looks like the norther section always started at 20. Exits 15 & 20 @ I-40 accounts for the 5-mile overlap, and explains starting the northern bit at 20.
So the southern bit was... just numbered backwards. Sure guys. That makes sense.
Actually, it's the northern part that became I-49 that doesn't make sense. There are actually surprising few signed interstate spurs (odd#XX) in the U.S., and Arkansas just happens to have 2 of them. The way Arkansas signs the exits, which makes perfect sense, is that mile marker 0 is where the child interstate splits from the parent. It has nothing to do with a southern or western border like the 2di Interstates track exits and mile markers. The part that got screwed up in Arkansas' case with I-49 is that AHTD/ARDOT was denied the I-49 designation back when they originally applied for it, so the next best designation they got in the interim was I-540. The exit numbers should have been done in the first place with I-49 mile markers knowing that was the ultimate goal of the freeway, so there's really no actual logic to starting with 20. It certainly took some mental gymnastics to get them there from the Oklahoma border and concurrency with I-40 with the original mile markers/exits working south from I-40 on I-540.
Issue will be bridges and cuts through a few ridges as the Ouachitas are the only E/W running mountain range in the continental US, and the road is N/S.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Umtanum_Ridge (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Umtanum_Ridge)
Mesocene era mountains that predate the Cascades.
Drive I-82 from Yakima to Ellensburg as a reference.
I stand corrected and thanks for the insight!
Issue will be bridges and cuts through a few ridges as the Ouachitas are the only E/W running mountain range in the continental US, and the road is N/S.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Umtanum_Ridge (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Umtanum_Ridge)
Mesocene era mountains that predate the Cascades.
Drive I-82 from Yakima to Ellensburg as a reference.
I stand corrected and thanks for the insight!
No worries, I think there are only 5 E/W ranges in all the Lower 48. It's kind of like a river flowing north as well. Just not common.
Issue will be bridges and cuts through a few ridges as the Ouachitas are the only E/W running mountain range in the continental US, and the road is N/S.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Umtanum_Ridge (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Umtanum_Ridge)
Mesocene era mountains that predate the Cascades.
Drive I-82 from Yakima to Ellensburg as a reference.
I stand corrected and thanks for the insight!
No worries, I think there are only 5 E/W ranges in all the Lower 48. It's kind of like a river flowing north as well. Just not common.
We've got a few of those too. White, Illinois, and Kings Rivers all go north out of the Boston Mtns. before emptying into a lake that goes east from there, or swinging back south after going west.
Once 49 is completed? Does anyone think that people will move to the west central part of the state? That area from I have seen looks very scenic, and could be a destination area for retirees? I know many people moved to NWA From California and Texas because the cost of living was 50 percent less in NWA...
Good point. I forgot about that area of Texas along IH-30 in terms of people moving there. If Walmart or Amazon adds a facility in-between Ft Smith and Texarkana. People will move there. Not to mention many people from California and the west coast who lose their homes to wildfires/mudslides flock to rural areas of Arkansas because houses are a hell of a lot cheaper...
California is so dumb for not doing this.Good point. I forgot about that area of Texas along IH-30 in terms of people moving there. If Walmart or Amazon adds a facility in-between Ft Smith and Texarkana. People will move there. Not to mention many people from California and the west coast who lose their homes to wildfires/mudslides flock to rural areas of Arkansas because houses are a hell of a lot cheaper...
The environmental types from California won't like it here. We prescribe burn our forests like the Native Americans did to keep the wildfire fuel down and our environmental laws are much more lax than theirs.
Do they not?California is so dumb for not doing this.Good point. I forgot about that area of Texas along IH-30 in terms of people moving there. If Walmart or Amazon adds a facility in-between Ft Smith and Texarkana. People will move there. Not to mention many people from California and the west coast who lose their homes to wildfires/mudslides flock to rural areas of Arkansas because houses are a hell of a lot cheaper...
The environmental types from California won't like it here. We prescribe burn our forests like the Native Americans did to keep the wildfire fuel down and our environmental laws are much more lax than theirs.
Interesting. I've never seen California do it so I suspect it's rare. I always try and keep up with this stuff so thanks for the link. I will check it out.Do they not?California is so dumb for not doing this.Good point. I forgot about that area of Texas along IH-30 in terms of people moving there. If Walmart or Amazon adds a facility in-between Ft Smith and Texarkana. People will move there. Not to mention many people from California and the west coast who lose their homes to wildfires/mudslides flock to rural areas of Arkansas because houses are a hell of a lot cheaper...
The environmental types from California won't like it here. We prescribe burn our forests like the Native Americans did to keep the wildfire fuel down and our environmental laws are much more lax than theirs.
https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/prescribed-burning
Do they not?California is so dumb for not doing this.Good point. I forgot about that area of Texas along IH-30 in terms of people moving there. If Walmart or Amazon adds a facility in-between Ft Smith and Texarkana. People will move there. Not to mention many people from California and the west coast who lose their homes to wildfires/mudslides flock to rural areas of Arkansas because houses are a hell of a lot cheaper...
The environmental types from California won't like it here. We prescribe burn our forests like the Native Americans did to keep the wildfire fuel down and our environmental laws are much more lax than theirs.
https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/prescribed-burning
This is what I think as well.Do they not?California is so dumb for not doing this.Good point. I forgot about that area of Texas along IH-30 in terms of people moving there. If Walmart or Amazon adds a facility in-between Ft Smith and Texarkana. People will move there. Not to mention many people from California and the west coast who lose their homes to wildfires/mudslides flock to rural areas of Arkansas because houses are a hell of a lot cheaper...
The environmental types from California won't like it here. We prescribe burn our forests like the Native Americans did to keep the wildfire fuel down and our environmental laws are much more lax than theirs.
https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/prescribed-burning
It may be in the books as a valid forestry management tool, but that doesn't mean that it gets employed sufficiently to address the issue of fuel surplus on the forest floors.
I noticed the numbers were changed as well. I imagine we wont see 49 completed in my lifetime
iPhone
I noticed the numbers were changed as well. I imagine we wont see 49 completed in my lifetime
iPhone
What is this in reply of? I need some context....
https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2698027#msg2698027 (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2698027#msg2698027)Your linked post mentions 284 -> 99. What are the new numbers for 287 & 289?
And in confirmation of my suspicion, I took the entire BVB to Joplin on the way to Cabool, MO to pick up a topper for my truck, and sure enough, there is no longer any I-49 exit in Arkansas greater than 105 now. But we do have the desirable state of having multiple mile markers that are now duplicates in the range of 20-42! Can't for the life of me reconcile why they did this. Now AR-549 from US-71 to AR-22 stands out like a sore thumb of sensibility!
Yes it's stupid, but count on Arkansas to do the right thing only after all other alternatives have failed.https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2698027#msg2698027 (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2698027#msg2698027)Your linked post mentions 284 -> 99. What are the new number for 287 & 289?
And in confirmation of my suspicion, I took the entire BVB to Joplin on the way to Cabool, MO to pick up a topper for my truck, and sure enough, there is no longer any I-49 exit in Arkansas greater than 105 now. But we do have the desirable state of having multiple mile markers that are now duplicates in the range of 20-42! Can't for the life of me reconcile why they did this. Now AR-549 from US-71 to AR-22 stands out like a sore thumb of sensibility!
I assume the significance of 105 is that that's the mile number at the Missouri line?
Im catching up on the posts about 49 and the building from Ft Smith to Texarkana? What does a super 2 road mean in the building process? Im guessing its a two lane road with passing lanes added every 15 to 20 milies? or adding lanes near towns along the route? While the land will be cleared for another 2 lane road to be finished at a later date?Super 2s are often built as one side of a future 4 lane road, but with two way traffic on the two interim lanes. Often it is built to interstate standards with no at-grade crossings and interchange ramps where entrances and exits are needed. Sometimes at grade intersections and entrances are allowed, but this means they will need to be removed in the future if the roadway is to attain “interstate” status.
Im catching up on the posts about 49 and the building from Ft Smith to Texarkana? What does a super 2 road mean in the building process? Im guessing its a two lane road with passing lanes added every 15 to 20 milies? or adding lanes near towns along the route? While the land will be cleared for another 2 lane road to be finished at a later date?
If Im right in guessing, Most of IH 22 in Alabama and Mississippi was done in the same order through similiar terrain. Problem is that 220 mile segment took 25+ years to complete
https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2698027#msg2698027 (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2698027#msg2698027)Your linked post mentions 284 -> 99. What are the new numbers for 287 & 289?
And in confirmation of my suspicion, I took the entire BVB to Joplin on the way to Cabool, MO to pick up a topper for my truck, and sure enough, there is no longer any I-49 exit in Arkansas greater than 105 now. But we do have the desirable state of having multiple mile markers that are now duplicates in the range of 20-42! Can't for the life of me reconcile why they did this. Now AR-549 from US-71 to AR-22 stands out like a sore thumb of sensibility!
I assume the significance of 105 is that that's the mile number at the Missouri line?
I noticed the numbers were changed as well. I imagine we wont see 49 completed in my lifetimeSomebody who knows, is there a federal or AASHTO standard for how exit numbers are assigned?
iPhone
What is this in reply of? I need some context....
https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2698027#msg2698027 (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2698027#msg2698027)
And in confirmation of my suspicion, I took the entire BVB to Joplin on the way to Cabool, MO to pick up a topper for my truck, and sure enough, there is no longer any I-49 exit in Arkansas greater than 105 now. But we do have the desirable state of having multiple mile markers that are now duplicates in the range of 20-42! Can't for the life of me reconcile why they did this. Now AR-549 from US-71 to AR-22 stands out like a sore thumb of sensibility!
What was the point of renumbering?
https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2698027#msg2698027 (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2698027#msg2698027)Your linked post mentions 284 -> 99. What are the new numbers for 287 & 289?
And in confirmation of my suspicion, I took the entire BVB to Joplin on the way to Cabool, MO to pick up a topper for my truck, and sure enough, there is no longer any I-49 exit in Arkansas greater than 105 now. But we do have the desirable state of having multiple mile markers that are now duplicates in the range of 20-42! Can't for the life of me reconcile why they did this. Now AR-549 from US-71 to AR-22 stands out like a sore thumb of sensibility!
I assume the significance of 105 is that that's the mile number at the Missouri line?
Exit 287 is now Exit 102. I haven't actually noticed there being mile markers on the BVB portion yet. Now Google Maps has bad information yet again for the BVB, and it's not even been open that long. This is why we can't have nice things...
Here's a pair of videos I shot from my smartphone today of the Bella Vista Bypass complete with the new?/old? exit numbers from Gravette northward.It makes no sense to continue the old I-540 exit numbering scheme along the Arkansas side of the BVB. Actually, I'm surprised the FHWA is letting Arkansas get away with that. When the first section of the I-69 extension in Indiana opened in 2012, I recall the FHWA required INDOT to renumber exits on the original Indy to Michigan section of I-69 (they made it easy and just added 200 to the existing exit numbers).
