AARoads Forum

Regional Boards => Mid-South => Topic started by: Grzrd on August 19, 2010, 11:13:19 PM

Title: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on August 19, 2010, 11:13:19 PM
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/letting/Aug%20'10%20Award%20List.PDF

Contract awarded for paving Future I-49 from 245/Arkansas Blvd. through I-30 then north and west to USS 71 at Texas state line.
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: US71 on August 19, 2010, 11:34:39 PM
Arkansas Blvd to I-30: ALL BIDS REJECTED

I-30 to Hwy 71: ALL BIDS REJECTED

Arkansas Blvd to Hwy 71: Approved

Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on August 19, 2010, 11:57:41 PM
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/General/asread_include.aspx

Looks like they gave contractors option to bid: (1) on 2 separate projects and (2) on combined project.  Since lowest bid on combined project lower than sum of lowest bids on separate projects, all bids rejected on separate projects and approved on combined project (economies of scale?).  Is this a common practice?
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: J N Winkler on August 22, 2010, 03:27:08 AM
It is done occasionally in some states and never in others.  I think this is the only time AHTD has done it since they started putting plans on the Web (back in 2009, IIRC).
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on August 22, 2010, 12:27:15 PM
Thanks.  I wonder if Louisiana will take same approach for the upcoming lettings for Sections E, F, and G of I-49 North?

http://www.dotd.la.gov/lettings/lets8220.asp

Quote
Projects to be Let in the Next 6 Months - By Parish

Caddo  Sep 2010  455-09-0005  I 49  I-49 North (La 530 - La 170) Seg F  New Interstate (Segment F)  $20,000,000 to $30,000,000  3.29  Umeozulu, Joe  May 2010 

Caddo  Sep 2010  455-09-0006  I 49  I-49 North (La 170 - US 71) Seg E  New Interstate (Segment E)  $30,000,000 to $50,000,000  2.77  Umeozulu, Joe  May 2010 

Caddo  Sep 2010  455-09-0011  I 49  I-49 North (La 169 - La 530) Seg G  New Interstate (Segment G)  $30,000,000 to $50,000,000  4.78  Umeozulu, Joe  Jun 2010

LADOTD Map of I-49 North Project Area: http://www.dotd.la.gov/administration/public_info/projects/i49north/map.pdf 
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on August 23, 2010, 11:10:28 AM
I received following recent info from an AHTD rep:

Quote
Regarding the Hwy. 245/19th Street intersection, a project is currently underway that will construct an interchange with an overpass bridge.  That project will be completed in the spring of 2011.

Are there any other projects beyond completion of this intersection and new terrain to I-30 and Texas state line that need to be completed in order for Arkansas section of Loop to meet Interstate specs?
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on August 24, 2010, 11:01:03 AM
With recent flurry of info re Texarkana and Bella Vista I-49 projects (plus Missouri info re 71 to I-49 upgrade between Interstates 44 and 435), I got in an email questioning mood.  I asked TxDOT about the Texas section because I remember reading in one of the threads that the current official Arkansas highway map shows the future route of I-49 through Texas.  [Map here: http://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/mapping_graphics/statehwymap_state09.PDF]

BTW the map also shows "new terrain" Future I-49 continuing northward in Arkansas from Red River state line crossing all the way up to a junction with U.S. 71 just north of Wilton.

Pertinent part of the (not surprising) reply:

Quote
TxDOT has had a longstanding working relationship with AHTD, especially in the Texarkana area where so many of our highways meet.  I-49 has been planned and discussed between the two agencies for many years. 

The current status of the project is that AHTD is waiting on the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to finish its portion of the project between Shreveport and the Arkansas State Line before it can finish I-49 to the Louisiana State Line.  However, funding for I-49 through western Arkansas is limited and TxDOT has no funding available at this time for the project in Bowie County now or in the foreseeable future.  So, yes, I-49 is on the radar, but it is a distant blip unless some type of funding can be appropriated for its construction.
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Anthony_JK on August 24, 2010, 11:31:36 AM
Well...they shouldn't have to wait long, because LaDOTD is already using their ARBA funds to begin construction of the portion of I-49 North to the Arkansas state line.

I'd think that TxDOT would prpobably want to withhold construction of their small segment of I-49 until funding for the Texarkana-Fort Smith segment is secured...I wouldn't think that they would be that dependent on AR and LA completing their segments of I-49 first.  Besides..don't they have that I-69 connector from Carthage to Texarkana to complete first??


Anthony
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on August 24, 2010, 11:56:15 AM
^TxDOT touched on that subject as follows:

Quote
... At one time, plans were being considered on extending Loop 151/US 59 on the Texas side north through the Pleasant Grove area and connecting with the Arkansas Loop 245.  However, commercial and residential development in the planned area has made that plan cost prohibitive.

There is also another corridor being studied -- I-69 -- that could have a spur coming up through East Texas along the US 59 route.  Corridor segment committees, made up of individuals appointed by local city and county governments, are currently looking at the route and will advise TxDOT on which routes would be most beneficial to the local citizens.  One possible route being looked at is an out loop around Texarkana to the west and north and would run through the planned industrial park in the former Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant.  No specific route has been identified yet and no funding is currently available for construction of such a highway.  Therefore, no schedule can be set for its construction.
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on August 27, 2010, 02:59:49 PM
Texarkana Gazette has a recent article about the new $38 million paving contract.

Quote
Paving will start on I-49
By: Brandy S. Chewning - Texarkana Gazette - Published: 08/21/2010

A $38 million contract means paving will begin soon on the Interstate 49 loop around Texarkana.
Don Donaldson, district engineer for the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department, said the road will funnel Loop 245 traffic onto I-49 just north of Arkansas Boulevard.
The interstate will connect with U.S. Highway 71, 2 miles north of the Texarkana city limits. The intersection of County Road 55 will be relocated.
The 7.7-mile stretch will meet interstate standards as four divided lanes with controlled access.

(I do not have and will not pay for subscription to the Gazette; above was all I could read)
Here's the link: http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/localnews/2010/08/21/paving-will-start-on-i-49-51.php
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on August 28, 2010, 02:12:09 AM
To date, I am not an Interstate shield collector.  Also, I am an exteme newbie regarding poring over construction plans.  Nevertheless, I do have a question.

AHTD recently awarded the paving contract for I-49 to U.S. 71 2 miles north of Texarkana:

(1) Looking at maps, it appears that, at the I-49/U.S. 71 junction 2 miles north of Texarkana, U.S. 71 is in Texas (although extremely close to Arkansas state line);

(2) Is (assumed already graded) ramp from U.S. 71 to I-49 entirely within Texas?;

(3) If so, does AHTD/TxDOT have plans for an I-49 reassurance shield on Texas side of state line?

(4) If so, does Texas emblazon "Texas" on its Interstate shields?

(5) If so, would this be the only "I-49/Texas" shield in existence (possibly for decades)?

Just thought this would be an interesting (and unique for a long time) oddity.

Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on August 28, 2010, 02:12:05 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 28, 2010, 02:12:09 AM
If so, would this be the only "I-49/Texas" shield in existence (possibly for decades)?

Quote from: Anthony_JK on August 24, 2010, 11:31:36 AM
I'd think that TxDOT would probably want to withhold construction of their small segment of I-49 until funding for the Texarkana-Fort Smith segment is secured...I wouldn't think that they would be that dependent on AR and LA completing their segments of I-49 first.

On second thought, I think section of Future I-49 from I-30/Future I-49 intersection to U.S. 71 2 miles north of Texarkana has a reasonable likelihood of being designated I-130 for a long time, with section south of intersection being signed I-49.

Still the same question(s) re Texas shield(s): just substitute I-130 for I-49.
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: agentsteel53 on August 28, 2010, 02:13:01 PM
Texas at this time does not put the state name.  we are working on it.
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on August 28, 2010, 09:37:02 PM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on August 28, 2010, 02:13:01 PM
Texas at this time does not put the state name.  we are working on it.
Maybe you could get Texarkana local officials, in similar vein as State Line Avenue, to get AHTD and TxDOT officials to do the following on the Future I-49 2 miles north of Texarkana:

Directly on state line for lanes going from Texas to Arkansas, place an "Interstate 49 (or 130) - Texas/Arkansas" shield with Texas placed above Arkansas.

Directly on state line for lanes going from Arkansas to Texas, place an "Interstate 49 (or 130) - Arkansas/Texas"
shield with Arkansas placed above Texas.

Would certainly make Texarkana a "must" destination for roadgeeks (and all of the associated big-bucks tourista $$$).   :D

BTW has this ever been done elsewhere?
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: agentsteel53 on August 29, 2010, 08:09:14 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 28, 2010, 09:37:02 PM
BTW has this ever been done elsewhere?

I have never seen an interstate shield with two states on it.  or a US or whatnot.  This is the closest.

(//www.aaroads.com/shields/img/NJ/NJ19550401i1.jpg)

but clearly that was meant to be one state - New Jersey - and was just done in such a sloppy manner that the underlying state - Delaware - shows through.
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: mightyace on August 29, 2010, 04:24:35 PM
^^^

That could have been because New Jersey ceded some land on its side of the Delaware Memorial Bridge.
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on August 31, 2010, 07:40:27 AM
I just had to look .....

http://expandingcapacity.transportation.org/states/TX_Unlocking_Gridlock_0410.pdf

http://expandingcapacity.transportation.org/unlocking_freight/states/TX_Unlocking_Freight_0610.pdf

What!?
No mention of I-49!?  :eyebrow:  :angry:  :angry:  :banghead:  :banghead:  :banghead:

[just kidding]  :sombrero:  :D
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on September 06, 2010, 03:05:25 PM
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:

Quote
The only work that has been done between Texarkana and Alma are environmental-impact studies on two separate sections.
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.
(http://www.allbusiness.com/government/government-bodies-offices-regional-local/13536201-1.html)

Also, in a recent Times Record Online article, AHTD director Dan Flowers seems to confirm AHTD's commitment to completing the Doddridge to LA state line segment:

Quote
Dan Flowers, Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department director... [said]... a project is under way now to finish I-49 south of Texarkana to the Louisiana line.
(http://www.swtimes.com/special_reports/article_83924506-b78d-11df-ab48-001cc4c03286.html)
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on September 06, 2010, 05:10:52 PM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on August 28, 2010, 02:13:01 PM
Texas at this time does not put the state name.  we are working on it.

Just checked my email inbox and found an interesting one from late Friday p.m.  Given the effort being put forth on getting "Texas" on their interstate shields, I thought this might be a "baby step" in that regard and relate to your efforts.

First my joint email to AHTD and TxDOT:

Quote
Dear [AHTD and TxDOT],

"You have both been kind to respond to my recent inquiries about Future I-49 in the Texarkana area.  In large part the "unique" quality of Texarkana results from the great cooperation between your two states.  Perhaps the greatest symbol of this cooperation is State Line Avenue.  In light of that, I just wanted to pitch a suggestion regarding AHTD's current paving project from I-30 to U.S. 71 (which I understand goes barely over the state line to connect with U.S. 71).
Would it be possible to do the following on the Future I-49 2 miles north of Texarkana? [I assume it will be signed either I-49 or I-130]:
Directly on state line for lanes going from Texas to Arkansas, place an "Interstate 49 (or 130) - "Texas/Arkansas" shield with Texas placed above Arkansas.
Directly on state line for lanes going from Arkansas to Texas, place an "Interstate 49 (or 130) - "Arkansas/Texas" shield with Arkansas placed above Texas.
My understanding is that this type of signing has never been done before in the country.  I also understand that Texas does not currently put "Texas" on its shields, but I believe Arkansas does put "Arkansas " on its shields. Perhaps AHTD could do it, with TxDOT granting permission to place "Texas" on shields.
I believe this could be a unique "Texarkana thing" that would relate well to State Line Avenue and reinforce the historic cooperation between AHTD and TxDOT.

AHTD's reply:

Quote
Thank you for your suggestions.  I am going to forward these to our District Engineer in District Three for his consideration...

No response from TxDOT yet.

I thought it was worth a shot ...
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on September 09, 2010, 10:13:36 AM
Although written from a Fort Smith perspective, below-linked article may also be relevant to SW corner of Arkansas:

Quote from: Grzrd on September 08, 2010, 09:50:55 PM
"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." (Sept. 8, 2010 The City Wire: http://www.thecitywire.com/index.php?q=node/11713).

Louisiana will complete Segment A of I-49 North next month and is currently on track to finish Segment B in March, 2011.  There is also a (perhaps overly optimistic) estimate that Segments C-I of Louisiana's I-49 North will also be ready for traffic by 2013.

Assuming any money comes from Obama's infrastructure proposal, it might make sense for Arkansas to use money to accelerate the timetable for the two remaining paving projects from Doddridge to the Louisiana state line.  It would be nice to see a true interstate link for the route.
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on September 13, 2010, 07:49:08 AM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on August 24, 2010, 11:31:36 AM
Besides..don't they have that I-69 connector from Carthage to Texarkana to complete first??
Anthony
Quote from: Grzrd on August 24, 2010, 11:56:15 AM
There is also another corridor being studied -- I-69 -- that could have a spur coming up through East Texas along the US 59 route.  Corridor segment committees, made up of individuals appointed by local city and county governments, are currently looking at the route and will advise TxDOT on which routes would be most beneficial to the local citizens.

Texarkana Committee needs to present a report in near future with recommendations for preferred route(s), bypasses, etc. for the Texarkana I-69 spur.  From the Texarkana Gazette (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/localnews/2010/09/12/i-69-committee-meets-tuesday-90.php):

Quote
I-69 committee meets Tuesday
Published: 09/12/2010

The local planning committee for Interstate 69 meets Tuesday in Marshall to work on a progress report for the Texas Transportation Commission.
Segment 1 of the planning corridor reaches from Bowie County to Angelina County. Plans for I-69 here focus on upgrading U.S. Highway 59 to interstate standards.
The committee will need to submit a report on the planning progress in coming months.
The committee has identified areas that will need or want bypass loops and recommended alternate access for schools, businesses and homes.

EDIT - ADDITIONAL THOUGHT

It occurs to me that Texarkana I-69 spur could, when viewed from North to South perspective, be just as easily viewed as the "Texarkana I-49 spur".  This is initially hard to do because of perecived impossibility of building Texarkana to Alma stretch of I-49.  Since the spur will essentially be an upgrade of U.S.59, the cost of it should be analogous to MoDOT's current upgrade of U.S. 71 to I-49 along the I-44 to I-435 segment, which is relatively inexpensive at $5 million to $7 million per interchange.  It seems like characterizing it as a dual-purpose "49/69" spur would better position it for funding.  Also, if good progress could be made on it, then additional pressure on feds to fund Texas to Alma I-49 section would be created because you would have both the Mexico/Houston/Galveston I-69 Corridor prong and New Orleans I-49 Corridor prong of freight traffic funneling up to Texarkana.
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on September 13, 2010, 02:27:14 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 13, 2010, 07:49:08 AM
The local planning committee for Interstate 69 meets Tuesday in Marshall to work on a progress report for the Texas Transportation Commission.

TxDOT just sent me a reply to an email about the I-69 spur.  In essence, it states that TXDOT is so overwhelmed with maintenance issues of currently existing highways that it will take new sources of funding to cover "new" projects.  Pertinent part of reply:

Quote
Many factors can and will influence the priority of the I-69 spur corridor and its development.  Traffic demand, industrial and population growth in the area, trade and trucking routes, political influence, connecting routes, etc. all play an important part in planning and prioritizing the future highway route, but most importantly will be funding for the project and how it competes with other such projects across the state.  Under current funding conditions, funding for new roadways like the I-69 project will dry up and all available funding will only be enough to maintain the current highway systems. Some type of funding--either higher fuel taxes, bonds, tolls or some other form of innovative funding--will have to be found before project will ever be constructed.
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on September 28, 2010, 10:06:24 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 13, 2010, 07:49:08 AM
Texarkana Committee needs to present a report in near future with recommendations for preferred route(s), bypasses, etc. for the Texarkana I-69 spur.  From the Texarkana Gazette:

http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/localnews/2010/09/12/i-69-committee-meets-tuesday-90.php

"I-69 committee meets Tuesday
Published: 09/12/2010

The local planning committee for Interstate 69 meets Tuesday in Marshall to work on a progress report for the Texas Transportation Commission ...

It appears that the local planning committee is processing a lot of negative input about the proposed route of the Texarkana I-69 Spur, with the progess report being delayed at least another month:

Quote
I-69 study corridor postponed again
By: Brandy S. Chewning - Texarkana Gazette - Published: 09/27/2010

Consideration of a study corridor for Interstate 69 will be delayed at least another month, local transportation planners say.
The item is not on the agenda for Tuesday's meeting of the Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Committee.
Officials with the MPO said other agenda items have been the focus and comments received on the study corridor have caused review. It could be discussed at the next meeting.
The study corridor was the recipient of public backlash this summer when residents in the potential study area first learned of the route...
(http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/localnews/2010/09/27/i-69-study-corridor-postponed-again-80.php)
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on November 06, 2010, 11:18:54 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 19, 2010, 11:13:19 PM
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/letting/Aug%20'10%20Award%20List.PDF
Contract awarded for paving Future I-49 from 245/Arkansas Blvd. through I-30 then north and west to USS 71 at Texas state line.
I came across a historical tidbit while looking for info on Texarkana I-69 Spur alternative that will be presented to Texarkana MPO on Tuesday.  The Bowie County, TX portion of the above Arkansas I-49 project will consume $100,000 in Texas funds and $400,000 of federal money: http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/upcoming-activities/FY-2010-Annual-Listing-of-Obligated-Projects-11-02-2010.pdf  (page 5/18). Even though it is a joint project, AHTD refers to it as a US 71 project and TxDOT refers to it as a US 59 project.

How many years (decades?) will it be before Texas again spends money on actual construction of I-49 on Texas soil?

Also, it looks like I-69 Planning Corridor will allow study of feasibility of having I-69 meet I-49 at location very close to state line: http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/upcoming-activities/I-69-Proposed-Planning-Corridor-Citizen-Alternative.pdf.  Maybe this explains the TxDOT reference to the I-49 project as a US 59 project.  Or, since 59 & 71 are duplexed from Texarkana to north of Mena, maybe TxDOT just flipped a coin?
Title: Texarkana MPO Rejects Proposed I-69 Planning Corridor
Post by: Grzrd on November 10, 2010, 07:29:28 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 06, 2010, 11:18:54 AM
Texarkana I-69 Spur alternative that will be presented to Texarkana MPO on Tuesday ... it looks like I-69 Planning Corridor will allow study of feasibility of having I-69 meet I-49 at location very close to state line ...
Texarkana Gazette reports that Texarkana MPO rejected proposed I-69 Planning Corridor yesterday: http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/localnews/2010/11/10/planning-group-rescinds-i-69-backing-79.php
I could not read entire article (no subscription) & am unsure how far back this pushes planning process.
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Anthony_JK on November 10, 2010, 08:31:02 AM
From what I saw of the proposed corridor, it would have bypassed Texarkana well to the west and met up with US 71/Future I-49 just south of the crossing of the Red River. My guess is that most of the opposition was due to the sensitive land crossed, and the cost.

Probably would be easier and less expensive to just route any I-x-69 spur from Carthage via existing US 59/AR 225/TX 151 anyway...then have a shorter extension north from there.

Oh..and technically this would NOT be I-69, but just a spur. Mainline I-69 would hook up with I-49 just south of Shreveport, near Stonewall.


Anthony
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: US71 on November 10, 2010, 09:47:37 AM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on November 10, 2010, 08:31:02 AM
From what I saw of the proposed corridor, it would have bypassed Texarkana well to the west and met up with US 71/Future I-49 just south of the crossing of the Red River. My guess is that most of the opposition was due to the sensitive land crossed, and the cost.

Not necessarily. Some of the neighborhoods seem to have a concern:
http://arklatexhomepage.com/fulltext?nxd_id=126845
Title: Re: Future I-49 - Texas / Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on November 10, 2010, 10:39:08 AM
SW corner of Corridor Plan does look problematic; Wright Patman Lake on the western side forces proposed route very close to neighborhood(s): http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/upcoming-activities/I-69-Proposed-Planning-Corridor-Citizen-Alternative.pdf

ADDITIONAL THOUGHT

With the lake & neighborhoods as obstacles, I wonder if they will ultimately consider routing the I-69 Spur eastward south of Texarkana & approach AHTD about an interchange with I-49 in Arkansas south of the Texarkana Loop?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 16, 2010, 07:15:54 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 10, 2010, 07:29:28 AM
Texarkana Gazette reports that Texarkana MPO rejected proposed I-69 Planning Corridor yesterday: http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/localnews/2010/11/10/planning-group-rescinds-i-69-backing-79.php
I could not read entire article (no subscription) & am unsure how far back this pushes planning process.
Second level of Texarkana MPO is not bound by last week's decision of Technical Committee to reject Texarkana I-69 Spur Corridor Plan; they will revisit the issue tomorrow: http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/localnews/2010/11/16/interstate-69-study-route-to-be-revisite-78.php
(still no subscription; not sure what alternatives are)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 25, 2010, 10:01:22 AM
Quote from: US71 on November 24, 2010, 06:50:09 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 24, 2010, 05:44:34 PM
Did you have a chance to check on 5 mile section on Arkansas side of state line?
Yes, I did.
Miller CR 41: mostly preliminary dirt work.  I-49 parallels the road
71 @ AR 549: dirt embankments still u/c on both sides of 71 and end of 549. I'm guessing less than 50 percent complete
AR 245: preliminary dirt work to the east of AR 245 just south of I-30. Less than 25 percent complete
19th St Interchange is about 75 percent finished. Overpass is complete, but work continues on ramps and rebuilding 245.
Also appears to be some work on 245 at US 82, but it was getting too dark to see.
(above quote from "I-49 in LA" thread)

Great update/ report.  Thanks for sharing (including LA updates).  One other question: does the section of AR 245 that will become part of I-49, other than 19th Street interchange, appear to be up to current interstate standards?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on November 25, 2010, 12:06:43 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 25, 2010, 10:01:22 AM

Great update/ report.  Thanks for sharing (including LA updates).  One other question: does the section of AR 245 that will become part of I-49, other than 19th Street interchange, appear to be up to current interstate standards?

A far as I can tell, yes it is. I'm sure 19th St will be finished sometime next Spring.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: tafd00367 on December 05, 2010, 03:47:10 PM
Great update/ report.  Thanks for sharing (including LA updates).  One other question: does the section of AR 245 that will become part of I-49, other than 19th Street interchange, appear to be up to current interstate standards?
[/quote]

New to board and from Texarkana. The remaing section of Ar 245 that will become I-49 from Hwy. 67 to Ark. Blvd will need to be torn up and relaid it's in very rough shape and has been for number of years. Now if they do this i'm not sure, but i'm think they would with shape it's in.  The plans that I looked at arouund a month ago show that I-49 will go under Ark. Blvd. for hundred yards or so then go to right and connect into the new I-49 section. 

Hwy 82 is been widing from 2 lane to 5 lanes 4 with center turn lane. This is being done from Ar 245/I-49 to Ar Hwy 237.

Hwy 196 has been widing from Hwy 245/I-49 past Hwy 237 for appox 2-3 miles. Still 2 lanes but much better now and with wide shoulders.

19th Street area plans call for it be done in the spring, but still lots to be done.


Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on December 05, 2010, 05:25:07 PM
Quote from: tafd00367 on December 05, 2010, 03:47:10 PM
New to board and from Texarkana.
Welcome and thanks for your initial post giving us an update re Future I-49 in your hometown.

On the Texas side, what are the primary neighborhood issues that kept the Texarkana MPO from signing off on a proposed study corridor through the MPO area for the I-69 Spur, and what is the next step in the process?

Welcome again!

EDIT - NEXT STEP IN I-69 SPUR PROCESS

I recently emailed the Texarkana MPO regarding the reported rejection of the proposed study corridor.  Pertinent part of the reply:

Quote
The Texarkana MPO adopted an alternative resolution that identified a larger study area for consideration and evaluation as the planning process for I-69 moves forward.

I did not receive any information as to the nature of the neighborhood concerns.
Title: Future I-49 AR; LA State Line to Doddridge
Post by: Grzrd on February 04, 2011, 12:17:05 PM
I recently looked at AHTD's ARRA page regarding two Miller County Future I-49 projects, grading project 030354 from Co. Rd 2 to Doddridge (scheduled to be completed by June 30) and grading project 030353 from the LA state line to Co. Rd. 2 (scheduled to be completed by December 31):

http://www.arkansashighways.com/ARRA/update_11222010/ARRA%2011-22-10.pdf

I emailed AHTD to see if there was a chance these two sections might be opened to traffic in coordination with Louisiana's plan to open several sections of I-49 North to traffic in 2013.  The reply indicates that AHTD intends to let a major "Structures" contract for these two sections in October, 2011 and then let a paving contract for the approximate 4.4 miles after completion of the "Structures" contract.  They did not provide a projected timetable for completion of the paving, but I suspect it will be well past 2013.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: ShawnP on February 04, 2011, 12:58:42 PM
Well talk about the slow track for those 4.4 miles.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Henry on February 04, 2011, 01:52:10 PM
I have been aware of I-49 coming to Texarkana, but not an I-69 spur. Still, that's a great report.
Title: Texarkana I-69 Spur Coming Soon as Toll Road?
Post by: Grzrd on May 18, 2011, 10:46:31 AM
Construction of I-69 Spur might be accelerated in some form as a toll road:

http://sacurrent.com/news/story.asp?id=72428

Quote
Just when you thought the state's controversial practice of using public-private partnerships to build new toll roads was dead, it isn't. Like a zombie in Night of the Living Dead, they are back and stronger than ever. On the last Friday in April, with little attention from the media, the Texas House of Representatives took a giant leap forward in expanding these public-private partnerships to build toll roads – a tactic anti-toll-road advocates say is tantamount to selling off Texas' transportation infrastructure to private corporations.
That notable Friday, the Texas House took up Senate Bill 1420 – more commonly known as the TxDOT Sunset Bill – the legislation that will reauthorize the Texas Department of Transportation and guide its operations for the next several years. During the course of the debate on the bill, legislator after legislator stepped up to the microphone and added public-private toll road projects to the bill ...
Toll projects rolled into TxDOT Sunset bill ...
The Interstate Highway 69 project in Bowie County from the Sulphur River Bridge to Interstate Highway 30 (see the north-east end of the TTC-69/I-69 map - This uses very vague language, presumably because it will convert parts of the existing right of way of Hwy 59 into TTC-69/I-69 and make it a foreign-owned toll road without saying so. Hwy 59 is the new identified route for TTC-69/I-69 in northeast Texas)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 27, 2011, 08:41:28 PM
The possibility of the legislation recently introduced by the Texas delegation allowing signage of interstate-grade sections of the I-69 corridor led me to think about the the Carthage-Texarkana I-69 Spur.  I emailed the Texarkana MPO with a few questions.

Quote
The questions :

1. Are any sections of US 59 between Carthage and Texarkana currently interstate standard?;
2. If so, is the current thinking that signs would go up shortly after passage of the legislation; and
3. Since the main route of I-69 will go from Carthage to Louisiana, has a designation been chosen for the Carthage to Texarkana segment (i.e. I-69N, I-169, I-969, etc.)?

The answers (from Brad McCaleb, Director, Texarkana MPO):

"Thank you for your interest in our transportation system.  I believe the legislation you are referring to is HB 1535 (Farenthold).   In response to your questions:

1.       Yes, the existing section of US 59/Loop 151 from the interchange with US 59B/SH 93/Lake Drive to the IH 30/US 59 interchange currently meets interstate standards and could be utilized as a portion of the IH 69 facility.

2.       It is possible.  However there will be some time lag due to the expense of the signs and production/installation time.  I really can't give you an estimate on the timeline.

3.       Not to my knowledge.

I'm guessing I-969 as the eventual designation of the I-69 Spur.  Any other guesses out there?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on August 14, 2011, 02:22:34 PM
This news report has AHTD officials stating that the Doddridge to LA state line section of I-49 should be finished by 2015.  The video in the report has some aerial construction shots: http://www.ktbs.com/news/28413069/detail.html
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 01, 2011, 12:01:45 PM
I just received a couple of email updates from AHTD. The 19th Street interchange with AR 245 is expected to be completed by the end of this year, which will make AR 245 (Future I-49) interstate-grade from Doddridge to the new terrain construction near the airport.  Also, the I-49 new terrain construction projects from AR 245 to I-30 and I-30 to US 71 are still on track to be completed by mid-2013.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 22, 2011, 11:34:21 AM
Another small step for completion of I-49 from LA state line to I-30; major structures contract for section from LA state line to Doddridge will be let on October 19.  Here is link to plans for the project:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/LETTING%20PLANS/030355.pdf
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: ShawnP on September 23, 2011, 01:18:12 PM
With it going thru Texas but no exits in Texas. How hard will it be to get Texas to fund or will it have to be 100% feds for that segment?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on September 23, 2011, 03:01:11 PM
Actually, only a small segment of I-49 north of Texarkana to the Arkansas River will be going through Texas, so I'm guessing that it will be the usual 90 Fed/10 State formula.

If an I-x49 bypass is built west of Texarkana or the current US 59 freeway loop or the I-69 spur from Carthage is extended north to connect with I-49 before it crosses the Arkansas River, then there will be an exit after all.


Anthony
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on October 04, 2011, 09:05:56 PM
 Future I-49 interchange from I-30  south to Hwy. 245, contractor has started pouring concrete last week. It looks like about 80% of the whole project has been installed with crushed rock and the base payment. Starting to look more like an Interstate.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on October 04, 2011, 11:46:34 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on September 23, 2011, 03:01:11 PM
Actually, only a small segment of I-49 north of Texarkana to the Arkansas River will be going through Texas, so I'm guessing that it will be the usual 90 Fed/10 State formula.


Anthony

I think you mean the Red River? 

The Arkansas River is about 9 miles north of me ;)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on October 21, 2011, 02:08:47 PM
Contract for construction of six bridges on Future I-49 from LA state line to Doddridge has been awarded (pending approval from feds) with a price tag of approximately $7 million:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/letting/October%2011%20Award%20List.pdf

Quote
THE PURPOSE OF THIS PROJECT IS TO CONSTRUCT SIX BRIDGES ON THE NEW LOCATION ALIGNMENT FOR HWY. 71 IN MILLER COUNTY NORTH OF THE LOUISIANA LINE.  THIS PROJECT CONSISTS OF A PAIR OF CONT. PRESTRESSED TYPE III CONCRETE BEAM BRIDGES (377.75'), A PAIR OF CONT. PRESTRESSED BT-72 CONCRETE GIRDER BRIDGES (285.44') AND A PAIR OF CONT. PRESTRESSED TYPE IV CONCRETE BEAM BRIDGES (402.34'), AND MISC. ITEMS.
(http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/letting/Bid_Tabs.doc) (page 3).

