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Regional Boards => Mid-South => Topic started by: CapeCodder on December 14, 2021, 10:23:03 PM

Title: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: CapeCodder on December 14, 2021, 10:23:03 PM
I stated in another thread that I find I-55 in Arkansas (and in extreme S. MO) creepy. What's with those awfully short death ramps? When was this stretch built? Who else has the same feeling towards I-55 in AR?
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: ozarkman417 on December 14, 2021, 10:31:16 PM
1. The old state-named shields are, from my experience in Arkansas, by far the most abundant along I-55.

2. This (https://www.google.com/maps/@35.5124412,-90.1795196,614m/data=!3m1!1e3) interchange stands out to me in terms of its lack of safety. It is just bad design (as a result of cost cutting or issues with taking land from adjacent farmers?) with how the outer roads intersect the off-ramps, rather than just making a separate junction. Besides, in addition to it being more safe, the outer roads would be more accessable.

3. Part of what makes it so creepy (if you would call it that), is that its so... flat.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Flint1979 on December 14, 2021, 10:33:19 PM
I know I agreed with you.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: SkyPesos on December 14, 2021, 10:36:39 PM
Who's the one that decided this shitty interchange design should be used at rural exits on I-55 AR instead of a standard diamond?
(https://i.imgur.com/sLlfIOP.png)
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Flint1979 on December 14, 2021, 10:47:00 PM
Quote from: SkyPesos on December 14, 2021, 10:36:39 PM
Who's the one that decided this shitty interchange design should be used at rural exits on I-55 AR instead of a standard diamond?
(https://i.imgur.com/sLlfIOP.png)
That highway leads to one of those creepy towns. Luxora, Arkansas.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: CoolAngrybirdsrio4 on December 14, 2021, 10:57:59 PM
One interchange south of that is a standard diamond too
(https://i.imgur.com/r6Uf08k.png)
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: edwaleni on December 14, 2021, 11:48:55 PM
Quote from: SkyPesos on December 14, 2021, 10:36:39 PM
Who's the one that decided this shitty interchange design should be used at rural exits on I-55 AR instead of a standard diamond?
(https://i.imgur.com/sLlfIOP.png)

These exits should be in a museum. They use the original redstone that was popular when the Interstate system was being built in the 60's.

I used to think someone threw a big can of red paint into the concrete mixer until you look at it up close.

Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: bwana39 on December 15, 2021, 12:19:13 AM
I have said this before. I have questioned how I-55 actually must have been foisted upon Arkansas by the powers in Washington. It had and still has limited usefulness to Little Rock. These dinosaur relics on the road is because it has been minimally maintained and absolutely not upgraded in any manner.

I still hold that I-57 will be completed to I-20 long before I-69 gets its first mile of controlled access in Arkansas.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: sprjus4 on December 15, 2021, 01:26:17 AM
Quote from: bwana39 on December 15, 2021, 12:19:13 AM
I have said this before. I have questioned how I-55 actually must have been foisted upon Arkansas by the powers in Washington. It had and still has limited usefulness to Little Rock. These dinosaur relics on the road is because it has been minimally maintained and absolutely not upgraded in any manner.
I-55, in combination with I-40, via West Memphis is a vital connection between Missouri and Little Rock. It does have utility for that city.

Quote
I still hold that I-57 will be completed to I-20 long before I-69 gets its first mile of controlled access in Arkansas.
I-30 definitely... I-20 is certainly questionable.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: LilianaUwU on December 15, 2021, 01:51:52 AM
While we're talking about how substandard that freeway is: how is this (https://goo.gl/maps/WCfHrmCgpApJVpfM7) acceptable as an offramp on the Interstate system?
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: CapeCodder on December 15, 2021, 04:57:00 AM
Quote from: LilianaUwU on December 15, 2021, 01:51:52 AM
While we're talking about how substandard that freeway is: how is this (https://goo.gl/maps/WCfHrmCgpApJVpfM7) acceptable as an offramp on the Interstate system?

I don't know if it's the camera, but that ramp looks far too narrow. Add in that road that branches off and it's a recipe for disaster. It's like a prehistoric version of what we have today.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Mapmikey on December 15, 2021, 06:50:03 AM
Quote from: CapeCodder on December 15, 2021, 04:57:00 AM
Quote from: LilianaUwU on December 15, 2021, 01:51:52 AM
While we're talking about how substandard that freeway is: how is this (https://goo.gl/maps/WCfHrmCgpApJVpfM7) acceptable as an offramp on the Interstate system?



I don't know if it's the camera, but that ramp looks far too narrow. Add in that road that branches off and it's a recipe for disaster. It's like a prehistoric version of what we have today.

It's better than the NC version of this (https://goo.gl/maps/WNnjNBKViRGNJRWGA).  The NC version makes it a lot easier to incorrectly come down the ramp the wrong way.  They still have at least one left with no concrete median (but at least the lane marking exists to turn left) - https://goo.gl/maps/hRwNUrbMHFLM4tB69
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: bwana39 on December 15, 2021, 08:29:30 AM
Quote from: sprjus4 on December 15, 2021, 01:26:17 AM
Quote from: bwana39 on December 15, 2021, 12:19:13 AM
I have said this before. I have questioned how I-55 actually must have been foisted upon Arkansas by the powers in Washington. It had and still has limited usefulness to Little Rock. These dinosaur relics on the road is because it has been minimally maintained and absolutely not upgraded in any manner.
I-55, in combination with I-40, via West Memphis is a vital connection between Missouri and Little Rock. It does have utility for that city.