Northbound from south of Exit 93
Southbound from Exit 5
Shot at 5x speed. You can adjust speed settings within YouTube to 0.25 speed if you're trying to catch exit numbers.
I also recommend bumping up to 1080p in the settings if your Auto resolution looks crappy.
Here's a pair of videos I shot from my smartphone today of the Bella Vista Bypass complete with the new?/old? exit numbers from Gravette northward.It makes no sense to continue the old I-540 exit numbering scheme along the Arkansas side of the BVB. Actually, I'm surprised the FHWA is letting Arkansas get away with that. When the first section of the I-69 extension in Indiana opened in 2012, I recall the FHWA required INDOT to renumber exits on the original Indy to Michigan section of I-69 (they made it easy and just added 200 to the existing exit numbers).
Northbound from south of Exit 93
Southbound from Exit 5
Shot at 5x speed. You can adjust speed settings within YouTube to 0.25 speed if you're trying to catch exit numbers.
I also recommend bumping up to 1080p in the settings if your Auto resolution looks crappy.
It makes no sense to continue the old I-540 exit numbering scheme along the Arkansas side of the BVB. Actually, I'm surprised the FHWA is letting Arkansas get away with that. When the first section of the I-69 extension in Indiana opened in 2012, I recall the FHWA required INDOT to renumber exits on the original Indy to Michigan section of I-69 (they made it easy and just added 200 to the existing exit numbers).
Maybe they'll just count down from 20... the US 71 interchange is right around where it would hit 0.It makes no sense to continue the old I-540 exit numbering scheme along the Arkansas side of the BVB. Actually, I'm surprised the FHWA is letting Arkansas get away with that. When the first section of the I-69 extension in Indiana opened in 2012, I recall the FHWA required INDOT to renumber exits on the original Indy to Michigan section of I-69 (they made it easy and just added 200 to the existing exit numbers).
I wonder if FHWA even knows at this point. It was just changed days ago, so Covid-induced staffing issues at FHWA could possibly hamper them keeping up with DOTs doing arbitrary things like this that affect several sectors, like marketing for area businesses and mapping systems. Why couldn't they have just gone ahead and changed mile markers and exits 20-93 like they will eventually have to do anyway, especially once they connect Alma to Barling? Was it that difficult or expensive a project to do at this point in time? Are they going to go back and introduce negative mile markers and exits on the Chaffee Crossing section of Future I-49/AR-549 when the river valley is crossed? :-D
When they finish Arkansas River Bridge and connecting the Barling segment to I-40 will be right around the time they plan to be constructing at least the first two lanes between Barling and Y City, which would add another 50 miles to what's already there now. At some point they're going to have to address the exit numbers on the Alma to Missouri section.Maybe they'll just count down from 20... the US 71 interchange is right around where it would hit 0.It makes no sense to continue the old I-540 exit numbering scheme along the Arkansas side of the BVB. Actually, I'm surprised the FHWA is letting Arkansas get away with that. When the first section of the I-69 extension in Indiana opened in 2012, I recall the FHWA required INDOT to renumber exits on the original Indy to Michigan section of I-69 (they made it easy and just added 200 to the existing exit numbers).
I wonder if FHWA even knows at this point. It was just changed days ago, so Covid-induced staffing issues at FHWA could possibly hamper them keeping up with DOTs doing arbitrary things like this that affect several sectors, like marketing for area businesses and mapping systems. Why couldn't they have just gone ahead and changed mile markers and exits 20-93 like they will eventually have to do anyway, especially once they connect Alma to Barling? Was it that difficult or expensive a project to do at this point in time? Are they going to go back and introduce negative mile markers and exits on the Chaffee Crossing section of Future I-49/AR-549 when the river valley is crossed? :-D
(let's hope, meanwhile, that ARDOT doesn't get any ideas from this comment...)
When they finish Arkansas River Bridge and connecting the Barling segment to I-40 will be right around the time they plan to be constructing at least the first two lanes between Barling and Y City, which would add another 50 miles to what's already there now. At some point they're going to have to address the exit numbers on the Alma to Missouri section.
When they finish Arkansas River Bridge and connecting the Barling segment to I-40 will be right around the time they plan to be constructing at least the first two lanes between Barling and Y City, which would add another 50 miles to what's already there now. At some point they're going to have to address the exit numbers on the Alma to Missouri section.Maybe they'll just count down from 20... the US 71 interchange is right around where it would hit 0.It makes no sense to continue the old I-540 exit numbering scheme along the Arkansas side of the BVB. Actually, I'm surprised the FHWA is letting Arkansas get away with that. When the first section of the I-69 extension in Indiana opened in 2012, I recall the FHWA required INDOT to renumber exits on the original Indy to Michigan section of I-69 (they made it easy and just added 200 to the existing exit numbers).
I wonder if FHWA even knows at this point. It was just changed days ago, so Covid-induced staffing issues at FHWA could possibly hamper them keeping up with DOTs doing arbitrary things like this that affect several sectors, like marketing for area businesses and mapping systems. Why couldn't they have just gone ahead and changed mile markers and exits 20-93 like they will eventually have to do anyway, especially once they connect Alma to Barling? Was it that difficult or expensive a project to do at this point in time? Are they going to go back and introduce negative mile markers and exits on the Chaffee Crossing section of Future I-49/AR-549 when the river valley is crossed? :-D
(let's hope, meanwhile, that ARDOT doesn't get any ideas from this comment...)
When they finish Arkansas River Bridge and connecting the Barling segment to I-40 will be right around the time they plan to be constructing at least the first two lanes between Barling and Y City, which would add another 50 miles to what's already there now. At some point they're going to have to address the exit numbers on the Alma to Missouri section.Maybe they'll just count down from 20... the US 71 interchange is right around where it would hit 0.It makes no sense to continue the old I-540 exit numbering scheme along the Arkansas side of the BVB. Actually, I'm surprised the FHWA is letting Arkansas get away with that. When the first section of the I-69 extension in Indiana opened in 2012, I recall the FHWA required INDOT to renumber exits on the original Indy to Michigan section of I-69 (they made it easy and just added 200 to the existing exit numbers).
I wonder if FHWA even knows at this point. It was just changed days ago, so Covid-induced staffing issues at FHWA could possibly hamper them keeping up with DOTs doing arbitrary things like this that affect several sectors, like marketing for area businesses and mapping systems. Why couldn't they have just gone ahead and changed mile markers and exits 20-93 like they will eventually have to do anyway, especially once they connect Alma to Barling? Was it that difficult or expensive a project to do at this point in time? Are they going to go back and introduce negative mile markers and exits on the Chaffee Crossing section of Future I-49/AR-549 when the river valley is crossed? :-D
(let's hope, meanwhile, that ARDOT doesn't get any ideas from this comment...)
Taking their sweet time as usual? :D
Oh, they'll punt as long as possible on this now that they've renumbered the northern 3 exits. Funky having the Chaffee Crossing exits being 187 to 193 with Alma to Rocky Dell Hollow Rd. being 20 to 104. They'll have to address it before they'll get approved to change the Chaffee Crossing portion of Future I-49 to just I-49 when everything is done in the river valley gap.
Just crickets from the Public Relations Officer with ARDOT on the email I sent about why they chose to make a backwards change.
Oh, they'll punt as long as possible on this now that they've renumbered the northern 3 exits. Funky having the Chaffee Crossing exits being 187 to 193 with Alma to Rocky Dell Hollow Rd. being 20 to 104. They'll have to address it before they'll get approved to change the Chaffee Crossing portion of Future I-49 to just I-49 when everything is done in the river valley gap.
Just crickets from the Public Relations Officer with ARDOT on the email I sent about why they chose to make a backwards change.
Highlands Blvd has the new numbering sequence (or DID)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51412248224_3feedc52f5_z_d.jpg)
Oh, they'll punt as long as possible on this now that they've renumbered the northern 3 exits. Funky having the Chaffee Crossing exits being 187 to 193 with Alma to Rocky Dell Hollow Rd. being 20 to 104. They'll have to address it before they'll get approved to change the Chaffee Crossing portion of Future I-49 to just I-49 when everything is done in the river valley gap.
Just crickets from the Public Relations Officer with ARDOT on the email I sent about why they chose to make a backwards change.
Highlands Blvd has the new numbering sequence (or DID)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51412248224_3feedc52f5_z_d.jpg)
Do any of the other exits along the bypass have some of the new numbering?
It's unfortunate for any new businesses that are about to break ground on any of those new exits. They'll have to update exit numbers in their marketing unnecessarily as they were correct to begin with, unless there's some sort of rerouting between Texarkana and Rye Hill that hasn't been publicized. Texas must really want a northern bypass of Texarkana at some point, otherwise, they wouldn't want to cost share a Red River bridge with Arkansas.
Here is the proposed schematic for the section with the I-49 Arkansas River Bridge. Since this was dated prior to the Great Arkansas River Flood of 2019, I wonder about how current the profile charts are that show the distance above the current ground level now that we've had a new high water mark in the area.
https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2018-05-01_I49-Schematic_DRAFT2_SpringHillPark-GunClubRoad.pdf (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2018-05-01_I49-Schematic_DRAFT2_SpringHillPark-GunClubRoad.pdf)
Here is the proposed schematic for the section with the I-49 Arkansas River Bridge. Since this was dated prior to the Great Arkansas River Flood of 2019, I wonder about how current the profile charts are that show the distance above the current ground level now that we've had a new high water mark in the area.
https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2018-05-01_I49-Schematic_DRAFT2_SpringHillPark-GunClubRoad.pdf (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2018-05-01_I49-Schematic_DRAFT2_SpringHillPark-GunClubRoad.pdf)
Just noticed that the draft plans back in 2018 had a provision under the overpass for Gun Club Rd. for passenger rail. This is certainly the first I've ever seen about anything for passenger rail ever being considered along the Arkansas River north of the levee. Interesting concept, but have my doubts as to how serious anyone would be for such a project.
Here is the proposed schematic for the section with the I-49 Arkansas River Bridge. Since this was dated prior to the Great Arkansas River Flood of 2019, I wonder about how current the profile charts are that show the distance above the current ground level now that we've had a new high water mark in the area.
https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2018-05-01_I49-Schematic_DRAFT2_SpringHillPark-GunClubRoad.pdf (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2018-05-01_I49-Schematic_DRAFT2_SpringHillPark-GunClubRoad.pdf)
Just noticed that the draft plans back in 2018 had a provision under the overpass for Gun Club Rd. for passenger rail. This is certainly the first I've ever seen about anything for passenger rail ever being considered along the Arkansas River north of the levee. Interesting concept, but have my doubts as to how serious anyone would be for such a project.
I just looked at the 2021 HSR for Arkansas Report and there is no mention of it. (Little Rock to Texarkana is all)
I also went back and looked at the AASHTO passenger rail report for 2001 and there was nothing about it.
Maybe it was LSR instead?