The two grading projects associated with this stretch of Future I-49 appear to be on track, with the section from Co. Rd. 2 to Doddridge scheduled to be completed around November 18 and the section from the Louisiana state line to Co. Rd. 2 scheduled to be completed around April 27, 2012 [page 2/9 of pdf]:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ARRA/update_100611/ARRA%20List%20AHTD%20WEB2.pdf
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on November 01, 2011, 08:32:56 PM
In Monday's Texarkana Gazette there were 2 articles on I-49, Making Tracks which Interstate Highway Construction thinks they will be 95% complete with the concrete paving by the end of the year. And maybe be finished with the project by the end next year. The project is from Highway 245 to 71 north. Here is the article at bchewning@texarkanagazette.com.The other article is about securing funding and getting the corridor built, kavery@texarkanagazette.com. Hope you can read the these articles, Gordon
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on November 01, 2011, 10:57:38 PM
Quote from: Gordon on November 01, 2011, 08:32:56 PM
In Monday's Texarkana Gazette there were 2 articles on I-49, Making Tracks which Interstate Highway Construction thinks they will be 95% complete with the concrete paving by the end of the year. And maybe be finished with the project by the end next year. The project is from Highway 245 to 71 north. Here is the article at bchewning@texarkanagazette.com.The other article is about securing funding and getting the corridor built, kavery@texarkanagazette.com. Hope you can read the these articles, Gordon


Your links are all email addresses, not the links to the articles themselves. Fix, please.


Anthony
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: codyg1985 on November 02, 2011, 07:12:23 AM
Here are the two articles:

Interstate 49 taking shape around Texarkana (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2011/10/31/making-tracks-187807.php)
Local heads international group aimed at getting corridor built (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2011/10/31/local-heads-international-group-aimed-at-186007.php)

Unfortunately you have to pay in order to view the articles.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 02, 2011, 12:00:10 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on November 02, 2011, 07:12:23 AM
Here are the two articles:
Interstate 49 taking shape around Texarkana (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2011/10/31/making-tracks-187807.php)
Local heads international group aimed at getting corridor built (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2011/10/31/local-heads-international-group-aimed-at-186007.php)
Unfortunately you have to pay in order to view the articles.
I broke down and spent the $1.95 per article to have them emailed to me.  Points of interest to me from first article:
- Nearly 8 mile stretch from Arkansas Boulevard to US 71 is proceeding ahead of schedule and, although scheduled to completed by spring 2013, should be finished and open to traffic within a year.
- Sanderson Lane will have an interchange; Sugar Hill Road will not.
- The new bridges over I-30 serve as a nesting area for cliff swallows; under the Migratory Bird Act, no work on the bridges can be done while the cliff swallows are nesting.

The second article discusses how a Texarkansan heads the I-49 International Coalition and how that group is constantly trying to keep I-49 in the forefront of legislators' minds for whenever more money becomes available.  The article mentions $10 billion as amount for Arkansas.

EDIT

One other note from the first article:
- Part of the overall project is replacing the concrete on AR 245 from US 67 to Arkansas Boulevard.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: codyg1985 on November 02, 2011, 12:02:12 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 02, 2011, 12:00:10 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on November 02, 2011, 07:12:23 AM
Here are the two articles:
Interstate 49 taking shape around Texarkana (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2011/10/31/making-tracks-187807.php)
Local heads international group aimed at getting corridor built (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2011/10/31/local-heads-international-group-aimed-at-186007.php)
Unfortunately you have to pay in order to view the articles.
I broke down and spent the $1.95 per article to have them emailed to me.  Points of interest to me from first article:
- Nearly 8 mile stretch from Arkansas Boulevard to US 71 is proceeding ahead of schedule and, although scheduled to completed by spring 2013, should be finished and open to traffic within a year.
- Sanderson Lane will have an interchange; Sugar Hill Road will not.
- The new bridges over I-30 serve as a nesting area for cliff swallows; under the Migratory Bird Act, no work on the bridges can be done while the cliff swallows are nesting.

The second article discusses how a Texarkansan heads the I-49 International Coalition and how that group is constantly trying to keep I-49 in the forefront of legislators' minds for whenever more money becomes available.  The article mentions $10 billion as amount for Arkansas.

Thanks for taking one for the team!

$10 billion as how much it will cost to build the remainder of I-49 in Arkansas or how much money would be available?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 02, 2011, 12:13:43 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on November 02, 2011, 12:02:12 PM
$10 billion as how much it will cost to build the remainder of I-49 in Arkansas or how much money would be available?
The article states that "the estimated cost to build [I-49 in Arkansas] is close to $10 billion".  I assume that number excludes past construction.

Also, thanks to Gordon for a great find!  Keep that Texarkana intel coming (don't forget about I-69 Spur info, too!)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on November 02, 2011, 12:37:36 PM
Quote from: US71 on October 04, 2011, 11:46:34 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on September 23, 2011, 03:01:11 PM
Actually, only a small segment of I-49 north of Texarkana to the Arkansas River will be going through Texas, so I'm guessing that it will be the usual 90 Fed/10 State formula.


Anthony

I think you mean the Red River? 

The Arkansas River is about 9 miles north of me ;)

Yeah, that's what I meant. Thanks for the correction.


Anthony
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 17, 2011, 11:38:38 AM
I just received an email reply from AHTD regarding possible I-49 signage in the Texarkana area (my question and then AHTD answer):

Quote
Q "... since Louisiana will open an approximate 30 mile stretch of I-49 from AR state line to near Shreveport in 2013, will I-49 from Doddridge to Texas state line just north of Texarkana be signed as I-49 when 8 mile new terrain section around Texarkana opens around this time next year (... as a show of progress to attract federal funding)?"

A "The plan right now is for the Highway 549 signage to extend from Texarkana to the state line, but we will be looking into possible signing of I-49 for that section."

Quote from: agentsteel53 on August 28, 2010, 02:13:01 PM
Texas at this time does not put the state name.  we are working on it.
If Arkansas does sign this section as I-49, I can envision at least a couple of directional I-49 shields in Texas along US 59.  After the successful effort regarding the state name on Texas I-69 shields, is the SHIELD team ready for a similar lobbying effort regarding I-49?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on December 22, 2011, 12:37:51 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 17, 2011, 11:38:38 AM
I just received an email reply from AHTD regarding possible I-49 signage in the Texarkana area (my question and then AHTD answer):

Q "... since Louisiana will open an approximate 30 mile stretch of I-49 from AR state line to near Shreveport in 2013, will I-49 from Doddridge to Texas state line just north of Texarkana be signed as I-49 when 8 mile new terrain section around Texarkana opens around this time next year (... as a show of progress to attract federal funding)?"

A "The plan right now is for the Highway 549 signage to extend from Texarkana to the state line, but we will be looking into possible signing of I-49 for that section."

Translation: we'll ask the AASHTO ;)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 02, 2012, 03:29:31 PM
Quote from: US71 on December 22, 2011, 12:37:51 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 17, 2011, 11:38:38 AM
"The plan right now is for the Highway 549 signage to extend from Texarkana to the state line, but we will be looking into possible signing of I-49 for that section."
Translation: we'll ask the AASHTO ;)
I hope your translation is on the mark.  ;-)  If not, since I'm advocating that AHTD should submit another I-49 North designation application over on the Bella Vista/Fort Smith thread, I'll also advocate here that they should submit another I-49 South application.  In 2007, the I-49 South application (from Louisiana state line to Texas state line north of Texarkana) was denied because "road not yet under construction":
http://route.transportation.org/Documents/AM2007_USRN_ReporttoSCOH.pdf
All of I-49 between the Louisiana and Texas state lines is now under construction and all of it except for approximately 4.4 miles near LA state line (estimated completion in 2015) should be completed by this time next year.  Seems like a good time for another I-49 South application, too.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on January 02, 2012, 06:07:25 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 02, 2012, 03:29:31 PM

All of I-49 between the Louisiana and Texas state lines is now under construction and all of it except for approximately 4.4 miles near LA state line (estimated completion in 2015) should be completed by this time next year.  Seems like a good time for another I-49 South application, too.

In theory, I can see AR 549 going to I-49 once Louisiana has finished and one the remaining 4 miles in Arkansas have been completed. I think AHTD needs to submit 2 applications: one for Texarkana, one for Bella Vista. It's interesting that Arkansas has no "Future 49" signs like Louisiana does. Future I-69 and Future I-555, yes;  I-49, no.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 05, 2012, 08:31:21 PM
Google Maps show the I-49 entrance and exit ramps connecting to N Stateline Ave in Texas:
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=texarkana+ar&hl=en&ll=33.515351,-94.039493&spn=0.015886,0.027423&sll=33.019477,-93.90152&sspn=0.007988,0.013711&vpsrc=6&hnear=Texarkana,+Miller,+Arkansas&t=h&z=15
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on January 05, 2012, 08:35:45 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 05, 2012, 08:31:21 PM
Google Maps show the I-49 entrance and exit ramps connecting to N Stateline Ave in Texas:
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=texarkana+ar&hl=en&ll=33.515351,-94.039493&spn=0.015886,0.027423&sll=33.019477,-93.90152&sspn=0.007988,0.013711&vpsrc=6&hnear=Texarkana,+Miller,+Arkansas&t=h&z=15

DANG! Now I have to investigate!
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on January 06, 2012, 12:55:10 AM
Quote from: US71 on January 05, 2012, 08:35:45 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 05, 2012, 08:31:21 PM
Google Maps show the I-49 entrance and exit ramps connecting to N Stateline Ave in Texas:
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=texarkana+ar&hl=en&ll=33.515351,-94.039493&spn=0.015886,0.027423&sll=33.019477,-93.90152&sspn=0.007988,0.013711&vpsrc=6&hnear=Texarkana,+Miller,+Arkansas&t=h&z=15

DANG! Now I have to investigate!

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.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 06, 2012, 11:10:45 AM
Quote from: bugo on January 06, 2012, 12:55:10 AM
Quote from: US71 on January 05, 2012, 08:35:45 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 05, 2012, 08:31:21 PM
Google Maps show the I-49 entrance and exit ramps connecting to N Stateline Ave in Texas:
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=texarkana+ar&hl=en&ll=33.515351,-94.039493&spn=0.015886,0.027423&sll=33.019477,-93.90152&sspn=0.007988,0.013711&vpsrc=6&hnear=Texarkana,+Miller,+Arkansas&t=h&z=15
DANG! Now I have to investigate!
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.
Sorry, but I just had an ethanmoment: see if it can handle 75, too!  :D
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on January 06, 2012, 07:02:51 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 02, 2012, 03:29:31 PM
Quote from: US71 on December 22, 2011, 12:37:51 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 17, 2011, 11:38:38 AM
"The plan right now is for the Highway 549 signage to extend from Texarkana to the state line, but we will be looking into possible signing of I-49 for that section."
Translation: we'll ask the AASHTO ;)
I hope your translation is on the mark.  ;-)  If not, since I'm advocating that AHTD should submit another I-49 North designation application over on the Bella Vista/Fort Smith thread, I'll also advocate here that they should submit another I-49 South application.  In 2007, the I-49 South application (from Louisiana state line to Texas state line north of Texarkana) was denied because "road not yet under construction":
http://www.transportation.org/sites/route/docs/AM2007_USRN_Report%20to%20SCOH.pdf

All of I-49 between the Louisiana and Texas state lines is now under construction and all of it except for approximately 4.4 miles near LA state line (estimated completion in 2015) should be completed by this time next year.  Seems like a good time for another I-49 South application, too.

Uhh...that should be "I-49 NORTH". Lafayette to NOLA is what is popularly called "I-49 South" around here.

Anthony
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 06, 2012, 07:40:31 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on January 06, 2012, 07:02:51 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 02, 2012, 03:29:31 PM
since I'm advocating that AHTD should submit another I-49 North designation application over on the Bella Vista/Fort Smith thread, I'll also advocate here that they should submit another I-49 South application.  In 2007, the I-49 South application (from Louisiana state line to Texas state line north of Texarkana) was denied because "road not yet under construction":
http://route.transportation.org/Documents/AM2007_USRN_ReporttoSCOH.pdf
Uhh...that should be "I-49 NORTH". Lafayette to NOLA is what is popularly called "I-49 South" around here.
Anthony

As seen in the link included in the above quote, AHTD submitted two applications to AASHTO in 2007: an "Arkansas I-49 North" application (I-40 to Missouri state line), and an "Arkansas I-49 South" application (Texas state line to Louisiana (your home of the more commonly known "I-49 North" and "I-49 South" projects) state line).

I just used the 2007 descriptions that AHTD used in order to minimize confusion (oh well, I guess I failed in that respect).  :-/  From the Arkansas perspective, I did mean "I-49 SOUTH".

BTW keep fighting the good fight for LA's I-49 South!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Revive 755 on January 06, 2012, 09:08:39 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 17, 2011, 11:38:38 AM
I just received an email reply from AHTD regarding possible I-49 signage in the Texarkana area (my question and then AHTD answer):

Q "... since Louisiana will open an approximate 30 mile stretch of I-49 from AR state line to near Shreveport in 2013, will I-49 from Doddridge to Texas state line just north of Texarkana be signed as I-49 when 8 mile new terrain section around Texarkana opens around this time next year (... as a show of progress to attract federal funding)?"

A "The plan right now is for the Highway 549 signage to extend from Texarkana to the state line, but we will be looking into possible signing of I-49 for that section."

So Arkansas has completely given up on posting an I-130 around Texarkana?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 06, 2012, 09:25:09 PM
Quote from: Revive 755 on January 06, 2012, 09:08:39 PM
So Arkansas has completely given up on posting an I-130 around Texarkana?
Quote from: Grzrd on January 02, 2012, 03:29:31 PM
In 2007, the I-49 South application (from Louisiana state line to Texas state line north of Texarkana) was denied because "road not yet under construction":
http://route.transportation.org/Documents/AM2007_USRN_ReporttoSCOH.pdf
Quote from: Gordon on January 06, 2012, 06:17:55 PM
The last contract shows the signs will be 549. Job # 030325 sheet 71. Hwy. 245 will end at Arkansas Blvd. Just north of Arkansas Blvd is where the new road will tie  together with the new 549 to Interstate 30. I will try and get some pictures soon. Concrete road bed is pretty much complete but they still have to do the shoulders.
Quote from: Alex on January 06, 2012, 12:02:38 PM
Apparently there were Future I-130 signs posted in 2001, but when we drove through in 2003 they were gone. I guess no one in the road community snapped a photo?
(Posts from Gordon and Alex are from "I-49 north Texarkana thoughts" thread)

I suppose that if Arkansas wants the interstate "brand" for the route, but is not ready to pull the trigger on "I-49" again because of possible AASHTO denial, then there is a remote possibility that "I-130" could return.  If not, it would be great if a photo showed up.  Also, there might be a lucky "collector" somewhere who has a real collector's item.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 10, 2012, 11:54:45 AM
Quote from: US71 on January 02, 2012, 06:07:25 PM
It's interesting that Arkansas has no "Future 49" signs like Louisiana does. Future I-69 and Future I-555, yes;  I-49, no.
I agree that it is very interesting that Arkansas does not have any "Future I-49 Corridor" signs, particlarly between I-30 and I-40 (and, on second thought, could "Future I-49" shields be posted along I-540 north of I-40?).

I emailed AHTD and asked them why no "Future I-49 Corridor" signs are posted.  The response I received:

Quote
We looked into that, but the federal government prefers the project to be further along that what we have at this time to consider the signing.

If that is indeed the case, why did the feds allow "Future I-69 Corridor" signs to be posted?  In Arkansas, I-49 is much farther along in progress than I-69.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on January 10, 2012, 12:02:38 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 10, 2012, 11:54:45 AM

I emailed AHTD and asked them why no "Future I-49 Corridor" signs are posted.  The response I received:

"We looked into that, but the federal government prefers the project to be further along that what we have at this time to consider the signing."

If that is indeed the case, why did the feds allow "Future I-69 Corridor" signs to be posted?  In Arkansas, I-49 is much farther along in progress than I-69.


Or Future I-49 in Louisiana? To me, it sounds like they are trying to pass the blame someone else for what they don't want to do. I see they say the government "prefers", but not the government "forbids".

Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on January 21, 2012, 08:51:19 PM
I looked over the 549 construction in Texarkana today and the contractor was working on about every part of it. The main concrete lanes are done. They were working on the merging lanes to the existing roads. Also they were hauling in crushed rock for the shoulders, Breaking up the existing concrete and hauling it away where Hwy 245 will relocate to Arkansas Blvd. I feel like they will complete this project by the end of the year.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 21, 2012, 09:16:25 PM
Quote from: Gordon on January 21, 2012, 08:51:19 PM
I looked over the 549 construction in Texarkana today and the contractor was working on about every part of it. The main concrete lanes are done. They were working on the merging lanes to the existing roads.
Have they completed the 19th Street/Hwy 245 interchange? (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=texarkana+ar&hl=en&ll=33.434414,-94.004774&spn=0.022348,0.038409&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=43.25835,78.662109&vpsrc=6&hnear=Texarkana,+Miller,+Arkansas&t=h&z=15)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on January 21, 2012, 09:57:44 PM
I didn't drive down that today. But the last I did drive by, they were finished with the main lanes, just working on the access roads at 82 Hwy.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on January 23, 2012, 07:20:47 PM
I drove down Hwy 245 today and 19th Street/Hwy 245 interchange is finished. Didn't see any equipment around on that project so looks like it is complete. Interstate Hwy co. doing the new 549 project has made a crossover south of Hwy 67 so they can replace the concrete between Ark. Blvd and Hwy 67. Working on the south bound lanes breaking up the Existing concrete. It really needs this replaced because the existing concrete is broken up bad.This company really gets after it.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on January 23, 2012, 08:08:45 PM
Quote from: Gordon on January 23, 2012, 07:20:47 PM
I drove down Hwy 245 today and 19th Street/Hwy 245 interchange is finished. Didn't see any equipment around on that project so looks like it is complete. Interstate Hwy co. doing the new 549 project has made a crossover south of Hwy 67 so they can replace the concrete between Ark. Blvd and Hwy 67. Working on the south bound lanes breaking up the Existing concrete. It really needs this replaced because the existing concrete is broken up bad.This company really gets after it.

Yeah, it's been that way for a long time.

Thanks for the update. I may try to check it out in a couple weeks. If not, it will be mid-March before I get by there
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 23, 2012, 08:57:55 PM
Quote from: Gordon on January 23, 2012, 07:20:47 PM
I drove down Hwy 245 today and 19th Street/Hwy 245 interchange is finished. Didn't see any equipment around on that project so looks like it is complete.
Thanks for the great field report.  Looks like Wikipedia's Texarkana Loop page now needs an update. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loop_(Texarkana))  ;-)

Quote
Arkansas is using American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 funds to pave the final segment of future I-130, from the Arkansas Boulevard interchange to a new freeway-to-freeway interchange with I-30.[3] Once this section is opened, the only remaining requirement to become I-130 will be upgrading the at-grade intersection with 19th Street to a full interchange; the right-of-way for this was reserved years ago. However, with I-49 also pending completion between Texarkana and Shreveport, Louisiana (including a segment in Arkansas also being built with ARRA funds[3]), it is unknown at this point if it will become I-130 before being formally incorporated into I-49.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 24, 2012, 02:05:28 PM
Google Maps update that Stephane Dumas posted on "I-49 (Bella Vista, Fort Smith)" thread (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Mira,+Louisiana&hl=en&ll=33.019711,-93.901195&spn=0.00108,0.002401&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=33.435463,78.662109&oq=mira+louisi&vpsrc=6&hnear=Mira,+1,+Caddo,+Louisiana&t=h&z=19) also shows an impressive barrier at the Arkansas/Louisiana state line built by AHTD's contractor to apparently keep out the roadgeek infidels (and good progress on structural work at CO Rd 4 2-3 miles north of the barrier).  Another Maginot Line?  Only time will tell ...  :bigass:
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 25, 2012, 04:06:18 PM
The meeting notes from the Texas I-69 Segment Committee 1's November 9, 2011 meeting (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/notes/seg1/notes_110911.pdf) confirm that the Texarkana US 59 relief route is a Recommended Priority [pages 3-4/31 of the pdf].  Also, the following two points were made about the Texarkana US 59 relief route in the "Discussion of Early Implementation Opportunities [page 4/31 of pdf]:

Quote
- Connections are important, to the interstates, I-20 (Marshall relief route), I-30 (Texarkana relief route) and the I-69 national route (Joaquin/Tenaha relief route).
- From the Sulphur River Bridge to I-30 could be the first phase of the Texarkana relief route. This is consistent with the resolution of the Texarkana MPO. The Texarkana resolution should be captured in the final committee report.

The Alliance for I-69 Texas Texarkana to Lufkin Projects page (http://i69texasalliance.com/projects%20NE.html) provides a description of where the I-69 Spur might tie in to I-30:

Quote
Preliminary alignment planning is underway on the I-69 Texarkana West Loop. The relief route would connect to Interstate 30 at a point near the former Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant site, now known as TexAmericas Center. It would run south to connect to the existing US 59 route at a point northeast of Wright Patman Lake.

None of the above indicates near-term plans for the Texarkana US 59 relief route to proceed north of I-30 and eastward to connect with I-49.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Stephane Dumas on January 25, 2012, 06:50:19 PM
Does TXDOT built a new interchange on I-30 west of Texarkana? From what I see on Google maps, it seems a new one coming http://maps.google.com/?ll=33.468573,-94.303679&spn=0.027745,0.038581&t=k&z=15

Btw, any plan to extend the I-30 service roads west of Texarkana as well? They end currently at FM-989.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on January 25, 2012, 07:52:32 PM
Quote from: Stephane Dumas on January 25, 2012, 06:50:19 PM
Does TXDOT built a new interchange on I-30 west of Texarkana? From what I see on Google maps, it seems a new one coming http://maps.google.com/?ll=33.468573,-94.303679&spn=0.027745,0.038581&t=k&z=15
Yes, for new Spur 594.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on January 31, 2012, 05:20:20 PM
Will Spur 594 be a freeway?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on January 31, 2012, 06:01:18 PM
1.       Yes, the existing section of US 59/Loop 151 from the interchange with US 59B/SH 93/Lake Drive to the IH 30/US 59 interchange currently meets interstate standards and could be utilized as a portion of the IH 69 facility.


Grzrd, do you really think they will use that section towards the I-69 spur? So many businesses and homes south of the current 59/Loop 151 freeway would have to be relocated in order to upgrade the rest of 59 to interstate standards. Do you think it would be cheaper to build a whole new section?

Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 31, 2012, 08:51:36 PM
Quote from: dariusb on January 31, 2012, 06:01:18 PM
Grzrd, do you really think they will use that section towards the I-69 spur? So many businesses and homes south of the current 59/Loop 151 freeway would have to be relocated in order to upgrade the rest of 59 to interstate standards. Do you think it would be cheaper to build a whole new section?

I believe you are referring to an email answer I received from the Texarkana MPO:

Quote from: Grzrd on May 27, 2011, 08:41:28 PM
1. Are any sections of US 59 between Carthage and Texarkana currently interstate standard?;
The answers (from Brad McCaleb, Director, Texarkana MPO):
1. Yes, the existing section of US 59/Loop 151 from the interchange with US 59B/SH 93/Lake Drive to the IH 30/US 59 interchange currently meets interstate standards and could be utilized as a portion of the IH 69 facility.

Mr. McCaleb responded to my question about the current state of the US 59 section and said that it could be used as part of I-69.  Similarly, the Alliance for I-69 Texas "Where Interstate 69 in Texas Stands Today" page (http://www.i69texasalliance.com/i69.html) shows the the existing section of US 59/Loop 151 from the interchange with US 59B/SH 93/Lake Drive to the IH 30/US 59 interchange as being an "existing freeway section on I-69 route".

Above said, the Texarkana MPO has studied a new terrain I-69 Planning Corridor with Alternative Route (http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/upcoming-activities/I-69-Proposed-Planning-Corridor-Citizen-Alternative.pdf) from northeast of Wright Patman Lake to I-30 and over to I-49.  More recently, The Alliance for I-69 Texas Texarkana to Lufkin Projects page (http://i69texasalliance.com/projects%20NE.html) provides a description of where the I-69 Spur might tie in to I-30:

Quote
Preliminary alignment planning is underway on the I-69 Texarkana West Loop. The relief route would connect to Interstate 30 at a point near the former Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant site, now known as TexAmericas Center. It would run south to connect to the existing US 59 route at a point northeast of Wright Patman Lake.

Unlike the Texarkana MPO study, no mention is made of an I-30 to I-49 link.

To finally get to your question, I believe the strong preference is to build the new terrain relief route and to not use the currently existing freeway section; the meeting notes from the Texas I-69 Segment Committee 1's November 9, 2011 meeting (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/notes/seg1/notes_110911.pdf) classify the Texarkana US 59 relief route as a Recommended Priority [pages 3-4/31 of the pdf].   I do not know the comparative costs, but I am certain that costs will be a factor in the ultimate decision.

Speaking of costs, I hope the Texarkana MPO preserves the corridor for the I-30 to I-49 section of the I-69 Spur and avoids the situation that NLCOG is currently facing with the LA 3132/Shreveport Inner Loop in Louisiana.  :pan:
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: wtd67 on January 31, 2012, 09:57:24 PM
Went through Texarkana today, forgot my camera, but used my iPhone to get some pics as I traveled north on 245 and Future I-49 & I-30 exit.

AR245 (Northbound)
At Arkansas Blvd
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fpages.suddenlink.net%2Fwtd67%2FPictures%2FRoadPics%2FAR245%2FIMG_0309.JPG&hash=d8050ba076304f358dfb2c5b7282a8d642635f3b)

North of Arkansas Blvd
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fpages.suddenlink.net%2Fwtd67%2FPictures%2FRoadPics%2FAR245%2FIMG_0312.JPG&hash=aa897b06a24c9a86159b8a704cc6064f041bdace)

New Location to the right (where the pile of dirt is)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fpages.suddenlink.net%2Fwtd67%2FPictures%2FRoadPics%2FAR245%2FIMG_0313.JPG&hash=ae3b83cd80318cd1d1129f0ebbd1ba1dc9bfd403)

North of new location:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fpages.suddenlink.net%2Fwtd67%2FPictures%2FRoadPics%2FAR245%2FIMG_0316.JPG&hash=1d4d8454458b2933e525c531cf2599eb5c6c955f)

I-30 (Eastbound) & Future I-49
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fpages.suddenlink.net%2Fwtd67%2FPictures%2FRoadPics%2FI30_Texarkana%2FIMG_0324.JPG&hash=69820528bdf692cb507ceac8c14c70cdf8a0f6cd)

I-30 (Eastbound) & Future I-49
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fpages.suddenlink.net%2Fwtd67%2FPictures%2FRoadPics%2FI30_Texarkana%2FIMG_0327.JPG&hash=653cf4a69fd014b542c870bbd70709930a7eaa8a)

I-30 (Eastbound) & Future I-49
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fpages.suddenlink.net%2Fwtd67%2FPictures%2FRoadPics%2FI30_Texarkana%2FIMG_0330.JPG&hash=5c0f27a915407a3efb74a4a313764f84bba45406)

I-30 (Eastbound) & Future I-49
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fpages.suddenlink.net%2Fwtd67%2FPictures%2FRoadPics%2FI30_Texarkana%2FIMG_0337.JPG&hash=b83bc58d9bccfdbe67c098736b6ce03747578678)

Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on February 01, 2012, 05:17:38 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 31, 2012, 08:51:36 PM
Quote from: dariusb on January 31, 2012, 06:01:18 PM
Grzrd, do you really think they will use that section towards the I-69 spur? So many businesses and homes south of the current 59/Loop 151 freeway would have to be relocated in order to upgrade the rest of 59 to interstate standards. Do you think it would be cheaper to build a whole new section?
Grzrd thanks for clearing everything up for me. I'm new to the boards.

And new to quoting...  :pan: Responses go AT THE END. And delete irrelevant material.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 08, 2012, 07:09:11 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 31, 2012, 08:51:36 PM
the Texarkana MPO has studied a new terrain I-69 Planning Corridor with Alternative Route (http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/upcoming-activities/I-69-Proposed-Planning-Corridor-Citizen-Alternative.pdf) from northeast of Wright Patman Lake to I-30 and over to I-49 ...
Preliminary alignment planning is underway on the I-69 Texarkana West Loop. The relief route would connect to Interstate 30 at a point near the former Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant site, now known as TexAmericas Center. It would run south to connect to the existing US 59 route at a point northeast of Wright Patman Lake ... Unlike the Texarkana MPO study, no mention is made of an I-30 to I-49 link ... Speaking of costs, I hope the Texarkana MPO preserves the corridor for the I-30 to I-49 section of the I-69 Spur and avoids the situation that NLCOG is currently facing with the LA 3132/Shreveport Inner Loop in Louisiana.  :pan:

After sending out an email with some questions about the I-69 Spur, I eventually was referred to and had a very interesting conversation with an individual who serves on both the I-69 for Texas Alliance and the TxDOT I-69 Segment 1 Committee.

Regarding the I-30 to I-49 section of the I-69 Spur, he said that the Segment 1 Committee's study area has a northern terminus at I-30 because the Arkansas section of I-49 from I-40 to the Texas state line will not be completed for a very long time.  That said, the Texarkana MPO continues to study the I-30 to I-49 at N. Stateline Ave. connection as a long-term proposition (and who knows if they will preserve the corridor).

I then asked if they had ever studied a "southern connection" of I-49 and the I-69 Spur south of Texarkana (sort of an eastern extension of the West Loop).  He gave an emphatic "no" to that possibility and then gave me a "big picture" view of the I-69 Spur.  The thought is to pursue the notion of TexAmericas Center becoming an inland port, and the "southern connection" would not serve that thought.  The idea is to lease the air space over the I-69 Corridor from Texarkana to an as yet undetermined Texas Gulf port.  A private group of investors would then build an elevated Freight Shuttle (http://freightshuttleinternational.com/) track within the ground-level ROW of I-69 between Texarkana and the Gulf port.  The money from the air rights would be used to at least partially fund I-69 construction along the route of the track.  Also, the hope is that TexAmericas Center would also be the location of a manufacturing plant for the shuttle cars. The cost per mile for freight using the Shuttle is estimated to be 30 cents per mile and the cost per mile by truck is estimated to be $2.30 per mile.  Apparently, this idea is being studied very seriously.

If nothing else, this idea represents creative thinking by using existing ROW and, in a sense, having freight shippers pay a "toll" instead of private drivers.