No not really. US-67 has ALWAYS been the route from Little Rock to Saint Louis. 67 is over 50 miles closer to Saint Louis AND half an hour closer at the speed limit. At real road speed,  the time difference is actually even greater. For a limited group of people, the all freeway routing may hold some sway. For the VAST majority it will not.

As to the completion of I-57 to I-20 my comparison was versus I-69 in Arkansas. I agree with your maybe on that one, but it is still seems more likely than I-69.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: silverback1065 on December 15, 2021, 08:38:35 AM
Whoever designed those interchanges was clearly drunk.  :-D
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Road Hog on December 15, 2021, 11:49:32 AM
I-55 was the first interstate completed in Arkansas in the early 60s. The design is substandard for that reason. The multiple low clearances were the first tip-off.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Bobby5280 on December 15, 2021, 12:17:09 PM
Quote from: bwana39As to the completion of I-57 to I-20 my comparison was versus I-69 in Arkansas. I agree with your maybe on that one, but it is still seems more likely than I-69.

A contest between which will be completed first, I-69 thru AR & MS or a possible but not officially planned I-57 extension down to LA, sounds like a contest between two impossible scenarios. Which will happen first? Pigs sprouting wings and flying or Joan Crawford coming back from the dead with an army of zombies to terrorize Hollywood?

The I-69 projects through Southern Arkansas and NW Mississippi at least have had official plans on the books for decades now. The problem there is just a general lack of funding for all those projects. And the cost estimates for the Great River Bridge keep rising.

It would be easier financially to make an extension of I-57 Southward from Little Rock, consuming I-530 to Pine Bluff and Southward. But there are no official intentions or discussions about making any sort of Interstate extension South of current US-278 between Warren and Monticello. The current AR-530 route South of Pine Bluff has remained an unfinished Super 2 with a pair of disconnected segments for a long time. Intersections are at-grade. AR-530 is basically nothing more than a rural 2-lane highway with more gradual than usual grading. AR DOT doesn't appear to be moving quick at all to double-barrel the route and add limited access exits. They basically can't seem to get that 30 some odd miles of Interstate route finished. Adding another 80 miles of road South of that to Monroe seems far more improbable.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: silverback1065 on December 15, 2021, 01:40:59 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on December 15, 2021, 12:17:09 PM
Quote from: bwana39As to the completion of I-57 to I-20 my comparison was versus I-69 in Arkansas. I agree with your maybe on that one, but it is still seems more likely than I-69.

A contest between which will be completed first, I-69 thru AR & MS or a possible but not officially planned I-57 extension down to LA, sounds like a contest between two impossible scenarios. Which will happen first? Pigs sprouting wings and flying or Joan Crawford coming back from the dead with an army of zombies to terrorize Hollywood?

The I-69 projects through Southern Arkansas and NW Mississippi at least have had official plans on the books for decades now. The problem there is just a general lack of funding for all those projects. And the cost estimates for the Great River Bridge keep rising.

It would be easier financially to make an extension of I-57 Southward from Little Rock, consuming I-530 to Pine Bluff and Southward. But there are no official intentions or discussions about making any sort of Interstate extension South of current US-278 between Warren and Monticello. The current AR-530 route South of Pine Bluff has remained an unfinished Super 2 with a pair of disconnected segments for a long time. Intersections are at-grade. AR-530 is basically nothing more than a rural 2-lane highway with more gradual than usual grading. AR DOT doesn't appear to be moving quick at all to double-barrel the route and add limited access exits. They basically can't seem to get that 30 some odd miles of Interstate route finished. Adding another 80 miles of road South of that to Monroe seems far more improbable.

69 will never be finished in MS, AK, or LA. and what purpose would 57 serve in LA?
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: capt.ron on December 15, 2021, 01:59:21 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 15, 2021, 08:38:35 AM
Whoever designed those interchanges was clearly drunk.  :-D
Most of the interchanges on Arkansas' freeways have a LOT to be desired, like the excessive curvature on a lot of the on-ramps for example. Most work against you when you're trying to accelerate up to freeway speeds and have to deal with a sharp curve on the on ramp (!!!). But yes, the engineers that somehow got their "design" of on ramps to be approved defies description (and logic).
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: bwana39 on December 15, 2021, 05:33:04 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 15, 2021, 01:40:59 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on December 15, 2021, 12:17:09 PM
Quote from: bwana39As to the completion of I-57 to I-20 my comparison was versus I-69 in Arkansas. I agree with your maybe on that one, but it is still seems more likely than I-69.

A contest between which will be completed first, I-69 thru AR & MS or a possible but not officially planned I-57 extension down to LA, sounds like a contest between two impossible scenarios. Which will happen first? Pigs sprouting wings and flying or Joan Crawford coming back from the dead with an army of zombies to terrorize Hollywood?

The I-69 projects through Southern Arkansas and NW Mississippi at least have had official plans on the books for decades now. The problem there is just a general lack of funding for all those projects. And the cost estimates for the Great River Bridge keep rising.

It would be easier financially to make an extension of I-57 Southward from Little Rock, consuming I-530 to Pine Bluff and Southward. But there are no official intentions or discussions about making any sort of Interstate extension South of current US-278 between Warren and Monticello. The current AR-530 route South of Pine Bluff has remained an unfinished Super 2 with a pair of disconnected segments for a long time. Intersections are at-grade. AR-530 is basically nothing more than a rural 2-lane highway with more gradual than usual grading. AR DOT doesn't appear to be moving quick at all to double-barrel the route and add limited access exits. They basically can't seem to get that 30 some odd miles of Interstate route finished. Adding another 80 miles of road South of that to Monroe seems far more improbable.