The city of Bentonville is seeking feedback on a $37.2 million project to extend Northeast J Street to Interstate 49. Preliminary plans show the 1.1-mile project will include an interchange similar to the one at I-49 and Central Avenue (Arkansas Highway 72).Link at headline
The city is working with Garver on project design and will host a virtual meeting at 5:30 p.m. Thursday (Feb. 17). Meeting attendees can ask staff about the project. Comments also are being accepted online until March 4. Link here for project details.
Northeast J Street will be widened to four lanes and be extended to I-49 between Tiger Boulevard and the interstate.
Dennis Birge, transportation director for the city of Bentonville, said the project was included in the city’s master street plan in 2007, but the money to complete the project wasn’t available then. Since then, the city has worked with Garver to update street project priorities to meet growth projections for the next 20 years. The city is expected to exceed a population of 100,000 by 2040.
Garver identified the extension of Northeast J Street as a top priority. In 2021, Bentonville voters approved a bond issue that includes $173.5 million in street projects. The extension of Northeast J Street is expected to be the largest street project in the bond issue.
Birge cited the relocation of the Walmart home office along J Street and the proximity to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art as factors supporting the project need. He also pointed to the congestion of existing highways that connect to I-49, including Central Avenue and Arkansas Highway 102.
“We feel like the need for an additional connection to I-49 or inlet or outlet to I-49 was needed,” he said. “By the time we applied some growth factors to get us out to a 2040 traffic count, we felt like this would be needed.”
The virtual meeting will be the first look at the conceptual design. According to the plans, Northeast J Street, which runs between Allencroft and Chapel Hill subdivisions, will be widened to four lanes with a center median. Side paths and sidewalks will be included. The street will be extended until intersecting with I-49 south of Slaughter Pen Road. Two bridges will be needed for the project.
Birge noted the street will be narrowed to fit between the subdivisions and doesn’t anticipate any homes being affected. However, fences might need to be moved and yards adjusted to make way for the street. He added that the design is preliminary, and the city is working to determine exactly where the street will run before seeking environmental approval.
Design and permitting are expected to be completed over three to five years. The project will need approval from the Arkansas Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration as it will intersect with I-49.
Birge said the project was estimated to cost $37.2 million, but he expects it will be more since the estimate was given in late 2020. A better estimate is expected to be provided during the design. The city will seek state or federal grant money to pay for the project, Birge said.
Now that they are planning on connecting the two Interstate 49 segments between Barling and Alma (one of which is currently AR 549), I wonder what exit numbers the new segment of 49/549 will get. Maybe when it's completed, the morons in charge of the exit numbers will finally give the Alma-to-Missouri segment their proper numbers, although I doubt it.
Now that they are planning on connecting the two Interstate 49 segments between Barling and Alma (one of which is currently AR 549), I wonder what exit numbers the new segment of 49/549 will get. Maybe when it's completed, the morons in charge of the exit numbers will finally give the Alma-to-Missouri segment their proper numbers, although I doubt it.
I'd wager they go back and retroactively change the AR-549 numbers to count down to 0 at US-71 between Rye Hill and Jenny Lind. 'cause that's apparently how ARDOT rolls.
Now that they are planning on connecting the two Interstate 49 segments between Barling and Alma (one of which is currently AR 549), I wonder what exit numbers the new segment of 49/549 will get. Maybe when it's completed, the morons in charge of the exit numbers will finally give the Alma-to-Missouri segment their proper numbers, although I doubt it.
I'd wager they go back and retroactively change the AR-549 numbers to count down to 0 at US-71 between Rye Hill and Jenny Lind. 'cause that's apparently how ARDOT rolls.
BUT north of Bentonville, the exits are numbered from Texarkana , as are the exitsbeginningending at Barling. So, theoretically, at least, 49 could use the "proper" numbering sequence.
Wikipedia still lists the exits as 284, 287 and 289 (not that I or anyone else should rely on Wikipedia): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interstate_49_in_Arkansas. The interesting thing I've noticed recently on that page is all the exits with former Interstate 540's numbers have the Interstate 49 "future" numbers posted alongside the existing exits. Maybe (and that's a big maybe) they will still get the correct numbers someday.
Do we have any Wikipedia editors on the AARoads Fourm? If so, an edit to the "Interstate 49 in Arkansas" page would be much appreciated.
Thank you, yakra. The page looks a lot better now. I would have liked to see old 284, 287, and 289 numberings for the last three exits (hopefully those numbers will be reinstated someday), but the changes already made are sufficient.
Thank you, yakra. The page looks a lot better now. I would have liked to see old 284, 287, and 289 numberings for the last three exits (hopefully those numbers will be reinstated someday), but the changes already made are sufficient.
Like these?
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51274110175_ff489f08b4_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51273255798_039d0cb88b_z_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51412248224_3feedc52f5_z_d.jpg)
So what happens to AR 549
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So what happens to AR 549I’m guessing their plan is to take so long finishing it no one will remember the exit renumbering
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You guys need to remember. I-49 has a southern leg in Arkansas!
I am not sure these numbers are not the numbers that eventually will be close to the finished ones!
You guys need to remember. I-49 has a southern leg in Arkansas!
I am not sure these numbers are not the numbers that eventually will be close to the finished ones!
I remember that well. That's why the renumbering of the northern 3 exits was insanity. Anyway, it's fixing to become more of an issue, because ARDOT is fixing to start movement on the small gap over the Arkansas River.
Highway 22 to Interstate 40 Arkansas River|Interstate 49|Crawford & Sebastian Counties Job 040748 Public Involvement Meeting (https://vpiph03-job-040748-hwy-22-i40-ar-rvr-i49-ardot.hub.arcgis.com/)
If I have any availability Thursday, I might make the trek down to Alma and ask the presenters about it since I can't get answers by email.
You guys need to remember. I-49 has a southern leg in Arkansas!
I am not sure these numbers are not the numbers that eventually will be close to the finished ones!
I remember that well. That's why the renumbering of the northern 3 exits was insanity. Anyway, it's fixing to become more of an issue, because ARDOT is fixing to start movement on the small gap over the Arkansas River.
Highway 22 to Interstate 40 Arkansas River|Interstate 49|Crawford & Sebastian Counties Job 040748 Public Involvement Meeting (https://vpiph03-job-040748-hwy-22-i40-ar-rvr-i49-ardot.hub.arcgis.com/)
If I have any availability Thursday, I might make the trek down to Alma and ask the presenters about it since I can't get answers by email.
I watched the video, I had thought that the section from I-40 to to Y City was going to be a Super 2.
However this video seems to imply that the section from I-40 to the current AR 549 at Fort Chaffee will be a full four lane interstate.
A 24 mile stretch without interchanges! I had forgotten how rural it gets down there so I did a Google flyover and it's very sparse.
A 24 mile stretch without interchanges! I had forgotten how rural it gets down there so I did a Google flyover and it's very sparse.
The final ramp design for the modified I-40/I-49 interchange would likely be a 4-level directional stack. The newer 4 ramps for the Southern half of that interchange will be going partially over US-64 immediately South of the interchange.A schematic rendering of the complete I-40/I-49 interchange was included in the article, and indeed would have ramps going over US-64.
A 24 mile stretch without interchanges! I had forgotten how rural it gets down there so I did a Google flyover and it's very sparse.
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A four-level stack seems like overkill for this junction. This has to be the most rural location for one of these in America by a long shot.
A four-level stack seems like overkill for this junction. This has to be the most rural location for one of these in America by a long shot.Every freeway to freeway interchange should be a stack. Cloverleafs suck.
A four-level stack seems like overkill for this junction. This has to be the most rural location for one of these in America by a long shot.
It’s almost like ARDOT planned it that way in the 1980s.A four-level stack seems like overkill for this junction. This has to be the most rural location for one of these in America by a long shot.
Because 1/2 of it is already built as a stack.
It might be the only one. Places where two 2dis cross in a rural area not that common. The ones I know have cloverleafs or cloverleafs modified by one or two flyovers (like I-10/I-75 in Florida).A four-level stack seems like overkill for this junction. This has to be the most rural location for one of these in America by a long shot.
Because 1/2 of it is already built as a stack.
A four-level stack seems like overkill for this junction. This has to be the most rural location for one of these in America by a long shot.
I-49 goes immediately into the Arkansas River 100 year floodplain as soon as it's south of the UP RR, so there is a need for a very long bridge over I-40, US-64, the UP railroad, and Frog Bayou anyway, so how else would an interchange work there? I'd be interested to see an alternative.
It might be the only one. Places where two 2dis cross in a rural area not that common. The ones I know have cloverleafs or cloverleafs modified by one or two flyovers (like I-10/I-75 in Florida).A four-level stack seems like overkill for this junction. This has to be the most rural location for one of these in America by a long shot.
Because 1/2 of it is already built as a stack.
It costs more, but the traffic flows better.
You could maybe do a trumpet interchange a mile south of Route 64 and then build a connector back up to Route 64.
Quote from: bwana39It costs more, but the traffic flows better.
But it doesn't cost any more. Half of the stack already exists. They're only going to add a second Y interchange to an existing Y interchange. Honestly it would be silly and wasteful to take any other approach, such as fully replacing the interchange with something like a pinwheel or cloverleaf design.Quote from: DrSmithYou could maybe do a trumpet interchange a mile south of Route 64 and then build a connector back up to Route 64.
That wouldn't provide any advantage over motorists just driving a short distance to the US-71 intersection with US-64, going up a couple blocks and getting on I-40 there.
If anything, AR DOT could add a new exit on I-40 to service US-64 traffic to the West of the I-49 interchange. It is a little strange how there is no exits at all on I-40 between the I-540 interchange and I-49 interchange. They could probably add exit ramps at either the AR-60 or Lost Beach Crossing bridges over I-40. Or build a new exit Pleasant Valley Road.
Looks like going to let the contract for construction of the Arkansas Welcome Center on I-49 on Sept. 21. Still haven't updated the Route to I-49 from Hwy. 549.
https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/2022-May-Letting-to-Post.pdf (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/2022-May-Letting-to-Post.pdf)
Is the proposed Welcome Center going to be the only rest area constructed along the entire length of Interstate 49 in Arkansas? I've noticed plenty of newer long-distance roadways seem to lack rest areas and weigh stations (Interstate 22 in MS/AL and the Interstate 69 extension in Indiana come to mind, as well as the Interstate 49 segment in Missouri).
^ I doubt they are going to sign a rest area that is a whole 3 miles away from the main highway. Anything more than a half mile at most, and even that’s pushing it, is too far. It needs to be directly off of the exit to be viable.
^ I doubt they are going to sign a rest area that is a whole 3 miles away from the main highway. Anything more than a half mile at most, and even that’s pushing it, is too far. It needs to be directly off of the exit to be viable.
When the alternative is no rest area for almost 200 miles, I'd bet they would do just that. Viability is in the eye of the beholder, and in the budget of the builder.
^ I doubt they are going to sign a rest area that is a whole 3 miles away from the main highway. Anything more than a half mile at most, and even that’s pushing it, is too far. It needs to be directly off of the exit to be viable.
Given few alternatives, truckers will definitely make the 3 mile trip for a place to stop and sleep.