I wonder if this concept could work for I-49 South: "America's Energy Corridor"?

It will be interesting to see if this concept gains any traction.   
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on February 08, 2012, 08:01:53 PM
Hmmmm...that sounds like a brilliant idea.

Considering all the major ports served by the US 90 corridor from Lafayette southward to the NOLA area (Port of Iberia, Port of South Louisiana, Port Fourchon), a freight shuttle down US 90 wouldn't be such a bad idea..and if it negates the need for tolls along I-49 South, so much the better. Problem is, would the BNSF Railway (who is the primary rail line serving the US 90 corridor) and Louisiana & Delta RR (the short line serving the same area) be willing to accept the competition from such a freight shuttle?

I can guess that the southern port for I-69 could potentially be either Freeport (via TX 288 or the proposed TX 35 tollway) or Corpus Christi via US 77??


Anthony
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on February 08, 2012, 11:44:58 PM
Could I-49 in TX be signed at 75 MPH?  It will go through a very rural area with few interchanges.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Henry on February 09, 2012, 11:07:06 AM
Quote from: bugo on February 08, 2012, 11:44:58 PM
Could I-49 in TX be signed at 75 MPH?  It will go through a very rural area with few interchanges.
Actually, you must be thinking of I-69, because I-49 is not going through Texas. And yes, the highway could be signed at 75 mph if TXDOT wanted it to. After all, there are 80 mph speed limits on the far western end of the state, so I don't see why the eastern half shouldn't get at least 70 or 75.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on February 09, 2012, 11:20:41 AM
Quote from: Henry on February 09, 2012, 11:07:06 AMActually, you must be thinking of I-69, because I-49 is not going through Texas.
If you look upthread it is going to clip the corner of Texas, with just half of the US71 interchange, the I-69 spur interchange and half a bridge in the state.

It's not that rural, or that long, and would effectively be like I-684 clipping NY, so I don't think it will be signed as 75 for the two miles, especially given the interchange density in the state won't be that low.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Henry on February 09, 2012, 11:27:53 AM
Quote from: english si on February 09, 2012, 11:20:41 AM
Quote from: Henry on February 09, 2012, 11:07:06 AMActually, you must be thinking of I-69, because I-49 is not going through Texas.
If you look upthread it is going to clip the corner of Texas, with no interchanges (maybe half of one) in the state. It's not that rural, or that long, and would effectively be like I-684 clipping NY, so I don't think it will be signed as 75 for the two miles.
Well, then I apologize. Another example is I-24 clipping Georgia, which goes unnoticed except by those actually going through that area.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 09, 2012, 11:57:23 AM
Quote from: english si on February 09, 2012, 11:20:41 AM
If you look upthread it is going to clip the corner of Texas, with just half of the US71 interchange, the I-69 spur interchange and half a bridge in the state ... I don't think it will be signed as 75 for the two miles, especially given the interchange density in the state won't be that low.

Actually, the anticipated routing through Texas is closer to sixteen miles:

Quote from: Grzrd on September 06, 2010, 03:05:25 PM
Quote
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.
(http://www.allbusiness.com/government/government-bodies-offices-regional-local/13536201-1.html)

Above link is now dead.  The projected route through Texas can be seen on the 2011 Arkansas Highway Map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/mapping_graphics/statehighwaymap_state2011.PDF).
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on February 09, 2012, 12:29:39 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 09, 2012, 11:57:23 AMActually, the anticipated routing through Texas is closer to sixteen miles:
<snip>
Above link is now dead.  The projected route through Texas can be seen on the 2011 Arkansas Highway Map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/mapping_graphics/statehighwaymap_state2011.PDF).
Is Texarkana similar in size to London? I know there's a lot more room out there and you can spread out and build a lower density, but the length of that section of I-49 wouldn't quite cross the city(s). 16 miles seems too big there - certainly 2 is too small, and was a mix of me forgetting how spread out America is, especially west of the MS (so I got the scale wrong) and a bit of hypobole, but it looks like it is 8 miles at most in TX from that map.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 09, 2012, 12:44:29 PM
^ You may well be right about the distance being closer to eight miles (using the map's scale, I also come up with approximately eight miles).  I simply quoted the article.  Also, TxDOT has not responded to my requests about I-49.  Maybe we'll find out for sure in about forty years ...
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 10, 2012, 10:29:09 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 09, 2012, 12:44:29 PM
You may well be right about the distance being closer to eight miles (using the map's scale, I also come up with approximately eight miles).  TxDOT has not responded to my requests about I-49.

Having had no luck with TxDOT, I gave AHTD a shot:

Quote
Our only intent is to show the corridor of future construction. It is certainly possible that we what we show in another state could be incorrect.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on February 13, 2012, 04:51:24 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 08, 2012, 07:09:11 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 31, 2012, 08:51:36 PM
the Texarkana MPO has studied a new terrain I-69 Planning Corridor with Alternative Route (http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/upcoming-activities/I-69-Proposed-Planning-Corridor-Citizen-Alternative.pdf) from northeast of Wright Patman Lake to I-30 and over to I-49 ...
Preliminary alignment planning is underway on the I-69 Texarkana West Loop. The relief route would connect to Interstate 30 at a point near the former Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant site, now known as TexAmericas Center. It would run south to connect to the existing US 59 route at a point northeast of Wright Patman Lake ... Unlike the Texarkana MPO study, no mention is made of an I-30 to I-49 link ... Speaking of costs, I hope the Texarkana MPO preserves the corridor for the I-30 to I-49 section of the I-69 Spur and avoids the situation that NLCOG is currently facing with the LA 3132/Shreveport Inner Loop in Louisiana.  :pan:

After sending out an email with some questions about the I-69 Spur, I eventually was referred to and had a very interesting conversation with an individual who serves on both the I-69 for Texas Alliance and the TxDOT I-69 Segment 1 Committee.

Regarding the I-30 to I-49 section of the I-69 Spur, he said that the Segment 1 Committee's study area has a northern terminus at I-30 because the Arkansas section of I-49 from I-40 to the Texas state line will not be completed for a very long time.  That said, the Texarkana MPO continues to study the I-30 to I-49 at N. Stateline Ave. connection as a long-term proposition (and who knows if they will preserve the corridor).

I then asked if they had ever studied a "southern connection" of I-49 and the I-69 Spur south of Texarkana (sort of an eastern extension of the West Loop).  He gave an emphatic "no" to that possibility and then gave me a "big picture" view of the I-69 Spur.  The thought is to pursue the notion of TexAmericas Center becoming an inland port, and the "southern connection" would not serve that thought.  The idea is to lease the air space over the I-69 Corridor from Texarkana to an as yet undetermined Texas Gulf port.  A private group of investors would then build an elevated Freight Shuttle (http://freightshuttleinternational.com/) track within the ground-level ROW of I-69 between Texarkana and the Gulf port.  The money from the air rights would be used to at least partially fund I-69 construction along the route of the track.  Also, the hope is that TexAmericas Center would also be the location of a manufacturing plant for the shuttle cars. The cost per mile for freight using the Shuttle is estimated to be 30 cents per mile and the cost per mile by truck is estimated to be $2.30 per mile.  Apparently, this idea is being studied very seriously.

If nothing else, this idea represents creative thinking by using existing ROW and, in a sense, having freight shippers pay a "toll" instead of private drivers.

I wonder if this concept could work for I-49 South: "America's Energy Corridor"?

It will be interesting to see if this concept gains any traction.   
I'm quite familiar with TexAmericas Center. If the inland port and rail project come to pass, it would be huge! The whole area would explode with growth and opportunity.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 15, 2012, 09:00:18 PM
In the "I-49 north Texarkana thoughts" thread, Gordon mentioned that he has posted some photos on the Future I-49 Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Future-I-49/112029835534714).  The first two photos are of the Co Rd 2 and Co Rd 4 bridges from the LA state line to Doddridge structures construction project.  Gordon, thanks for sharing them and I hope you don't mind that I have posted the link on this thread, too.

EDIT - Gordon has also posted these two photos and a third photo of I-49 at US 71 near Doddridge on the Build I-49 Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Build-I-49/288089113623#!/pages/Build-I-49/288089113623?sk=photos), which is where he will post his photos in the future.  Thanks again!

Also, a belated thank you to wtd67 for sharing his I-49 photos upthread on January 31.

It's great to see progress in the Texarkana area!

BTW the Build I-49 Facebook page is great.  Thanks to US 71 and bugo!
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on February 15, 2012, 10:45:45 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 15, 2012, 09:00:18 PM
In the "I-49 north Texarkana thoughts" thread, Gordon mentioned that he has posted some photos on the Future I-49 Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Future-I-49/112029835534714).  The first two photos are of the Co Rd 2 and Co Rd 4 bridges from the LA state line to Doddridge structures construction project.  Gordon, thanks for sharing them and I hope you don't mind that I have posted the link on this thread, too.

EDIT - Gordon has also posted these two photos and a third photo of I-49 at US 71 near Doddridge on the Build I-49 Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Build-I-49/288089113623#!/pages/Build-I-49/288089113623?sk=photos), which is where he will post his photos in the future.  Thanks again!

Also, a belated thank you to wtd67 for sharing his I-49 photos upthread on January 31.

It's great to see progress in the Texarkana area!

BTW the Build I-49 Facebook page is great.  Thanks to US 71 and Bugo!

If you want something like that done right, you get people who know what they're talking about ;)

But seriously, thanks to everyone who has liked our page &/or posted photos.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Alex on February 16, 2012, 10:32:36 AM
Quote from: US71 on February 15, 2012, 10:45:45 PM

If you want something like that done right, you get people who know what they're talking about ;)

But seriously, thanks to everyone who has liked our page &/or posted photos.

I will add it as a like from the AARoads FB page too.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 16, 2012, 11:46:11 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 09, 2012, 11:57:23 AM
Actually, the anticipated routing through Texas is closer to sixteen miles:
Quote from: Grzrd on September 06, 2010, 03:05:25 PM
Quote
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.
(http://www.allbusiness.com/government/government-bodies-offices-regional-local/13536201-1.html)
Quote from: english si on February 09, 2012, 12:29:39 PM
16 miles seems too big there - certainly 2 is too small, and was a mix of me forgetting how spread out America is, especially west of the MS (so I got the scale wrong) and a bit of hypobole, but it looks like it is 8 miles at most in TX from that map.
Quote from: Grzrd on February 10, 2012, 10:29:09 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 09, 2012, 12:44:29 PM
You may well be right about the distance being closer to eight miles (using the map's scale, I also come up with approximately eight miles).  TxDOT has not responded to my requests about I-49.
Having had no luck with TxDOT, I gave AHTD a shot:
Quote
Our only intent is to show the corridor of future construction. It is certainly possible that we what we show in another state could be incorrect.

I gave AHTD another shot and they emailed me the Executive Summary of the Texarkana to DeQueen US 71 and Texarkana Northern Loop FEIS (//www.aaroads.com/forum_images/southeast/030108_2001_09_01_aFEIS_Sum.pdf) (and Alex is kind enough to host it on the AARoads server).  I find it interesting that the Texarkana Northern Loop was included in the study.  On page 18/24 of the pdf (page ES-17 of the document), the Texarkana Northern Loop is described as being approximately 20 miles and the "northern extension" is described as being approximately 17 miles.  I suppose this is where the 16 mile figure came in the article I quoted upthread.  However, I am not clear as to whether the "northern extension" is entirely in Texas, or if it includes a segment in Arkansas.  At any rate, maps of the Selected Alternative for the I-49 section in Texas can be found at pages 5-6 of the pdf (Exhibits ES-1(a) and ES-1(b)).

EDIT

Quote from: Grzrd on February 08, 2012, 07:09:11 PM
After sending out an email with some questions about the I-69 Spur, I eventually was referred to and had a very interesting conversation with an individual who serves on both the I-69 for Texas Alliance and the TxDOT I-69 Segment 1 Committee.
Regarding the I-30 to I-49 section of the I-69 Spur, he said that the Segment 1 Committee's study area has a northern terminus at I-30 because the Arkansas section of I-49 from I-40 to the Texas state line will not be completed for a very long time.  That said, the Texarkana MPO continues to study the I-30 to I-49 at N. Stateline Ave. connection as a long-term proposition (and who knows if they will preserve the corridor).

The FEIS anticipated the possibility that US 59 south of I-30 would be relocated to the west, which would necessitate new environmental and location placement studies for the Texarkana Northern Loop (page 14/24 of pdf; page ES-13 of the document).  Since the TxDOT I-69 Segment 1 Committee is currently studying the possible relocation of US 59 from NE of Wright-Patman Lake to I-30 near the TexAmericas Center, it seems like environmental/location studies associated with that corridor should also include the "relocated" non-I-49 section of the Texarkana Northern Loop that would extend from TexAmericas Center to the I-49 corridor.  Otherwise, the possibility of a "clean" connection might be lost due to urban sprawl, etc.  :no:
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on February 16, 2012, 04:48:31 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 16, 2012, 11:46:11 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 09, 2012, 11:57:23 AM
Actually, the anticipated routing through Texas is closer to sixteen miles:
Quote from: Grzrd on September 06, 2010, 03:05:25 PM
Quote
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.
(http://www.allbusiness.com/government/government-bodies-offices-regional-local/13536201-1.html)
Quote from: english si on February 09, 2012, 12:29:39 PM
16 miles seems too big there - certainly 2 is too small, and was a mix of me forgetting how spread out America is, especially west of the MS (so I got the scale wrong) and a bit of hypobole, but it looks like it is 8 miles at most in TX from that map.
Quote from: Grzrd on February 10, 2012, 10:29:09 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 09, 2012, 12:44:29 PM
You may well be right about the distance being closer to eight miles (using the map's scale, I also come up with approximately eight miles).  TxDOT has not responded to my requests about I-49.
Having had no luck with TxDOT, I gave AHTD a shot:
Quote
Our only intent is to show the corridor of future construction. It is certainly possible that we what we show in another state could be incorrect.

I gave AHTD another shot and they emailed me the Executive Summary of the Texarkana to DeQueen US 71 and Texarkana Northern Loop FEIS (//www.aaroads.com/forum_images/southeast/030108_2001_09_01_aFEIS_Sum.pdf) (and Alex is kind enough to host it on the AARoads server).  I find it interesting that the Texarkana Northern Loop was included in the study.  On page 18/24 of the pdf (page ES-17 of the document), the Texarkana Northern Loop is described as being approximately 20 miles and the "northern extension" is described as being approximately 17 miles.  I suppose this is where the 16 mile figure came in the article I quoted upthread.  However, I am not clear as to whether the "northern extension" is entirely in Texas, or if it includes a segment in Arkansas.  At any rate, maps of the Selected Alternative for the I-49 section in Texas can be found at pages 5-6 of the pdf (Exhibits ES-1(a) and ES-1(b)).

EDIT

Quote from: Grzrd on February 08, 2012, 07:09:11 PM
After sending out an email with some questions about the I-69 Spur, I eventually was referred to and had a very interesting conversation with an individual who serves on both the I-69 for Texas Alliance and the TxDOT I-69 Segment 1 Committee.
Regarding the I-30 to I-49 section of the I-69 Spur, he said that the Segment 1 Committee's study area has a northern terminus at I-30 because the Arkansas section of I-49 from I-40 to the Texas state line will not be completed for a very long time.  That said, the Texarkana MPO continues to study the I-30 to I-49 at N. Stateline Ave. connection as a long-term proposition (and who knows if they will preserve the corridor).

The FEIS anticipated the possbility that US 59 south of I-30 would be relocated to the west, which would necessitate new environmental and location placement studies for the Texarkana Northern Loop (page 14/24 of pdf; page ES-13 of the document).  Since the TxDOT I-69 Segment 1 Committee is currently studying the possible relocation of US 59 from NE of Wright-Patman Lake to I-30 near the TexAmericas Center, it seems like environmental/location studies associated with that corridor should also include the "relocated" non-I-49 section of the Texarkana Northern Loop that would extend from TexAmericas Center to the I-49 corridor.  Otherwise, the possibility of a "clean" connection might be lost due to urban sprawl, etc.  :no:
I know I read an article in the Texarkana Gazette a few years back about the suburban town of Redlick, Tx to the northwest of Texarkana possibly presenting a problem for the construction of the north loop which is supposed to go near the town. Now that it's been some years since that article was posted new neighborhoods, a school and some businesses have been constructed, I wonder if that could be a setback for the project.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 18, 2012, 02:08:19 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on February 08, 2012, 08:01:53 PM
I can guess that the southern port for I-69 could potentially be either Freeport (via TX 288 or the proposed TX 35 tollway) or Corpus Christi via US 77??
Anthony

Good guesses.

First, FWIW the Gulf Coast Strategic Highway Coalition's website (http://www.gulfcoaststrategichighway.org/project%20overview.html) says that the Port of Corpus Christi has been selected as a site for a Freight Shuttle (http://freightshuttleinternational.com/) prototype guideway:

Quote
The Freight Shuttle Development Corp. has selected a site at the Port of Corpus Christi as a likely site to build a prototype guideway for testing and proving designs.

Second, it may be possible that the Freight Shuttle to the Port of Freeport is being considered as a relief option (and a reason Committees 2 and 3 carefully use the phrase "relief option" instead of "relief route"):

Quote from: Grzrd on January 25, 2012, 08:29:51 PM
TxDOT has updated its I-69 Segment Committees page (http://www.txdot.gov/public_involvement/committees/i69/default.htm) by adding notes from November, 2011 meetings of the five committees.
Regarding Houston relief options, Committee 3 (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/notes/seg3/notes_110411.pdf) decided to expand the area of study to the following [page 4/30 of pdf]:
Quote
- Extend the U.S. 59 relief options box (as depicted on the map) further south on U.S. 59 to south of Brazoria
- Extend the U.S. 59 relief options box (as depicted on the map) further north (in Segment Two) up to Cleveland
- Include the Port of Freeport in the U.S. 59 relief options box
Also, Committee 3 discussed that an Early Implementation Opportunity would be to study relief options and not just potential relief routes [page 4/30 of pdf]:
Quote
- Perform a study U.S. 59 relief options for Houston. It was noted that the U.S. 59 relief options for Houston might not be just a relief route and could include improvements such as widenings and interchanges.
Committee 2 (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/notes/seg2/notes_111511.pdf) also views the study of relief options for Houston as a Recommended Priority [page 4/32 of pdf].
(above quote from "I-69 in TX" (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.100) thread on Mid-South page)

In terms of a reality check, the only "live" Freight Shuttle project I've run across is a border crossing from El Paso to Juarez that is discussed in a January, 2011 article (http://www.elpasotimes.com/news/ci_17045895).

EDIT

I recently ran across this December 23, 2010 article (http://www.news-journal.com/news/local/article_26f76bfe-cbe7-5ec2-8bf5-ff6244ad6d6c.html), which discusses a "conceptual freight shuttle network" from Laredo/ South Texas along the I-69 Corridor to Texarkana:

Quote
Texas leaders have said they will push to build I-69 from Laredo and South Texas to Texarkana, including a conceptual freight shuttle network.
Title: I-49 and the two Texarkanas
Post by: Grzrd on April 19, 2012, 12:06:30 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 16, 2012, 11:46:11 AM
I gave AHTD another shot and they emailed me the Executive Summary of the Texarkana to DeQueen US 71 and Texarkana Northern Loop FEIS (//www.aaroads.com/forum_images/southeast/030108_2001_09_01_aFEIS_Sum.pdf) ... maps of the Selected Alternative for the I-49 section in Texas can be found at pages 5-6 of the pdf (Exhibits ES-1(a) and ES-1(b)).

I recently took a look at Texarkana's 25 year transportation plan (adopted September, 2009), which provides a plan through 2035.  Page 15/44 of the Proposed Transportation Projects pdf (http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/Tuts/Chapter-10.pdf) sets forth TxDOT's Unconstrained Project List, which are projects that have been identified but are not within the twenty-five year scope of the plan (they are given a "Year of Expenditure" of 2036). Both I-49 and the Northern Loop are in TxDOT's "YOE 2036" category.  In looking at the maps in the above quote, it struck me how great the expected time lag will be between completion of the Texarkana, AR sections of I-49 and the Northern Loop (probably 2013) and the Texarkana, TX sections of I-49 and the Northern Loop (currently projected to be 2036+).  With the projected time lag expected to be a quarter century, the eventual time lag could well approach fifty years, if ever.

The I-49 time lag is not surprising because there is no point in Texas building I-49 to the Red River until Arkansas makes substantial progress on the new terrain section north of the Red River, which I suspect will be the final section of I-49 built in Arkansas.  However, I am surprised that the Northern Loop has been pushed so far into the future; by 2036, there may not be a feasible corridor from the TexAmericas Center to I-49 north of Texarkana, TX.  An I-49/I-69 Spur interchange might become an impossibility.

Oh, well.  At least we will be able to enjoy a completed I-49 from I-220 to the Texas state line in the near future (I believe LaDOTD is still projecting that Segments J & K of I-49 North will be completed by 2016).
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on April 20, 2012, 12:41:18 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 19, 2012, 12:06:30 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 16, 2012, 11:46:11 AM
I gave AHTD another shot and they emailed me the Executive Summary of the Texarkana to DeQueen US 71 and Texarkana Northern Loop FEIS (//www.aaroads.com/forum_images/southeast/030108_2001_09_01_aFEIS_Sum.pdf) ... maps of the Selected Alternative for the I-49 section in Texas can be found at pages 5-6 of the pdf (Exhibits ES-1(a) and ES-1(b)).

I recently took a look at Texarkana's 25 year transportation plan (adopted September, 2009), which provides a plan through 2035.  Page 15/44 of the Proposed Transportation Projects pdf (http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/Tuts/Chapter-10.pdf) sets forth TxDOT's Unconstrained Project List, which are projects that have been identified but are not within the twenty-five year scope of the plan (they are given a "Year of Expenditure" of 2036). Both I-49 and the Northern Loop are in TxDOT's "YOE 2036" category.  In looking at the maps in the above quote, it struck me how great the expected time lag will be between completion of the Texarkana, AR sections of I-49 and the Northern Loop (probably 2013) and the Texarkana, TX sections of I-49 and the Northern Loop (currently projected to be 2036+).  With the projected time lag expected to be a quarter century, the eventual time lag could well approach fifty years, if ever.

The I-49 time lag is not surprising because there is no point in Texas building I-49 to the Red River until Arkansas makes substantial progress on the new terrain section north of the Red River, which I suspect will be the final section of I-49 built in Arkansas.  However, I am surprised that the Northern Loop has been pushed so far into the future; by 2036, there may not be a feasible corridor from the TexAmericas Center to I-49 north of Texarkana, TX.  An I-49/I-69 Spur interchange might become an impossibility.

Oh, well.  At least we will be able to enjoy a completed I-49 from I-220 to the Texas state line in the near future (I believe LaDOTD is still projecting that Segments J & K of I-49 North will be completed by 2016).

I don't know why the Texas portion of I-49 and the Northern Loop are projected to be built so far into the future especially considering the area the road will be going through, just north of Northwest Texarkana/Redlick, is the fastest developing part of the city. Hopefully it's built well before 2036 otherwise it will be a big mess.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 09, 2012, 06:42:05 PM
Quote from: mcdonaat on May 09, 2012, 03:04:23 PM
Quote from: US71 on May 09, 2012, 12:18:00 PM
There is also a proposal to designate part of US 59 near Texarkana as part of I-69. It appears in today's Texarkana Gazette (behind a paywall).
That's CRAZY! From what I remember, I-69 will go nowhere near Texarkana; instead, passing through El Dorado towards Haynesville, LA, then near Shreveport and into Texas well south of US 79. Maybe a SPUR I-69 or I-169, but not I-69 itself.
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.125) thread)

I am posting in this thread because I had a recent telephone conversation with a Texarkana MPO official that touched not only on possible I-69 signage, but also I-49 in Texas and the Texarkana Northern Loop.

I-69 Spur
They are well aware that they are located on a proposed I-69 Spur, which is why they want some signage as soon as possible.  The current climate for transportation funding has given rise to a fear that the I-69 Spur might be eliminated altogether.  The thinking is that I-69 signage would make it more difficult to eliminate the spur.  I mentioned that AASHTO would probably not allow it to be designated as "I-69" because it is not part of the national route.  He said that they are still finalizing how to word the application, but they would be OK with AASHTO changing it to an I-x69 designation.  I did not debate the point that AASHTO might be more receptive to a request to sign it as an I-x69 in the first place.  Related to the concerns about getting spur signage as soon as possible, vocal (a minority, but vocal nonetheless) neighborhood opposition is slowing down evaluation of the West Loop alternative route to TexAmericas Center. The US 59 freeway section in question is literally the only section of the Spur that could be signed as an interstate in a relatively short period of time.  He said that they could always de-designate that section as an interstate if the West Loop were to be built.

I-49
He estimated the proposed mileage in Texas to be six to eight miles.  There would be an interchange at State Line Avenue (which is barely in Texas) and the only other Texas interchange would be a connection to the Northern Loop/ I-69 Spur.

Northern Loop
A big retail center that was built around the time of the issuance of the Northern Loop FEIS has made a connection to the current US 59 prohibitively expensive.  Also, even if construction of the West Loop were not a problem, preserving a Northern Loop corridor is not feasible due to both a lack of money and Texas state law having strong property protections for landowners. If connected to a West Loop, the only interchange between I-30 and I-49 would be at Richmond Road (FM 559). Regardless of whether a Freight Shuttle line would come to Texarkana, they are actively working on trying to get some type of multi-modal facility built at the TexAmericas Center.

Bottom line: Money is becoming more scarce.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on May 09, 2012, 11:11:43 PM
I apologize for this long post but the Texarkana Gazette link only allows access to a small portion of the article unless you're a subscriber to the newspaper. Again my apologies if I'm in violation of the forum. This is from todays paper.
The Metropolitain Planning Organization is considering whether to support designating a small part of US Highway 59 as I-69. US 59 bypass ( originally known as Loop 151), connecting US 59 and I-30, is already built to interstate standards, and the local committee for planning I-69 in Texas has requested that MPO support designating it I-69. Jerry Sparks, chairman of the Segment I Corridor committee, said part of the southern portion of the route, around Houston has already been designated I-69. "We're hoping to show people that Texas has it tagged at the top and bottom; all we have to do is connect the dots," Sparks said. To get a legitimate designation as I-69, not just as a future corridor, will likely take 18 months, Sparks said. " It is an awareness that I-69 is moving forward," he said. "It's a very small piece, more for recognition value than anything else. It is my understanding that the recognition that the north and south ends of I-69 being built to interstate standards is a positive factor in helping secure more federal funds." The proposed resolution says all that will be designated is the short section of the bypass (Loop 151) and calls for continued study of a relief route west of Texarkana. Various routes have been considered, and all have met with public opposition. In other action at an upcoming meeting, the MPO technical committee is expected to reccomend a project for spending $2.2 millionreceived from the Texas Transportation Commission. Though it sounds like a lot of money for most pocketbooks, MPO director Brad McCaleb told MPO members last month that $2.2 million is minimal in the transportation world. Two billion dollars is being divvied out to MPO's in Texas, but qualifying projects will have strict criteria and tight timelines. McCaleb said there has been discussion of allowing MPO's to loan their funds if they don't have qualifying projects themselves. "You have one MPO and they don't have any projectsthat they can get ready to meet this timeline, but you have another MPO, they have a project, it's ready to go out the door but they're short on funding," McCaleb explained. " The first MPO would transfer their allocationto the second MPO... part of the agreement being that that second MPO, at a particular point in timein the future, would send a portion of their allocated funds back to the first MPO. "Basically you're buying yourself time to develop that project that you don't currently have ready," he said. Texarkana's portion of the funding will likely be used to rebuild the intersection of US 59 and Kings Hwy. The MPO technical committee meets at 10 a.m. Thursday and the policy board will take final action at 10 a.m. May 17. Both meetings will be at the Texas Municipal Building 220 Texas Blvd.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on May 09, 2012, 11:20:34 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 09, 2012, 06:42:05 PM
Quote from: mcdonaat on May 09, 2012, 03:04:23 PM
Quote from: US71 on May 09, 2012, 12:18:00 PM
There is also a proposal to designate part of US 59 near Texarkana as part of I-69. It appears in today's Texarkana Gazette (behind a paywall).
That's CRAZY! From what I remember, I-69 will go nowhere near Texarkana; instead, passing through El Dorado towards Haynesville, LA, then near Shreveport and into Texas well south of US 79. Maybe a SPUR I-69 or I-169, but not I-69 itself.
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.125) thread)

I am posting in this thread because I had a recent telephone conversation with a Texarkana MPO official that touched not only on possible I-69 signage, but also I-49 in Texas and the Texarkana Northern Loop.

I-69 Spur
They are well aware that they are located on a proposed I-69 Spur, which is why they want some signage as soon as possible.  The current climate for transportation funding has given rise to a fear that the I-69 Spur might be eliminated altogether.  The thinking is that I-69 signage would make it more difficult to eliminate the spur.  I mentioned that AASHTO would probably not allow it to be designated as "I-69" because it is not part of the national route.  He said that they are still finalizing how to word the application, but they would be OK with AASHTO changing it to an I-x69 designation.  I did not debate the point that AASHTO might be more receptive to a request to sign it as an I-x69 in the first place.  Related to the concerns about getting spur signage as soon as possible, vocal (a minority, but vocal nonetheless) neighborhood opposition is slowing down evaluation of the West Loop alternative route to TexAmericas Center. The US 59 freeway section in question is literally the only section of the Spur that could be signed as an interstate in a relatively short period of time.  He said that they could always de-designate that section as an interstate if the West Loop were to be built.

I-49
He estimated the proposed mileage in Texas to be six to eight miles.  There would be an interchange at State Line Avenue (which is barely in Texas) and the only other Texas interchange would be a connection to the Northern Loop/ I-69 Spur.

Northern Loop
A big retail center that was built around the time of the issuance of the Northern Loop FEIS has made a connection to the current US 59 prohibitively expensive.  Also, even if construction of the West Loop were not a problem, preserving a Northern Loop corridor is not feasible due to both a lack of money and Texas state law having strong property protections for landowners. If connected to a West Loop, the only interchange between I-30 and I-49 would be at Richmond Road (FM 559). Regardless of whether a Freight Shuttle line would come to Texarkana, they are actively working on trying to get some type of multi-modal facility built at the TexAmericas Center.

Bottom line: Money is becoming more scarce.
Would you say the North Loop probably won't start construction anytime soon?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 10, 2012, 07:29:09 AM
Quote from: dariusb on May 09, 2012, 11:20:34 PM
Would you say the North Loop probably won't start construction anytime soon?