69 will never be finished in MS, AK AR, or LA.


I agree fully!

Quote from: silverback1065 on December 15, 2021, 01:40:59 PM
and what purpose would 57 serve in LA?

What purpose would I-57 serve in LA?  I-57 could complete two separate corridors.  One would wind up in  Baton Rouge (US-425 to Natchez and US-61 to Baton Rouge and I-10.) The other to Alexandria and Possibly Lake Charles.

First US-425 to Natchez. Secondly US-165 to Alexandria. Hurricane evacuation routes.  If you were in LOUISIANA, you would be hearing this. Right now, the discussion is all on I-49 to NOLA, I-10 widening & rebuild, Solving the traffic dilemmas in Baton Rouge, a new bridge in Both Baton Rouge and Lake Charles. (Additional in Baton Rouge. Replacement in LC.) Some possible projects in Shreveport and Bossier City PROPER.

Beyond that the discussion ends, When this list is completed, the next project would be a new North / South Project.  I-57 would fit that mold. I 69 doesn't. It would skirt into the state above the hurricane line and the Northeasterly direction is all wrong...

I stand by my idea that I-57 gets to I-20 before any of I-69 is built to interstate standards in Arkansas and before any of I-69 is built north of I-20 in Louisiana and likely west of I-49 as well. 

If it were Texas, it would likely wind up as 4-lane divided highway. Louisiana and Arkansas will build freeway.



Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Tomahawkin on December 15, 2021, 06:10:04 PM
Has anyone noticed the bumps on IH55 In the right lanes on both sides after the US 64 interchange that continue past the IH 555 Interchange? Those bumps seem to be every 150-200 feet where the pavement/concrete slabs connect. Those bumps have been there for years. I will be out there next week, so I will take continued notice...
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: CapeCodder on December 15, 2021, 06:54:15 PM
Quote from: capt.ron on December 15, 2021, 01:59:21 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 15, 2021, 08:38:35 AM
Whoever designed those interchanges was clearly drunk.  :-D
Most of the interchanges on Arkansas' freeways have a LOT to be desired, like the excessive curvature on a lot of the on-ramps for example. Most work against you when you're trying to accelerate up to freeway speeds and have to deal with a sharp curve on the on ramp (!!!). But yes, the engineers that somehow got their "design" of on ramps to be approved defies description (and logic).

Could be a "favor" to get in the good graces of local government?
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Rick Powell on December 16, 2021, 10:27:31 AM
Quote from: CapeCodder on December 15, 2021, 06:54:15 PM
Quote from: capt.ron on December 15, 2021, 01:59:21 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 15, 2021, 08:38:35 AM
Whoever designed those interchanges was clearly drunk.  :-D
Most of the interchanges on Arkansas' freeways have a LOT to be desired, like the excessive curvature on a lot of the on-ramps for example. Most work against you when you're trying to accelerate up to freeway speeds and have to deal with a sharp curve on the on ramp (!!!). But yes, the engineers that somehow got their "design" of on ramps to be approved defies description (and logic).

Could be a "favor" to get in the good graces of local government?

The feds allowed a lot more leeway in the late 50s and early 60s on design than they would now. Freeway design, including safety standards using real world data on what worked and what didn't, was not as advanced as it is now. Left hand ramps, median turnarounds, woefully short or hairpin curved entrance and exit ramps were once allowed to happen and would rarely make it past the design exception process today.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: bwana39 on December 16, 2021, 11:40:07 AM
Quote from: Rick Powell on December 16, 2021, 10:27:31 AM
Quote from: CapeCodder on December 15, 2021, 06:54:15 PM
Quote from: capt.ron on December 15, 2021, 01:59:21 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 15, 2021, 08:38:35 AM
Whoever designed those interchanges was clearly drunk.  :-D
Most of the interchanges on Arkansas' freeways have a LOT to be desired, like the excessive curvature on a lot of the on-ramps for example. Most work against you when you're trying to accelerate up to freeway speeds and have to deal with a sharp curve on the on ramp (!!!). But yes, the engineers that somehow got their "design" of on ramps to be approved defies description (and logic).

Could be a "favor" to get in the good graces of local government?

The feds allowed a lot more leeway in the late 50s and early 60s on design than they would now. Freeway design, including safety standards using real world data on what worked and what didn't, was not as advanced as it is now. Left hand ramps, median turnarounds, woefully short or hairpin curved entrance and exit ramps were once allowed to happen and would rarely make it past the design exception process today.