When the alternative is no rest area for almost 200 miles, I'd bet they would do just that. Viability is in the eye of the beholder, and in the budget of the builder.
Forget old US 71 between Greenwood and Texarkana.
I'm surprised ARDOT is proposing any improvements to the old road at all. Doing so is a tacit admission that any stage of I-49 isn't in the cards for the next 20 years at least.
Forget old US 71 between Greenwood and Texarkana.
I'm surprised ARDOT is proposing any improvements to the old road at all. Doing so is a tacit admission that any stage of I-49 isn't in the cards for the next 20 years at least.
Forget old US 71 between Greenwood and Texarkana.
I'm surprised ARDOT is proposing any improvements to the old road at all. Doing so is a tacit admission that any stage of I-49 isn't in the cards for the next 20 years at least.
That is what I said. You were so much more succinct.
That is what I said. You were so much more succinct.
ARDOT has f*cked up priorities. Ever notice how NWA gets the bulk of the attention? It's because of the UofA, Tyson, Walmart, JBHunt.
That is what I said. You were so much more succinct.
ARDOT has f*cked up priorities. Ever notice how NWA gets the bulk of the attention? It's because of the UofA, Tyson, Walmart, JBHunt.
And here I remember reading in this very forum that the LR area gets the bulk of the attention vs the up and coming NWA area (which needed the help).
Depends on where the governor at the time is from.That is what I said. You were so much more succinct.
ARDOT has f*cked up priorities. Ever notice how NWA gets the bulk of the attention? It's because of the UofA, Tyson, Walmart, JBHunt.
And here I remember reading in this very forum that the LR area gets the bulk of the attention vs the up and coming NWA area (which needed the help).
I don't entirely disagree. In fact, IMO a contiguous I-49 should be the firate priority of AR/LA.
LM-Q730
Depends on where the governor at the time is from.That is what I said. You were so much more succinct.
ARDOT has f*cked up priorities. Ever notice how NWA gets the bulk of the attention? It's because of the UofA, Tyson, Walmart, JBHunt.
And here I remember reading in this very forum that the LR area gets the bulk of the attention vs the up and coming NWA area (which needed the help).
I don't entirely disagree. In fact, IMO a contiguous I-49 should be the firate priority of AR/LA.
LM-Q730
ARDOT has f*cked up priorities. Ever notice how NWA gets the bulk of the attention? It's because of the UofA, Tyson, Walmart, JBHunt.
is 71 still going to be on its own alignment across the state line with missouri?Is it not?
is 71 still going to be on its own alignment across the state line with missouri?
is 71 still going to be on its own alignment across the state line with missouri?
From Bella Vista/ Exit 93 to MM 5 near Pineville, MO , US 71 is solo
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Well over half of the population of Arkansas lives in metro Little Rock or NWA. Jonesboro is the one significant place out side of those two areas with over 40K.What is “KRA” ? Is Fort Smith part of northwest Arkansas?
Even with its geographically outsized favor in transportation spending, it actually is less per capita in those areas than in a lot of more rural areas.
Before the 2000's virtually everything revolved around Little Rock. When Huckabee became governor, that changed some. About the same time, NWA started to transition from a group of small town to a metropolitan area. After Huckabee left the Governor's Mansion (Triple Wide Trailer) it transitioned back to the the population centers. KRA had lost its seeming exclusivity, but rural Arkansas was once again Rural Arkansas.
Well over half of the population of Arkansas lives in metro Little Rock or NWA. Jonesboro is the one significant place out side of those two areas with over 40K.When Huckabee was governor, NWA was the epicenter of his Republican base and he had to cater to them. Then Mike Beebe (from Searcy) took over and US 67 became his driveway. Now Asa Hutchinson is governor and he is from NWA, but the whole state flipped Republican and now he has to spread the booty across the whole state.
Even with its geographically outsized favor in transportation spending, it actually is less per capita in those areas than in a lot of more rural areas.
Before the 2000's virtually everything revolved around Little Rock. When Huckabee became governor, that changed some. About the same time, NWA started to transition from a group of small town to a metropolitan area. After Huckabee left the Governor's Mansion (Triple Wide Trailer) it transitioned back to the the population centers. KRA had lost its seeming exclusivity, but rural Arkansas was once again Rural Arkansas.
Well over half of the population of Arkansas lives in metro Little Rock or NWA. Jonesboro is the one significant place out side of those two areas with over 40K.When Huckabee was governor, NWA was the epicenter of his Republican base and he had to cater to them. Then Mike Beebe (from Searcy) took over and US 67 became his driveway. Now Asa Hutchinson is governor and he is from NWA, but the whole state flipped Republican and now he has to spread the booty across the whole state.
Even with its geographically outsized favor in transportation spending, it actually is less per capita in those areas than in a lot of more rural areas.
Before the 2000's virtually everything revolved around Little Rock. When Huckabee became governor, that changed some. About the same time, NWA started to transition from a group of small town to a metropolitan area. After Huckabee left the Governor's Mansion (Triple Wide Trailer) it transitioned back to the the population centers. KRA had lost its seeming exclusivity, but rural Arkansas was once again Rural Arkansas.
Well over half of the population of Arkansas lives in metro Little Rock or NWA. Jonesboro is the one significant place out side of those two areas with over 40K.When Huckabee was governor, NWA was the epicenter of his Republican base and he had to cater to them. Then Mike Beebe (from Searcy) took over and US 67 became his driveway. Now Asa Hutchinson is governor and he is from NWA, but the whole state flipped Republican and now he has to spread the booty across the whole state.
Even with its geographically outsized favor in transportation spending, it actually is less per capita in those areas than in a lot of more rural areas.
Before the 2000's virtually everything revolved around Little Rock. When Huckabee became governor, that changed some. About the same time, NWA started to transition from a group of small town to a metropolitan area. After Huckabee left the Governor's Mansion (Triple Wide Trailer) it transitioned back to the the population centers. KRA had lost its seeming exclusivity, but rural Arkansas was once again Rural Arkansas.
Actually, John Paul Hammerschmidt brought home the bacon for 49. and John Boozman pushed to upgrade 67.
Well over half of the population of Arkansas lives in metro Little Rock or NWA. Jonesboro is the one significant place out side of those two areas with over 40K.When Huckabee was governor, NWA was the epicenter of his Republican base and he had to cater to them. Then Mike Beebe (from Searcy) took over and US 67 became his driveway. Now Asa Hutchinson is governor and he is from NWA, but the whole state flipped Republican and now he has to spread the booty across the whole state.
Even with its geographically outsized favor in transportation spending, it actually is less per capita in those areas than in a lot of more rural areas.
Before the 2000's virtually everything revolved around Little Rock. When Huckabee became governor, that changed some. About the same time, NWA started to transition from a group of small town to a metropolitan area. After Huckabee left the Governor's Mansion (Triple Wide Trailer) it transitioned back to the the population centers. KRA had lost its seeming exclusivity, but rural Arkansas was once again Rural Arkansas.
Actually, John Paul Hammerschmidt brought home the bacon for 49. and John Boozman pushed to upgrade 67.
I think that the MC's may have had a hand, but both of these freeway projects actually were done after the demise of earmarks.
The Street View for the southbound lanes of Interstate 49 (then AR 549) is from April 2018. Hopefully, it will be updated in the future, although no one knows when that will happen.https://goo.gl/maps/SapYdBKuoT9GoCB7A
Google Maps now has street view on the Bella Vista Bypass (Only in the southbound lanes)
The Street View for the southbound lanes of Interstate 49 (then AR 549) is from April 2018. Hopefully, it will be updated in the future, although no one knows when that will happen.
The Street View for the southbound lanes of Interstate 49 (then AR 549) is from April 2018. Hopefully, it will be updated in the future, although no one knows when that will happen.https://goo.gl/maps/SapYdBKuoT9GoCB7A
I will be making a reunion tour to Fayetteville in 8 weeks. Are the interchanges at US 62 (Fayetteville) and 412 in Springdale still the antiquated bottlenecks they were when I lived there til 2009? Has anything been done or is in the plans to address them?
I will be making a reunion tour to Fayetteville in 8 weeks. Are the interchanges at US 62 (Fayetteville) and 412 in Springdale still the antiquated bottlenecks they were when I lived there til 2009? Has anything been done or is in the plans to address them?
Just wait and get a dose of them. Hit them at 5:15. Weddington is getting the current work.
I will be making a reunion tour to Fayetteville in 8 weeks. Are the interchanges at US 62 (Fayetteville) and 412 in Springdale still the antiquated bottlenecks they were when I lived there til 2009? Has anything been done or is in the plans to address them?
Just wait and get a dose of them. Hit them at 5:15. Weddington is getting the current work.
Was through there yesterday. Looks like they're mostly playing in the dirt, but there's a lane shift along 49
Multiple lane ramps are a cheap god-send. Those can be easily funded by a 1 cent SPLOST (Special-Local-Option-Sales-Tax). Those funds could also be added to Razorback transit bus stops. But I seriously don't think that has been considered up there?
IMO, the 71B interchange south of Fayetteville should be a full interchange where one of the roads could be a full parkway leading to U of A campus and a west Bypass could start there to connect to 112. This would help the back to school traffic and GameDay traffic. Upon thought nothing will happen to improve the 62 and 49 interchange for the next 5+ years or so. And it would give trucks a bypass. It's a pipedream but it's better to be proactive instead of reactive. Both Arizona and Florida do a great job with that philosophy! Georgia and Arkansas fail at that!
I just saw on Wikipedia that the exits on the AR 549/future Interstate 49 segment between US 71 and AR 22 are now numbered 1, 4, 5 and 7 instead of 187, 190, 191, and 193. Is this accurate?I'll have to drive over to document this. Considering how ARDOT renmbered the Bella Vista Bypass, it wouldn't surprise me.
That leads me to believe that ArDOT is not planning on completing the Texarkana-Fort Smith section of I-49 anytime soon.I just saw on Wikipedia that the exits on the AR 549/future Interstate 49 segment between US 71 and AR 22 are now numbered 1, 4, 5 and 7 instead of 187, 190, 191, and 193. Is this accurate?I'll have to drive over to document this. Considering how ARDOT renmbered the Bella Vista Bypass, it wouldn't surprise me.
You are likely correct. I-40 to Barling is next on the project list, but it's a year or two away from starting and will only be 2 lanes to start.That leads me to believe that ArDOT is not planning on completing the Texarkana-Fort Smith section of I-49 anytime soon.I just saw on Wikipedia that the exits on the AR 549/future Interstate 49 segment between US 71 and AR 22 are now numbered 1, 4, 5 and 7 instead of 187, 190, 191, and 193. Is this accurate?I'll have to drive over to document this. Considering how ARDOT renmbered the Bella Vista Bypass, it wouldn't surprise me.
^ I doubt they are going to sign a rest area that is a whole 3 miles away from the main highway. Anything more than a half mile at most, and even that’s pushing it, is too far. It needs to be directly off of the exit to be viable.