That's a safe bet.  There is currently no justification to build it as solely a relief route for I-30 (although I forgot to ask why Arkansas has built its section of I-49 from I-30 to the state line).  He did mention that Texas A & M has recently built a Texarkana campus near a possible route for the Northern Loop and that demand may grow for a Northern Loop as that campus grows.

In the intermediate term, construction of a multi-modal facility at the TexAmericas Center and/or construction of the I-69 Spur West Loop (combined with the Texas A & M - Texarkana factor) may generate enough demand/justification/need to build it.

In the long term, completion of I-49 through Arkansas, combined with completion of an I-69 Spur West Loop and a TexAmericas Center multi-modal facility, would provide a lot of justification for its construction.  He provided a good illustration of the I-49 "problem": if AHTD allocated its entire highway budget to I-49 each year for the next fifteen years, that would only generate enough money for the state portion of I-49 construction that would trigger release of the requisite federal money for its completion.  He said I-49 will not be completed in his lifetime, but then said "maybe" during his retirement years (I do not know his current age).
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on May 11, 2012, 03:10:55 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 10, 2012, 07:29:09 AM
Quote from: dariusb on May 09, 2012, 11:20:34 PM
Would you say the North Loop probably won't start construction anytime soon?

That's a safe bet.  There is currently no justification to build it as solely a relief route for I-30 (although I forgot to ask why Arkansas has built its section of I-49 from I-30 to the state line).  He did mention that Texas A & M has recently built a Texarkana campus near a possible route for the Northern Loop and that demand may grow for a Northern Loop as that campus grows.

In the intermediate term, construction of a multi-modal facility at the TexAmericas Center and/or construction of the I-69 Spur West Loop (combined with the Texas A & M - Texarkana factor) may generate enough demand/justification/need to build it.

In the long term, completion of I-49 through Arkansas, combined with completion of an I-69 Spur West Loop and a TexAmericas Center multi-modal facility, would provide a lot of justification for its construction.  He provided a good illustration of the I-49 "problem": if AHTD allocated its entire highway budget to I-49 each year for the next fifteen years, that would only generate enough money for the state portion of I-49 construction that would trigger release of the requisite federal money for its completion.  He said I-49 will not be completed in his lifetime, but then said "maybe" during his retirement years (I do not know his current age).
I wonder if there is a backup plan in the event that urban developments are built in the I-49 N/North Loop's path or is development barred from being in the freeways immediate path?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 11, 2012, 04:18:15 PM
Texarkana MPO Technical Committee took action yesterday to support the I-69 designation (Texarkana Gazette paywall article) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2012/05/11/mpo-backs-i-69-section-550138.php):

Quote
The technical committee of Texarkana's Metropolitan Planning Organization took expected action Thursday to support a local designation for Interstate 69.
The local I-69 planning committee is recommending using the footprint of U.S. Highway 59 for the future interstate. A small portion in Texarkana already meets interstate standards.
Thursday, the MPO panel recommended placing an I-69 designation on U.S. Highway 59 bypass "from Interstate 30 to the junction of U.S. 59 and the bypass.
"Basically, it's the west loop,"  said MPO Director Brad McCaleb.
Though the segment is a short stretch, supporters of I-69 hope it means great strides for the future.
"We don't want to wait 20 or 30 years to start this process and sure don't want to lose the opportunity to have a facility like this in our region,"  McCaleb said.
The designation has to be approved by the Federal Highway Administration and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.  It could take more than a year to get the designation but would mean both the northern and southern tips of the interstate are designated in Texas.
"Part of the process in getting a new interstate facility actually developed and completed is showing progress,"  McCaleb said. "Anytime we can demonstrate to the citizens and to our elected officials at all levels that there is progress being made, it makes it easier to continue that process. By getting some sections of existing facilities designated as 69 it demonstrates that the State of Texas is committed to completing this facility."  
Other parts of the support resolution call for continued consideration of a relief route west of Texarkana and a freight shuttle system between Houston and the TexAmericas Center near Hooks.
McCaleb said if a relief route is selected it could remove the I-69 designation, the bypass, or the relief route could be given a different designation, such as I-69 West.

The relief route could also be a highway that is never classified as an interstate.
(bold emphasis added by me)

I think they still prefer a new terrain West Loop to TexAmericas Center, but they truly believe that they need some I-69 signage as soon as possible.

Quote from: dariusb on May 11, 2012, 03:10:55 AM
I wonder if there is a backup plan in the event that urban developments are built in the I-49 N/North Loop's path or is development barred from being in the freeways immediate path?

See below:

Quote from: Grzrd on May 09, 2012, 06:42:05 PM
Northern Loop
even if construction of the West Loop were not a problem, preserving a Northern Loop corridor is not feasible due to both a lack of money and Texas state law having strong property protections for landowners.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on May 12, 2012, 02:53:10 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 11, 2012, 04:18:15 PM
Texarkana MPO Technical Committee took action yesterday to support the I-69 designation (Texarkana Gazette paywall article):

Quote
The technical committee of Texarkana's Metropolitan Planning Organization took expected action Thursday to support a local designation for Interstate 69.
The local I-69 planning committee is recommending using the footprint of U.S. Highway 59 for the future interstate. A small portion in Texarkana already meets interstate standards.
Thursday, the MPO panel recommended placing an I-69 designation on U.S. Highway 59 bypass "from Interstate 30 to the junction of U.S. 59 and the bypass.
"Basically, it's the west loop,” said MPO Director Brad McCaleb.
Though the segment is a short stretch, supporters of I-69 hope it means great strides for the future.
"We don't want to wait 20 or 30 years to start this process and sure don't want to lose the opportunity to have a facility like this in our region,” McCaleb said.
The designation has to be approved by the Federal Highway Administration and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.  It could take more than a year to get the designation but would mean both the northern and southern tips of the interstate are designated in Texas.
"Part of the process in getting a new interstate facility actually developed and completed is showing progress,” McCaleb said. "Anytime we can demonstrate to the citizens and to our elected officials at all levels that there is progress being made, it makes it easier to continue that process. By getting some sections of existing facilities designated as 69 it demonstrates that the State of Texas is committed to completing this facility.”
Other parts of the support resolution call for continued consideration of a relief route west of Texarkana and a freight shuttle system between Houston and the TexAmericas Center near Hooks.
McCaleb said if a relief route is selected it could remove the I-69 designation, the bypass, or the relief route could be given a different designation, such as I-69 West.

The relief route could also be a highway that is never classified as an interstate.
(bold emphasis added by me)

I think they still prefer a new terrain West Loop to TexAmericas Center, but they truly believe that they need some I-69 signage as soon as possible.

Quote from: dariusb on May 11, 2012, 03:10:55 AM
I wonder if there is a backup plan in the event that urban developments are built in the I-49 N/North Loop's path or is development barred from being in the freeways immediate path?

See below:

Quote from: Grzrd on May 09, 2012, 06:42:05 PM
Northern Loop
even if construction of the West Loop were not a problem, preserving a Northern Loop corridor is not feasible due to both a lack of money and Texas state law having strong property protections for landowners.

Thanks for pointing that out to me. I have a couple more questions. Why do they want the west loop designated as I-69 when I-69 actually veers toward Louisiana once it gets to Carthage? And why call the relief route I-69 West? Wouldn't it be given a number like 369 like the spur?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on May 12, 2012, 06:56:26 AM
Texas is going to have lots of I-69 and long suffixed routes/I-x69. The existing/proposed-to-be-signed sections ought to be signed as I-47 or some other new 2di, which would run from Texarkana to Bownsville, with a long multiplex with I-69 which goes LA-Laredo.

OK, I-69 has the cross-country status and brand recognition, but I-47 would save all sorts of mess with the numbering.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 12, 2012, 09:07:33 PM
Quote from: dariusb on May 12, 2012, 02:53:10 AM
Why do they want the west loop designated as I-69 when I-69 actually veers toward Louisiana once it gets to Carthage?

This situation provides a good illustration of why Congress should leave route numbering to FHWA and AASHTO.  First, the AARoads HPC Excerpts from the ISTEA, NHS, TEA-21, and SAFETEA-LU Legislation (https://www.aaroads.com/high-priority/nhslegis.html) page provides relevant excerpts from legislation that illustrate why the Texarkana MPO is requesting an "I-69" designation.  First Section 1105(e)(5)(C)(i) provides that:

Quote
The routes referred to in subsections (c)(18) and (c)(20) shall be designated as Interstate Route I-69.

The subsection (c)(18)(C) route is as follows:

Quote
(C) In Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana, the Corridor shall--
(i) follow the alignment generally identified in the Corridor 18 Special Issues Study Final Report; and
(ii) include a connection between the Corridor in the vicinity of Monticello, Arkansas, to Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

The subsection (c)(20) route is as follows:

Quote
(20) United States Route 59 Corridor from Laredo, Texas, through Houston, Texas, to the vicinity of Texarkana, Texas.

To put it another way, it looks like Congress has statutorily mandated that there "shall" one day be an I-69/ I-69 interchange in the vicinity of Joaquin/Tenaha, Texas.  :ded:

The Texarkana MPO can put forth a good faith argument that the statute mandates that "I-69" is the only interstate designation allowed along the US 59 corridor in the Texarkana vicinity, and that they shall request the I-69 designation.

Quote from: dariusb on May 12, 2012, 02:53:10 AM
And why call the relief route I-69 West? Wouldn't it be given a number like 369 like the spur?

Section 1105(e)(5)(C)(i) also provides that:

Quote
The segment identified in subsection (c)(18)(B)(i) shall be designated as Interstate Route I-69 East, and the segment identified in subsection (c)(18)(B)(ii) shall be designated as Interstate Route I-69 Central.

Subsections (c)(18)(B)(i) and (c)(18)(B)(ii) provide as follows:

Quote
(D) In the Lower Rio Grande Valley, the Corridor shall--
(i) include United States Route 77 from the Rio Grande River to Interstate Route 37 at Corpus Christi, Texas, and then to Victoria, Texas, via U.S. Route 77;
(ii) include United States Route 281 from the Rio Grande River to Interstate Route 37 and then to Victoria, Texas, via United States Route 59

Brad McCaleb of the Texarkana MPO probably looked at the above two designations and figured that an I-69 West designation would fit that scheme, as well.  In an ideal world, Congress would pass simple amendments to the legislation and let FHWA and AASHTO work out an optimal numbering scheme for the I-69 Corridor.  It seems easy enough, but we ARE talking about a US Congress that cannot seem to agree on the simplest of matters.  :fight:
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on May 12, 2012, 09:39:11 PM
If you read all the different laws carefully, I believe they say that Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois are required to post I-69 signs on I-94 between Port Huron and Chicago.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 12, 2012, 10:43:50 PM
Quote from: NE2 on May 12, 2012, 09:39:11 PM
If you read all the different laws carefully, I believe they say that Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois are required to post I-69 signs on I-94 between Port Huron and Chicago.

I disagree.  If you read the statutes carefully, they say that I-94 shall be designated as I-69, but make no requirement "to post I-69 signs".  Since that part of the I-69 Corridor is already signed as I-94, there is no need to either make an official request for I-69 signage or have an I-69 signage overlap. However, the designation does provide advantage to I-94 by designating it as a high priority corridor in terms of funding.

How to apply the distinction between designation and signage in Texas? The following quote from one of your recent posts provides a link to AASHTO's materials related to the current application for I-69 signage for a stretch of US 59 just north of Houston:

Quote from: NE2 on May 08, 2012, 01:36:51 PM
Texas: I-69 (extension)
*RE_ I-69 Designations.pdf (http://ballot.transportation.org/FileDownload.aspx?attachmentType=Item&ID=673)
(above quote from AASHTO meeting May 18, 2012 (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=6658.msg148097;topicseen#msg148097) thread)

If you carefully read the link that you provided in your post, you will note the following comment from a FHWA official:

Quote
On the second question, regarding the recent addition of US 77 as I-69. Section 1105(e)(5)(C)(i) of ISTEA amended, designates future Interstate routes along High Priority Corridor (HPC) #20 as "I-69" , HPC # (c)(18)(D)(i) as "I-69 East" , and HPC # (c)(18)(D)(ii) as "I-69 Central" . These three future I-69 corridors correspond to US 59, US 77, and US 281 respectively. Since there are no other approved additions along the "I-69"  or "I-69 Central"  Texas corridors, the US 77 segment was added as I-69 to avoid To avoid driver confusion. Once segments are added along the other two corridors the State will need to sign the routes accordingly.
Kevin D. Adderly
kevin.adderly@dot.gov
National Systems and Economic Development Team
Federal Highway Administration
202-366-5006
202-366-3409 (fax)
(bold emphasis added by me)

I agree with your point that silly results are achieved by a literal reading of the statutes.  The practical problem is that the above FHWA comment reflects a literal reading of the statutes that equates designation with signage.  As the email chain reflects, AASHTO relies on FHWA guidance. The Texarkana MPO is facing the practical problem of what numerical signage to request.  In terms of common sense, it is ridiculous for them to request "I-69" signage; however, in terms of recent guidance from the FHWA, they may well have concluded it was their only option, although patently ridiculous.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on May 13, 2012, 02:11:19 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 12, 2012, 10:43:50 PM
Quote from: NE2 on May 12, 2012, 09:39:11 PM
If you read all the different laws carefully, I believe they say that Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois are required to post I-69 signs on I-94 between Port Huron and Chicago.

I disagree.  If you read the statutes carefully, they say that I-94 shall be designated as I-69, but make no requirement "to post I-69 signs".

Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002 (http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d107:h.r.02299:): "A State having jurisdiction over any segment of routes and/or corridors referred to in subsections (c)(18) shall erect signs identifying such segment that is consistent with the criteria set forth in subsections (e)(5)(A)(i) and (e)(5)(A)(ii) as Interstate Route 69."
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on May 13, 2012, 03:05:28 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 12, 2012, 09:07:33 PM
Quote from: dariusb on May 12, 2012, 02:53:10 AM
Why do they want the west loop designated as I-69 when I-69 actually veers toward Louisiana once it gets to Carthage?

This situation provides a good illustration of why Congress should leave route numbering to FHWA and AASHTO.  First, the AARoads HPC Excerpts from the ISTEA, NHS, TEA-21, and SAFETEA-LU Legislation (https://www.aaroads.com/high-priority/nhslegis.html) page provides relevant excerpts from legislation that illustrate why the Texarkana MPO is requesting an "I-69" designation.  First Section 1105(e)(5)(C)(i) provides that:

Quote
The routes referred to in subsections (c)(18) and (c)(20) shall be designated as Interstate Route I-69.

The subsection (c)(18)(C) route is as follows:

Quote
(C) In Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana, the Corridor shall--
(i) follow the alignment generally identified in the Corridor 18 Special Issues Study Final Report; and
(ii) include a connection between the Corridor in the vicinity of Monticello, Arkansas, to Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

The subsection (c)(20) route is as follows:

Quote
(20) United States Route 59 Corridor from Laredo, Texas, through Houston, Texas, to the vicinity of Texarkana, Texas.

To put it another way, it looks like Congress has statutorily mandated that there "shall" one day be an I-69/ I-69 interchange in the vicinity of Joaquin/Tenaha, Texas.  :ded:

The Texarkana MPO can put forth a good faith argument that the statute mandates that "I-69" is the only interstate designation allowed along the US 59 corridor in the Texarkana vicinity, and that they shall request the I-69 designation.

Quote from: dariusb on May 12, 2012, 02:53:10 AM
And why call the relief route I-69 West? Wouldn't it be given a number like 369 like the spur?

Section 1105(e)(5)(C)(i) also provides that:

Quote
The segment identified in subsection (c)(18)(B)(i) shall be designated as Interstate Route I-69 East, and the segment identified in subsection (c)(18)(B)(ii) shall be designated as Interstate Route I-69 Central.

Subsections (c)(18)(B)(i) and (c)(18)(B)(ii) provide as follows:

Quote
(D) In the Lower Rio Grande Valley, the Corridor shall--
(i) include United States Route 77 from the Rio Grande River to Interstate Route 37 at Corpus Christi, Texas, and then to Victoria, Texas, via U.S. Route 77;
(ii) include United States Route 281 from the Rio Grande River to Interstate Route 37 and then to Victoria, Texas, via United States Route 59

Brad McCaleb of the Texarkana MPO probably looked at the above two designations and figured that an I-69 West designation would fit that scheme, as well.  In an ideal world, Congress would pass simple amendments to the legislation and let FHWA and AASHTO work out an optimal numbering scheme for the I-69 Corridor.  It seems easy enough, but we ARE talking about a US Congress that cannot seem to agree on the simplest of matters.  :fight:

That clears up a lot. Thanks for the info.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on May 13, 2012, 08:32:47 AM
If you ask me, the simplest of matters would be for FHWA to reject this :I-69 proposal due to it not connecting in any way with the mainline I-69, and suggesting an alternative designation until the spur and more of mainline I-69 is completed.

I mean, if they approve this, then why can't Louisiana simply drop I-49 shields on the completed segments of US 90 south of Lafayette.

And as for Congress??  Well, these are the same numbnuts who gave us proposed "I-3".  And I-99.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: austrini on May 17, 2012, 03:14:18 PM
I just updated a Texarkana map i'm working on with the realignment schematics I got from AHTD, if anyone is interested.
The US 67 ramps will close when the new road opens.

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.redrivermapping.com%2FTom%2FI49update.jpg&hash=626ca69990d97fb5f942a0a9af0d8032cfe267e5)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 17, 2012, 03:20:26 PM
Quote from: jczart on May 17, 2012, 03:14:18 PM
I just updated a Texarkana map i'm working on with the realignment schematics I got from AHTD, if anyone is interested.
The US 67 ramps will close when the new road opens.


How will 245 NB connect with itself? I see SB seems to turn into a ramp at 49.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: austrini on May 17, 2012, 03:22:14 PM
I asked about SR 245 and they're not sure what they're going to do with the designation from I-30 to SR 296. The southern portion of SR 245 will extend from Loop 151 to SR 549/I-49. So I left it on the map for now, the only street signs put up locally up there spell out "Loop 245" on them, so thats what I labeled it.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: austrini on May 17, 2012, 03:24:54 PM
Oh, and... the SR 245 designation from I-30 to SR 549 will go away - and SR 549 will take over the freeway from Louisiana to Texas until I-49 comes along.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: agentsteel53 on May 17, 2012, 03:33:51 PM
why not just sign the future freeway as TEMPORARY I-49?  oh hell, state 49.  Texas has never been opposed to route number duplication.  call it state FREEWAY RANCH FARM ROAD NASA GOAT 49 if need be.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: austrini on May 17, 2012, 04:14:06 PM
Good idea, but its not Texas.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on May 17, 2012, 06:54:48 PM
Quote from: US71 on May 17, 2012, 03:20:26 PM
Quote from: jczart on May 17, 2012, 03:14:18 PM
I just updated a Texarkana map i'm working on with the realignment schematics I got from AHTD, if anyone is interested.
The US 67 ramps will close when the new road opens.


How will 245 NB connect with itself? I see SB seems to turn into a ramp at 49.

Actually, it won't...the s/b off ramp will terminate at Airport Road (existing AR 245), which will continue as a 2-way until it terminates at Arkansas Blvd. The s/b on ramp to AR 549/Future I-49 will take over from there.

I'm more interested in why they're eliminating the folded diamond interchange ramps with US 67. A weaving conflict with the Arkansas Blvd interchange??
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on May 17, 2012, 08:21:58 PM
Will Arkansas Blvd be signed "TO US 67?"

And I agree, I don't see any problems with leaving that interchange the way it is.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on May 17, 2012, 10:26:06 PM
These standards are, as of July 2007, as follows:
Controlled access: All access onto and off the roadway is to be controlled with interchanges and grade separations (including railroad crossings). See List of gaps in Interstate Highways for the few cases that violate this rule. Interchanges should provide full access; ramps are to be designed with the appropriate standards in mind. Minimum interchange spacing should be 1 mi (1.6 km) in urban areas and 3 mi (4.8 km) in rural areas; collector/distributor roads or other configurations that reduce weaving can be used in urban areas to shorten this distance.
Access control (from adjacent properties) should extend at least 100 feet (30 m) in urban areas and 300 feet (91 m) in rural areas in each direction along the crossroad from the ramps. This is the reason for doing away with the 67 HWY. ramps. Texarkana asked for ramps on 19 th street because it is going to be a another route to the airport along with Ark. BLVD. which crosses 67 but has a railroad before the airport.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 17, 2012, 10:58:57 PM
I seem to recall 245/67 being redone in the last few years and now they want to close it?

Typical Arkansas.  :banghead:
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on May 18, 2012, 02:10:12 AM
Quote from: jczart on May 17, 2012, 03:14:18 PM
I just updated a Texarkana map i'm working on with the realignment schematics I got from AHTD, if anyone is interested.
The US 67 ramps will close when the new road opens.

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.redrivermapping.com%2FTom%2FI49update.jpg&hash=626ca69990d97fb5f942a0a9af0d8032cfe267e5)

Thanks for sharing the map! It makes everything more clear for me in relation to the Arkansas Blvd interchange and Loop 245 north to I-30.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on May 18, 2012, 06:28:26 AM
This is from todays Texarkana Gazette concerning I-49:

Progress on the future I-49 corridor is changing the traffic flow on Arkansas Highway 245. North and southbound traffic will soon be rerouted off the Hwy 245 path to Arkansas Blvd. Officials were hopeful that the shift would be completed Thursday afternoon or early today. Southbound drivers will exit 245 at Arkansas Blvd. At the signal light they may choose to turn left or right on Arkansas Blvd. or go straight across and continue on 245. Northbound traffic will exit 245 at  Arkansas Blvd., turn left across the overpass, then turn right in the area of the old frontage road. This puts drivers back northbound on the relocated lanes of Hwy 245. These, between Arkansas Blvd and I-30, will eventually become a city street. Detour signs will be in place to mark the new routes. Both north and southbound traffic have been narrowed to one lane and are traveling on the northbound side and the southbound lanes have been closed.hen the new traffic change occurs, motorists still be restricted to one lane in each direction. The new dhange will allow workers to tear out the existing lanes of Hwy 245 beneath Arkansas Blvd. and complete the tie in to state hwy 549 that is already built near the fairgrounds. The entire project which puts in place the loop and interchanges, that will eventually be named I-49, should be complete by the end of the year.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: austrini on May 18, 2012, 09:17:27 AM
I took a few photos of it the other day, I got there really early in the morning and it was deserted.

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm9.staticflickr.com%2F8154%2F6957232908_b7dba4496f_b.jpg&hash=8ff6a8232eeb443a946dee4520d1c27c426b1e2f)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/fatguyinalittlecoat/6957232908/in/photostream (some others)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 18, 2012, 12:52:25 PM
^ Thanks for the I-49-related photos.  Great shots!

As regards the I-69 Spur, yesterday, the Texarkana MPO adopted Resolution 14-2012 supporting an I-69 designation:

Quote
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE POLICY BOARD OF THE TEXARKANA MPO, THAT THE BOARD SUPPORTS CO-DESIGNATION OF THE PORTION OF US 59 FROM I-30 TO THE JUNCTION OF LP 151 AS US 59/I-69. THE BOARD ALSO SUPPORTS:
SECTION 1: IMPROVEMENT OF US 59 TO INTERSTATE STANDARDS through the State of Texas consistent with recommendations developed by the I-69 Corridor and Segment Advisory Committees; and
SECTION 2: participation by the Texas Department of Transportation in the EVALUATION OF ACCESS TO/FROM US 59/I-69 and the TexAmericas Center, an Intermodal Freight Facility, along the west side of the Texarkana Study Area Boundary, including the need for DEVELOPMENT OF AN I-69 RELIEF ROUTE as described in Texarkana MPO Resolution #3-2011; and
SECTION 3: participation by the Texas Department of Transportation in the EVALUATION OF A FREIGHT SHUTTLE SYSTEM between the Port of Houston and TexAmericas Intermodal Freight Facility that may mitigate congestion, maintenance needs, and environmental impacts from truck traffic on US 59/I-69; and
SECTION 4: CONTINUING THE COOPERATIVE PARTNERSHIP between the Texas Department of Transportation, the Texarkana MPO Policy Board, and local governments in the Texarkana Study Area Boundary needed to develop I-69 corridor improvements within our region; and
SECTION 5: the Study Director of the Texarkana MPO is hereby authorized to transmit Resolution #14-2012 to TxDOT, the Texas Transportation Commission and the I-69 Segment One Committee.
ADOPTED at a Special Meeting of the Texarkana MPO Policy Board during Regular Session on the 17th day of May, 2012.

Resolution 3-2011 describes the relief route as follows:

Quote
WHEREAS, the Texarkana MPO is supportive of the continued study and development of a relief route under the guidance of the Texas Department of Transportation and the direction of the I-69 Segment Corridor Committee One, as described below:
Beginning at the north end of the Sulphur River bridge and concurrent with existing US 59, then connecting to the TexAmerica's property (former Lone Star Army Ammunition site) and continuing to an interchange point with I-30.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Policy Board of the Texarkana MPO that:
SECTION 1: this resolution supporting the continued study and development of an I-69 relief route by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the I-69 Segment Corridor Committee One as described above is hereby adopted.

The Texarkana MPO also has a Resolution 14-2012 Background document providing arguments for the I-69 designation:

Quote
KEY QUESTIONS
How would the Texarkana region benefit from co-designation?
- Economically: Although the immediate economic benefit from co-designation would be small, the I-69 corridor will improve state, national and international access to and from our region. With thousands of jobs in trade, transportation, construction and manufacturing, much of this region's economic vitality and economic competitiveness is directly dependent on access to state, national and international markets. Development of the I-69 corridor will also increase access to business services in our region, enlarging their potential markets. TxDOT views the co-designation of US 59 as an important next step in development of the ultimate corridor.
- Public Safety: The I-69 corridor is one of the principle evacuation routes for our state. Millions of people depend on safe and efficient roadway facilities for possible evacuation from hurricanes.
- Traffic Safety: Interstate highways are safer than US highways in large measure due to the absence of at-grade intersections and driveways. Interstate co-designation for portions of US 59 will support acceleration of needed improvements to remaining sections not meeting interstate criteria.
Is this action (co-designation) consistent with the Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP)?
- The MTP has supported the development of interstate class facility on the Texas side of our region since 1999.
Will co-designation increase traffic volumes?
- It is expected that traffic volumes will continue to increase along the US 59 corridor regardless of an interstate highway designation. As one of Texas' principle highway segments, future traffic growth on US 59 is likely to increase with the completion of the Panama Canal expansion in 2014, as freight distribution companies seek less congested routes through Texas, and as our national economy improves. This reality is recognized by TxDOT and in reports from the I-69 Advisory Committees. One key strategy will be successful improvement of multi-modal access to ports, manufacturing centers and intermodal freight facilities.
Why is TxDOT pursuing co-designation at this time?
- TxDOT has stated that getting the first sections of the proposed corridor added to the interstate system is an important milestone marking the beginning of an era when Texas will focus on filling in the I-69 gaps rather than simply talking about a large corridor whose ultimate development has yet to start.
What other impacts may interstate co-designation have on US 59?
- Since the sections of US 59 under consideration for co-designation already meet interstate criteria, no substantive construction or reconstruction will be required apart from revised signage displaying both the US 59 and I-69 shields. There is a project in the MTP that would construct grade separation structures on the frontage roads, providing access across the UP Railroad and Findley Street. Current addresses and business signage should not be affected.
- An increased level of federal review and consultation is required for changes to the geometry or access to an interstate facility. Federal interstate highway limitations on truck weights and axle loads may be more stringent than those enforced on US or state highways.
Will co-designation increase federal funding to Texas?
- An increase in federal interstate mileage should increase Texas' share of interstate maintenance funding.
How long will co-designation take?
- In could take as long as 18 months before the request for co-designation is approved.

They seem to believe in the equation:

Increased I-69 signage = Increased I-69 funding.

Maybe the Arkansas side of the Texarkana MPO should try to convince AHTD of the merits of applying a similar equation to I-49.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on May 18, 2012, 06:12:16 PM
I still think this is going to be a hard sell, since the Texarkana segment is going to be outside the mainline I-69 route, which will break off at Carthage/Texada and go through Louisiana.

Then again, the segment of US 77 near Robstown is outside the mainline I-69 route, too...but they got their sheilds.

Never mind Arkansas with I-49 North...if they are going to do that, then I want my I-49 shields on the completed freeway sections of US 90 in South Louisiana. Fair is fair, you know.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on May 19, 2012, 12:53:35 AM
Loop 245 was referred to as the Hickerson Frwy but now that the new section of frwy around the fairgrounds to I-30 will soon open, does anyone know if that will be named Hickerson Frwy?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on May 19, 2012, 01:18:00 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 18, 2012, 12:52:25 PM
^ Thanks for the I-49-related photos.  Great shots!

As regards the I-69 Spur, yesterday, the Texarkana MPO adopted Resolution 14-2012 supporting an I-69 designation:

Quote
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE POLICY BOARD OF THE TEXARKANA MPO, THAT THE BOARD SUPPORTS CO-DESIGNATION OF THE PORTION OF US 59 FROM I-30 TO THE JUNCTION OF LP 151 AS US 59/I-69. THE BOARD ALSO SUPPORTS:
SECTION 1: IMPROVEMENT OF US 59 TO INTERSTATE STANDARDS through the State of Texas consistent with recommendations developed by the I-69 Corridor and Segment Advisory Committees; and
SECTION 2: participation by the Texas Department of Transportation in the EVALUATION OF ACCESS TO/FROM US 59/I-69 and the TexAmericas Center, an Intermodal Freight Facility, along the west side of the Texarkana Study Area Boundary, including the need for DEVELOPMENT OF AN I-69 RELIEF ROUTE as described in Texarkana MPO Resolution #3-2011; and
SECTION 3: participation by the Texas Department of Transportation in the EVALUATION OF A FREIGHT SHUTTLE SYSTEM between the Port of Houston and TexAmericas Intermodal Freight Facility that may mitigate congestion, maintenance needs, and environmental impacts from truck traffic on US 59/I-69; and
SECTION 4: CONTINUING THE COOPERATIVE PARTNERSHIP between the Texas Department of Transportation, the Texarkana MPO Policy Board, and local governments in the Texarkana Study Area Boundary needed to develop I-69 corridor improvements within our region; and
SECTION 5: the Study Director of the Texarkana MPO is hereby authorized to transmit Resolution #14-2012 to TxDOT, the Texas Transportation Commission and the I-69 Segment One Committee.
ADOPTED at a Special Meeting of the Texarkana MPO Policy Board during Regular Session on the 17th day of May, 2012.