As a nutshell, I -55 was built to minimal 1950's standards. It has had minimal to no upgrades and improvement. As far as that goes, even the maintenance has been minimalist.  Arkansas views it as something they want minimally and are stuck taking care of. For Arkansas, It has virtually no utility outside the path it runs along. While the rural counties it runs through (and even Jacksonville)  stand to benefit from it. The power base in Little Rock  (and  even NWA) have virtually no investment It is like taking care of an aged aunt or a distant cousin's  orphan child. You do it, but perhaps minimally and more out of obligation or requirement than actually wanting to help.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: vdeane on December 16, 2021, 12:51:19 PM
Quote from: bwana39 on December 16, 2021, 11:40:07 AM
As a nutshell, I -55 was built to minimal 1950's standards. It has had minimal to no upgrades and improvement. As far as that goes, even the maintenance has been minimalist.  Arkansas views it as something they want minimally and are stuck taking care of. For Arkansas, It has virtually no utility outside the path it runs along. While the rural counties it runs through (and even Jacksonville)  stand to benefit from it. The power base in Little Rock  (and  even NWA) have virtually no investment It is like taking care of an aged aunt or a distant cousin's  orphan child. You do it, but perhaps minimally and more out of obligation or requirement than actually wanting to help.
Wouldn't it be part of the route between Little Rock and places like Chicago (I-40/I-55/I-57)?  That might change once I-57 gets extended, but as of right now, it's only 6 minutes longer per Google than taking the future I-57 corridor, and it avoids the at-grades and stays on the interstate system.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: edwaleni on December 16, 2021, 01:30:10 PM
Quote from: bwana39 on December 16, 2021, 11:40:07 AM
Quote from: Rick Powell on December 16, 2021, 10:27:31 AM
Quote from: CapeCodder on December 15, 2021, 06:54:15 PM
Quote from: capt.ron on December 15, 2021, 01:59:21 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 15, 2021, 08:38:35 AM
Whoever designed those interchanges was clearly drunk.  :-D
Most of the interchanges on Arkansas' freeways have a LOT to be desired, like the excessive curvature on a lot of the on-ramps for example. Most work against you when you're trying to accelerate up to freeway speeds and have to deal with a sharp curve on the on ramp (!!!). But yes, the engineers that somehow got their "design" of on ramps to be approved defies description (and logic).

Could be a "favor" to get in the good graces of local government?

The feds allowed a lot more leeway in the late 50s and early 60s on design than they would now. Freeway design, including safety standards using real world data on what worked and what didn't, was not as advanced as it is now. Left hand ramps, median turnarounds, woefully short or hairpin curved entrance and exit ramps were once allowed to happen and would rarely make it past the design exception process today.

As a nutshell, I -55 was built to minimal 1950's standards. It has had minimal to no upgrades and improvement. As far as that goes, even the maintenance has been minimalist.  Arkansas views it as something they want minimally and are stuck taking care of. For Arkansas, It has virtually no utility outside the path it runs along. While the rural counties it runs through (and even Jacksonville)  stand to benefit from it. The power base in Little Rock  (and  even NWA) have virtually no investment It is like taking care of an aged aunt or a distant cousin's  orphan child. You do it, but perhaps minimally and more out of obligation or requirement than actually wanting to help.

When you have a road to connect two metro areas (St Louis - Memphis) that aren't in your state, I guess that would be the posture.

I recall the same with I-55 from Memphis to New Orleans. Other than Jackson, the exits were pretty sparse and services very rare. I could have been driving across a desert.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: bwana39 on December 16, 2021, 03:05:14 PM
Quote from: vdeane on December 16, 2021, 12:51:19 PM
Quote from: bwana39 on December 16, 2021, 11:40:07 AM
As a nutshell, I -55 was built to minimal 1950's standards. It has had minimal to no upgrades and improvement. As far as that goes, even the maintenance has been minimalist.  Arkansas views it as something they want minimally and are stuck taking care of. For Arkansas, It has virtually no utility outside the path it runs along. While the rural counties it runs through (and even Jacksonville)  stand to benefit from it. The power base in Little Rock  (and  even NWA) have virtually no investment It is like taking care of an aged aunt or a distant cousin's  orphan child. You do it, but perhaps minimally and more out of obligation or requirement than actually wanting to help.
Wouldn't it be part of the route between Little Rock and places like Chicago (I-40/I-55/I-57)?  That might change once I-57 gets extended, but as of right now, it's only 6 minutes longer per Google than taking the future I-57 corridor, and it avoids the at-grades and stays on the interstate system.

You are right for Chicago. It might still be closer even after I-57 is finished.  I-55 is absolutely better from points south of Little Rock (including I-30) Most of my meanderings were based on going through Saint Louis.  For Arkansas, I agree I-57N adds little beyond the Missouri state line if there is not freeway all the way to St Louis.  With that done, there might be a reason to abandon I-57 and go through St Louis.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: MikieTimT on December 16, 2021, 03:19:57 PM
Quote from: ozarkman417 on December 14, 2021, 10:31:16 PM
1. The old state-named shields are, from my experience in Arkansas, by far the most abundant along I-55.

2. This (https://www.google.com/maps/@35.5124412,-90.1795196,614m/data=!3m1!1e3) interchange stands out to me in terms of its lack of safety. It is just bad design (as a result of cost cutting or issues with taking land from adjacent farmers?) with how the outer roads intersect the off-ramps, rather than just making a separate junction. Besides, in addition to it being more safe, the outer roads would be more accessable.

3. Part of what makes it so creepy (if you would call it that), is that its so... flat.

It's creepy because most of the route and towns south of Cape Girardeau, MO and north of Memphis, TN will be a pile of rubble and sand boils the next big shake of the New Madrid fault.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: dvferyance on December 16, 2021, 08:50:00 PM
Quote from: MikieTimT on December 16, 2021, 03:19:57 PM
Quote from: ozarkman417 on December 14, 2021, 10:31:16 PM
1. The old state-named shields are, from my experience in Arkansas, by far the most abundant along I-55.

2. This (https://www.google.com/maps/@35.5124412,-90.1795196,614m/data=!3m1!1e3) interchange stands out to me in terms of its lack of safety. It is just bad design (as a result of cost cutting or issues with taking land from adjacent farmers?) with how the outer roads intersect the off-ramps, rather than just making a separate junction. Besides, in addition to it being more safe, the outer roads would be more accessable.