^ I doubt they are going to sign a rest area that is a whole 3 miles away from the main highway. Anything more than a half mile at most, and even that’s pushing it, is too far. It needs to be directly off of the exit to be viable.
Well, so much for that theory as they're doing it right now in Benton County as of a couple of weeks ago. They have signed the tiny Welcome Center (no trucks) in Bella Vista from both directions on I-49 at the US-71 exit. Albeit, it's only about 1.2 miles off the Interstate, but it's a pain accessing from the south (which I-49 both directions would be coming from) as it's a left turn that's nearly a U-turn into the Welcome Center. As I-49 is completed in NWA, I can guarantee that they will do something similar at Elm Park, especially while it is just Super-2 AR-549. I have a picture of the sign if I can get some free time to upload to a pic sharing site.
^ I doubt they are going to sign a rest area that is a whole 3 miles away from the main highway. Anything more than a half mile at most, and even that’s pushing it, is too far. It needs to be directly off of the exit to be viable.
Well, so much for that theory as they're doing it right now in Benton County as of a couple of weeks ago. They have signed the tiny Welcome Center (no trucks) in Bella Vista from both directions on I-49 at the US-71 exit. Albeit, it's only about 1.2 miles off the Interstate, but it's a pain accessing from the south (which I-49 both directions would be coming from) as it's a left turn that's nearly a U-turn into the Welcome Center. As I-49 is completed in NWA, I can guarantee that they will do something similar at Elm Park, especially while it is just Super-2 AR-549. I have a picture of the sign if I can get some free time to upload to a pic sharing site.
ARDOT posted signs on 49 for the Rest Area? That's new.
The Bella Vista Rest Area is a little small, but beats the old one at the state line
I wonder when ARDOT is going to start building the new RA at Highlands Blvd?
[
The contract for the Welcome Center is still tentatively scheduled for letting on Sept. 21, but looks like they adjusted the contract value since the last posting.
4/14 posting:
Benton 090580 Arkansas Welcome Center (I-49) (S) -- $5 - $10 Million
5/31 posting:
Benton 090580 Arkansas Welcome Center (I-49) (S) -- $3 - $5 Million
[
The contract for the Welcome Center is still tentatively scheduled for letting on Sept. 21, but looks like they adjusted the contract value since the last posting.
4/14 posting:
Benton 090580 Arkansas Welcome Center (I-49) (S) -- $5 - $10 Million
5/31 posting:
Benton 090580 Arkansas Welcome Center (I-49) (S) -- $3 - $5 Million
Down to around half. ? What did they do...replace the restrooms with porta Johns? :banghead: :pan: :spin:
[
The contract for the Welcome Center is still tentatively scheduled for letting on Sept. 21, but looks like they adjusted the contract value since the last posting.
4/14 posting:
Benton 090580 Arkansas Welcome Center (I-49) (S) -- $5 - $10 Million
5/31 posting:
Benton 090580 Arkansas Welcome Center (I-49) (S) -- $3 - $5 Million
Down to around half. ? What did they do...replace the restrooms with porta Johns? :banghead: :pan: :spin:
Probably removed the truck parking. That way it better matches the facility in Bella Vista!
[
The contract for the Welcome Center is still tentatively scheduled for letting on Sept. 21, but looks like they adjusted the contract value since the last posting.
4/14 posting:
Benton 090580 Arkansas Welcome Center (I-49) (S) -- $5 - $10 Million
5/31 posting:
Benton 090580 Arkansas Welcome Center (I-49) (S) -- $3 - $5 Million
Down to around half. ? What did they do...replace the restrooms with porta Johns? :banghead: :pan: :spin:
Probably removed the truck parking. That way it better matches the facility in Bella Vista!
At a State Line Rest Area? Sounds like a load of rubbish to me, but what do I know? :pan:
[
The contract for the Welcome Center is still tentatively scheduled for letting on Sept. 21, but looks like they adjusted the contract value since the last posting.
4/14 posting:
Benton 090580 Arkansas Welcome Center (I-49) (S) -- $5 - $10 Million
5/31 posting:
Benton 090580 Arkansas Welcome Center (I-49) (S) -- $3 - $5 Million
Down to around half. ? What did they do...replace the restrooms with porta Johns? :banghead: :pan: :spin:
Probably removed the truck parking. That way it better matches the facility in Bella Vista!
At a State Line Rest Area? Sounds like a load of rubbish to me, but what do I know? :pan:
I should have better delineated my sarcasm. That said, anything still beats what Missouri offers the Interstate traveller along I-49.
I will be making a reunion tour to Fayetteville in 8 weeks. Are the interchanges at US 62 (Fayetteville) and 412 in Springdale still the antiquated bottlenecks they were when I lived there til 2009? Has anything been done or is in the plans to address them?
Just wait and get a dose of them. Hit them at 5:15. Weddington is getting the current work.
Was through there yesterday. Looks like they're mostly playing in the dirt, but there's a lane shift along 49
They've relocated utilities along the Wedington interchange and closed off the northbound shoulder to prepare the initial dirtwork for the parclo northbound entrance ramp. Nothing to speak of along MLK although they will be starting on it this year I hear. There are no changes planned for US-412's interchange at this point. It and Wedington's offramps southbound back up onto the rightmost lane/shoulder every late afternoon with homebound Benton County traffic. Nearly every offramp on I-49 in NWA needs to be upgraded to 2 lanes to keep exiting traffic from backing up onto I-49. Really what needs to happen is that they just need to go ahead and do 4X4 upgrades throughout with the rightmost lane as a forced exit and entrance ramps picking the right lane back up.
Will there be any mentioning of overhead mast lighting? IMO any type of lighting is badly needed!
They are just now trying to address the Wedington road issue??? Cheesewhiz, that is 15 years overdue. That area was Sprawling area when I was there from 2006-09...
They are just now trying to address the Wedington road issue??? Cheesewhiz, that is 15 years overdue. That area was Sprawling area when I was there from 2006-09...
They are just now trying to address the Wedington road issue??? Cheesewhiz, that is 15 years overdue. That area was Sprawling area when I was there from 2006-09...
ARDOT: planning for yesterday, sometimes next week.
NWA gazette posted info about interchange improvements at U.S. 62. Included are plans to widen 62 from 1 mile road to IH 49. Adding a overpass and/or ramps with 15th street in addition to making 49, 6 lanes through that corridor. I like the addition of the 15th street bridge but the Bridge widening over US 62 should be widened to 8 lanes. I think the presence of the frontage roads is preventing this from happening???
^ 4 lane, as in… 8 total lanes?I'm assuming so, my initial thought was "four lane is the standard interstate... oh, four lanes for a carriageway"
i can only think of a couple of 4-lane stretches of interstate in Arkansas, both in the Little Rock area: The 2-mile stretch of I-40 between the I-30 and US 67 interchanges, and the short stretch of I-30 west of the I-430 interchange (that's actually 5 lanes counting the decel lane for Otter Creek).
They also heard that solutions have been made to save $65 million on a bridge over the Arkansas River and initial ground-breaking of the 13.7 miles of interstate from Alma to Barling should happen this fall.
Not really any new information but it should be breaking ground this fall:QuoteThey also heard that solutions have been made to save $65 million on a bridge over the Arkansas River and initial ground-breaking of the 13.7 miles of interstate from Alma to Barling should happen this fall.
- https://talkbusiness.net/2022/07/highway-officials-tout-benefit-of-i-49-completion/?fbclid=IwAR0laPS-iK6cBp7F95Q8JeN_sCZwzgV7nYF6tnZ95rsfVq9yasRSmh2Sfso
I wonder when one will be able to drive non-stop on Interstate 49 from the Louisiana border to the Missouri border? I suspect one might have to wait until 2050 for that to occur.
I wonder when one will be able to drive non-stop on Interstate 49 from the Louisiana border to the Missouri border? I suspect one might have to wait until 2050 for that to occur.
I wonder when one will be able to drive non-stop on Interstate 49 from the Louisiana border to the Missouri border? I suspect one might have to wait until 2050 for that to occur.
I'm 48 & I don't expect to see it in my lifetime.
Outside of Little Rock, Fayetteville has the highest interstate traffic counts, right?i can only think of a couple of 4-lane stretches of interstate in Arkansas, both in the Little Rock area: The 2-mile stretch of I-40 between the I-30 and US 67 interchanges, and the short stretch of I-30 west of the I-430 interchange (that's actually 5 lanes counting the decel lane for Otter Creek).
Fayetteville I-49 between Exits 65 and 67 is 8-9 lanes.
https://goo.gl/maps/N9uvFdTfPa5kTzin7 (https://goo.gl/maps/N9uvFdTfPa5kTzin7)
Outside of Little Rock, Fayetteville has the highest interstate traffic counts, right?i can only think of a couple of 4-lane stretches of interstate in Arkansas, both in the Little Rock area: The 2-mile stretch of I-40 between the I-30 and US 67 interchanges, and the short stretch of I-30 west of the I-430 interchange (that's actually 5 lanes counting the decel lane for Otter Creek).
Fayetteville I-49 between Exits 65 and 67 is 8-9 lanes.
https://goo.gl/maps/N9uvFdTfPa5kTzin7 (https://goo.gl/maps/N9uvFdTfPa5kTzin7)
55/40 Goes no more than 6 lanes total in West Memphis. If it does go to 7-8 lanes, its only at exit ramps
OT Is anyone suprised that the Skyline in Little Rock hasnt Changed in almost 40 years? Meanwhile the next state over in Nashville and Knoxville both are some of the biggest booming cities in the south along with Fayetteville ( Even though Fayetteville is considered Midsouth)
Thanks for providing those traffic counts. Is US 71 from Fayetteville up through Springdale still congested from the hours 2pm to 8pm? I remember US71 and Joyce being one of the most congested intersections in the state? This was Circa 2007-08 before I moved back to Georgia...
55/40 Goes no more than 6 lanes total in West Memphis. If it does go to 7-8 lanes, its only at exit ramps
OT Is anyone suprised that the Skyline in Little Rock hasnt Changed in almost 40 years? Meanwhile the next state over in Nashville and Knoxville both are some of the biggest booming cities in the south along with Fayetteville ( Even though Fayetteville is considered Midsouth)
According to 2021 AADT counts, the stretch that's 9 lanes for the entrance ramp from Fulbright Expressway going southbound in Fayetteville is 90,000 (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Fayetteville.pdf).
And West Memphis the I-40/I-55 multiplex is 80,000 (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Marion_West_Memphis.pdf).
55/40 Goes no more than 6 lanes total in West Memphis. If it does go to 7-8 lanes, its only at exit ramps
OT Is anyone suprised that the Skyline in Little Rock hasnt Changed in almost 40 years? Meanwhile the next state over in Nashville and Knoxville both are some of the biggest booming cities in the south along with Fayetteville ( Even though Fayetteville is considered Midsouth)
According to 2021 AADT counts, the stretch that's 9 lanes for the entrance ramp from Fulbright Expressway going southbound in Fayetteville is 90,000 (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Fayetteville.pdf).
And West Memphis the I-40/I-55 multiplex is 80,000 (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Marion_West_Memphis.pdf).