Resolution 3-2011 describes the relief route as follows:

Quote
WHEREAS, the Texarkana MPO is supportive of the continued study and development of a relief route under the guidance of the Texas Department of Transportation and the direction of the I-69 Segment Corridor Committee One, as described below:
Beginning at the north end of the Sulphur River bridge and concurrent with existing US 59, then connecting to the TexAmerica's property (former Lone Star Army Ammunition site) and continuing to an interchange point with I-30.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Policy Board of the Texarkana MPO that:
SECTION 1: this resolution supporting the continued study and development of an I-69 relief route by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the I-69 Segment Corridor Committee One as described above is hereby adopted.

The Texarkana MPO also has a Resolution 14-2012 Background document providing arguments for the I-69 designation:

Quote
KEY QUESTIONS
How would the Texarkana region benefit from co-designation?
• Economically: Although the immediate economic benefit from co-designation would be small, the I-69 corridor will improve state, national and international access to and from our region. With thousands of jobs in trade, transportation, construction and manufacturing, much of this region's economic vitality and economic competitiveness is directly dependent on access to state, national and international markets. Development of the I-69 corridor will also increase access to business services in our region, enlarging their potential markets. TxDOT views the co-designation of US 59 as an important next step in development of the ultimate corridor.
• Public Safety: The I-69 corridor is one of the principle evacuation routes for our state. Millions of people depend on safe and efficient roadway facilities for possible evacuation from hurricanes.
• Traffic Safety: Interstate highways are safer than US highways in large measure due to the absence of at-grade intersections and driveways. Interstate co-designation for portions of US 59 will support acceleration of needed improvements to remaining sections not meeting interstate criteria.
Is this action (co-designation) consistent with the Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP)?
• The MTP has supported the development of interstate class facility on the Texas side of our region since 1999.
Will co-designation increase traffic volumes?
• It is expected that traffic volumes will continue to increase along the US 59 corridor regardless of an interstate highway designation. As one of Texas' principle highway segments, future traffic growth on US 59 is likely to increase with the completion of the Panama Canal expansion in 2014, as freight distribution companies seek less congested routes through Texas, and as our national economy improves. This reality is recognized by TxDOT and in reports from the I-69 Advisory Committees. One key strategy will be successful improvement of multi-modal access to ports, manufacturing centers and intermodal freight facilities.
Why is TxDOT pursuing co-designation at this time?
• TxDOT has stated that getting the first sections of the proposed corridor added to the interstate system is an important milestone marking the beginning of an era when Texas will focus on filling in the I-69 gaps rather than simply talking about a large corridor whose ultimate development has yet to start.
What other impacts may interstate co-designation have on US 59?
• Since the sections of US 59 under consideration for co-designation already meet interstate criteria, no substantive construction or reconstruction will be required apart from revised signage displaying both the US 59 and I-69 shields. There is a project in the MTP that would construct grade separation structures on the frontage roads, providing access across the UP Railroad and Findley Street. Current addresses and business signage should not be affected.
• An increased level of federal review and consultation is required for changes to the geometry or access to an interstate facility. Federal interstate highway limitations on truck weights and axle loads may be more stringent than those enforced on US or state highways.
Will co-designation increase federal funding to Texas?
• An increase in federal interstate mileage should increase Texas' share of interstate maintenance funding.
How long will co-designation take?
• In could take as long as 18 months before the request for co-designation is approved.

They seem to believe in the equation:

Increased I-69 signage = Increased I-69 funding.

Maybe the Arkansas side of the Texarkana MPO should try to convince AHTD of the merits of applying a similar equation to I-49.

I'm very interested in seeing how the I-69 spur will connect with the freeway section of Hwy 59 already in place in Texarkana. There are lots of homes and businesses between that section and Texarkana city limits. It seems like it would be easier to just forget about an I-69 relief route and just build the spur to Tex-Americas Center.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bjrush on June 01, 2012, 06:06:26 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 13, 2010, 07:49:08 AM
Since the spur will essentially be an upgrade of U.S.59, the cost of it should be analogous to MoDOT's current upgrade of U.S. 71 to I-49 along the I-44 to I-435 segment, which is relatively inexpensive at $5 million to $7 million per interchange.

Are you talking about interchanges between Fort Smith and Texarkana? Because they will be significantly more difficult/expensive to build than MoDOT's diamond interchanges on the ultraflat US 71 between I-435 and I-44.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: austrini on June 01, 2012, 07:18:10 PM
Here is the I-69 spur planning map

http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/ih-69.pdf

Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on June 01, 2012, 08:13:05 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 13, 2010, 07:49:08 AM
http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/localnews/2010/09/12/i-69-committee-meets-tuesday-90.php:
Quote
The local planning committee for Interstate 69 meets Tuesday in Marshall to work on a progress report for the Texas Transportation Commission.
Segment 1 of the planning corridor reaches from Bowie County to Angelina County. Plans for I-69 here focus on upgrading U.S. Highway 59 to interstate standards.
It occurs to me that Texarkana I-69 spur could, when viewed from North to South perspective, be just as easily viewed as the "Texarkana I-49 spur" ... Since the spur will essentially be an upgrade of U.S.59, the cost of it should be analogous to MoDOT's current upgrade of U.S. 71 to I-49 along the I-44 to I-435 segment, which is relatively inexpensive at $5 million to $7 million per interchange.
Quote from: bjrush on June 01, 2012, 06:06:26 PM
Are you talking about interchanges between Fort Smith and Texarkana? Because they will be significantly more difficult/expensive to build than MoDOT's diamond interchanges on the ultraflat US 71 between I-435 and I-44.

No. I'm talking about interchanges along an upgraded US 59 between Texarkana and the Tenaha area, which is also known as the I-69 SIU 29 Corridor.  In this thread, when I refer to the I-69 Spur I am also referring to the SIU 29 corridor.  Initially, Carthage was envisioned as the southern terminus of SIU 29, but more recent planning efforts now place it closer to Tenaha.  I-30 in Texarkana remains the northern terminus of the I-69 Spur (although I advocate several times throughout this thread for an I-49/I-69 Spur interchange north of Texarkana, TX).
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on June 01, 2012, 09:58:09 PM
Quote from: dariusb on May 18, 2012, 06:28:26 AM
This is from todays Texarkana Gazette concerning I-49:

Progress on the future I-49 corridor is changing the traffic flow on Arkansas Highway 245. North and southbound traffic will soon be rerouted off the Hwy 245 path to Arkansas Blvd. Officials were hopeful that the shift would be completed Thursday afternoon or early today. Southbound drivers will exit 245 at Arkansas Blvd. At the signal light they may choose to turn left or right on Arkansas Blvd. or go straight across and continue on 245. Northbound traffic will exit 245 at  Arkansas Blvd., turn left across the overpass, then turn right in the area of the old frontage road. This puts drivers back northbound on the relocated lanes of Hwy 245. These, between Arkansas Blvd and I-30, will eventually become a city street. Detour signs will be in place to mark the new routes. Both north and southbound traffic have been narrowed to one lane and are traveling on the northbound side and the southbound lanes have been closed.hen the new traffic change occurs, motorists still be restricted to one lane in each direction. The new dhange will allow workers to tear out the existing lanes of Hwy 245 beneath Arkansas Blvd. and complete the tie in to state hwy 549 that is already built near the fairgrounds. The entire project which puts in place the loop and interchanges, that will eventually be named I-49, should be complete by the end of the year.

I drove that Monday: what a big mess!  :banghead:
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on June 01, 2012, 10:28:31 PM
Quote from: US71 on June 01, 2012, 09:58:09 PM
Quote from: dariusb on May 18, 2012, 06:28:26 AM
This is from todays Texarkana Gazette concerning I-49:

Progress on the future I-49 corridor is changing the traffic flow on Arkansas Highway 245. North and southbound traffic will soon be rerouted off the Hwy 245 path to Arkansas Blvd. Officials were hopeful that the shift would be completed Thursday afternoon or early today. Southbound drivers will exit 245 at Arkansas Blvd. At the signal light they may choose to turn left or right on Arkansas Blvd. or go straight across and continue on 245. Northbound traffic will exit 245 at  Arkansas Blvd., turn left across the overpass, then turn right in the area of the old frontage road. This puts drivers back northbound on the relocated lanes of Hwy 245. These, between Arkansas Blvd and I-30, will eventually become a city street. Detour signs will be in place to mark the new routes. Both north and southbound traffic have been narrowed to one lane and are traveling on the northbound side and the southbound lanes have been closed.hen the new traffic change occurs, motorists still be restricted to one lane in each direction. The new dhange will allow workers to tear out the existing lanes of Hwy 245 beneath Arkansas Blvd. and complete the tie in to state hwy 549 that is already built near the fairgrounds. The entire project which puts in place the loop and interchanges, that will eventually be named I-49, should be complete by the end of the year.

I drove that Monday: what a big mess!  :banghead:
I haven't been to that part of town in a while but I can only image what a headache it is!
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on June 21, 2012, 05:37:21 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 04, 2011, 12:17:05 PM
I recently looked at AHTD's ARRA page regarding two Miller County Future I-49 projects, grading project 030354 from Co. Rd 2 to Doddridge and grading project 030353 from the LA state line to Co. Rd. 2:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ARRA/update_11222010/ARRA%2011-22-10.pdf
I emailed AHTD ... [t]he reply indicates that AHTD intends to let a major "Structures" contract for these two sections in October, 2011 and then let a paving contract for the approximate 4.4 miles after completion of the "Structures" contract.
Quote from: ShawnP on February 04, 2011, 12:58:42 PM
Well talk about the slow track for those 4.4 miles.
Quote from: Grzrd on August 14, 2011, 02:22:34 PM
This news report has AHTD officials stating that the Doddridge to LA state line section of I-49 should be finished by 2015: http://www.ktbs.com/news/28413069/detail.html
Quote
Highway officials say Interstate 49 from Texarkana, Arkansas through Louisiana should be complete by 2015.
Quote from: Gordon on May 31, 2012, 05:55:45 PM
LA. shows you can work on Bridges and the paving at the same time. It is a shame AR. can't do the same and finish there last 4 miles so they could both open up I49 from LA 1 to Texarkana in the spring of 2013.
(above quote from I49 in LA (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3124.msg152045#msg152045) thread)

The Preliminary 2013-16 STIP (http://www.arkansashighways.com/stip/2013-2016/2013-2016_Prelim_STIP.pdf) indicates that AHTD still intends to meet the above disappointing timetable by scheduling the letting of the paving contract for 2013:

Quote
JOB /ITEM NUMBER-030313
COUNTY-Miller
RTE-071
TERMINI-LA Line-Doddridge (Bs. & Surf.) (S)
TYPE WORK-New Location
LENGTH-4.46
YEAR-2013
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on June 29, 2012, 11:53:03 PM
I noticed a month ago that overhead signage on the new highway was already up at the junction of I-30 and future I-49. The main sign said "North [AR 549] Ashdown Ft. Smith" with a right arrow for the cloverleaf onto "[I-30] Dallas."
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on June 30, 2012, 11:25:35 PM
Quote from: Road Hog on June 29, 2012, 11:53:03 PM
I noticed a month ago that overhead signage on the new highway was already up at the junction of I-30 and future I-49. The main sign said "North [AR 549] Ashdown Ft. Smith" with a right arrow for the cloverleaf onto "[I-30] Dallas."

I'll have to go look. :)
Title: Texarkana's US 59 Freeway as I-369 or I-569?
Post by: Grzrd on July 01, 2012, 11:45:35 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 12, 2012, 09:07:33 PM
Quote from: dariusb on May 12, 2012, 02:53:10 AM
Why do they want the west loop designated as I-69 when I-69 actually veers toward Louisiana once it gets to Carthage?
This situation provides a good illustration of why Congress should leave route numbering to FHWA and AASHTO.  First, the AARoads HPC Excerpts from the ISTEA, NHS, TEA-21, and SAFETEA-LU Legislation (https://www.aaroads.com/high-priority/nhslegis.html) page provides relevant excerpts from legislation that illustrate why the Texarkana MPO is requesting an "I-69" designation.  First Section 1105(e)(5)(C)(i) provides that:
Quote
The routes referred to in subsections (c)(18) and (c)(20) shall be designated as Interstate Route I-69.
The subsection (c)(18)(C) route is as follows:
Quote
(C) In Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana, the Corridor shall--
(i) follow the alignment generally identified in the Corridor 18 Special Issues Study Final Report; and
(ii) include a connection between the Corridor in the vicinity of Monticello, Arkansas, to Pine Bluff, Arkansas.
The subsection (c)(20) route is as follows:
Quote
(20) United States Route 59 Corridor from Laredo, Texas, through Houston, Texas, to the vicinity of Texarkana, Texas.
To put it another way, it looks like Congress has statutorily mandated that there "shall" one day be an I-69/ I-69 interchange in the vicinity of Joaquin/Tenaha, Texas.  :ded:
Quote from: Grzrd on May 18, 2012, 12:52:25 PM
As regards the I-69 Spur, yesterday, the Texarkana MPO adopted Resolution 14-2012 supporting an I-69 designation:
Quote
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE POLICY BOARD OF THE TEXARKANA MPO, THAT THE BOARD SUPPORTS CO-DESIGNATION OF THE PORTION OF US 59 FROM I-30 TO THE JUNCTION OF LP 151 AS US 59/I-69.

The Alliance for I-69 Texas, in an article on its website, I-69 Scores Victory in Passage of MAP-21 Highway Bill (http://i69texasalliance.com/NewsUpdates/update7.1.12.html), indicates that the Texarkana I-69 Spur will eventually be a 3di:

Quote
A 5-mile section of US 59 connecting to I-30 in Texarkana is being processed for designation as part of an I-69 system element. Because the primary national I-69 route extends into Louisiana south of Texarkana in Shelby County, section 118-mile section from I-30 south to Tenaha will be on the I-69 system but its specific numbering will be determined under the guidelines for interstate spur routes which carry a three-digit number using the number of the main route with an odd-number prefix such as 369 or 569.

It appears that common sense will prevail over the awkward wording of the statute.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: mgk920 on July 01, 2012, 12:49:47 PM
^^
Reading through that article, I also seriously wonder why newly-completed sections of interstate highways are not allowed to be signed as such, regardless of the status of other nearby incomplete sections, like was S.O.P. when the original system was being built.  For example, why can't the completed sections of I-86 in New York simply be signed as such, with temporary signs at the ends of the completed sections saying "For [I-86], follow [NY 17]"?

Ditto with US 41 here in Wisconsin, when AASHTO and the FHWA lay hands upon the number and it is decreed, sign the parts of the corridor that are complete right away and hold off on the few remaining substandard parts until they are finished.

I don't like this 'wait until the entire highway is completed before you can sign it' thing that is being done now at all.

Mike
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 05, 2012, 11:00:49 AM
Quote from: US71 on June 01, 2012, 09:58:09 PM
Quote from: dariusb on May 18, 2012, 06:28:26 AM
This is from todays Texarkana Gazette concerning I-49:

Progress on the future I-49 corridor is changing the traffic flow on Arkansas Highway 245 ... The entire project which puts in place the loop and interchanges, that will eventually be named I-49, should be complete by the end of the year.
I drove that Monday: what a big mess!  :banghead:

A June 29 Texarkana Gazette article indicates that the AR 245 resurfacing part of the project should be completed this Fall:

Quote
State Highway 245 construction is part of a bigger project for Interstate 49, officials say.
The construction is on state Highway 245 from Arkansas Boulevard north where the existing road is being patched and overlaid, said Don Donaldson, district engineer with the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department in Hope Ark.
"The patch and overlay project is part of a larger project for the construction of Interstate 49. It will be all in one project for 549 around Texarkana. It's part of a $38.2 million job,"  Donaldson said.
The 6.9-mile resurfacing project will extend north on 245 across Interstate 30 and end near Miller County Road 55, he said.
Interstate Highway Construction Inc. of Englewood, Colo., is the project contractor.
The construction should be completed in the fall, Donaldson said.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 07, 2012, 02:35:09 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 01, 2012, 11:45:35 AM
The Alliance for I-69 Texas, in an article on its website, I-69 Scores Victory in Passage of MAP-21 Highway Bill (http://i69texasalliance.com/NewsUpdates/update7.1.12.html), indicates that the Texarkana I-69 Spur will eventually be a 3di:
Quote
A 5-mile section of US 59 connecting to I-30 in Texarkana is being processed for designation as part of an I-69 system element. Because the primary national I-69 route extends into Louisiana south of Texarkana in Shelby County, section 118-mile section from I-30 south to Tenaha will be on the I-69 system but its specific numbering will be determined under the guidelines for interstate spur routes which carry a three-digit number using the number of the main route with an odd-number prefix such as 369 or 569.
Quote from: Grzrd on July 02, 2012, 10:37:29 AM
A good place to start is FHWA's Statutory Listing of High Priority Corridors (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/planning/national_highway_system/high_priority_corridors/hpcor.cfm).  I-69 is described in Subsections 18 and 20:
Quote
18. ...
20. United States Route 59 Corridor from Laredo, Texas, through Houston, Texas, to the vicinity of Texarkana, Texas. [I-69]
Next, page 23/599 of the MAP-21 pdf (http://www.rules.house.gov/Media/file/PDF_112_2/LegislativeText/CRPT-112hrpt-HR4348.pdf) has the following provision:
Quote
(1) IN GENERAL.–Section 1105(e)(5)(A) of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (105 Stat. 2031;109 Stat. 597; 115 Stat. 872) is amended–
(A) in the first sentence, by striking "˜"˜and in subsections(c)(18) and (c)(20)'' and inserting "˜"˜, in subsections (c)(18) and (c)(20), and in subparagraphs (A)(iii) and (B) of subsection(c)(26)''; and
(B) in the second sentence, by striking "˜"˜that the segment'' and all that follows through the period and inserting "˜"˜that the segment meets the Interstate System design standards approved by the Secretary under section 109(b) of title 23, United States Code, and is planned to connect to an existing Interstate System segment by the date that is 25 years after the date of enactment of the MAP—21.''.
(above quote from Across-the-Board Changes for Interstate Designations in New Highway Bill? (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=7067.msg158116#msg158116) thread)
Quote from: Grzrd on July 07, 2012, 12:47:10 AM
in Texarkana, I would not mind driving the US 59/ Future I-x69 segment.  In about 18 months, it may hold the record for the signed disconnected "child" that is the greatest distance from its signed "parent".  :-D
(above quote from Louisiana/Mississippi Road Meet (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=7101.msg159278#msg159278) thread)

After making the joking comment about US 59/ Future I-x69 in the road meet thread, I started thinking about how absurd (illogical?) it would be to have a signed disconnected child an extremely long way from its signed parent.  In addition to the 113 mile length of the Texarkana Future I-x69's connection to mainline I-69 in Tenaha, it is approximately another 135 miles to what will definitely be a signed I-69 in Cleveland, Texas connected to the interstate system.  In the other direction from Tenaha, it is approximately 42 miles to Stonewall, La., which is the southern (southwestern) terminus of I-69 SIU 15 connected to the interstate system (LaDOTD has indicated in email correspondence that they are planning on completing I-69 SIU 15 approximately 25 years from now (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=4510.msg149649#msg149649)).

To make a long story short, there is NO WAY that TxDOT can assert with a straight face in its application to FHWA/ AASHTO that the Texarkana I-x69 segment will be connected to a mainline I-69 segment that is itself connected to the interstate system within 25 years. However, TxDOT will not have to make that assertion because the Texarkana I-x69 segment is already connected to I-30, an existing route on the interstate system.

I think that, since subparagraph (c)(20) statutorily defines the US 59 Laredo to Texarkana corridor as "I-69" (and the I-69 for Texas Alliance is concluding that it will be an I-x69 designation because, from Tenaha to Texarkana, it is both an I-69 spur and an I-69 "system element" off of mainline I-69), then FHWA/ AASHTO would be powerless to require the Texarkana I-x69 segment to be signed as an "I-x30".
[as an aside, the Alliance's description of the I-69 Spur as a "system element" echoes the I-69/I-269 "system" for the I-69 Corridor in Memphis (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/i69/segment9/newsletters/0107.pdf); I-x69 would sort of be a "spur cousin" to I-269]

This situation provides a good example of how the MAP-21 provisions for I-69 and I-11 differ from the provisions for other interstates.  If the Texarkana I-x69 segment had been statutorily required to be analyzed as a "logical addition or connection" (the new MAP-21 requirement for the other interstates), then I believe the easy conclusion would have been that the segment connects to I-30 and should therefore be an I-x30, particularly considering the current distance from mainline I-69.  It's definitely a quirky situation that leads to a seemingly "abandoned child".  :D
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on July 08, 2012, 05:06:25 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 07, 2012, 02:35:09 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 01, 2012, 11:45:35 AM
The Alliance for I-69 Texas, in an article on its website, I-69 Scores Victory in Passage of MAP-21 Highway Bill (http://i69texasalliance.com/NewsUpdates/update7.1.12.html), indicates that the Texarkana I-69 Spur will eventually be a 3di:
Quote
A 5-mile section of US 59 connecting to I-30 in Texarkana is being processed for designation as part of an I-69 system element. Because the primary national I-69 route extends into Louisiana south of Texarkana in Shelby County, section 118-mile section from I-30 south to Tenaha will be on the I-69 system but its specific numbering will be determined under the guidelines for interstate spur routes which carry a three-digit number using the number of the main route with an odd-number prefix such as 369 or 569.
Quote from: Grzrd on July 02, 2012, 10:37:29 AM
A good place to start is FHWA's Statutory Listing of High Priority Corridors (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/planning/national_highway_system/high_priority_corridors/hpcor.cfm).  I-69 is described in Subsections 18 and 20:
Quote
18. ...
20. United States Route 59 Corridor from Laredo, Texas, through Houston, Texas, to the vicinity of Texarkana, Texas. [I-69]
Next, page 23/599 of the MAP-21 pdf (http://www.rules.house.gov/Media/file/PDF_112_2/LegislativeText/CRPT-112hrpt-HR4348.pdf) has the following provision:
Quote
(1) IN GENERAL.—Section 1105(e)(5)(A) of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (105 Stat. 2031;109 Stat. 597; 115 Stat. 872) is amended—
(A) in the first sentence, by striking ‘‘and in subsections(c)(18) and (c)(20)'' and inserting ‘‘, in subsections (c)(18) and (c)(20), and in subparagraphs (A)(iii) and (B) of subsection(c)(26)''; and
(B) in the second sentence, by striking ‘‘that the segment'' and all that follows through the period and inserting ‘‘that the segment meets the Interstate System design standards approved by the Secretary under section 109(b) of title 23, United States Code, and is planned to connect to an existing Interstate System segment by the date that is 25 years after the date of enactment of the MAP–21.''.
(above quote from Across-the-Board Changes for Interstate Designations in New Highway Bill? (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=7067.msg158116#msg158116) thread)
Quote from: Grzrd on July 07, 2012, 12:47:10 AM
in Texarkana, I would not mind driving the US 59/ Future I-x69 segment.  In about 18 months, it may hold the record for the signed disconnected "child" that is the greatest distance from its signed "parent".  :-D
(above quote from Louisiana/Mississippi Road Meet (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=7101.msg159278#msg159278) thread)

After making the joking comment about US 59/ Future I-x69 in the road meet thread, I started thinking about how absurd (illogical?) it would be to have a signed disconnected child an extremely long way from its signed parent.  In addition to the 113 mile length of the Texarkana Future I-x69's connection to mainline I-69 in Tenaha, it is approximately another 135 miles to what will definitely be a signed I-69 in Cleveland, Texas connected to the interstate system.  In the other direction from Tenaha, it is approximately 42 miles to Stonewall, La., which is the southern (southwestern) terminus of I-69 SIU 15 connected to the interstate system (LaDOTD has indicated in email correspondence that they are planning on completing I-69 SIU 15 approximately 25 years from now (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=4510.msg149649#msg149649)).

To make a long story short, there is NO WAY that TxDOT can assert with a straight face in its application to FHWA/ AASHTO that the Texarkana I-x69 segment will be connected to a mainline I-69 segment that is itself connected to the interstate system within 25 years. However, TxDOT will not have to make that assertion because the Texarkana I-x69 segment is already connected to I-30, an existing route on the interstate system.

I think that, since subparagraph (c)(20) statutorily defines the US 59 Laredo to Texarkana corridor as "I-69" (and the I-69 for Texas Alliance is concluding that it will be an I-x69 designation because, from Tenaha to Texarkana, it is both an I-69 spur and an I-69 "system element" off of mainline I-69), then FHWA/ AASHTO would be powerless to require the Texarkana I-x69 segment to be signed as an "I-x30".
[as an aside, the Alliance's description of the I-69 Spur as a "system element" echoes the I-69/I-269 "system" for the I-69 Corridor in Memphis]

This situation provides a good example of how the MAP-21 provisions for I-69 and I-11 differ from the provisions for other interstates.  If the Texarkana I-x69 segment had been statutorily required to be analyzed as a "logical addition or connection" (the new MAP-21 requirement for the other interstates), then I believe the easy conclusion would have been that the segment connects to I-30 and should therefore be an I-x30, particularly considering the current distance from mainline I-69.  It's definitely a quirky situation that leads to a seemingly "abandoned child".  :D

Wow! That's crazy and confusing. So when the spur is built to Tex Americas Center, as they veer off 59 heading more to the northwest people continuing up 59 to the loop may get confused thinking there are 2  of the same I-69 freeway?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on July 08, 2012, 06:04:37 AM
The question came up on another thread so I have what I think is the answer on why the new I-30/I-49 interchange has one flyover.

I looked at it on Google Maps and there is a farmhouse in the northwest quadrant where the fourth cloverleaf would be going WB 30 to SB 49. So they saved the house by building a flyover instead.  :crazy: :crazy:

The good news is it looks like as of this winter, all the concrete was down between U.S. 71 and Loop 245 except for the part where it hooks into 245 on the south end.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on July 08, 2012, 07:27:19 PM
Cool!
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 08, 2012, 07:42:32 PM
There is a barn on 59/71 just north of Texarkana that appears to have just missed getting razed for I-49: it's a Meramec Caverns barn.  :spin:
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on July 09, 2012, 12:27:44 AM
Wow!
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 16, 2012, 10:04:47 AM
I recently contacted AHTD to see the current best guess for opening the I-49 new terrain section in Texarkana, and if it would be possible to arrange a pre-opening "drive" on it.  LaDOTD has given the preliminary OK for a group drive on Segments A-B of I-49 North this Fall, and I thought it would be interesting to drive the Texarkana section, too.

To make a long story short, AHTD is not very ecouraging about a pre-opening drive, but the good news is that they are about to scout out a dedication sight for an opening by the end of the year:

Quote
I've been told that I will most likely need to a dedication of that job by the end of this year. I seriously doubt that they would let you drive it before that. I intend to go down there by the end of this month to look for a good dedication location. I'll be glad to keep you informed.

To drive on the newly opened Texarkana section in addition to unopened segments on I-49 North would still be a great drive.  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on July 16, 2012, 11:48:40 AM
I'd make the trip to Texarkana if the trip on the unopened stretch of I-49 is allowed.  When is the planned date?  I am hoping it is later in the fall, because the heat right now is oppressive.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 16, 2012, 11:57:46 AM
Quote from: bugo on July 16, 2012, 11:48:40 AM
I'd make the trip to Texarkana if the trip on the unopened stretch of I-49 is allowed.  When is the planned date?  I am hoping it is later in the fall, because the heat right now is oppressive.

If my schedule allows it, I'd be interested as well .
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 16, 2012, 12:04:38 PM
mcdonaat is thinking of having a Shreveport (including Texarkana) meet in September (look at Louisiana/Mississippi road meet thread).  LaDOTD indicates that they will allow driving on Segments A-B (about six miles) of I-49 North at that time.  LaDOTD currently is thinking they will open Segments B-I of I-49 North in Summer 2013.  I am going to miss the Shreveport meet and will plan to drive as much of I-49 North as is allowed in Spring 2013.  I will try to gauge interest in an I-49 North meet around January.

I'm still thinking that there is an outside chance AHTD would allow a pre-opening drive on the Texarkana section, but it would probably be in November or December, if at all.  If it were allowed, it could be the basis for an extremely short notice mini-meet.

As a kid, I can remember going from Gainesville, GA to Falcons games one season on the unopened GA 365 (now I-985).  Ever since then, I've looked for opportunities to drive on basically deserted, about-to-be-opened roads.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on July 16, 2012, 03:28:35 PM
This is really exciting news!
Title: Plans For Carthage on I-69 Spur
Post by: Grzrd on July 21, 2012, 11:24:58 PM
This July 16 video report (http://www.ktbs.com/news/Carthage-I-69/-/144844/15567214/-/hat6ha/-/index.html), in addition to having footage of "Future I-69 Corridor" signs, reports (as does this related print report (http://www.ktbs.com/news/I-69-progress/-/144844/15567454/-/o85aimz/-/index.html)), that the immediate focus regarding the Carthage part of the I-69 Spur (slightly north of where mainline I-69 will meet the I-69 Spur in Tenaha (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Carthage,+TX&hl=en&ll=32.056973,-94.289474&spn=0.438787,0.617294&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=51.974572,79.013672&oq=carthage,+tx&hnear=Carthage,+Panola,+Texas&t=h&z=11)) is to try to get $15 million to complete the west loop around Carthage:

Quote
... the I-69 project through Panola County would cost about $35 million. But, for now, the focus is on trying to get about $15 million to complete the west loop around Carthage.

Even though it will take a long time to build the I-69 Spur, it is interesting to see media coverage of future segments outside of Texarkana.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on July 25, 2012, 04:51:36 PM
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi69texasalliance.com%2Fimages%2F2homemap.jpg&hash=4d1dd5e7cb52ec10e3e089f52d4db907dcd53f1a)

New, "non-highway person" here (I live in Bella Vista, AR squarely in the middle of the "Winnie-Minnie-New-Hou" corridor and have a significant interest in I-49, which is about to explode a few miles north of me at Pineville, MO) so forgive me asking a stupid question but...on the Texas Interstate 69 site it looks like the highway will go Brownsville-Corpus Christi-Victoria-Houston-Lufkin-Texarkana.  But reading through the thread here (thanks for all the info, BTW) it appears the main I-69 will go through the Shreveport area instead, with just a spur to Texarkana?

Reason being is that I was trying to determine whether the future I-49 and I-69 will meet at Texarkana or Shreveport.  I can't determine which.  It appears one of those cities will become a "three-interstate city"...and I can't think of a city where three interstate highways meet that hasn't flourished (i.e. Atlanta, Denver, Kansas City, Indianapolis, Nashville, Oklahoma City).  Don't get me wrong: neither SHV nor TXK will ever get, say, major league pro sports franchises (the Shreveport-Texarkana media market is (currently) only something like 80th in the nation and even if it were much higher these two are too close to D/FW and Houston), but I should think one or the other will become a critical distribution point with some and perhaps much attendant growth...each has significant rail connections as well though SHV would have the strong edge on commercial river navigability I'd think.