3. Part of what makes it so creepy (if you would call it that), is that its so... flat.

It's creepy because most of the route and towns south of Cape Girardeau, MO and north of Memphis, TN will be a pile of rubble and sand boils the next big shake of the New Madrid fault.
Many of them are right now although not from and earthquake but from the tornados that went through last week.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: MikieTimT on December 17, 2021, 11:19:15 AM
Quote from: dvferyance on December 16, 2021, 08:50:00 PM
Quote from: MikieTimT on December 16, 2021, 03:19:57 PM
Quote from: ozarkman417 on December 14, 2021, 10:31:16 PM
1. The old state-named shields are, from my experience in Arkansas, by far the most abundant along I-55.

2. This (https://www.google.com/maps/@35.5124412,-90.1795196,614m/data=!3m1!1e3) interchange stands out to me in terms of its lack of safety. It is just bad design (as a result of cost cutting or issues with taking land from adjacent farmers?) with how the outer roads intersect the off-ramps, rather than just making a separate junction. Besides, in addition to it being more safe, the outer roads would be more accessable.

3. Part of what makes it so creepy (if you would call it that), is that its so... flat.

It's creepy because most of the route and towns south of Cape Girardeau, MO and north of Memphis, TN will be a pile of rubble and sand boils the next big shake of the New Madrid fault.
Many of them are right now although not from and earthquake but from the tornados that went through last week.

Almost not worth rebuilding in some of the towns.  I'm sure there will be quite a few that just move on given the overall prospects of the area in general if they don't have family holding them there.  It's a proof that just because you build an Interstate doesn't necessarily mean that prosperity follows.  I just wonder how many had insurance coverage for the tornado damage.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Flint1979 on December 17, 2021, 05:08:56 PM
Those towns between St. Louis and Memphis have been creepy for years especially south of Sikeston and into Arkansas. I find Memphis to be a creepy town too I'm not sure why but it just seems freaking creepy. The whole area does. When I was going to Houston I went through there and felt better once I got past Little Rock. But I remember south of Sikeston the farm fields just felt weird and I've gotten that feeling driving in Illinois before too. I wonder if I-55 would win a contest for creepiest Interstate highway.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: CoolAngrybirdsrio4 on December 17, 2021, 05:22:47 PM
Here's some more out of the ordinary interchanges in with Interstate 55 in Arkansas.
(https://i.imgur.com/zsYo3CK.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/1ZdL8uC.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/nG6dwes.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/TD5HQyR.png)
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Bobby5280 on December 17, 2021, 06:53:55 PM
There is a LOT of those weird ramp designs still in existence scattered across Texas. However one difference is the side road ramps often connect to  freeway frontage roads rather than go directly into the Interstate itself.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: MikieTimT on December 18, 2021, 09:08:12 AM
At least the red-headed stepchild of an interstate south of Blytheville is fixing to get a little love as of the Feb. 16, 2022 ARDOT letting:

WorkCounty Route Job No.  Job Name                               Type                             Length  Cost Range
Mississippi    I-55  101111  Hwy. 148 — So. of Hwy. 61 (S)  Pavement Preservation   4.4       $20 - $30 Million
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: cbalducc on December 19, 2021, 02:47:09 PM
I-55 in Arkansas travels through some of the poorest counties in the United States.  The economy was historically based on agriculture and the population has been declining for years.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: CapeCodder on December 19, 2021, 02:50:13 PM
Quote from: cbalducc on December 19, 2021, 02:47:09 PM
I-55 in Arkansas travels through some of the poorest counties in the United States.  The economy was historically based on agriculture and the population has been declining for years.

Basically the Great Depression never ended there.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: edwaleni on December 20, 2021, 11:04:18 AM
Quote from: CapeCodder on December 19, 2021, 02:50:13 PM
Quote from: cbalducc on December 19, 2021, 02:47:09 PM
I-55 in Arkansas travels through some of the poorest counties in the United States.  The economy was historically based on agriculture and the population has been declining for years.

Basically the Great Depression never ended there.

Per capita income rank and (median household income) by the county I-55 passes through out of 75 Arkansas counties.

50 - Mississippi ($33,407)
42 - Crittenden ($33,716)
74 - St Francis ($27,019)

As a compare, here are the counties the proposed extension of I-49 would pass through;

8 - Sebastian ($39,482)
52 - Scott ($36,417)
59 - Polk ($32,267)
67 - Sevier ($34,383)
32 - Little River ($33,416)

The top county for per capita income in Arkansas is:

1 - Pulaski

The lowest county for per capita income in Arkansas is:

75 - Lee

Source: Wikipedia based on 2010 Census

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Arkansas_locations_by_per_capita_income (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Arkansas_locations_by_per_capita_income)


Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: SkyPesos on December 20, 2021, 11:14:29 AM
I-49 at least have the Northwest portion of the state (which I think is where the highest per capita income in Arkansas is) to even its average out, and put it above I-55.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Wayward Memphian on December 20, 2021, 02:32:05 PM
Quote from: cbalducc on December 19, 2021, 02:47:09 PM
I-55 in Arkansas travels through some of the poorest counties in the United States.  The economy was historically based on agriculture and the population has been declining for years.

You have a mix of generational welfare and no desire to rise above it vs some big wage jobs at the steel mills in  Mississippi Co.

Monette and Leachville had actually gained population in the last census as they become  bedroom communities to people where the wife may work in Jonesboro and the hubby at Nucor over on the river.