Would never have guessed that. They must have taken all their data points for the average in West Memphis at 3 a.m. :)
55/40 Goes no more than 6 lanes total in West Memphis. If it does go to 7-8 lanes, its only at exit ramps
OT Is anyone suprised that the Skyline in Little Rock hasnt Changed in almost 40 years? Meanwhile the next state over in Nashville and Knoxville both are some of the biggest booming cities in the south along with Fayetteville ( Even though Fayetteville is considered Midsouth)
According to 2021 AADT counts, the stretch that's 9 lanes for the entrance ramp from Fulbright Expressway going southbound in Fayetteville is 90,000 (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Fayetteville.pdf).
And West Memphis the I-40/I-55 multiplex is 80,000 (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Marion_West_Memphis.pdf).
Would never have guessed that. They must have taken all their data points for the average in West Memphis at 3 a.m. :)
I'm sure the averaging part of AADT handles time of day issues. The part that makes W. Memphis worse is the percentage of truck traffic being higher and the need for merging/lane changing within a fairly short distance.
55/40 Goes no more than 6 lanes total in West Memphis. If it does go to 7-8 lanes, its only at exit ramps
OT Is anyone suprised that the Skyline in Little Rock hasnt Changed in almost 40 years? Meanwhile the next state over in Nashville and Knoxville both are some of the biggest booming cities in the south along with Fayetteville ( Even though Fayetteville is considered Midsouth)
According to 2021 AADT counts, the stretch that's 9 lanes for the entrance ramp from Fulbright Expressway going southbound in Fayetteville is 90,000 (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Fayetteville.pdf).
And West Memphis the I-40/I-55 multiplex is 80,000 (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Marion_West_Memphis.pdf).
Would never have guessed that. They must have taken all their data points for the average in West Memphis at 3 a.m. :)
I'm sure the averaging part of AADT handles time of day issues. The part that makes W. Memphis worse is the percentage of truck traffic being higher and the need for merging/lane changing within a fairly short distance.
Which is why it would make sense to complete I-269 as a full outer beltway around Memphis. Two new bridges, one to the north, and one to the south, would relieve traffic on the I-40 and I-55 bridges, which are both overburdened.
55/40 Goes no more than 6 lanes total in West Memphis. If it does go to 7-8 lanes, its only at exit ramps
OT Is anyone suprised that the Skyline in Little Rock hasnt Changed in almost 40 years? Meanwhile the next state over in Nashville and Knoxville both are some of the biggest booming cities in the south along with Fayetteville ( Even though Fayetteville is considered Midsouth)
According to 2021 AADT counts, the stretch that's 9 lanes for the entrance ramp from Fulbright Expressway going southbound in Fayetteville is 90,000 (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Fayetteville.pdf).
And West Memphis the I-40/I-55 multiplex is 80,000 (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Marion_West_Memphis.pdf).
Would never have guessed that. They must have taken all their data points for the average in West Memphis at 3 a.m. :)
I'm sure the averaging part of AADT handles time of day issues. The part that makes W. Memphis worse is the percentage of truck traffic being higher and the need for merging/lane changing within a fairly short distance.
Which is why it would make sense to complete I-269 as a full outer beltway around Memphis. Two new bridges, one to the north, and one to the south, would relieve traffic on the I-40 and I-55 bridges, which are both overburdened.
Here, here! Once they've taken care of a few of the interchanges in NWA, it'll be about time to add another lane in each direction on I-49, or get serious about an I-x49 western beltway. At the current rate of growth in the area, I give it 10-12 years before it becomes overdue, but the extra 2 lanes on mainline I-49 are already needed 5 hours out of the day. I-x49 would likely run from straight south of the E/W bend of the BVB, skirt the edge of XNA, the Illinois River Valley, and run near Prairie Grove and tie back in just south of the Greenland exit winding around a couple of tall hills.
I don't recall the Y City-Acorn passage as particularly treacherous.
Would it be possible to extend the Fulbright Expressway into a full Fayetteville beltway? I think there is too much development to the east to make such a route happen. I'm not sure where else a Fayetteville beltway could be alternatively constructed, even hypothetically.
Drove 49 up to KC today. I was impressed with the fact that ARDOT Is proactive in building more bridges and future exits over 49 in the Roger's area. I'm amazed at the Growth there. With that said IMO it's time to think about making 49, 8 total lanes from Fayetteville to center city Roger's. 49 was congested at 1130 am this morning. I'm amazed at all the truck traffic that uses that route. And looking at the BVB I can see how it took so long to build it because of all the rock blasting that had to be done. Assuming the same will need to be done from Ft Smith to Louisiana, it may not be til 2040 until 49 gets built through there...Also the Wedington road bridge needs an overhaul. That is a dangerous intersection. I'd wish they would get rid of those frontage roads at that interchange...
Drove 49 up to KC today. I was impressed with the fact that ARDOT Is proactive in building more bridges and future exits over 49 in the Roger's area. I'm amazed at the Growth there. With that said IMO it's time to think about making 49, 8 total lanes from Fayetteville to center city Roger's. 49 was congested at 1130 am this morning. I'm amazed at all the truck traffic that uses that route. And looking at the BVB I can see how it took so long to build it because of all the rock blasting that had to be done. Assuming the same will need to be done from Ft Smith to Louisiana, it may not be til 2040 until 49 gets built through there...Also the Wedington road bridge needs an overhaul. That is a dangerous intersection. I'd wish they would get rid of those frontage roads at that interchange...
Wedington is in the process of being redone. ARDOT made a mess when they built the frontage roads.
Drove 49 up to KC today. I was impressed with the fact that ARDOT Is proactive in building more bridges and future exits over 49 in the Roger's area. I'm amazed at the Growth there. With that said IMO it's time to think about making 49, 8 total lanes from Fayetteville to center city Roger's. 49 was congested at 1130 am this morning. I'm amazed at all the truck traffic that uses that route. And looking at the BVB I can see how it took so long to build it because of all the rock blasting that had to be done. Assuming the same will need to be done from Ft Smith to Louisiana, it may not be til 2040 until 49 gets built through there...Also the Wedington road bridge needs an overhaul. That is a dangerous intersection. I'd wish they would get rid of those frontage roads at that interchange...
Wedington is in the process of being redone. ARDOT made a mess when they built the frontage roads.
Wedington's interchange is scheduled to complete 05/23 according to the construction information sign at the ends of the zone. They've got a lot of work to do between now and then to do the parclo portion from E.B. Wedington to N.B. I-49, though.
The frontage roads are a cluster here for sure. There is a gap from Wedington Dr. all the way to Gregg Ave. for Futrall Dr., and Shiloh Dr. has 2 gaps between Gregg Ave. and Garland Ave. as well as from Mt. Comfort/Porter Rd. and Wedington Dr. I wouldn't say that any other city in NWA along I-49 has anything that resembles a workable access road design whatsoever.
Drove 49 up to KC today. I was impressed with the fact that ARDOT Is proactive in building more bridges and future exits over 49 in the Roger's area. I'm amazed at the Growth there. With that said IMO it's time to think about making 49, 8 total lanes from Fayetteville to center city Roger's. 49 was congested at 1130 am this morning. I'm amazed at all the truck traffic that uses that route. And looking at the BVB I can see how it took so long to build it because of all the rock blasting that had to be done. Assuming the same will need to be done from Ft Smith to Louisiana, it may not be til 2040 until 49 gets built through there...Also the Wedington road bridge needs an overhaul. That is a dangerous intersection. I'd wish they would get rid of those frontage roads at that interchange...
I don't recall the Y City-Acorn passage as particularly treacherous.
That is called Foran Gap. Black Fork Mountain rises in eastern Oklahoma near Page, and heads into Arkansas and terminates at Eagle Gap. Fourche Mountain begins at the other side of Eagle Gap, and runs all the way into Montgomery County. Foran Gap is a natural pass that runs northwest-southeast and cuts through the rather tall mountain (by Ouachita standards), and that is the reason US 71 and 270 has the huge S curve. in it. Foran Gap isn't bad at all, but if you tried to build a freeway over Fourche Mountain that ran due north from Acorn, it would have some very steep grades and there would be plenty of curves. When I-49 is routed through there, there will only be one really big sweeping curve in it, since it will run due south from CR 70 towards AR 88 east of Mena, and avoiding Acorn entirely. Blue Mountain, which is a peak on Fourche Mountain, is the fifth highest point in the state. A structure will have to be built at Foran Gap where the Ouachita Trail crosses the highway. Hopefully they will somehow retain access to the trail at this point.
Here's a Google Earth shot of Foran Gap, looking northwest. It's easy to see how the mountain has a low spot in it where the highways run.
(https://i.imgur.com/hv0u796.png)
I don't recall the Y City-Acorn passage as particularly treacherous.
That is called Foran Gap. Black Fork Mountain rises in eastern Oklahoma near Page, and heads into Arkansas and terminates at Eagle Gap. Fourche Mountain begins at the other side of Eagle Gap, and runs all the way into Montgomery County. Foran Gap is a natural pass that runs northwest-southeast and cuts through the rather tall mountain (by Ouachita standards), and that is the reason US 71 and 270 has the huge S curve. in it. Foran Gap isn't bad at all, but if you tried to build a freeway over Fourche Mountain that ran due north from Acorn, it would have some very steep grades and there would be plenty of curves. When I-49 is routed through there, there will only be one really big sweeping curve in it, since it will run due south from CR 70 towards AR 88 east of Mena, and avoiding Acorn entirely. Blue Mountain, which is a peak on Fourche Mountain, is the fifth highest point in the state. A structure will have to be built at Foran Gap where the Ouachita Trail crosses the highway. Hopefully they will somehow retain access to the trail at this point.
Here's a Google Earth shot of Foran Gap, looking northwest. It's easy to see how the mountain has a low spot in it where the highways run.
(https://i.imgur.com/hv0u796.png)
Excellent perspective on the Foran Gap. Thanks for sharing.
Wow, that is a nicely detailed site with the roll plans and the 3D renderings! Kudos to ARDOT.
Does anyone know the reason why there are two southbound ramps to Clear Creek Road, both of which having full movements?
I'm guessing that part is still in design and the video is incorporating both options.Wow, that is a nicely detailed site with the roll plans and the 3D renderings! Kudos to ARDOT.
Does anyone know the reason why there are two southbound ramps to Clear Creek Road, both of which having full movements?
That is a head scratcher, especially for a project that isn't fully funded yet. Gives options for easier right-turn movements, but certainly seems redundant especially for a road that's 2800 AADT as of 2021.
I'm guessing that part is still in design and the video is incorporating both options.Wow, that is a nicely detailed site with the roll plans and the 3D renderings! Kudos to ARDOT.
Does anyone know the reason why there are two southbound ramps to Clear Creek Road, both of which having full movements?
That is a head scratcher, especially for a project that isn't fully funded yet. Gives options for easier right-turn movements, but certainly seems redundant especially for a road that's 2800 AADT as of 2021.