(BTW, I know the full I-69(even if it's only from the (east) Texas state line to Brownsville)-I-49-I-whatever linking many not occur in most of our lifetimes, but I was just curious if there have been any articles which seriously examine what the triple-interstate junction/crossing would mean for whichever city sees it happen.)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 25, 2012, 06:43:03 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on July 25, 2012, 04:51:36 PM
But reading through the thread here (thanks for all the info, BTW) it appears the main I-69 will go through the Shreveport area instead, with just a spur to Texarkana?
Reason being is that I was trying to determine whether the future I-49 and I-69 will meet at Texarkana or Shreveport.  I can't determine which.

The I-49/I-69 interchange location (http://i69dotd.com/Handouts/July05/Alignment_Locations_Sheet2.pdf) is currently projected to be near Shreveport:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F1MBrs.png&hash=37f3181937776d7634283695949b370798a60182)

From Tenaha (just south of Carthage on the Alliance for I-69 Texas map you posted) to Texarkana is currently projected to be a 118 mile I-x69 spur off of mainline I-69:

Quote from: Grzrd on July 01, 2012, 11:45:35 AM
The Alliance for I-69 Texas, in an article on its website, I-69 Scores Victory in Passage of MAP-21 Highway Bill (http://i69texasalliance.com/NewsUpdates/update7.1.12.html), indicates that the Texarkana I-69 Spur will eventually be a 3di:
Quote
A 5-mile section of US 59 connecting to I-30 in Texarkana is being processed for designation as part of an I-69 system element. Because the primary national I-69 route extends into Louisiana south of Texarkana in Shelby County, section 118-mile section from I-30 south to Tenaha will be on the I-69 system but its specific numbering will be determined under the guidelines for interstate spur routes which carry a three-digit number using the number of the main route with an odd-number prefix such as 369 or 569.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on July 25, 2012, 10:37:10 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 25, 2012, 06:43:03 PM


The I-49/I-69 interchange location (http://i69dotd.com/Handouts/July05/Alignment_Locations_Sheet2.pdf) is currently projected to be near Shreveport:

From Tenaha (just south of Carthage on the Alliance for I-69 Texas map you posted) to Texarkana is currently projected to be a 118 mile I-x69 spur off of mainline I-69:

Quote from: Grzrd on July 01, 2012, 11:45:35 AM
The Alliance for I-69 Texas, in an article on its website, I-69 Scores Victory in Passage of MAP-21 Highway Bill (http://i69texasalliance.com/NewsUpdates/update7.1.12.html), indicates that the Texarkana I-69 Spur will eventually be a 3di:
Quote
A 5-mile section of US 59 connecting to I-30 in Texarkana is being processed for designation as part of an I-69 system element. Because the primary national I-69 route extends into Louisiana south of Texarkana in Shelby County, section 118-mile section from I-30 south to Tenaha will be on the I-69 system but its specific numbering will be determined under the guidelines for interstate spur routes which carry a three-digit number using the number of the main route with an odd-number prefix such as 369 or 569.

Wow, so that's in the Shreveport metro area in DeSoto Parish, right south of the DeSoto/Caddo border that itself is not far south of the SHV limits.  Nonetheless, the Ark-La-Tex will still essentially have TWO triple-interstate towns.  Fascinating.

Used to be that SHV and Texarkana combined (each in the next county from the other though separated by a lot of pre-I-49 miles) were bigger than Fort Smith and northwest Arkansas that, like the first two cities, are in the same media markets but separated by about as much distance.  Now, Fort Smith and "NWA" have about 100,000 more people in their combined metro areas than SHV/TXK.  It will be interesting to see what growth the two triple junctions, when they happen, bring to the cities down south.

Thanks for the information!
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on July 25, 2012, 10:42:46 PM
Don't forget Houston. I-69 will turn it from a cow town into an oil town.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on July 26, 2012, 02:26:58 AM
Quote from: O Tamandua on July 25, 2012, 10:37:10 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 25, 2012, 06:43:03 PM


The I-49/I-69 interchange location (http://i69dotd.com/Handouts/July05/Alignment_Locations_Sheet2.pdf) is currently projected to be near Shreveport:

From Tenaha (just south of Carthage on the Alliance for I-69 Texas map you posted) to Texarkana is currently projected to be a 118 mile I-x69 spur off of mainline I-69:

Quote from: Grzrd on July 01, 2012, 11:45:35 AM
The Alliance for I-69 Texas, in an article on its website, I-69 Scores Victory in Passage of MAP-21 Highway Bill (http://i69texasalliance.com/NewsUpdates/update7.1.12.html), indicates that the Texarkana I-69 Spur will eventually be a 3di:
Quote
A 5-mile section of US 59 connecting to I-30 in Texarkana is being processed for designation as part of an I-69 system element. Because the primary national I-69 route extends into Louisiana south of Texarkana in Shelby County, section 118-mile section from I-30 south to Tenaha will be on the I-69 system but its specific numbering will be determined under the guidelines for interstate spur routes which carry a three-digit number using the number of the main route with an odd-number prefix such as 369 or 569.

Wow, so that's in the Shreveport metro area in DeSoto Parish, right south of the DeSoto/Caddo border that itself is not far south of the SHV limits.  Nonetheless, the Ark-La-Tex will still essentially have TWO triple-interstate towns.  Fascinating.

Used to be that SHV and Texarkana combined (each in the next county from the other though separated by a lot of pre-I-49 miles) were bigger than Fort Smith and northwest Arkansas that, like the first two cities, are in the same media markets but separated by about as much distance.  Now, Fort Smith and "NWA" have about 100,000 more people in their combined metro areas than SHV/TXK.  It will be interesting to see what growth the two triple junctions, when they happen, bring to the cities down south.

Thanks for the information!
Texarkana and Shreveport are destined to be major distribution centers! City leaders here in Texarkana have talked about this city heading into a booming period and I don't doubt it.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on July 26, 2012, 08:11:24 AM
Quote from: NE2 on July 25, 2012, 10:42:46 PM
Don't forget Houston. I-69 will turn it from a cow town into an oil town.

:clap:  ANOTHER tri-interstate city.

Dariusb, when I first moved to northwest Arkansas a decade ago I saw an editorial on I-49 quoting a study that said Fort Smith would grow in size comparable to northwest Arkansas (which has seen tremendous growth) when the new interstate is built.  I realize one can make a study "say" a variety of things, but interstate crossing cities (not just junctions in remote areas, such as the I-10/20 split east of El Paso) tend to have some staying power.  At 52 I may or may not see this (though it looks like we're all readying to see I-49 between TXK and Lafayette/I-10) but it's exciting for our respective metro areas nonetheless.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on July 26, 2012, 09:41:09 AM
How do we define Tri-Interstate Cities? 3 different 'parent'/2di interstates?

So we currently have:
San Diego (5, 8, 15), Denver (25, 70, 76), San Antonio (10, 35, 37), Fort Worth (20, 30, 35W), Dallas (a 'quad': 20, 30, 35E, 45), Houston (10, 45, 69), Oklahoma City (35, 40, 44), Kansas City (29, 35, 70), Maidison (39, 90, 94), Quad Cities (74, 80, 88), Chicago (a 'quint': 55, 57, 88, 90, 94), Bloomington (39, 55, 74), St Louis (quad: 44, 55, 64, 70), Champaign (57, 72, 74), Memphis (quad: 22, 40, 55, 69), Slidell (10, 12, 59), Birmingham (quad: 20, 22, 59, 65), Atlanta (20, 75, 85), Chattanooga (24, 59, 75), Nashville (24, 40, 65), Louisville (64, 65, 71), Cincinnatti (71, 74, 75), Indianapolis (quad:65, 69, 70, 74), Gary (quad:65, 80, 90, 95), Detroit (75, 94, 96), Toledo (75, 80, 90), Cleveland (quad: 71, 77, 480, 90), Charlestown (64, 77, 79), Bedford (70, 76, 99), Harrisburg (76, 81, 83), Baltimore (quad:70, 83, 95, 97), DC (66, 270, 95), Columbia (20, 26, 77), Greensville (40, 73, 85), Scranton (quad:476, 380, 81, 84), Binghampton (81, 86, 88), Newark (78, 280, 95), New York (quad:78, 80, 87, 95), Boston (90, 93, 95)

Future ones would include Casa Grande (8, 10, 11), Texarkana (30, 49, x69), Shreveport (20, 49, 69), Meridian (20, 59, 85) and Milwaukee (43, US41, 94).
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 26, 2012, 11:04:19 AM
Quote from: O Tamandua on July 26, 2012, 08:11:24 AM

Dariusb, when I first moved to northwest Arkansas a decade ago I saw an editorial on I-49 quoting a study that said Fort Smith would grow in size comparable to northwest Arkansas (which has seen tremendous growth) when the new interstate is built.  I realize one can make a study "say" a variety of things, but interstate crossing cities (not just junctions in remote areas, such as the I-10/20 split east of El Paso) tend to have some staying power.  At 52 I may or may not see this (though it looks like we're all readying to see I-49 between TXK and Lafayette/I-10) but it's exciting for our respective metro areas nonetheless.

Fort Smith is still anticipating growth. We have a new industrial park on the SE side of town that is close to where I-49 is being built. Now we just need the highway...whenever it gets here.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Takumi on July 26, 2012, 11:08:53 AM
Quote from: english si on July 26, 2012, 09:41:09 AM
How do we define Tri-Interstate Cities? 3 different 'parent'/2di interstates?

So we currently have:
San Diego (5, 8, 15), Denver (25, 70, 76), San Antonio (10, 35, 37), Fort Worth (20, 30, 35W), Dallas (a 'quad': 20, 30, 35E, 45), Houston (10, 45, 69), Oklahoma City (35, 40, 44), Kansas City (29, 35, 70), Maidison (39, 90, 94), Quad Cities (74, 80, 88), Chicago (a 'quint': 55, 57, 88, 90, 94), Bloomington (39, 55, 74), St Louis (quad: 44, 55, 64, 70), Champaign (57, 72, 74), Memphis (quad: 22, 40, 55, 69), Slidell (10, 12, 59), Birmingham (quad: 20, 22, 59, 65), Atlanta (20, 75, 85), Chattanooga (24, 59, 75), Nashville (24, 40, 65), Louisville (64, 65, 71), Cincinnatti (71, 74, 75), Indianapolis (quad:65, 69, 70, 74), Gary (quad:65, 80, 90, 95), Detroit (75, 94, 96), Toledo (75, 80, 90), Cleveland (quad: 71, 77, 480, 90), Charlestown (64, 77, 79), Bedford (70, 76, 99), Harrisburg (76, 81, 83), Baltimore (quad:70, 83, 95, 97), DC (66, 270, 95), Columbia (20, 26, 77), Greensville (40, 73, 85), Scranton (quad:476, 380, 81, 84), Binghampton (81, 86, 88), Newark (78, 280, 95), New York (quad:78, 80, 87, 95), Boston (90, 93, 95)

Future ones would include Casa Grande (8, 10, 11), Texarkana (30, 49, x69), Shreveport (20, 49, 69), Meridian (20, 59, 85) and Milwaukee (43, US41, 94).

Greensboro is also on the list (40, 73, 85), and Winston-Salem will be (40, 74, 285).
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on July 26, 2012, 11:45:01 AM
Sorry, I spelt Greensboro as Greensville for some strange reason - probably the heat here!

I didn't add Winston-Salem as I-285 isn't AASHTO-approved (I didn't include the places on the I-73/I-74 corridor north of NC). I mentioned "include" for a reason.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on July 26, 2012, 12:03:24 PM
Personally, I don't think that Shreveport will really blow up as a regional center until I-49 is completed to Texarkana/Fort Smith, and LA 3132 is extended to connect with I-69.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on July 26, 2012, 01:15:28 PM
Kansas City has 3 through interstates: I-35, I-70, and I-29/49.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on July 26, 2012, 02:27:38 PM
I don't know how much Fort Smith proper can physically grow unless the old Fort Chaffee can be developed. The city is landlocked by Chaffee, the Arkansas River and the Oklahoma border.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on July 26, 2012, 05:55:49 PM
Quote from: Takumi on July 26, 2012, 11:08:53 AM
Quote from: english si on July 26, 2012, 09:41:09 AM
How do we define Tri-Interstate Cities? 3 different 'parent'/2di interstates?

So we currently have (EDIT: total 46 cities that I count, with 33 of these junctions east of the Mississippi not counting the Quad Cities and St. Louis which have significant suburbs east of that river):
San Diego (5, 8, 15),
Denver (25, 70, 76),
San Antonio (10, 35, 37),
Fort Worth (20, 30, 35W),
Dallas (a 'quad': 20, 30, 35E, 45),
Houston (10, 45, 69),
Oklahoma City (35, 40, 44),
Kansas City (29, 35, 70),
Madison (39, 90, 94),
Quad Cities (74, 80, 88),
Chicago (a 'quint': 55, 57, 88, 90, 94),
Bloomington (39, 55, 74),
St Louis (quad: 44, 55, 64, 70),
Champaign (57, 72, 74),
Memphis (quad: 22, 40, 55, 69) (NOTE: won't Memphis metro in the future technically be a "quint" as the future I-555 enters the area in Turrell, AR, I believe, in Crittenden county where West Memphis is),
Slidell (10, 12, 59), (New Orleans metro)
Birmingham (quad: 20, 22, 59, 65),
Atlanta (20, 75, 85),
Chattanooga (24, 59, 75),
Nashville (24, 40, 65),
Louisville (64, 65, 71),
Cincinnatti (71, 74, 75),
Indianapolis (quad:65, 69, 70, 74),
Gary (quad:65, 80, 90, 95), (Chicago metro)
Detroit (75, 94, 96),
Toledo (75, 80, 90),
Cleveland (quad: 71, 77, 480, 90),
Charleston (64, 77, 79),
Bedford (70, 76, 99),
Harrisburg (76, 81, 83),
Baltimore (quad:70, 83, 95, 97),
DC (66, 270, 95),
Columbia (20, 26, 77),
Greensboro (NC) (40, 73, 85) (Raleigh/Winston-Salem metro),
Scranton (quad:476, 380, 81, 84),
Binghampton (81, 86, 88),
Newark (78, 280, 95),
New York (quad:78, 80, 87, 95),
Boston (90, 93, 95)

Future ones would include

Casa Grande (8, 10, 11), (Phoenix metro)
Texarkana (30, 49, x69),
Shreveport (20, 49, 69),
Meridian (20, 59, 85) and
Milwaukee (43, US41, 94).

Winston-Salem will be (40, 74, 285).

Thanks, all.

That's a pretty strong list.  The smallest cities are Bedford, PA* (the tiniest "Tri-I" city at just over 3,000 people in the borough), Meridian, MS (106,000 in the "micropolitan" area), Champaign, IL (metro area approximately 180,000), Bloomington, IL (same as Champaign metro, more on those two in a minute), Charleston* (capital of West Virginia with a 300,000 plus metro area), Binghampton NY (300,000 plus metro), Scranton, PA (quad junction with near 600,000 plus metro area).

If I were going to make a comparison with Shreveport/Texarkana I'd almost be tempted to compare them to Champaign/Bloomington...two cities each in the next county from the other but still a ways off (Champaign and McLean (Bloomington) counties are two of the five Illinois counties that are over 1,000 square miles large) with each city having an interstate going just up the road to one of the 5 largest metro areas in America (SHV/TXK, I-20 and I-35 to D/FW; Champaign (I-57) and Bloomington (I-55) to Chicago).  Interestingly, from what I can gather I-69 will increase the number of "Tri-I" (or more) cities by almost 30% west of the Mississippi.

(*Means where shared interstates (ya'll probably have a better name than that) are coming in...Bedford and Charleston are almost like dual-interstate crossings but each has an interstate with two numbers so that is a "triple-interstate" city.) 

BTW, Road Hog, I've been amazed seeing growth across the river from Fort Smith in Crawford County.  Van Buren and to a smaller extent Alma have really expanded quite a bit.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on July 26, 2012, 06:17:16 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on July 26, 2012, 05:55:49 PM(NOTE: won't Memphis metro in the future technically be a "quint" as the future I-555 enters the area in Turrell, AR, I believe, in Crittenden county where West Memphis is)
No, as I-55 was already counted. 3dis only counted if their parent didn't visit the city(Scranton x2, Cleveland, Texarkana).
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Takumi on July 26, 2012, 06:27:17 PM
Quote from: english si on July 26, 2012, 11:45:01 AM
Sorry, I spelt Greensboro as Greensville for some strange reason - probably the heat here!
And I read it as Greenville, SC for some reason, not paying attention to the numbers. It's hot here too.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on July 26, 2012, 06:27:37 PM
Quote from: english si on July 26, 2012, 06:17:16 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on July 26, 2012, 05:55:49 PM(NOTE: won't Memphis metro in the future technically be a "quint" as the future I-555 enters the area in Turrell, AR, I believe, in Crittenden county where West Memphis is)
No, as I-55 was already counted. 3dis only counted if their parent didn't visit the city(Scranton x2, Cleveland, Texarkana).

Thanks for the explanation (and the list), English Si.

EDIT: One last "fun with numbers" stat then I'll stop citing digits and sit back and watch this thread as the interstate(s) draw nearer to completion.  :love:  The A.C. Nielsen company breaks the U.S. up into media markets...essentially asking "In any given American county or parish, where is the location of the television stations(s) where the majority of people in that county/parish tend to watch?" (http://www.nielsen.com/content/dam/corporate/us/en/public%20factsheets/tv/nielsen-2012-local-DMA-TV-penetration.pdf)  Cities in such a market frequently see money flow to and from either the largest city in the market or between the largest cities in same.

In the list above, I gather 5 current/potential media markets with at least 2 "tri-interstate" cities:

DMA Rank/Market

1. New York City (NYC and Newark)
3. Chicago (Chicago and Gary, IN)
5. Dallas/Fort Worth (duh)
46. Greensboro/Winston-Salem/High Point (Greensboro and Winston-Salem, depending upon what highway designations the latter achieves).
83. Shreveport (the market used to be known as "Shreveport/Texarkana"...I think there's still at least one TV station located in the latter so I'm not sure why the designation has changed).

Don't get me wrong...not only will SHV/TXK not grow into an NYC or D/FW, but they'd BETTER not grow that big.  Rather, I think when these interstates are all completed we'll likely see an effect like Northwest Arkansas when that metro suddenly became home to the world's largest company, world's largest meat processor, etc. - we'll see perhaps many things happen that no one would ever have expected.

Though the "tri-interstate" status is still a looooooong way away for Shreveport and Texarkana, it's still sobering to see them approaching membership in this "club".  Being the front porch (TXK) and side door (SHV) to Texas has its privileges.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 27, 2012, 07:32:32 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 10, 2010, 10:39:08 AM
http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/upcoming-activities/I-69-Proposed-Planning-Corridor-Citizen-Alternative.pdf
Quote from: Grzrd on January 25, 2012, 04:06:18 PM
The meeting notes from the Texas I-69 Segment Committee 1's November 9, 2011 meeting (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/notes/seg1/notes_110911.pdf) confirm that the Texarkana US 59 relief route is a Recommended Priority [pages 3-4/31 of the pdf] ....
None of the above indicates near-term plans for the Texarkana US 59 relief route to proceed north of I-30 and eastward to connect with I-49.

On July 24, the Segment One Committee released its I-69 Segment One Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/seg1_final.pdf). The good news is that, as one of its five major priorities, the Committee at least pays lip service to corridor preservation of the Northern Loop and the I-49 connection (page 36/155 of pdf; page 30 of document):

Quote
US 59 Relief Route at Texarkana — Committee representatives from the Texarkana area recognize that US 59 at I-30, continuing south for several miles, could potentially be designated as I-69. The committee recommends designation of US 59 in this area as soon as possible and also recommends continued study of a western relief route on US 59 from the Sulphur River Bridge to I-30 where it would serve the TexAmericas Center just west of Texarkana. The Texarkana MPO has initially studied and endorsed this route through a resolution in 2011. This resolution endorsed a full western relief route from US 59 to I-30, as recommended by the committee, as well as the portion north of I-30 that would connect with the planned I-49 corridor near the Texas/Arkansas state line.

Realistically, there is probably no money to preserve the corridor, but at least they acknowledged the need to evaluate the corridor.

edit - The Texarkana MPO study corridor (from link in quote at top of post) is below:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F3SH3v.jpg&hash=656ba8c81853eb60900425e902669cec2271cab1)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on July 29, 2012, 12:15:10 PM
Hmmmm...I see a possible conflict here.

The Texarkana MPO proposal would shift US 59/I-69 onto their proposed Western Bypass which would connect to the proposed I-49 north heading towards Fort Smith...yet they also want the existing US 59 freeway from I-30 southward designated as I-69, too?? Are they going to upgrade the segment of US 59 from the existing freeway (also carrying TX LOOP 151) down to where it connects with the proposed "Relief Route"??

And, once again, why are they asking for I-69 shields when what they will ultimately get is I-x69? Or, I-x30 for the existing US 59/TX 151/AR 245 loop??

Talk about creating a Frankenstein..(smdh)

Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Revive 755 on July 29, 2012, 12:45:33 PM
Quote from: english si on July 26, 2012, 09:41:09 AM
Chicago (a 'quint': 55, 57, 88, 90, 94)

I-88 stops about five miles short of Chicago at I-290.  If your going to include I-88, then you should at least include I-65, and possible I-80.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on July 29, 2012, 03:05:31 PM
I-65 is in a different state, and is more than 5 miles short of Chicago. I counted it for Gary.

I-88 would have reached the city centre if I-290 hadn't been there first. I used something not as exclusive as a city, but not as inclusive as an Urban Area/Met Area*.

*This could be because I'm British and city boundaries are crazy and urban areas run into each other here.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on July 29, 2012, 03:51:28 PM
Quote from: english si on July 29, 2012, 03:05:31 PM
I-65 is in a different state, and is more than 5 miles short of Chicago. I counted it for Gary.

I-88 would have reached the city centre if I-290 hadn't been there first. I used something not as exclusive as a city, but not as inclusive as an Urban Area/Met Area*.

*This could be because I'm British and city boundaries are crazy and urban areas run into each other here.

I'd say as long as the terminus was close-in, a metro area would be close enough for government work.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on August 04, 2012, 11:26:16 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 13, 2012, 09:20:22 PM
This article (http://www.news-journal.com/panola/news/carthage-loop-designated-as-part-of-future-i/article_0fb0095d-1389-56d7-9e8b-707440038030.html) indicates an interesting form of alternative financing for I-69, a dedicated freight fee:
Quote
James Carlow, who represents the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce for the I-69 project .... said he expects funding for the I-69 project to partially come from a dedicated 20 percent fee directed from freight revenue transferred from the Port of Houston to Texarkana.
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg161103#msg161103) thread)
Quote from: Grzrd on July 30, 2012, 10:36:12 AM
As regards relief options in Houston, in both the I-69 Segment Two Committee Report and Recommendations (pages 37-38/157; pages 31-32 of document) (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/seg2_final.pdf) and the I-69 Segment Three Committee Report and Recommendations (page 36/157; page 30 of document) (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/seg3_final.pdf), the Segment Two and Segment Three Committees discussed ... important connections to the I-69 system ... at the risk of parsing the language too closely, by not limiting "important connections to the I-69 system" to highways, the Committees probably intend for studies to include non-highway options for freight, including the Freight Shuttle along the I-69 corridor (discussed in this thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=6191.msg135757#msg135757)).
The language regarding Houston relief options in the two Committee reports is identical:
Quote
Relief Options in Houston — In the first few months of meeting, the committee discussed ... important connections to the I-69 system.
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg164703#msg164703) thread)

This July 26 TV video report (http://www.ktbs.com/news/I-69-Texarkana-Update-7-26-12/-/144844/15735674/-/k6mn26/-/index.html) reports on the anticipated addition of I-69 signage to US 59 in Texarkana, and part of it has Judge Carlow discussing I-69 financing and the possibility of the Freight Shuttle on the I-69 Corridor from Houston to Texarkana.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on August 04, 2012, 11:55:41 AM
Wow. Why not number it X69? They'd have to change the I-69 shields later on. Thanks for the update.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Revive 755 on August 04, 2012, 01:10:11 PM
^ Maybe they are hoping to trigger a reroute with mainline I-69 going through Texarkanna and the Shreveport section becoming the I-x69 route?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on August 04, 2012, 03:50:02 PM
Quote from: dariusb on August 04, 2012, 11:55:41 AM
Why not number it X69? They'd have to change the I-69 shields later on.
Quote from: Revive 755 on August 04, 2012, 01:10:11 PM
Maybe they are hoping to trigger a reroute with mainline I-69 going through Texarkanna and the Shreveport section becoming the I-x69 route?

I think the TV report simply referred to it as I-69 because it likely has not been widely communicated that it will probably receive a spur designation. TxDOT has indicated that it will probably be numbered in a manner consistent with an interstate spur, like I-x69:

Quote from: Grzrd on July 31, 2012, 09:26:43 AM
I just received a comprehensive email from TxDOT that addresses a lot of I-69 issues ...
Quote
...
How will these roads be numbered as Interstate?
...
Because the primary national I-69 route extends into Louisiana south of Texarkana, US 59 north of US 84 will be on the I-69 system but its specific numbering will be determined in consultation with FHWA, AASHTO and TxDOT.  US 59 from Texarkana to Tenaha may be designated in a manner that is consistent with an interstate spur, e.g. I-369.
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg165027#msg165027) thread)
Title: I-69 report ready on local stretch(Texarkana and East Texas)
Post by: dariusb on August 06, 2012, 01:16:43 PM
This is from todays Texarkana Gazette:
     A report concerning the local leg of the future Interstate 69 is now available. Segment committees have made the reports available, and the Texarkana and East Texas corridor is Segment One. The reports are found at txdot.gov/drivenbytexans/publications.htm  Statewide there are 5 segment committees composed of citizen volunteers. I-69 is a proposed national highway linking Michigan and Texas. It stretches about 1,600 miles and includes Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana and Michigan. Jerry Sparks chairs the I-69 Segment One Committee, and said the report will be passed to decision makers, including legislators and Texas Dept Of Transportationofficials.

      The lengthy report is the culmination of about 2 years work.Segment One runs from Texarkana south to around Lufkin, Tx and the future I-69 largely follows U.S. Hwy 59. "Everywhere along the I-69 corridor where it's feasible, it uses existing corridors. We're not trying to build a new superhighway through the middle of nowhere. We want to take advantage of existing highways that meet interstate standards", Sparks said. The report represents traffic and highway data, citizen input and resolutions of support for I-69. It states support for I-69 is not only needed to accomodate population and traffic growth, but also to provide safer travel, improve emergency evacuations and improve economic development. The cost estimate is staggering for the Texas portion. About 16.4 billion is needed statewide to reconstruct roads to be designated I-69 corridors, with 4.6 billion in improvements identified in Segment One alone.

        Sparks pointed out funding is likely to be scarce, as state and national transportation budgets have been cut. "Without adequate funding, all we have is a conceptual plan. But we have to start now and know its an uphill battle. It's not going to be fast," he said. In a TxDOT press release dated July 24, the agency says Texas Transportation Commission recently approved an additional $140 million for various projects along the route, bringing total funding to more than $600 million. The release states funded priorities include the study of relief options in the Nacogdoches/Lufkin/Corrigan area; right of way acquisition for U.S. 59 improvements in Liberty County; environmental and engineering studies in the fort Bend and Wharton County areas; upgrading a section of U.S. 59 in Victoria to interstate standards; construction of a relief route in Premont; the U>S> 77/I-69 interstate-upgrade project from Driscoll to Kingsville; and construction of an overpass in Laredo. The I-69 advisory committee and 5 segment committees were created in 2008 by TTC. The move is a grassroots effort to encourage citizen involvement in planning the Texas portion of I-69.

       In a TxDOT press release dated July 24, the agency said it is reviewing more than 200 miles of highway along U.S. 59, U.S. 77, U.S. 83 and U.S. 281 as the first step in designating these highways as I-69. Most recently 35 miles of U.S. 59 was dually designated as I-69/U.S. 59 between I-610 North in Houston and the Liberty County line. Six miles of U.S. 77 has been designated I-69 between I-37 and state highway 44 in Robstown.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on August 06, 2012, 06:18:58 PM
Quote from: dariusb on August 06, 2012, 01:16:43 PM
A report concerning the local leg of the future Interstate 69 is now available.

The I-69 Segment One Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/seg1_final.pdf) contains an interesting map which references the Freight Shuttle, shows the Northern Loop connection to I-49 as a "Committee Suggested I-69 Connecting Route", and shows a direct "Committee Suggested I-69 Connecting Route" between Carthage and Nacogdoches as a "Truck Route" (instead of a Relief Route).  It even looks like a Toll 49 extension to the I-69 Spur ("East Texas Hourglass (http://toll49.org/project/hourglass)") is under consideration (page 21/155 of pdf; page 15 of document):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVWdNt.png&hash=921f62b57bd046ee3b52463703852412e2f2bc60)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on August 07, 2012, 12:40:53 AM
Wow! A lot of good info.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: us175 on August 07, 2012, 09:49:33 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 06, 2012, 06:18:58 PM
Quote from: dariusb on August 06, 2012, 01:16:43 PM
A report concerning the local leg of the future Interstate 69 is now available.