Manila had grown enough to start fielding a football team.   :bigass:

Jonesboro and Paragould are steadily growing, where many of the small town folk have relocated to.

Here's the last piece of news I remember

https://www.kait8.com/2021/08/31/majestic-steel-usa-coming-blytheville/






Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Wayward Memphian on December 20, 2021, 02:54:19 PM
Quote from: Wayward Memphian on December 20, 2021, 02:32:05 PM
Quote from: cbalducc on December 19, 2021, 02:47:09 PM
I-55 in Arkansas travels through some of the poorest counties in the United States.  The economy was historically based on agriculture and the population has been declining for years.

You have a mix of generational welfare and no desire to rise above it vs some big wage jobs at the steel mills in  Mississippi Co.

Monette and Leachville had actually gained population in the last census as they become  bedroom communities to people where the wife may work in Jonesboro and the hubby at Nucor over on the river.

Manila had grown enough to start fielding a football team.   :bigass:

Jonesboro and Paragould are steadily growing, where many of the small town folk have relocated to.

Here's the last piece of news I remember

https://www.kait8.com/2021/08/31/majestic-steel-usa-coming-blytheville/

And possibly this as well for Mississippi Co.

https://katv-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/katv.com/amp/news/local/proposed-arkansas-law-hopes-to-entice-major-steel-mill-project?amp_js_v=a6&amp_gsa=1&usqp=mq331AQKKAFQArABIIACAw%3D%3D#aoh=16400298857788&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fkatv.com%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fproposed-arkansas-law-hopes-to-entice-major-steel-mill-project
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Road Hog on December 21, 2021, 01:05:00 PM
Monette and Leachville, coincidentally, were two of the towns hit by the tornado outbreak a couple of weeks ago.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Tom958 on December 26, 2021, 06:28:08 PM
Quote from: CapeCodder on December 14, 2021, 10:23:03 PMWhen was this stretch built?

Protip: It's usually easy to look up the age of a freeway by checking http://bridgereports.com/. At http://bridgereports.com/ar/mississippi/, we see that the first I-55 bridges in Mississippi County were built in 1960 and the last in 1962.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Tom958 on December 26, 2021, 06:42:28 PM
I did a Streetview feature about the early, isolated section of I-57 between Mounds and Marion, Illinois. It's surprisingly interesting, with a variety of bridge types and median widths, including generous wooded stretches. It occurred to me that it must seem like a secret garden to travelers who've endured the brutal boredom of I-55 between Memphis and there.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: MikieTimT on December 27, 2021, 10:31:22 AM
Quote from: Tom958 on December 26, 2021, 06:42:28 PM
I did a Streetview feature about the early, isolated section of I-57 between Mounds and Marion, Illinois. It's surprisingly interesting, with a variety of bridge types and median widths, including generous wooded stretches. It occurred to me that it must seem like a secret garden to travelers who've endured the brutal boredom of I-55 between Memphis and there.

Are there any stretches of I-55 anywhere that aren't brutally boring?  Haven't actually driven much of it, event in Arkansas other than Memphis to Turrell, but what I have driven there and in the little bits of northern Mississippi to I-269, I haven't come across anything memorial for a positive reason.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Tom958 on December 27, 2021, 08:45:49 PM
Quote from: MikieTimT on December 27, 2021, 10:31:22 AMAre there any stretches of I-55 anywhere that aren't brutally boring?  Haven't actually driven much of it, event in Arkansas other than Memphis to Turrell, but what I have driven there and in the little bits of northern Mississippi to I-269, I haven't come across anything memorial for a positive reason.

Maybe not. I-20 in Mississippi kept me entertained; I-55 south of Jackson looks similar but less interesting, and I-55 north of Jackson was built after Mississippi started using all-but-identical precast concrete designs for every bridge. At least the landscape has some relief, though. The floodplains of Arkansas and Missouri don't.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Road Hog on December 27, 2021, 11:07:31 PM
The Rend Lake area of I-57 in Illinois is wooded and not too bad. You also get a good view of the medium-security federal pen in Marion.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Rick Powell on December 28, 2021, 10:08:33 AM
Quote from: MikieTimT on December 27, 2021, 10:31:22 AM
Are there any stretches of I-55 anywhere that aren't brutally boring?  Haven't actually driven much of it, even in Arkansas other than Memphis to Turrell, but what I have driven there and in the little bits of northern Mississippi to I-269, I haven't come across anything memorial for a positive reason.
The section from the Dan Ryan to I-80 will keep you on your toes as a driver. Multiplexes in Bloomington and Springfield. The Poplar Street bridge in St. Louis offers a view of the Arch and the river. Lots of hilly country from St. Louis to Cape. West Memphis to Southaven, with the Mississippi bridge and the Crump Boulevard interchange. Hilly country in north Mississippi that is mostly wooded. View of the state capitol in Jackson. Maurepas Swamp elevated section northwest of NO. A few highlights of the 900 miles, and there really aren't many. At least in IL, there are several US 66 artifacts a short distance off the highway.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Wayward Memphian on January 11, 2022, 06:48:10 PM
Osceola got the 3 Billion Steel Plant

https://talkbusiness.net/2022/01/u-s-steel-to-locate-3-billion-steel-mill-in-northeast-arkansas/

You might not see it from the Interstate but that area is Steel Central these days.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Road Hog on January 11, 2022, 10:49:37 PM
Quote from: Wayward Memphian on January 11, 2022, 06:48:10 PM
Osceola got the 3 Billion Steel Plant

https://talkbusiness.net/2022/01/u-s-steel-to-locate-3-billion-steel-mill-in-northeast-arkansas/