I think this "groundbreaking" is just for the grubbing and clearing from AR-22 to H Street toward the river as that's all that's the only project budgeted for the next year. My guess is that we're going to have lots of groundbreaking ceremonies at this rate before we get 2 lanes across the river and up to I-40.You are 100% correct
I think this "groundbreaking" is just for the grubbing and clearing from AR-22 to H Street toward the river as that's all that's the only project budgeted for the next year. My guess is that we're going to have lots of groundbreaking ceremonies at this rate before we get 2 lanes across the river and up to I-40.You are 100% correct
The "3 Bs" of Arkansas I-49:4. ???
1. The Bella Vista Bypass (counting it as one "B" :-D, complete)
2. The Bridge (over the Arkansas River - starting, however modestly)
3. The Big one (Greenwood-Texarkana, Greenwood-Y City 2-lane funding allocated(?), after that, ?)
I think this "groundbreaking" is just for the grubbing and clearing from AR-22 to H Street toward the river as that's all that's the only project budgeted for the next year. My guess is that we're going to have lots of groundbreaking ceremonies at this rate before we get 2 lanes across the river and up to I-40.You are 100% correct
But it's a start, so give ARDOT at least some credit
Excellent perspective on the Foran Gap. Thanks for sharing.
And this view give a decent perspective of the elevation relief that this section has to navigate through:
https://goo.gl/maps/kSwfmAEM5uSpUUSG6 (https://goo.gl/maps/kSwfmAEM5uSpUUSG6)
And this view give a decent perspective of the elevation relief that this section has to navigate through:
https://goo.gl/maps/kSwfmAEM5uSpUUSG6 (https://goo.gl/maps/kSwfmAEM5uSpUUSG6)
Here is a Street View image (https://www.google.com/maps/@34.6130714,-94.204543,3a,15y,2.36h,93.21t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sUYhpnADvFLczZYe1bXPlxg!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3DUYhpnADvFLczZYe1bXPlxg%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D117.28%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192) from US 59/71 northbound between Mena and Acorn. You can see Fourche Mountain looming in the distance. A tunnel due north of Acorn would be over 2 miles long. A roadcut is out of the question as it would devastate the landscape. This area is part of the Ouachita National Forest, and the Ouachita Trail runs east-west along Fourche Mountain. Speaking of the Ouachita Trail, there will have to be some sort of bridge across I-49 to carry the trail. There is a trailhead at the junction of the trail and US 71/270, which will also have to be addressed in some way.
The Interstate 49 in Arkansas page has been altered again (see exit guide): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interstate_49_in_Arkansas. The segment of Interstate 49/AR 549 that opened in 2015 is back to showing the exits being back to being listed by the mileage from the Arkansas/Louisiana border (present and future). It appears the exits were not renumbered to being a continuation of old 540’s numbers, as was previously marked on Wikipedia. Do correct me if I’m wrong, since I’m basing the information on the Wikipedia page, and the Google Maps Street View, which is dated July 2022.It's highly illogical that they kept the old I-540 exit numbers and mileposts on the stretch of I-49 from I-40 to Missouri. Moreover, I don't know how or why the FHWA is letting ArDOT get away with that, given that the FHWA required Indiana to renumber all of its exits on the original stretch of I-69 between Indianapolis and Michigan when the first part of the extension of I-69 to Evansville opened in 2012. Regardless, once ArDOT completes the connection to the section that goes through Fort Chaffee to I-40, they will need to figure out what to do with the exit numbers on I-49. At that point they might be forced to renumber exits between I-40 and Missouri to reflect I-49's total mileage, assuming the proposed alignment of I-49 between Texarkana and Fort Smith has been finalized.
The Interstate 49 in Arkansas page has been altered again (see exit guide): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interstate_49_in_Arkansas. The segment of Interstate 49/AR 549 that opened in 2015 is back to showing the exits being back to being listed by the mileage from the Arkansas/Louisiana border (present and future). It appears the exits were not renumbered to being a continuation of old 540’s numbers, as was previously marked on Wikipedia. Do correct me if I’m wrong, since I’m basing the information on the Wikipedia page, and the Google Maps Street View, which is dated July 2022.It's highly illogical that they kept the old I-540 exit numbers and mileposts on the stretch of I-49 from I-40 to Missouri. Moreover, I don't know how or why the FHWA is letting ArDOT get away with that, given that the FHWA required Indiana to renumber all of its exits on the original stretch of I-69 between Indianapolis and Michigan when the first part of the extension of I-69 to Evansville opened in 2012. Regardless, once ArDOT completes the connection to the section that goes through Fort Chaffee to I-40, they will need to figure out what to do with the exit numbers on I-49. At that point they might be forced to renumber exits between I-40 and Missouri to reflect I-49's total mileage, assuming the proposed alignment of I-49 between Texarkana and Fort Smith has been finalized.
Nothing about this stretch is logical, nor was it ever to begin with, and the "fix" of changing the northernmost 3 exit numbers, even less so. The original I-540's mile markers increment from the junction of I-40 just like every spur Interstate should, even though it goes to the south-southwest. I-49/I-540 was screwed up from the get-go with beginning at mile marker/Exit 20, with some convoluted logic of mileage being taken from the Oklahoma border, which is I-540/US-271's mileage being near mile marker 15 at the border. The mental gymnastics must have included the 5 mile unsigned concurrency of I-40 between the I-540 segments before the final long overdue (always should have been, and maybe this would have been avoided?) ASHTO/FHWA approval of I-49 as a number. It all stinks of deflecting questions/pressure regarding the middle segment of I-49 for as long as possible.
Nothing about this stretch is logical, nor was it ever to begin with, and the "fix" of changing the northernmost 3 exit numbers, even less so. The original I-540's mile markers increment from the junction of I-40 just like every spur Interstate should, even though it goes to the south-southwest. I-49/I-540 was screwed up from the get-go with beginning at mile marker/Exit 20, with some convoluted logic of mileage being taken from the Oklahoma border, which is I-540/US-271's mileage being near mile marker 15 at the border. The mental gymnastics must have included the 5 mile unsigned concurrency of I-40 between the I-540 segments before the final long overdue (always should have been, and maybe this would have been avoided?) ASHTO/FHWA approval of I-49 as a number. It all stinks of deflecting questions/pressure regarding the middle segment of I-49 for as long as possible.
It was signed in one direction.
(https://i.imgur.com/KY4qNBS.jpg)
Bugo, how long ago was this?
Bugo, how long ago was this?
December, 2009. Here's another sign, on northbound I-540 approaching I-40.
(https://i.imgur.com/OunrjEF.jpg)
Does anyone have a link to an exit list of the old I-540 exit numbers?
There were 2 different exit number sequences, one for S of I-40 and another for N of I-40.
ISTR the northern section started at 0 or 1 or something, not 20 as it does now, though my memory may be wrong here.
If so, we could be looking at the second renumbering along this section once ARDOT renumbers exits to fit the statewide I-49 mileage & eliminate the 186-mile jump at the Bella Vista exit.
Edit:
Old wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Interstate_540_(Arkansas)&oldid=410633771
Looks like the norther section always started at 20. Exits 15 & 20 @ I-40 accounts for the 5-mile overlap, and explains starting the northern bit at 20.
So the southern bit was... just numbered backwards. Sure guys. That makes sense.
Actually, it's the northern part that became I-49 that doesn't make sense. There are actually surprising few signed interstate spurs (odd#XX) in the U.S., and Arkansas just happens to have 2 of them. The way Arkansas signs the exits, which makes perfect sense, is that mile marker 0 is where the child interstate splits from the parent. It has nothing to do with a southern or western border like the 2di Interstates track exits and mile markers. The part that got screwed up in Arkansas' case with I-49 is that AHTD/ARDOT was denied the I-49 designation back when they originally applied for it, so the next best designation they got in the interim was I-540. The exit numbers should have been done in the first place with I-49 mile markers knowing that was the ultimate goal of the freeway, so there's really no actual logic to starting with 20. It certainly took some mental gymnastics to get them there from the Oklahoma border and concurrency with I-40 with the original mile markers/exits working south from I-40 on I-540.
Well, I drove the BVB yesterday to take care of a couple of clinics in Bella Vista and Gravette yesterday. I noticed something different this trip than the last one a couple of weeks ago.
Good news: They have changed out some exit numbers as a result of opening the new stretch.
Bad news: ARDOT doubled-down on the dumb and clearly didn't bother to read the email I sent them that they didn't respond to about correcting mile markers and exit numbers north of Alma and south of Gravette. The southern Gravette exit I took to get to Bella Vista that was Exit 284 has become........Exit 99. I'm sure they changed the other 2 exits as well if they changed everything. It's clear that they have no intention to correct the mileages to account for the gaps, which means they don't expect to fill them in any sort of timely manner. Punting to take the pressure off, I guess. Either that, or they're not confident that the route is set in stone. Regardless, it's going to make things difficult marketing-wise for the businesses off the exit when it comes time to get it right.
Does anyone have a link to an exit list of the old I-540 exit numbers?
There were 2 different exit number sequences, one for S of I-40 and another for N of I-40.
ISTR the northern section started at 0 or 1 or something, not 20 as it does now, though my memory may be wrong here.
If so, we could be looking at the second renumbering along this section once ARDOT renumbers exits to fit the statewide I-49 mileage & eliminate the 186-mile jump at the Bella Vista exit.
Edit:
Old wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Interstate_540_(Arkansas)&oldid=410633771
Looks like the norther section always started at 20. Exits 15 & 20 @ I-40 accounts for the 5-mile overlap, and explains starting the northern bit at 20.
So the southern bit was... just numbered backwards. Sure guys. That makes sense.
Actually, it's the northern part that became I-49 that doesn't make sense. There are actually surprising few signed interstate spurs (odd#XX) in the U.S., and Arkansas just happens to have 2 of them. The way Arkansas signs the exits, which makes perfect sense, is that mile marker 0 is where the child interstate splits from the parent. It has nothing to do with a southern or western border like the 2di Interstates track exits and mile markers. The part that got screwed up in Arkansas' case with I-49 is that AHTD/ARDOT was denied the I-49 designation back when they originally applied for it, so the next best designation they got in the interim was I-540. The exit numbers should have been done in the first place with I-49 mile markers knowing that was the ultimate goal of the freeway, so there's really no actual logic to starting with 20. It certainly took some mental gymnastics to get them there from the Oklahoma border and concurrency with I-40 with the original mile markers/exits working south from I-40 on I-540.
Well, I drove the BVB yesterday to take care of a couple of clinics in Bella Vista and Gravette yesterday. I noticed something different this trip than the last one a couple of weeks ago.
Good news: They have changed out some exit numbers as a result of opening the new stretch.
Bad news: ARDOT doubled-down on the dumb and clearly didn't bother to read the email I sent them that they didn't respond to about correcting mile markers and exit numbers north of Alma and south of Gravette. The southern Gravette exit I took to get to Bella Vista that was Exit 284 has become........Exit 99. I'm sure they changed the other 2 exits as well if they changed everything. It's clear that they have no intention to correct the mileages to account for the gaps, which means they don't expect to fill them in any sort of timely manner. Punting to take the pressure off, I guess. Either that, or they're not confident that the route is set in stone. Regardless, it's going to make things difficult marketing-wise for the businesses off the exit when it comes time to get it right.