The I-69 Segment One Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/seg1_final.pdf) contains an interesting map which references the Freight Shuttle, shows the Northern Loop connection to I-49 as a "Committee Suggested I-69 Connecting Route", and shows a direct "Committee Suggested I-69 Connecting Route" between Carthage and Nacogdoches as a "Truck Route" (instead of a Relief Route).  It even looks like a Toll 49 extension to the I-69 Spur ("East Texas Hourglass (http://toll49.org/project/hourglass)") is under consideration (page 21/155 of pdf; page 15 of document):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVWdNt.png&hash=921f62b57bd046ee3b52463703852412e2f2bc60)

I see they are marking the TX 204 route as a connecting corridor; I've wondered since all the I-69 in east TX stuff has come about, if planners were going to try to emphasize that or not, maybe even to the point of redesignating the road as an extension of US 175 and getting TxDOT to add it as another part of the set of Texas Trunk highways.  They'll need to do a lot of work to get the road (the current TX 204 route) in better/wider shape if they expect it to carry more truck traffic.
Title: Scope of AASHTO Authority Re Texarkana I-369 Application?
Post by: Grzrd on September 20, 2012, 07:33:21 AM
Quote from: wxfree on September 19, 2012, 09:45:47 PM
The agenda for TTC's meeting next week includes this item: Highway Designations
(1) Bowie County - Authorize the submission of an application to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) to designate a segment of US 59 in Texarkana as an Interstate Highway (MO)
In accordance with the processes established by the Federal Highway Administration and AASHTO, this minute order authorizes the department to petition AASHTO to include a 3.5 mile segment of US 59 from I-30 to SL 151 in Texarkana as part of the Interstate Highway System as I-369. The proposed route will act as a spur within the developing Interstate Highway 69 System.
The Texarkana spur may be designated as I-369.
Quote from: Perfxion on September 20, 2012, 06:31:09 AM
I know this a little fictional highways but ...US281 becomes I-169 or rather I-969 since they are screwing up Texarkana area.
(above 2 quotes from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg174678#msg174678) thread)
Quote from: Grzrd on May 12, 2012, 09:07:33 PM
Section 1105(e)(5)(C)(i) provides that:
Quote
The routes referred to in subsection ... (c)(20) shall be designated as Interstate Route I-69.
The subsection (c)(20) route is as follows:
Quote
(20) United States Route 59 Corridor from Laredo, Texas, through Houston, Texas, to the vicinity of Texarkana, Texas.
To put it another way, it looks like Congress has statutorily mandated that there "shall" one day be an I-69/ I-69 interchange in the vicinity of Joaquin/Tenaha, Texas.  :ded:
The Texarkana MPO can put forth a good faith argument that the statute mandates that "I-69" is the only interstate designation allowed along the US 59 corridor in the Texarkana vicinity, and that they shall request the I-69 designation.

Assuming the Texas Transportation Commission will authorize the I-369 application to AASHTO at its September 27 meeting (page 6/14 of pdf) (http://www.txdot.gov/about_us/commission/2012_meetings/documents/agendas/sept27.pdf), I wonder to what degree the I-69 statutory designation will limit AASHTO's discretion in regard to the application.  First, I think AASHTO will agree that, the statute notwithstanding, US 59 in Texarkana should not be designated as I-69 because it is clearly a spur off of mainline I-69 (they would probably contend that not doing so is the most reasonable interpretation of the I-69 statutory provisions in their entirety).  That said, I also think AASHTO would find that the I-69 statutory scheme would prevent them from designating US 59 in Texarkana as an I-x30.

However, I think AASHTO does have the authority to determine the proper first number of the designation; in other words, should it be I-"3"69?  Since the statute does not provide a specific spur designation, I think AASHTO has authority to require that it comply with the conventional spur numbering scheme and be designated as I-969 (or maybe I-769), and I think that there is a reasonable chance that they will issue a conditional approval that will require a change in the designation.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on September 20, 2012, 07:52:04 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 20, 2012, 07:33:21 AMHowever, I think AASHTO does have the authority to determine the proper first number of the designation; in other words, should it be I-"3"69?  Since the statute does not provide a specific spur designation, I think AASHTO has authority to require that it comply with the conventional spur numbering scheme and be designated as I-969 (or maybe I-769), and I think that there is a reasonable chance that they will issue a conditional approval that will require a change in the designation.
What convention? There might be a pattern that some states use, but there doesn't look like a convention to me - or if there is, there's a lot of exceptions.

I reckon it's more likely that AASHTO would raise the question of why not I-169 (as the lowest free number - with no conflicts with other states), than raise the question of why not I-969.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 20, 2012, 08:33:18 AM
Quote from: english si on September 20, 2012, 07:52:04 AM
What convention?

In general, on N-S interstates, going south-to-north, I believe the general pattern is for mileage is to from 0 upwards; similarly, I am used to seeing spur routes progress generally from 1xx to 9xx.  I'm curious, which states number their spurs from 9xx to 1xx in a south-to-north direction? The semantic difference between convention and pattern is not important to me. 

Quote
There might be a pattern that some states use, but there doesn't look like a convention to me - or if there is, there's a lot of exceptions.

In general, AASHTO strives to minimize confusion to the traveling public; I believe the above pattern serves that purpose.

Quote
I reckon it's more likely that AASHTO would raise the question of why not I-169 (as the lowest free number - with no conflicts with other states), than raise the question of why not I-969.

What conflicts with other states?  The proposed I-369 in entirely within Texas.  It doesn't matter how other states number their spurs.  For example, Georgia and South Carolina each have an I-185 as their southernmost I-85 spur.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on September 20, 2012, 09:04:58 AM
There is no such convention for first digits to increase. Some states have done this on their own, including Texas.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on September 20, 2012, 09:29:51 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 20, 2012, 08:33:18 AMIn general, on N-S interstates, going south-to-north, I believe the general pattern is for mileage is to from 0 upwards; similarly, I am used to seeing spur routes progress generally from 1xx to 9xx.  I'm curious, which states number their spurs from 9xx to 1xx in a south-to-north direction? The semantic difference between convention and pattern is not important to me.
How about evens on I-5 in CA (8, 4, 6, 2 heading north, ie increased mileage), I-76 in PA goes 3, 1 heading east.

I am beginning to see this pattern, but it isn't bold (FL I-95 goes 3, 1, 5) and clear, or always the case. I've not seen it mentioned in my years of looking at American Roadgeek sites.
QuoteWhat conflicts with other states?  The proposed I-369 in entirely within Texas.  It doesn't matter how other states number their spurs.  For example, Georgia and South Carolina each have an I-185 as their southernmost I-85 spur.
Avoid the nearby I-169 if Shreveport has one, or something. Take the DC I-695/MD I-695 confusion recently when the former was signed, for instance. They can't do jack about it, as there's all the evens taken, but if they could have, they would have. There's definitely a few states where they have I-4xx or I-3xx as there's a nearby I-1xx or I-2xx.

Or perhaps they have an idea where auxillary routes might be long term (baring in mind that TX44 and US83 won't be odd spurs, and there's to be three mainlines, and only plan on their being one odd spur of I-69 (say in the Houston area?) and thus I-369 meets the pattern. After all, I'm not hearing complaints about I-781 not being I-981, just in case there's a need for an I-x87 near Albany (and quite why I-587 is so far south - then again perhaps they reckoned that NYC might need two odd numbers) - there's certainly nowhere north of there that would need an odd interstate spur.
Quote from: NE2 on September 20, 2012, 09:04:58 AMThere is no such convention for first digits to increase. Some states have done this on their own, including Texas.
That's what I thought. AASHTO don't care, and ironically the people that do care (other than the three people in this thread, or whatever), are the ones that chose the number in the first place.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 20, 2012, 10:32:57 AM
Quote from: NE2 on September 20, 2012, 09:04:58 AM
There is no such convention for first digits to increase. Some states have done this on their own, including Texas.

Thanks for the clarification. I had been limited by my myopic observations. I stand corrected.  It is interesting that Texas appears to be departing from its own past practice.

Quote from: english si on September 20, 2012, 09:29:51 AM
Avoid the nearby I-169 if Shreveport has one, or something.

Interesting example. A system of consistent progressions would pretty much avoid such potential similarities, but as NE2 pointed out, perhaps this would be a better discussion for Fictional Highways.

Quote from: CanesFan27 on August 01, 2012, 01:02:32 PM
As for complaining about the numbering, (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gribblenation.com%2Froom.jpg&hash=afa304de37aa8aadde85815f03503d9516f0ea83)
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg165334#msg165334) thread)
Quote from: english si on September 20, 2012, 09:29:51 AM
AASHTO don't care, and ironically the people that do care (other than the three people in this thread, or whatever), are the ones that chose the number in the first place.

The beauty of this Forum is that it is one of the few places in the world that questions like this can be discussed, whether one wants to characterize it as complaining or not.  That said, I don't think the room is completely empty.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 29, 2012, 05:01:00 PM
Quote from: wxfree on September 19, 2012, 09:45:47 PM
The agenda for TTC's meeting next week includes this item: Highway Designations
(1) Bowie County - Authorize the submission of an application to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) to designate a segment of US 59 in Texarkana as an Interstate Highway (MO)
In accordance with the processes established by the Federal Highway Administration and AASHTO, this minute order authorizes the department to petition AASHTO to include a 3.5 mile segment of US 59 from I-30 to SL 151 in Texarkana as part of the Interstate Highway System as I-369. The proposed route will act as a spur within the developing Interstate Highway 69 System.
The Texarkana spur may be designated as I-369.
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg174678#msg174678) thread)

The "Highway Designations" section was included as subsection (c)(1) of the Section "10. Routine Minute Orders" (pages 4-7 of Sept. 27 Agenda (http://www.txdot.gov/about_us/commission/2012_meetings/documents/agendas/sep27.pdf) pdf).  The authorization for an application to AASHTO for the I-369 designation was passed in response to a motion to approve all of the Routine Minute Orders.  Video of the Texas Transportation Commission Sept. 27 meeting (http://www.txdot.gov/about_us/commission/2012_meetings/media/sept27.htm) includes approval of the Routine Minute Orders from approximately 1:51:00 to 1:51:30 on the video.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on September 29, 2012, 08:08:13 PM
369, damn she's fine
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on November 03, 2012, 04:57:17 PM
         This related news from yesterday's Texarkana Gazette. A freight shuttle from Houston to Texarkana, Texas, could turn an industrial park near Hooks, Texas into a regional transportation hub, said a former Bowie County judge. James Carlow discussed how an overhead freight rail service could reduce truck traffic while saving money for Interstate 69 construction. Carlow who served as Bowie County judge from 1986 to 2010 said private investors could help fund construction of an overhead rail line along existing U S Highway 59  rights of way. The route could bring freight from shipping channels in Houston and New Orleans to TexAmericas Center, a 20,000 acre complex on highway 82 near Hooks. The freight shuttle rails could be built within 2 1/2 years, Carlow said. Carlow said with the expansion of the Panama canal , which is expected to be completed by 2014, ports in Houston and New Orleans could see an increase in freight bound for world markets. Carlow said according to his research, the overhead freightline-which looks like truck trailers with steel wheels that operate on a rail-could be powered by electricity using existing electrical grids. Fuel would cost 6 cents per mile, compared to the line $1.70 per mile for traditional tractor trailers, Carlow said. The shuttle would be quiet and smokeless because it uses electricity. Carlow said the rails would be about 20 feet above the road and allow freight to travel 62 mph. It would be safer because it's above the traffic. The security would be better. They could use heat sensors or an MRI system to check what is in the trailer. It would make it easier to spot nuclear weapons. The overhead trails would be constructed either in the median of U.S. 59 or on the other side of rights of way.
          The system could haul 8,600 trailers each way or  about 17,000 daily, Carlow said. Carlow said the Texarkana region could become a transportation hub if a freight shuttle  is constructed. Inbound cargo could be processed for shipment to major markets. Additionally, products made at Ash Grove and Domtar in Little River County could be shipped to TexAmericas Center and redistributed to world markets via southern ports, Carlow said. We've got to think outside the box. There is no money for I-69, but this could save money shipping by freight shuttle. It doesn't require an environmental study, because we're using existing rights of way, Carlow said. A shuttle could also reduce maintenance of U.S. 59, Carlow said. This would benefit Bowie, Cass, Miller and Little River counties. Carlow also turned attention to the Red River. He said making the waterway navigable could provide a way for Little River County manufacturers to ship goods by river to New Orleans and on to international markets.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: mgk920 on November 06, 2012, 10:16:27 AM
Are there not railroad lines already in that corridor (I have not checked a map on this)?  Also, the speed that you mentioned is much slower than how fast the existing freight railroads already run their intermodal trains.  Yes, there are several major rail routes that run north-south between the Gulf Coast region and the USA's upper midwest.

OTOH, I do kind of wonder how well 'open access' railroads would do in some of the major corridors.

Mike
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on November 06, 2012, 10:51:47 AM
Quote from: mgk920 on November 06, 2012, 10:16:27 AM
Are there not railroad lines already in that corridor (I have not checked a map on this)?  Also, the speed that you mentioned is much slower than how fast the existing freight railroads already run their intermodal trains.  Yes, there are several major rail routes that run north-south between the Gulf Coast region and the USA's upper midwest.

OTOH, I do kind of wonder how well 'open access' railroads would do in some of the major corridors.

Mike

I believe that Union Pacific has a major Class A line already running in that corridor.

Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: rte66man on November 07, 2012, 08:45:22 AM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on November 06, 2012, 10:51:47 AM
Quote from: mgk920 on November 06, 2012, 10:16:27 AM
Are there not railroad lines already in that corridor (I have not checked a map on this)?  Also, the speed that you mentioned is much slower than how fast the existing freight railroads already run their intermodal trains.  Yes, there are several major rail routes that run north-south between the Gulf Coast region and the USA's upper midwest.

OTOH, I do kind of wonder how well 'open access' railroads would do in some of the major corridors.

Mike

I believe that Union Pacific has a major Class A line already running in that corridor.


ftp://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/rail/plan/ch3.pdf

rte66man
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on November 25, 2012, 08:31:36 PM
Looks like some of the signs will be going up soon. There are sign gantries along I-30 at AR 549/Future I-49.

There is also a small sign yard near US 71 and CR 55 north of Texarkana
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm9.staticflickr.com%2F8343%2F8218372821_6ec7454a38_c_d.jpg&hash=e1670604b9f25579c02ec3917ace87beaadf8780)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on November 26, 2012, 01:45:45 AM
Odd that Houston would be signed with Shreveport on that 549 stretch. You could just as easily sign Houston on I-30, and Houston is not signed on I-30 until the US 59 exit.
Title: Texarkana AR 245/ Future I-49 Opening in February
Post by: Grzrd on November 27, 2012, 02:19:59 PM
The November 27 Texarkana Gazette, instead of an article, has a photo and caption (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2012/11/27/state-highway-245-959580.php) indicating that AR 245/ Future I-49 had the last section of concrete poured yesterday and will open in February:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FzH3jX.jpg&hash=d536504b53f2938564c86b0b516c8053e8772a3c)

Quote
Staff photo by Evan Lewis - Workers with Interstate Highway Construction of Denver pour the last section of concrete Monday, completing state Highway 245 in Texarkana, Ark. The section between Interstate 30 and U.S. Highway 71 will be open in February, completing the 14.5-mile loop that will eventually become Interstate 49.

Now if AHTD will just pave those last four miles between Doddridge and Louisiana ... and go ahead and sign the above section as I-49 as well.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on November 27, 2012, 02:31:57 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 27, 2012, 02:19:59 PM

Now if AHTD will just pave those last four miles between Doddridge and Louisiana ... and go ahead and sign the above section as I-49 as well.

If they ever finish the interchange at 549/71. They haven't even finished the bridge columns as of last week.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: mcdonaat on November 27, 2012, 04:36:28 PM
Quote from: US71 on November 25, 2012, 08:31:36 PM
Looks like some of the signs will be going up soon. There are sign gantries along I-30 at AR 549/Future I-49.

There is also a small sign yard near US 71 and CR 55 north of Texarkana
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm9.staticflickr.com%2F8343%2F8218372821_6ec7454a38_c_d.jpg&hash=e1670604b9f25579c02ec3917ace87beaadf8780)
Why would Houston be listed before Shreveport? It might be a typo for Hosston (a town along future I-49 just south of the state line).
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Alps on November 27, 2012, 05:46:24 PM
Quote from: mcdonaat on November 27, 2012, 04:36:28 PM
Quote from: US71 on November 25, 2012, 08:31:36 PM
Looks like some of the signs will be going up soon. There are sign gantries along I-30 at AR 549/Future I-49.

There is also a small sign yard near US 71 and CR 55 north of Texarkana
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm9.staticflickr.com%2F8343%2F8218372821_6ec7454a38_c_d.jpg&hash=e1670604b9f25579c02ec3917ace87beaadf8780)
Why would Houston be listed before Shreveport? It might be a typo for Hosston (a town along future I-49 just south of the state line).
Spotting errors before the sign's even up? That makes you the error hipster.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on November 28, 2012, 12:44:10 AM
It is probably supposed to be "Houston" as the 245-151-59 combo takes you right into Houston.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: mcdonaat on November 28, 2012, 02:13:41 AM
But doesn't it pass through any more important towns along the way? I don't see signs for I-49 north of Shreveport showing Alexandria, Lafayette or I-10 at US 171 showing Lafayette, New Orleans. Longview seems to be the more important city to show, or Carthage.
Title: I-369 Conditionally Approved for US 59 in Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on November 28, 2012, 11:08:26 AM
Quote from: NE2 on September 29, 2012, 08:08:13 PM
369, damn she's fine

She's conditionally approved (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/SCOH%20Report%2011-16-2012.pdf), too:

Quote
Route will begin at IH 30 in Texarkana. Route will extend 3.5 miles to the south. Existing facility is a four-lane divided, controlled access route. Route will travel south to north. Texarkana is the focal point city. Route will extend 3.5 miles. Route will end at the junction of U.S. 59 and SL 151.
Conditional Approval
Pending FHWA approval from Victor Mendez, FHWA Administrator

It's amazing to me that Texarkana, TX will get I-369 shields before Texarkana, AR will get I-49 shields.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: yakra on November 28, 2012, 02:58:23 PM
So if that's 369, where's 69 proper gonna be?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on November 28, 2012, 04:17:57 PM
via Shreveport, as it has been for a long time.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on November 28, 2012, 06:24:29 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 28, 2012, 11:08:26 AM
Quote from: NE2 on September 29, 2012, 08:08:13 PM
369, damn she's fine

She's conditionally approved (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/SCOH%20Report%2011-16-2012.pdf), too:

Quote
Route will begin at IH 30 in Texarkana. Route will extend 3.5 miles to the south. Existing facility is a four-lane divided, controlled access route. Route will travel south to north. Texarkana is the focal point city. Route will extend 3.5 miles. Route will end at the junction of U.S. 59 and SL 151.
Conditional Approval
Pending FHWA approval from Victor Mendez, FHWA Administrator

It's amazing to me that Texarkana, TX will get I-369 shields before Texarkana, AR will get I-49 shields.
Wow! So this is no longer proposed and will actually happen?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bassoon1986 on December 06, 2012, 12:34:59 AM
Quote from: mcdonaat on November 27, 2012, 04:36:28 PM
Quote from: US71 on November 25, 2012, 08:31:36 PM
Looks like some of the signs will be going up soon. There are sign gantries along I-30 at AR 549/Future I-49.

There is also a small sign yard near US 71 and CR 55 north of Texarkana
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm9.staticflickr.com%2F8343%2F8218372821_6ec7454a38_c_d.jpg&hash=e1670604b9f25579c02ec3917ace87beaadf8780)
Why would Houston be listed before Shreveport? It might be a typo for Hosston (a town along future I-49 just south of the state line).


I think Houston is still pretty far at that point, but Dallas is shown from Texarkana, too.  If 369 is a reality now, 369 would take you to 69 which at that point is sure to have Houston as a city listed. I'm pretty sure Houston is on US 59 signs in north Texas headed southward. I know it is present getting onto US 59 from US 79 in Carthage. Coming from Shreveport to Houston I remember seeing that sign as a kid.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Perfxion on December 06, 2012, 06:17:01 AM
In Texas, what town is worth putting on the sign between Texarkana and Houston? Lufkin or Cleveland?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on December 06, 2012, 06:54:07 AM
Quote from: Perfxion on December 06, 2012, 06:17:01 AM
In Texas, what town is worth putting on the sign between Texarkana and Houston? Lufkin or Cleveland?

Marshall? It seems to be the legal brief capitol of Texas, from what I've heard.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: mcdonaat on December 06, 2012, 05:40:00 PM
Quote from: US71 on December 06, 2012, 06:54:07 AM
Quote from: Perfxion on December 06, 2012, 06:17:01 AM
In Texas, what town is worth putting on the sign between Texarkana and Houston? Lufkin or Cleveland?

Marshall? It seems to be the legal brief capitol of Texas, from what I've heard.
Opelousas is listed south of Alexandria, even though the true destination is Lafayette on 49 South.

Vicksburg instead of Jackson on 20 East. Hammond instead of Slidell or Biloxi on 12 East.  Marksville instead of Alexandria on LA 1 N at US 190.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on December 06, 2012, 07:35:36 PM
Quote from: Perfxion on December 06, 2012, 06:17:01 AM
In Texas, what town is worth putting on the sign between Texarkana and Houston? Lufkin or Cleveland?

Probably Tenaha, where 69 and 369 will join.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on December 06, 2012, 08:24:54 PM
Quote from: Road Hog on December 06, 2012, 07:35:36 PM
Quote from: Perfxion on December 06, 2012, 06:17:01 AM
In Texas, what town is worth putting on the sign between Texarkana and Houston? Lufkin or Cleveland?

Probably Tenaha, where 69 and 369 will join.

Not that there's anything to do in Tenaha ;)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on December 07, 2012, 05:03:08 PM
The I-69 Advisory Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/i69/advisory_committee_report.pdf), combining information from the five segment committees (and current to November 5, 2012), has been posted on the TxDOT website.  Even though US 59 has received conditional approval for the I-369 designation, the Report contains a map showing an I-69 route through the TexAmericas Center and related comment (page 16/30 of pdf; page 10 of report):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F4LXPR.jpg&hash=fecb34b43536de2eb4ee452431f42583c1954a6a)

Quote
Projects in I-69 communities show how this Interstate is important to freight movement, economic growth and job creation. Examples include the TexAmericas Center, planned to be one of the largest rural business and industrial centers in the United States. This center is planned to encompass nearly 13,000 acres along I-30 just west of Texarkana.

Future I-169?

edit

I-49 in the Texarkana area is also mentioned in the Report (page 8/30 of pdf; page 2 of document):

Quote
I-49, currently in the development stages in northeast Louisiana and southwest Arkansas, will provide an additional connection for national mobility as I-69 and I-49 parallel in Texarkana, Texas and Texarkana, Arkansas.

northeast Louisiana?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on December 10, 2012, 02:40:19 PM
This article (http://www.shreveporttimes.com/article/20121210/OPINION03/212100311/Interstate-49-north-speeds-completion?odyssey=mod%7Cnewswell%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE%7Cs) is primarily about construction progress along I-49 North in Louisiana, but it does have a good photo of construction in Arkansas near the Louisiana state line.
Title: Projected Timetable For I-369 Signage in Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on December 12, 2012, 04:03:31 PM
Quote from: lamsalfl on December 09, 2012, 10:16:16 PM
When might we expect to see those I-369 shields?
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg189789#msg189789) thread)

I asked TxDOT this question and their email response indicates, disappointingly, that it may not happen until this time next year:

Quote
TxDOT anticipates completing the Interstate designation request for FHWA's review and approval in the next month or so.  We are hopeful that FHWA can approve this request sometime in the first half of 2013.  Typically, it has taken about 6 months for TxDOT to hear back from FHWA on these requests, but it's all dependent on FHWA's work load.  Once TxDOT receives FHWA approval, the Texas Transportation Commission will need to approve adding the new I-369 section to the state highway system, and once that's complete it generally takes a month or two to get signs fabricated and installed.  This is a very rough timeline that's dependent on several entities but we hope to have I-369 signs up sometime before the end of 2013.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: txstateends on December 12, 2012, 05:22:17 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on December 12, 2012, 04:03:31 PM
Quote from: lamsalfl on December 09, 2012, 10:16:16 PM
When might we expect to see those I-369 shields?
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg189789#msg189789) thread)

I asked TxDOT this question and their email response indicates, disappointingly, that it may not happen until this time next year:

Quote
TxDOT anticipates completing the Interstate designation request for FHWA's review and approval in the next month or so.  We are hopeful that FHWA can approve this request sometime in the first half of 2013.  Typically, it has taken about 6 months for TxDOT to hear back from FHWA on these requests, but it's all dependent on FHWA's work load.  Once TxDOT receives FHWA approval, the Texas Transportation Commission will need to approve adding the new I-369 section to the state highway system, and once that's complete it generally takes a month or two to get signs fabricated and installed.  This is a very rough timeline that's dependent on several entities but we hope to have I-369 signs up sometime before the end of 2013.

Well, even at that rate, it'll still happen before any new-build sections of main I-69 (or even the new-build parts of the spur in between) in TX are done and signed....
Title: Still No Set Date For AR 549/Future I-49 Ribboncutting
Post by: Grzrd on January 03, 2013, 04:53:28 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 27, 2012, 02:19:59 PM
The November 27 Texarkana Gazette, instead of an article, has a photo and caption (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2012/11/27/state-highway-245-959580.php) indicating that AR 245/ Future I-49 had the last section of concrete poured yesterday and will open in February
Quote
... The section between Interstate 30 and U.S. Highway 71 will be open in February, completing the 14.5-mile loop that will eventually become Interstate 49.

In light of the above report, I emailed AHTD and asked if a set date has been chosen for the AR 549/AR 245/Future I-49 ribboncutting.  The short answer: not yet.  The longer email response:

Quote
We plan on having one, but no date is set. Our District office is keeping me updated on the progress, but as you probably know — mid December to Mid March is the winter "non"  working day construction season and days are not charged. In theory, they could go away and not come back until mid March.  Large companies like Interstate Highway Construction could move all their forces to other jobs that allow them to make more winter time progress.

I will periodically check on this, but I assume they will post info about the ceremony on the AHTD website once things are more certain.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on January 03, 2013, 05:55:09 PM
I found this looking around for info on the net: this is the I-30/AR 245 Interchange at Texarkana. I'm guessing this is Future I-49? Looks too new to be current 245.  :hmmm:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.reinforcedearth.com%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fgallery%2FI-30__SH_245.jpg&hash=64cf5952bdd2206a585465ffce3828281bce7bbf)
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on January 03, 2013, 06:47:54 PM
Quote from: US71 on January 03, 2013, 05:55:09 PM
I found this looking around for info on the net: this is the I-30/AR 245 Interchange at Texarkana. I'm guessing this is Future I-49? Looks too new to be current 245.  :hmmm:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.reinforcedearth.com%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fgallery%2FI-30__SH_245.jpg&hash=64cf5952bdd2206a585465ffce3828281bce7bbf)

That is the new 245 interchange. The Future I-49 interchange is about two miles east and is unmistakable with the 3/4 cloverleaf and one flyover.

The 245 overpass was rebuilt – and needed to be. The original narrow two-lane overpass was way obsolete since it fed an expressway.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Sykotyk on January 03, 2013, 10:04:19 PM
I was just down there. If you look at the aerial view, it's obvious just south of the AR245/I-30 interchange that the road 'veers off' to the northeast where it will cross I-30. Then if you follow the construction marks, you can see the road makes a westerly turn to interchange with US71 (it didn't appear anything was taking place west of US71. The interchange is just a mile or so south of the welcome center in the median of US71 when it swerves into Arkansas before crossing the river into Little River Co.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 25, 2013, 05:18:01 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 20, 2013, 10:57:55 AM
The Henderson-Henderson County Chamber of Commerce has identified its legislative priorities for 2013 (http://www.courierpress.com/news/2013/jan/19/henderson-chamber-sets-2013-priorities/). The number one federal initiative is to encourage various federal entities to designate Interstate 69 as a Project of National and Regional Significance and to accelerate funding for a new Interstate 69 Ohio River bridge
Quote
Projects of National and Regional Significance [1120]
MAP-21 authorizes $500 million from the General Fund (subject to appropriation) in FY 2013 only, to fund critical high-cost surface transportation capital projects that will accomplish national goals, such as generating national/regional economic benefits and improving safety, and that are difficult to complete with existing Federal, State, local, and private funds. States, tribes, transit agencies, and multi-State or multi-jurisdictional groups of these entities are eligible to apply for competitive grant funding.
(above quote from I-69 Ohio River Bridge (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3245.msg198385#msg198385) thread)
Quote from: Grzrd on December 12, 2012, 11:50:32 PM
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:
Quote
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.
(above quote from I-49 in AR (Bella Vista, Fort Smith) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg190415#msg190415) thread)

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:

Quote
A resolution supporting the continued financing of Interstate 49 was unanimously approved Tuesday by the Miller County Quorum Court.
The resolution urged the support from the National Association of Counties and specifically asked funding to be approved for the construction of the interstate in rural areas of Arkansas and Miller County.
The resolution was presented by District 4 Justice of the Peace Haze Hudson.
The Miller County resolution will be presented to the Arkansas congressional delegation in addition to being delivered to the national county association subcommittee on transportation.
"Someone is going to get the highway money and we might as well have our foot in the door,"  Hudson said.
"The cost of road construction, repair and maintenance to keep the economy growing is far beyond and exceeds Miller County's financial resources,"  said the resolution.
The resolution urged the national organization to lobby Congress for the funding to complete I-49.

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?
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 06, 2013, 02:31:32 PM
New overhead guide signs are being installed in the near future on the eastbound lanes of Interstate 30 between the Jefferson Avenue and Highway 245 exits (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-033.pdf) and on the northbound and southbound lanes of Highway 245 between South State Line Avenue and Highway 549 (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-043.pdf).  I assume the I-30 sign and the northbound Highway 245 sign are in regard to the new terrain AR 549 (Future I-49).  I don't know why they would need a new sign on southbound AR 245 (I think it's a little early for  "TO I-369" guidance).

Here is Google Map imagery of Texarkana (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Texarkana,+AR&hl=en&ll=33.457582,-94.023314&spn=0.035732,0.076818&sll=32.678125,-83.178297&sspn=4.61356,9.832764&oq=texarkana&t=h&hnear=Texarkana,+Miller,+Arkansas&z=14).

edit

The installation of the overhead signs on Highway 245 has been delayed until Tuesday, February 12 (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-047.pdf).
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: codyg1985 on February 27, 2013, 08:16:31 AM
Google Maps has updated their 45 degree imagery (http://goo.gl/maps/2hzV9) around Texarkana. It shows more progress along future I-49 from Arkansas Blvd to US 59/71. It still isn't complete, though.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on February 27, 2013, 08:24:31 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on February 27, 2013, 08:16:31 AM
Google Maps has updated their 45 degree imagery (http://goo.gl/maps/2hzV9) around Texarkana. It shows more progress along future I-49 from Arkansas Blvd to US 59/71. It still isn't complete, though.