You might not see it from the Interstate but that area is Steel Central these days.
Somebody mentioned the problem that these Mississippi County steel mills are hiring people from Little Rock, Memphis and farther who are willing to commute for that much pay while leaving the locals out in the cold.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: MikieTimT on January 12, 2022, 09:23:00 AM
Quote from: Road Hog on January 11, 2022, 10:49:37 PM
Quote from: Wayward Memphian on January 11, 2022, 06:48:10 PM
Osceola got the 3 Billion Steel Plant

https://talkbusiness.net/2022/01/u-s-steel-to-locate-3-billion-steel-mill-in-northeast-arkansas/

You might not see it from the Interstate but that area is Steel Central these days.
Somebody mentioned the problem that these Mississippi County steel mills are hiring people from Little Rock, Memphis and farther who are willing to commute for that much pay while leaving the locals out in the cold.

I seriously doubt they are explicitly leaving out qualified locals looking for work, but part of running any business is finding the most qualified workforce that can be had for as low a cost as possible.  I'm sure there are several willing to commute for work from Memphis and Jonesboro, but Little Rock would make for a rather long commute (3 hrs. each way) that should make some consider relocating to Jonesboro or closer if they don't mind rural or small town living.  There's only going to be so many under or unemployed in Mississippi County and the surrounding counties that would apply, especially given that there are other plants in the area competing for the same workforce.  I'm sure they'll also pull in some commuting in from KY, TN, and MO as well.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Hot Rod Hootenanny on January 12, 2022, 01:17:58 PM
Quote from: Tom958 on December 27, 2021, 08:45:49 PM
Quote from: MikieTimT on December 27, 2021, 10:31:22 AMAre there any stretches of I-55 anywhere that aren't brutally boring?  Haven't actually driven much of it, event in Arkansas other than Memphis to Turrell, but what I have driven there and in the little bits of northern Mississippi to I-269, I haven't come across anything memorial for a positive reason.

Maybe not. I-20 in Mississippi kept me entertained; I-55 south of Jackson looks similar but less interesting, and I-55 north of Jackson was built after Mississippi started using all-but-identical precast concrete designs for every bridge. At least the landscape has some relief, though. The floodplains of Arkansas and Missouri don't.

Having to drive I-55 between Hammond, La & Memphis a few dozen times when I was working on my thesis at LSU, I didn't mind I-55 in Southern Mississippi. Enough small towns along the way to help countdown the distance to Jackson. The section between Jackson & Memphis I found brutal because there is nothing but trees till Senatobia. Then you feel like you've re-entered civilization approaching Memphis.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Hot Rod Hootenanny on January 12, 2022, 01:23:13 PM
Quote from: MikieTimT on December 27, 2021, 10:31:22 AM
Quote from: Tom958 on December 26, 2021, 06:42:28 PM
I did a Streetview feature about the early, isolated section of I-57 between Mounds and Marion, Illinois. It's surprisingly interesting, with a variety of bridge types and median widths, including generous wooded stretches. It occurred to me that it must seem like a secret garden to travelers who've endured the brutal boredom of I-55 between Memphis and there.

Are there any stretches of I-55 anywhere that aren't brutally boring?  Haven't actually driven much of it, event in Arkansas other than Memphis to Turrell, but what I have driven there and in the little bits of northern Mississippi to I-269, I haven't come across anything memorial for a positive reason.

North of Memphis, the Mississippi River delta spreads west into NW Arkansas (and the Missouri bootheel), while Western Tennessee gets all the bluffs.
I-55 starts to look more geologically interesting once you get north of Cape Girardeau.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Wayward Memphian on January 12, 2022, 02:21:20 PM
Quote from: MikieTimT on January 12, 2022, 09:23:00 AM
Quote from: Road Hog on January 11, 2022, 10:49:37 PM
Quote from: Wayward Memphian on January 11, 2022, 06:48:10 PM
Osceola got the 3 Billion Steel Plant

https://talkbusiness.net/2022/01/u-s-steel-to-locate-3-billion-steel-mill-in-northeast-arkansas/

You might not see it from the Interstate but that area is Steel Central these days.
Somebody mentioned the problem that these Mississippi County steel mills are hiring people from Little Rock, Memphis and farther who are willing to commute for that much pay while leaving the locals out in the cold.

I seriously doubt they are explicitly leaving out qualified locals looking for work, but part of running any business is finding the most qualified workforce that can be had for as low a cost as possible.  I'm sure there are several willing to commute for work from Memphis and Jonesboro, but Little Rock would make for a rather long commute (3 hrs. each way) that should make some consider relocating to Jonesboro or closer if they don't mind rural or small town living.  There's only going to be so many under or unemployed in Mississippi County and the surrounding counties that would apply, especially given that there are other plants in the area competing for the same workforce.  I'm sure they'll also pull in some commuting in from KY, TN, and MO as well.

Correctomundo.