Guess ARDOT will just triple down on the dumb instead. They are changing the 4 northern exit numbers again, not back to the final mileage like the northern 3 used to have, but correcting the mileage back to the I-540 Oklahoma border as they were off by a couple of miles when they "corrected" the exit numbers last year.
I have no idea how many times a stretch of Interstate can be butchered so badly by a transportation entity.
https://www.4029tv.com/article/i-49-exit-numbers-benton-county/43879280 (https://www.4029tv.com/article/i-49-exit-numbers-benton-county/43879280)
https://www.ardot.gov/news/23-151/ (https://www.ardot.gov/news/23-151/)
Actually, it's the northern part that became I-49 that doesn't make sense. There are actually surprising few signed interstate spurs (odd#XX) in the U.S., and Arkansas just happens to have 2 of them. The way Arkansas signs the exits, which makes perfect sense, is that mile marker 0 is where the child interstate splits from the parent. It has nothing to do with a southern or western border like the 2di Interstates track exits and mile markers. The part that got screwed up in Arkansas' case with I-49 is that AHTD/ARDOT was denied the I-49 designation back when they originally applied for it, so the next best designation they got in the interim was I-540. The exit numbers should have been done in the first place with I-49 mile markers knowing that was the ultimate goal of the freeway, so there's really no actual logic to starting with 20. It certainly took some mental gymnastics to get them there from the Oklahoma border and concurrency with I-40 with the original mile markers/exits working south from I-40 on I-540.
Well, I drove the BVB yesterday to take care of a couple of clinics in Bella Vista and Gravette yesterday. I noticed something different this trip than the last one a couple of weeks ago.
Good news: They have changed out some exit numbers as a result of opening the new stretch.
Bad news: ARDOT doubled-down on the dumb and clearly didn't bother to read the email I sent them that they didn't respond to about correcting mile markers and exit numbers north of Alma and south of Gravette. The southern Gravette exit I took to get to Bella Vista that was Exit 284 has become........Exit 99. I'm sure they changed the other 2 exits as well if they changed everything. It's clear that they have no intention to correct the mileages to account for the gaps, which means they don't expect to fill them in any sort of timely manner. Punting to take the pressure off, I guess. Either that, or they're not confident that the route is set in stone. Regardless, it's going to make things difficult marketing-wise for the businesses off the exit when it comes time to get it right.
Guess ARDOT will just triple down on the dumb instead. They are changing the 4 northern exit numbers again, not back to the final mileage like the northern 3 used to have, but correcting the mileage back to the I-540 Oklahoma border as they were off by a couple of miles when they "corrected" the exit numbers last year.
I have no idea how many times a stretch of Interstate can be butchered so badly by a transportation entity.
https://www.4029tv.com/article/i-49-exit-numbers-benton-county/43879280 (https://www.4029tv.com/article/i-49-exit-numbers-benton-county/43879280)
https://www.ardot.gov/news/23-151/ (https://www.ardot.gov/news/23-151/)
Do you mean I-540 Missouri border?
^ What's interesting is that, by sheer coincidence, it's actually 20 miles from the south end of AR 549 and I-40. It makes me wonder if they'll be renumbering those exits too. I'm guessing they don't think they'll be connecting this piece to Texarkana any time in the foreseeable future.Perhaps, but I believe the additional 20 miles south of I-40 comes from an overlap west along I-40, then along I-540 to the Oklahoma border, the routing of I-540 before I-49 replaced it.
^ No, I measured off the section that isn't built yet.
AASHTO shouldn't have rejected the Interstate 49 designation in 1999 in favor of extending (temporarily) the Interstate 540 designation. Then the existing exit numbers would not have so screwed up.
I-540 ends at the Oklahoma line. This Sebastian County control section map shows that I-540 has an exception over US 271 between the state line and the AR 253 interchange.
https://i.imgur.com/UN6uVKD.jpg
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mBV32v63AWKY8zv5IIvlUtJT_H4AohnK/view?usp=share_linkhttps://www.ardot.gov/divisions/transportation-planning-policy/gis-mapping/route-and-section-maps/
ARDOT found hidden water lines, further delaying the Exit 64/Wedington Dr. project. Now they estimate it's 10% complete with the added delay and they're looking at 2 years until complete. This likely causes an overlap in construction with the Exit 62/MLK project which was independently developed and funded, so fun times ahead next year in south Fayetteville!
https://www.4029tv.com/article/utilities-hampering-i-49-wedington-project/41537710 (https://www.4029tv.com/article/utilities-hampering-i-49-wedington-project/41537710)
Guess ARDOT will just triple down on the dumb instead. They are changing the 4 northern exit numbers again, not back to the final mileage like the northern 3 used to have, but correcting the mileage back to the I-540 Oklahoma border as they were off by a couple of miles when they "corrected" the exit numbers last year.The new numbers are now posted in the field.
I have no idea how many times a stretch of Interstate can be butchered so badly by a transportation entity.
https://www.4029tv.com/article/i-49-exit-numbers-benton-county/43879280 (https://www.4029tv.com/article/i-49-exit-numbers-benton-county/43879280)
https://www.ardot.gov/news/23-151/ (https://www.ardot.gov/news/23-151/)
Guess when the bridge is finished, they'll retrofit the AR 549 Barling-Greenwood miles to count up to 20. Probably close to zero at the south end, so they'll think they're smart.
No. Just dumb. Do it right the first time and leave it.
Not gonna lie, I watched the whole video from start to finish and enjoyed it greatly. Couldn't enjoy the full 4K experience because of my bandwidth issues but it was still pretty good in 1440.Guess ARDOT will just triple down on the dumb instead. They are changing the 4 northern exit numbers again, not back to the final mileage like the northern 3 used to have, but correcting the mileage back to the I-540 Oklahoma border as they were off by a couple of miles when they "corrected" the exit numbers last year.The new numbers are now posted in the field.
I have no idea how many times a stretch of Interstate can be butchered so badly by a transportation entity.
https://www.4029tv.com/article/i-49-exit-numbers-benton-county/43879280 (https://www.4029tv.com/article/i-49-exit-numbers-benton-county/43879280)
https://www.ardot.gov/news/23-151/ (https://www.ardot.gov/news/23-151/)
A few links to skip ahead to where there's signage:
91 @ 31:47 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96nm4dzVGzU&t=31m47s)
97 @ 36:32 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96nm4dzVGzU&t=36m32s)
100 @ 37:56 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96nm4dzVGzU&t=37m56s)
102 @ 40:02 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96nm4dzVGzU&t=40m2s)
Cost of I-49 segment between Barling and Alma rises to $1 billion (https://talkbusiness.net/2024/03/cost-of-i-49-segment-between-barling-and-alma-rises-to-1-billion/)The article mentions the bridge portion will cost $330 million and $350 million for the I-49 / I-40 interchange, leaving around $320 million for the 13 miles of rural freeway, coming out to around $25 million per mile, which is fairly reasonable.
Not exactly warranting optimism that we'll be crossing the Arkansas River on I-49 and driving the top level of the 4 level stack with I-40 this decade. Nuts that it's 33% higher now than 2 years ago.
Cost of I-49 segment between Barling and Alma rises to $1 billion (https://talkbusiness.net/2024/03/cost-of-i-49-segment-between-barling-and-alma-rises-to-1-billion/)The article mentions the bridge portion will cost $330 million and $350 million for the I-49 / I-40 interchange, leaving around $320 million for the 13 miles of rural freeway, coming out to around $25 million per mile, which is fairly reasonable.
Not exactly warranting optimism that we'll be crossing the Arkansas River on I-49 and driving the top level of the 4 level stack with I-40 this decade. Nuts that it's 33% higher now than 2 years ago.
The cost issue then, would be the I-49 / I-40 interchange and the river bridge.
That all depends on the final design of the interchange. If ArDOT decides to leave the two existing flyover ramps as-is, then they could potentially realize some cost savings over a complete reconfiguration of the interchange. Even if they do decide to keep the existing ramps to save cost, those ramps are around 30 years old, so I wouldn't be surprised that ArDOT takes the opportunity to rehabilitate the bridges carrying those ramps as part of the project to connect I-40 and I-49 North with I-49 South.Cost of I-49 segment between Barling and Alma rises to $1 billion (https://talkbusiness.net/2024/03/cost-of-i-49-segment-between-barling-and-alma-rises-to-1-billion/)The article mentions the bridge portion will cost $330 million and $350 million for the I-49 / I-40 interchange, leaving around $320 million for the 13 miles of rural freeway, coming out to around $25 million per mile, which is fairly reasonable.
Not exactly warranting optimism that we'll be crossing the Arkansas River on I-49 and driving the top level of the 4 level stack with I-40 this decade. Nuts that it's 33% higher now than 2 years ago.
The cost issue then, would be the I-49 / I-40 interchange and the river bridge.
The interchange with I-40 is a 4 level stack, which won't be cheap, although 2 of the ramps are already built to take I-49 south to I-40 east and I-40 east to I-49 north. Since half of the middle 2 levels are already complete, they need only the 2 I-49 south movements to/from I-40 west and the top level carrying I-49 mainline over the top of it all, which will make for a very long overpass and approaches.
The $350 million estimate sounds a lot like a total re-build of the existing interchange. The existing "Y" interchange between I-49 and I-40 in Alma is over 30 years old. All of the existing flyover ramps are single lane ramps. Two lane flyover ramps are becoming more common with system interchanges between two intersecting Interstates. Then there is an additional problem that the design of those existing flyover ramps did not provide any room for future expansion. There is no room for thru lanes of I-49 to continue South thru the interchange with I-40. Support pylons are all in the way. And then there is the height of the flyover ramps. They were built only high enough to leap over each other and I-40. There was no additional room reserved for an extra level for I-49 thru lanes going farther South.
Sorry to say it, but that existing interchange just has to get scrapped and re-built from scratch.
As does Streetview (https://www.google.com/maps/@35.481949,-94.2431291,3a,15y,51.63h,94.21t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sInib3Io-N1QR3AeW6nmXjg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?entry=ttu).The $350 million estimate sounds a lot like a total re-build of the existing interchange. The existing "Y" interchange between I-49 and I-40 in Alma is over 30 years old. All of the existing flyover ramps are single lane ramps. Two lane flyover ramps are becoming more common with system interchanges between two intersecting Interstates. Then there is an additional problem that the design of those existing flyover ramps did not provide any room for future expansion. There is no room for thru lanes of I-49 to continue South thru the interchange with I-40. Support pylons are all in the way. And then there is the height of the flyover ramps. They were built only high enough to leap over each other and I-40. There was no additional room reserved for an extra level for I-49 thru lanes going farther South.
Sorry to say it, but that existing interchange just has to get scrapped and re-built from scratch.
And the ArDOT plan supports your claim...