About half the local population knows nothin but generational poverty and they ain't changing being asses any time soon. Typically these mills run 4 days on 4 days off with plenty of additional work on those off days if you want it. Shifts are 12 hours. Pay can be fantastic when figuring in production bonuses. It is not unheard of a check basically average $50 bucks an hour.  But... it's a steel mill.  There are plenty of folks that I know that clear over 100k at Nucor.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: MikieTimT on January 13, 2022, 10:12:56 AM
They're fixing to need to do some work on an interchange or 2 given the additional truck traffic coming off I-55 to haul steel products out for the more local customers.  I'm sure that they'll do the bulk hauling using barge and rail for iron ore/scrap for inputs and finished products, which is why they chose the location in addition to the incentives from Arkansas.  A new northern loop bridge connecting TN-385/I-269 to I-55 around Turrell would offload I-40 East and I-22 traffic from having to go through Memphis over the old bridges.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Tomahawkin on January 13, 2022, 11:30:58 AM
That northern loop is a pipedream, giving the more pressing needs to finish IH-49 and IH-57 respectively. I do agree That another Mississippi River Bridge using that route is much needed given the state of the 2 antiquated bridges in West Memphis currently in use...
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Road Hog on January 13, 2022, 11:29:49 PM
For 50 bucks an hour I'd sleep in my car 3 nights a week and drive 5 hours home for a 3-day weekend. That amount of pay expands the worker pool greatly.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: MikieTimT on January 14, 2022, 09:22:41 AM
Quote from: Road Hog on January 13, 2022, 11:29:49 PM
For 50 bucks an hour I'd sleep in my car 3 nights a week and drive 5 hours home for a 3-day weekend. That amount of pay expands the worker pool greatly.

If Jonesboro or smaller communities aren't appealing for amenities, or because of need to stay put due to proximity to family, I'm sure there'll be some that do just that.  Seems like there'd be some demand for extended stay hotel facilities in the area that would only amount to half a day's wages for an entire week as well that come complete with kitchens.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: MikieTimT on March 15, 2022, 04:10:31 PM
Looks like they are investing in trying to get folks to put down roots in the area as apparently these big steel plants draw from anywhere between Tulsa and Nashville for 4 day stints, then they go back to their families.  Doesn't seem like it's very conducive to family life to do 4 on and 4 off with that much distance in between.  The county is doing fantastically drawing in industry as they just landed another  manufacturer (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=29375.msg2717581#msg2717581)  a few weeks ago that dovetails with the steel industry that's blossoming.  Now they just need to get folks to move in, and amenities and schools should be the next big push, but they have to get the people coming first for that to happen.

Mississippi County officials push "˜Work Here, Live Here' plan (https://talkbusiness.net/2022/03/mississippi-county-officials-push-work-here-live-here-plan/)
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: edwaleni on March 19, 2022, 11:31:26 PM
I noticed some news reports around the US that people who have to drive extensively to work are having to quit. The gas dollars required are making it uneconomic.

Be interesting to see if Arkansas commuters for blue collar jobs (like in steel mills) will follow suit.

I remember some California white collar commuters in the Bay Area complaining about real estate prices forcing them to drive from yet farther distances.

When I suggested that perhaps they should move closer to their jobs, they got all riled up about how they couldn't afford it.

So I asked what they preferred more, a suburban lifestyle, an urban lifestyle or more time with their family.

They all wanted the urban high paying income, but the low cost of exurban housing and were willing to absorb the cost and time commitment to drive in.

Then complained about not having enough time for their family.

So I suggested they get a less paying job closer to where they live so they would have more time with their family and reduce their commuting expenses and time commitment.

They got all angry and said there was no way they would give up any salary they "deserve".

So how does $4.30 gas change Arkansas' distance labor force?

Will they move to where the work is? Can they afford to live where the work is, or is it just economic to absorb the gas prices temporarily?
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: Bobby5280 on March 20, 2022, 11:42:10 AM
In the case of the extreme living costs of the Bay Area, more and more workers are just choosing the leave the region entirely and go to other parts of the US where there is a more affordable balance of urban/suburban living costs in relation to pay.

Texas has had a major advantage in that area over California for the past 30+ years. So it's no wonder there has been virus-level growth sustained in metros like Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and the merging Austin-San Antonio region. Of course living costs are starting to get out of hand in those places.

I'm actually kind of surprised Oklahoma City isn't totally blowing up now with growth. Housing prices in that metro are dirt cheap compared to coastal metros. Our state has some backward policies and ideologies regarding business and public education that might turn off some transplants from California or New York looking for new places to live.

High gasoline prices are putting a terrible squeeze on service related businesses everywhere. There has already been a serious worker shortage for those low wage jobs. The problem is housing prices and other living costs often make the wages from those jobs non-survivable. Not unless multiple workers were willing to pile into the same apartment together. The high gasoline prices worsen that imbalance. Many of these workers are forced to drive to their jobs. Public transit doesn't run everywhere. And it doesn't offer 24/7 service in many smaller cites (our bus service in Lawton only runs on weekdays during the day).

Over the long term this economic imbalance is going to create a lot of problems. Our worker shortage now will be nothing compared to what we could be seeing 20 years from now when the beginnings of our nation's birth rate downturn start yielding consequences. I think the trend will be a whole lot of single, child-less adults living smaller while living closer to city centers. A bunch of people with McMansions out in the suburbs will have giant size homes they'll be unable to sell.
Title: Re: I-55 in Arkansas
Post by: MikieTimT on September 19, 2022, 01:52:20 PM
Looks like half the mileage north of Turrell is scheduled to be resurfaced in the draft ARDOT 2023-2026 STIP.  Should be smoother within the next 3 years.  Won't do anything about the interchanges, but baby steps.

https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2023-2026_STIP_Draft_General_Electronic.pdf (https://www.ardot.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2023-2026_STIP_Draft_General_Electronic.pdf) Pg. 177 (Slide 214)