I may be down that way in a couple weeks, so I'll try to get a field update.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on February 27, 2013, 06:52:01 PM
Interstate Construction Inc. is doing the dirt work for turning lanes On Hwy. 71 at the North ramps of the project. Still have signs to put up along the new section, and reworking the shoulders from hwy. 67 bridge to Arkansas Blvd.because water was seeping up in crack between the concrete lanes and the asphalt shoulders. Touching up the landscape at the interchange at Arkansas Bld. We have had a lot rainy days this month so I think it will be All of March to finish it. They are all but thru with Hwy 245 from Arkansas Blvd. to I 30, just cosmetic work on the ditches and grass area on the sides.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on February 27, 2013, 07:05:10 PM
Are AR 245 and 549 going to duplex along the eastern part of the loop, or is 245 going to be discontinuous?  I think once they finish the connection to I-30 they should sign the whole loop as I-230.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on March 11, 2013, 05:05:21 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 06, 2013, 02:31:32 PM
New overhead guide signs are being installed in the near future on the eastbound lanes of Interstate 30 between the Jefferson Avenue and Highway 245 exits (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-033.pdf) and on the northbound and southbound lanes of Highway 245 between South State Line Avenue and Highway 549 (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-043.pdf).  I assume the I-30 sign and the northbound Highway 245 sign are in regard to the new terrain AR 549 (Future I-49).  I don't know why they would need a new sign on southbound AR 245 (I think it's a little early for  "TO I-369" guidance).
Quote from: US71 on February 27, 2013, 08:24:31 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on February 27, 2013, 08:16:31 AM
Google Maps has updated their 45 degree imagery (http://goo.gl/maps/2hzV9) around Texarkana. It shows more progress along future I-49 from Arkansas Blvd to US 59/71. It still isn't complete, though.
I may be down that way in a couple weeks, so I'll try to get a field update.

If you have time, please try and include a look at the new overhead signage.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bjrush on March 11, 2013, 07:00:10 PM
Quote from: US71 on February 27, 2013, 08:24:31 AM
I may be down that way in a couple weeks, so I'll try to get a field update.

Not sure if you still plan on heading down. I will be down there too next week
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on March 12, 2013, 06:37:43 PM
News from AHTD, more signs going up for new 549 project.                                                                                                               OVERHEAD SIGN INSTALLATION REQUIRES TEMPORARY LANE
CLOSURES ON INTERSTATE 30 IN MILLER COUNTY
LITTLE ROCK (3-7) -- Crews installing overhead signs will require temporary lane
closures next week in Miller County, according to Arkansas State Highway and
Transportation Department (AHTD) officials.
The work will begin Tuesday night, March 12th and conclude Friday morning, March 15th.
The areas affected will be on Interstate 30 between Highway 245 and Highway 108, east of
Texarkana. The project will require the westbound lanes to be closed for short intervals
not to exceed 10 minutes. The work will only take place between the hours of 11:00 p.m.
and 5:00 a.m., weather permitting.
Motorists should exercise caution when approaching and traveling through all highway
work zones.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on March 19, 2013, 03:03:25 PM
Quote from: Gordon on May 31, 2012, 05:55:45 PM
LA. shows you can work on Bridges and the paving at the same time. It is a shame AR. can't do the same and finish their last 4 miles so they could both open up I49 from LA 1 to Texarkana in the spring of 2013.
(above quote from I49 in LA (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3124.msg152045#msg152045) thread)

Louisiana will still have to wait on Arkansas at the state line, but the paving contract for those last four miles is scheduled to be let on April 17 (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/General/JOBS_include.aspx):

Quote
LA LINE-DODDRIDGE (BS. & SURF.) (S)
MILLER
71

I-49 in Arkansas all the way from Louisiana to Texas!




Also, a cable median barrier installation contract on the Texarkana 151 & 549 (Future I-49, including the new terrain section all the way to the Texas state line) Loop is scheduled to be let on April 17:

Quote
HWYS. 151 & 549 LOOP (TEXARKANA) (CABLE MEDIAN BARRIER) (S)
MILLER
151 & 549




Quote from: bugo on February 27, 2013, 07:05:10 PM
Are AR 245 and 549 going to duplex along the eastern part of the loop, or is 245 going to be discontinuous?  I think once they finish the connection to I-30 they should sign the whole loop as I-230.
Quote from: Grzrd on February 06, 2013, 02:31:32 PM
New overhead guide signs are being installed in the near future on ... the northbound and southbound lanes of Highway 245 between South State Line Avenue and Highway 549 (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-043.pdf).  I assume the I-30 sign and the northbound Highway 245 sign are in regard to the new terrain AR 549 (Future I-49).  I don't know why they would need a new sign on southbound AR 245 (I think it's a little early for  "TO I-369" guidance).

In looking at the map on page 1 of the Plans for the cable median barrier project (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/LETTING%20PLANS/030425.pdf), it looks like the "southern part" of AR 245 has been redesignated as AR 151 in order to match TX 151, which in turn would explain the new overhead sign.  Any confirmation from the field?

edit - added below map:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F6W6tqsV.jpg&hash=13dc4d1f475d0789f8e0db24a124ff65b7760dba)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: codyg1985 on March 19, 2013, 04:22:37 PM
^ They mistakenly labeled those ar US 151 and US 549 on their cover sheet.

When I was there at the beginning of March I didn't see any signs that mentioned AR 151.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: ShawnP on March 19, 2013, 07:09:05 PM
That paving contract makes ya smile doesn't it. Decades in the making but I-49 is so close to being done from North of Texarkana to Shreveport plus plans for going thru Shreveport. Now the slow, slow part of things north of Texarkana and south of Lafeyette. Wish I-49 south would be speeded up to help get more folks out of Hurricanes way.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on March 23, 2013, 08:43:36 PM
In the Plans for base & surface job for bid 03013, I don't see signs for new road. Maybe they are holding those out for I-49 signs instead of 459. At least at the louisiana border and existing 71 hwy intersection would have signs either 549 or I-49.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on March 24, 2013, 09:49:27 AM
Quote from: ShawnP on March 19, 2013, 07:09:05 PM
That paving contract makes ya smile doesn't it. Decades in the making but I-49 is so close to being done from North of Texarkana to Shreveport plus plans for going thru Shreveport. Now the slow, slow part of things north of Texarkana and south of Lafeyette. Wish I-49 south would be speeded up to help get more folks out of Hurricanes way.

If it's been said here forgive me but...when I-49 Shreveport/Texarkana is complete, what will be the average drive time between the two (as opposed to what it has been on U.S. 71, which as I recall is more than an hour?).  Funny that these two cities so often mentioned together (the TV market in Arbitron used to be called "Shreveport/Texarkana") are in adjacent counties but each county being narrow and tall, with TXK at the top of Miller (AR) and SHV near the bottom of Caddo (LA).
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on March 24, 2013, 10:20:52 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on March 24, 2013, 09:49:27 AM
Quote from: ShawnP on March 19, 2013, 07:09:05 PM
That paving contract makes ya smile doesn't it. Decades in the making but I-49 is so close to being done from North of Texarkana to Shreveport plus plans for going thru Shreveport. Now the slow, slow part of things north of Texarkana and south of Lafeyette. Wish I-49 south would be speeded up to help get more folks out of Hurricanes way.

If it's been said here forgive me but...when I-49 Shreveport/Texarkana is complete, what will be the average drive time between the two (as opposed to what it has been on U.S. 71, which as I recall is more than an hour?).  Funny that these two cities so often mentioned together (the TV market in Arbitron used to be called "Shreveport/Texarkana") are in adjacent counties but each county being narrow and tall, with TXK at the top of Miller (AR) and SHV near the bottom of Caddo (LA).

It's roughly 75 miles, so my guess is about an hour (currently about 1:20 to 1:30 depending on traffic)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bassoon1986 on March 26, 2013, 12:22:04 PM
I could see the I-49 portion in Louisiana also being signed at 75 mph. Although there's probably a good bit more traffic than 49 south of Shreveport, it's just as desolate until you reach Texarkana.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on March 26, 2013, 12:29:23 PM
Quote from: bassoon1986 on March 26, 2013, 12:22:04 PM
I could see the I-49 portion in Louisiana also being signed at 75 mph. Although there's probably a good bit more traffic than 49 south of Shreveport, it's just as desolate until you reach Texarkana.

49 already is 75 MPH once you get out of Alexandria, but it drops to 60 once you get close to Shreveport
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bassoon1986 on March 26, 2013, 12:32:52 PM
Right. I mean the new section north of I-220 when it's done.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on March 26, 2013, 01:21:41 PM
Quote from: bassoon1986 on March 26, 2013, 12:32:52 PM
Right. I mean the new section north of I-220 when it's done.

Understood. I merely meant to point out there is precedence ;)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on March 28, 2013, 04:26:53 PM
Thanks for the Texarkana - Shreveport drive time answer, U.S. 71. 
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: roadman65 on April 05, 2013, 08:20:31 AM
I was at the I-49 construction between Shreveport and the AR State Line back in September of 12.  I have some really cool photos to share and will have them up on my flickr page real soon.  You guys might find them interesting as the bridges over some of the local roads are in the girder laying stage at the time so you could imagine now they are completed.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on April 08, 2013, 06:00:18 PM
More signs going on I 30 for 549.                                                                                                                          OVERHEAD SIGN INSTALLATIONS REQUIRE TEMPORARY LANE
CLOSURES ON INTERSTATE 30 IN MILLER COUNTY
LITTLE ROCK (4-5) — Crews installing overhead signs on Interstate 30 will require
temporary lane closures next week in Miller County, according to Arkansas State Highway
and Transportation Department (AHTD) officials.
The work will begin Tuesday night, April 9th and concludes Friday morning, April 12th. The
work will only take place between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., weather
permitting. The area affected will be on Interstate 30 between Jefferson Avenue and
Highway 108, east of Texarkana. The project will require the eastbound and westbound
lanes to be closed for short intervals not to exceed 10 minutes.
Motorists should exercise caution when approaching and traveling through all highway
work zones. Additional travel information can be found at ArkansasHighways.com. You
can also follow us on Twitter @AHTD.
#
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on April 11, 2013, 10:14:13 AM
Quote from: Gordon on April 08, 2013, 06:00:18 PM
More signs going on I 30 for 549.                                                                                                                          OVERHEAD SIGN INSTALLATIONS REQUIRE TEMPORARY LANE
CLOSURES ON INTERSTATE 30 IN MILLER COUNTY
LITTLE ROCK (4-5) — Crews installing overhead signs on Interstate 30 will require
temporary lane closures next week in Miller County, according to Arkansas State Highway
and Transportation Department (AHTD) officials.
The work will begin Tuesday night, April 9th and concludes Friday morning, April 12th. The
work will only take place between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., weather
permitting. The area affected will be on Interstate 30 between Jefferson Avenue and
Highway 108, east of Texarkana. The project will require the eastbound and westbound
lanes to be closed for short intervals not to exceed 10 minutes.
Motorists should exercise caution when approaching and traveling through all highway
work zones. Additional travel information can be found at ArkansasHighways.com. You
can also follow us on Twitter @AHTD.
#

Probably also means the last of the button copy is coming down :(
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bassoon1986 on April 11, 2013, 12:44:15 PM
Quote from: US71 on April 11, 2013, 10:14:13 AM
Quote from: Gordon on April 08, 2013, 06:00:18 PM
More signs going on I 30 for 549.                                                                                                                          OVERHEAD SIGN INSTALLATIONS REQUIRE TEMPORARY LANE
CLOSURES ON INTERSTATE 30 IN MILLER COUNTY
LITTLE ROCK (4-5) — Crews installing overhead signs on Interstate 30 will require
temporary lane closures next week in Miller County, according to Arkansas State Highway
and Transportation Department (AHTD) officials.
The work will begin Tuesday night, April 9th and concludes Friday morning, April 12th. The
work will only take place between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., weather
permitting. The area affected will be on Interstate 30 between Jefferson Avenue and
Highway 108, east of Texarkana. The project will require the eastbound and westbound
lanes to be closed for short intervals not to exceed 10 minutes.
Motorists should exercise caution when approaching and traveling through all highway
work zones. Additional travel information can be found at ArkansasHighways.com. You
can also follow us on Twitter @AHTD.
#

Probably also means the last of the button copy is coming down :(

Oh that's right!!  Wasn't it at the Jefferson exit?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on April 11, 2013, 01:18:01 PM
Quote from: bassoon1986 on April 11, 2013, 12:44:15 PM
Quote from: US71 on April 11, 2013, 10:14:13 AM
Quote from: Gordon on April 08, 2013, 06:00:18 PM
More signs going on I 30 for 549.                                                                                                                          OVERHEAD SIGN INSTALLATIONS REQUIRE TEMPORARY LANE
CLOSURES ON INTERSTATE 30 IN MILLER COUNTY
LITTLE ROCK (4-5) — Crews installing overhead signs on Interstate 30 will require
temporary lane closures next week in Miller County, according to Arkansas State Highway
and Transportation Department (AHTD) officials.
The work will begin Tuesday night, April 9th and concludes Friday morning, April 12th. The
work will only take place between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., weather
permitting. The area affected will be on Interstate 30 between Jefferson Avenue and
Highway 108, east of Texarkana. The project will require the eastbound and westbound
lanes to be closed for short intervals not to exceed 10 minutes.
Motorists should exercise caution when approaching and traveling through all highway
work zones. Additional travel information can be found at ArkansasHighways.com. You
can also follow us on Twitter @AHTD.
#

Probably also means the last of the button copy is coming down :(

Oh that's right!!  Wasn't it at the Jefferson exit?

WB I-30 there's a Texarkana Next 6 Exits

There are a couple signs for AR 245 and at least one for Jefferson Ave, plus at least one EXIT sign

I tried to get a few photos last month, but traffic was too heavy to stop and the drive-bys didn't come put well :(
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: apjung on April 11, 2013, 10:50:22 PM
Google Maps now has the whole completed section of 549 also labeled as I-49!
http://goo.gl/maps/6F9kK
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on April 12, 2013, 12:15:13 AM
Dog bites man!
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on April 15, 2013, 08:37:22 PM
They're still there, dude.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on April 17, 2013, 05:32:06 PM
Here is a news post from AHTD on the 549 Highway, adding new exit and maybe opening it in a month.http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-109.pdf
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on April 17, 2013, 06:31:37 PM
Quote from: Gordon on April 17, 2013, 05:32:06 PM
Here is a news post from AHTD on the 549 Highway, adding new exit and maybe opening it in a month.http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-109.pdf

According to the map, the section of 245 west of 549 will become AR 151, as was predicted a few weeks back.

I volunteer to be the first member of the forum to drive the new road  :clap:  :spin:
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on April 17, 2013, 09:52:09 PM
Looks like Interstate Highway construction got the low bid for the last segment of Highway 549 from Doddridge to LA. line for $16,110,526.70 for the Base and Surface of 4.267 miles. Hope they finish it quickly because they have 235 working days to finish it once they start.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on April 17, 2013, 11:46:51 PM
This isn't open yet, is it? Looks like someone jumped the gun.
http://www.openstreetmap.org/?lat=33.47443&lon=-93.99336&zoom=15&layers=M
http://www.openstreetmap.org/browse/changeset/15276810
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on April 18, 2013, 10:48:47 AM
Quote from: NE2 on April 17, 2013, 11:46:51 PM
This isn't open yet, is it? Looks like someone jumped the gun.
http://www.openstreetmap.org/?lat=33.47443&lon=-93.99336&zoom=15&layers=M
http://www.openstreetmap.org/browse/changeset/15276810

Or change it so the section to 71 is the same (considering the work itself is complete)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on April 18, 2013, 12:18:16 PM
Quote from: NE2 on April 17, 2013, 11:46:51 PM
This isn't open yet, is it? Looks like someone jumped the gun.
http://www.openstreetmap.org/?lat=33.47443&lon=-93.99336&zoom=15&layers=M
http://www.openstreetmap.org/browse/changeset/15276810

Poor DeQueen.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on April 18, 2013, 12:29:57 PM
That map is inaccurate.  I-49 is going to follow current US 59-71 over the floodplain near Lake Milwood.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on April 18, 2013, 12:50:03 PM
Quote from: bugo on April 18, 2013, 12:29:57 PM
That map is inaccurate.  I-49 is going to follow current US 59-71 over the floodplain near Lake Milwood.

The section around Ft Chaffee at Massard Rd is about half a mile off.

They don't even have the Chad Colley extension on the map.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on April 19, 2013, 01:32:50 PM
Quote from: Gordon on April 17, 2013, 09:52:09 PM
Looks like Interstate Highway construction got the low bid for the last segment of Highway 549 from Doddridge to LA. line for $16,110,526.70 for the Base and Surface of 4.267 miles. Hope they finish it quickly because they have 235 working days to finish it once they start.

AHTD did award the contract to Interstate Highway Const., Inc. on April 19 (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/letting/Apr%20'13%20Award%20List.pdf). Time to get going on those 235 working days!
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Henry on April 23, 2013, 01:30:21 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 19, 2013, 01:32:50 PM
Quote from: Gordon on April 17, 2013, 09:52:09 PM
Looks like Interstate Highway construction got the low bid for the last segment of Highway 549 from Doddridge to LA. line for $16,110,526.70 for the Base and Surface of 4.267 miles. Hope they finish it quickly because they have 235 working days to finish it once they start.

AHTD did award the contract to Interstate Highway Const., Inc. on April 19 (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/letting/Apr%20'13%20Award%20List.pdf). Time to get going on those 235 working days!
About time they at least connected the thing to Shreveport!
Title: Texarkana AR 549/Future I-49 Ribboncutting on April 30
Post by: Grzrd on April 27, 2013, 07:38:46 PM
Quote from: Gordon on April 17, 2013, 05:32:06 PM
Here is a news post from AHTD on the 549 Highway, adding new exit and maybe opening it in a month. http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-109.pdf
Quote from: US71 on April 17, 2013, 06:31:37 PM
I volunteer to be the first member of the forum to drive the new road  :clap:  :spin:

The race to be first is about to begin.  The ribbon-cutting will be Tuesday, April 30 at 10:30 a.m. (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-120.pdf)

Here's a map of the segment from the above link in Gordon's post:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsCxVs9T.jpg&hash=7215cae0f1f1e5a1a968c0160b6da855915c1526)




Quote from: Grzrd on April 19, 2013, 01:32:50 PM
Quote from: Gordon on April 17, 2013, 09:52:09 PM
Looks like Interstate Highway construction got the low bid for the last segment of Highway 549 from Doddridge to LA. line for $16,110,526.70 for the Base and Surface of 4.267 miles. Hope they finish it quickly because they have 235 working days to finish it once they start.
AHTD did award the contract to Interstate Highway Const., Inc. on April 19 (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/letting/Apr%20'13%20Award%20List.pdf).

This TV video report (http://www.ktbs.com/news/i49-construction-will-connect-texarkana-to-louisiana/-/144844/19901518/-/5un7oq/-/index.html) discusses both the award of the contract and future plans for I-49 in Arkansas.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on April 29, 2013, 08:45:51 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 27, 2013, 07:38:46 PM
Here's a map of the segment from the above link in Gordon's post:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsCxVs9T.jpg&hash=7215cae0f1f1e5a1a968c0160b6da855915c1526)


Interesting: there is no exit at US 67 (should be Exit 33) and 19th St exits at US 82 now.

Looks like I will be there for the ribbon cutting  :nod:

CORRECTION: There appears to be no access to US 67
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on April 30, 2013, 08:49:43 PM
Well, AR 549 didn't open today: it will be likely be 1-2 weeks before the road officially opens (still a few signs to put up).

Everyone who attended the Ribbon Cutting was allowed to drive NB 549 from I-30 to US 71. The procession was led by members of the Tex-Ark Antique Auto Club with everyone else falling in behind them.

The Arkansas Highway Police held up traffic at US 71 so we could all exit and be on our way. I wound up following the antique cars back to I-30 as I had a couple photo projects I was wanting to complete in town.

I'll have photos later on Flickr and the Build I-49 Facebook Page
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 01, 2013, 08:03:11 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 06, 2010, 11:18:54 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 19, 2010, 11:13:19 PM
http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/letting/Aug%20'10%20Award%20List.PDF
Contract awarded for paving Future I-49 from 245/Arkansas Blvd. through I-30 then north and west to USS 71 at Texas state line.
... The Bowie County, TX portion of the above Arkansas I-49 project will consume $100,000 in Texas funds and $400,000 of federal money: http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/upcoming-activities/FY-2010-Annual-Listing-of-Obligated-Projects-11-02-2010.pdf  (page 5/18). Even though it is a joint project, AHTD refers to it as a US 71 project and TxDOT refers to it as a US 59 project.
How many years (decades?) will it be before Texas again spends money on actual construction of I-49 on Texas soil?
Quote from: US71 on April 17, 2013, 06:31:37 PM
I volunteer to be the first member of the forum to drive the new road  :clap:  :spin:
Quote from: US71 on April 30, 2013, 08:49:43 PM
Everyone who attended the Ribbon Cutting was allowed to drive NB 549 from I-30 to US 71 .... The Arkansas Highway Police held up traffic at US 71 so we could all exit and be on our way.

It looks like you are the first member of the forum to clinch the entire current Texas section of Future I-49 ...... AND it appears that you drove all of it in one sitting. Congratulations!  :sombrero:




Quote from: US71 on April 30, 2013, 08:49:43 PM
Well, AR 549 didn't open today: it will be likely be 1-2 weeks before the road officially opens (still a few signs to put up).

This TV video report (http://www.ksla.com/story/22127083/arkansas-hwy-549-loop-to-be-connected-to-i-49) about the ceremony reports that it will be open to traffic "by" May 8:

Quote
Arkansas Highway officials say this new eight mile loop is expected to be open for traffic by Wednesday, May 8th.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 01, 2013, 10:13:21 AM
If you're on Facebook, here are a few photos from the Ribbon Cutting
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151560625338624.1073741825.288089113623&type=1
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 01, 2013, 10:16:50 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 01, 2013, 08:03:11 AM

It looks like you are the first member of the forum to clinch the entire current Texas section of Future I-49 ...... AND it appears that you drove all of it in one sitting. Congratulations!  :sombrero:


Uh, no: this was on the Arkansas side, unless you count the exit ramp to US 71 ;)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Alps on May 01, 2013, 10:05:47 PM
Quote from: US71 on May 01, 2013, 10:16:50 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 01, 2013, 08:03:11 AM

It looks like you are the first member of the forum to clinch the entire current Texas section of Future I-49 ...... AND it appears that you drove all of it in one sitting. Congratulations!  :sombrero:


Uh, no: this was on the Arkansas side, unless you count the exit ramp to US 71 ;)

Ding ding ding! We have a winnah!
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 01, 2013, 10:14:11 PM
Quote from: Steve on May 01, 2013, 10:05:47 PM
Quote from: US71 on May 01, 2013, 10:16:50 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 01, 2013, 08:03:11 AM

It looks like you are the first member of the forum to clinch the entire current Texas section of Future I-49 ...... AND it appears that you drove all of it in one sitting. Congratulations!  :sombrero:


Uh, no: this was on the Arkansas side, unless you count the exit ramp to US 71 ;)

Ding ding ding! We have a winnah!

Well, if you really want to be technical about it, I only drove part of it, since we weren't allowed back on to head south. :(
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: ShawnP on May 01, 2013, 11:24:26 PM
Since when have rules stopped Road Geeks from checking stuff out?

Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 01, 2013, 11:41:52 PM
Quote from: ShawnP on May 01, 2013, 11:24:26 PM
Since when have rules stopped Road Geeks from checking stuff out?


When there are police patrolling the roadway?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on May 04, 2013, 02:51:15 AM
AR 108 already enters Texas so AR 549 (which I call I-49) will be the second Arkansas state highway that enters Texas.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 04, 2013, 09:40:23 PM
Opening now scheduled for May 13, due to wet weather.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-135.pdf
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on May 06, 2013, 09:47:49 AM
Quote from: bugo on May 04, 2013, 02:51:15 AM
AR 108 already enters Texas so AR 549 (which I call I-49) will be the second Arkansas state highway that enters Texas.

Huh? I looked at a map and I counted at least five (counting AR 108).
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 06, 2013, 10:54:49 AM
Quote from: Road Hog on May 06, 2013, 09:47:49 AM
Quote from: bugo on May 04, 2013, 02:51:15 AM
AR 108 already enters Texas so AR 549 (which I call I-49) will be the second Arkansas state highway that enters Texas.

Huh? I looked at a map and I counted at least five (counting AR 108).

Miller 55 does, but it's county

AR 296 ends right at the state Line (no crossover into Texas)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 14, 2013, 08:00:48 AM
HIGHWAY 549 OPENS TO TRAFFIC IN TEXARKANA WEDNESDAY (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-144.pdf):

Quote
Highway 549 will open to traffic Wednesday, May 15th in Texarkana, according to Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) officials ....
It was hoped that Highway 549 would open to traffic last week. However, poor weather conditions contributed to a delay. Work is now being completed and the highway will open to traffic during the day on Wednesday.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on May 14, 2013, 12:00:55 PM
Good work, grzd.

For those who haven't seen it, here's something that someday will be a memory when I-49 is finally built between Fort Smith and Texarkana. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47xcjz_L66Y)  Since towns were once built around railroads, many towns once had rails running through their main streets..."street running" is the term railfans/"foamers" use.

The video above shows the Arkansas Western trains which run briefly through Whittaker Street and turn right into the right northbound lane of U.S. 71 in Ashdown.  The line is owned by the Kansas City Southern and links the cement plant at Okay and the feed mills of Nashville to that railroad, and is used roughly twice a day.

Reason number (umpteen) why it will be great when the I-49 (and I-69) corridors are someday complete even if I don't live to see them.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on May 17, 2013, 11:00:41 AM
I guess the official opening of the highway above went off without a hitch and one can now drive from just inside the Texas border, a mile or two south of the old catfish restaurant (was that Texas-side or Arkansas-side) all the way down to a few miles above the Arkansas/Louisiana border.

What's the next opening on the Texarkana/Shreveport Interstate timetable? :hmmm:
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 17, 2013, 12:12:44 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on May 17, 2013, 11:00:41 AM
I guess the official opening of the highway above went off without a hitch

Highway 549 is open to traffic (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/05/15/highway-549-is-open-to-traffic-645023.php) is the headline from the May 15 Texarkana Gazette:

Quote
State Highway 549 opened today to traffic in Texarkana, said Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department officials.




Quote from: O Tamandua on May 17, 2013, 11:00:41 AM
What's the next opening on the Texarkana/Shreveport Interstate timetable?

Information contained in this post (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3124.msg214620#msg214620) suggests Segments B-I of I-49 North in Louisiana will open in Fall/Winter 2013.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on May 17, 2013, 03:17:30 PM
Thanks, Grzrd...if I'm understanding right there are three sections (sorry I don't know their official designations) left of "I-49 SHV/TXK":

1.  A few miles left in far south Miller County to the Louisiana border.
2.  A few miles left in far north Caddo Parish to the Arkansas border (to meet 1. above).
3.  Whatever they're doing to link the bottom of the new Caddo Parish segment to I-20 and existing I-49 at Shreveport.

Almost need a scorecard.  :spin:

Still lots to do, but when the "big hourglass"/"winnie-minnie-new-hou"/whatever this new Toronto/Winnipeg/Minneapolis-St Paul to Kansas City to Texarkana-Shreveport to Laredo/Brownsville corridor is going to be called is someday finished...
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 27, 2013, 11:08:36 PM
I drove AR 549 at Texarkana today and have the following observations:

-AR 151 has replaced AR 245 between the Arkansas-Texas State Line and the AR 549 Interchange. It is only posted Eastbound (except at US 71/AR 549). Westbound it is posted as "TO US 59".

-AR 245 has been  fully decommissioned. It no longer exists at all at Texarkana, replaced by Four States Fairground Road. A couple signs remain, but those are likely signs missed when AHTD changed things around (such as at State Line Rd).

-The ramps to/from Arkansas Blvd on 549 are being resurfaced. The new pavement for 549 is taller than the exit ramp pavement, so that's being rectified.

-Signs for SB 549 north of Texarkana at US 71 only include 71 and no mention of US 59.

-The interchange at US 67 (Exit 34) has been eliminated.

Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: apjung on May 28, 2013, 06:27:44 AM
Interesting, an entire interchange being eliminated. The only other instance that I can think of even coming close to this was the I-10 Louisiana Exit 251 which was originally planned for future suburban development on drained swamp land. Exit 251 finally opened in 1999 for Bayou Sauvage Wildlife Refuge Swamp Tours but closed again shortly after Hurricane Katrina and the entrance/exit ramps torn up and removed when I-10 was resurfaced.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on May 28, 2013, 06:55:07 AM
More like relocated to 19th Street. Not so rare.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 28, 2013, 07:44:55 AM
Quote from: NE2 on May 28, 2013, 06:55:07 AM
More like relocated to 19th Street. Not so rare.

19th was extended south to US 82, actually.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on May 28, 2013, 07:56:40 AM
US 82 already existed as an interchange. 19th was an at-grade, presumably not capable of handling the turning traffic from US 67.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: lamsalfl on May 28, 2013, 10:01:58 PM
Is this whole road open now north of I-30?  Google being so aggressive has thrown out any semblance of knowing what is real and what is decades in the future.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: jerryarkansas on May 28, 2013, 10:03:17 PM
Quote from: lamsalfl on May 28, 2013, 10:01:58 PM
Is this whole road open now north of I-30?  Google being so aggressive has thrown out any semblance of knowing what is real and what is decades in the future.
Yeah it is.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 28, 2013, 10:17:05 PM
Quote from: lamsalfl on May 28, 2013, 10:01:58 PM
Is this whole road open now north of I-30?  Google being so aggressive has thrown out any semblance of knowing what is real and what is decades in the future.

Yes, the road is open (drove it yesterday, both directions)

I just sent Google a note about 245 being decommissioned and the US 67 exit being closed. Let's see if they respond.  :wave:
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on May 29, 2013, 10:22:46 PM
Has anybody drove down AR 549 and saw what kind of progress they are making on the Bridges at HWY 71 wher it ends. The Last time I drove thru there they Had beams over 71 but were installing piers for East Kelley Bayou. I could not see West Kelly Bayou because of access. Hope they don't slow up the pavement job that just got started.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 30, 2013, 11:48:57 AM
Quote from: Gordon on May 29, 2013, 10:22:46 PM
Has anybody drove down AR 549 and saw what kind of progress they are making on the Bridges at HWY 71 wher it ends. The Last time I drove thru there they Had beams over 71 but were installing piers for East Kelley Bayou. I could not see West Kelly Bayou because of access. Hope they don't slow up the pavement job that just got started.


I was through there in March and noticed the beams. I'll have to see if I got any photos. When I in Texarkana last weekend, I didn't swing south to Doddridge due to time constraints. I hope to get down that way in June or July.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 30, 2013, 04:38:43 PM
Quote from: Alex on May 30, 2013, 04:24:15 PM
Jeff emailed us the commission notes (//www.aaroads.com/forum_images/texas/I-69.pdf), which includes the redesignation of I-69 in Corpus Christi as I-69E. The notes also involve I-2, I-69C and I-369:
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg224484#msg224484) thread)

As Alex posted in the above thread, the Texas Transportation Commission has approved the I-369 designation in Texarkana:

Quote
This minute order designates the following highway segments:
- A 3.5 mile segment of US 59, from I-30 to State Loop 151 in Texarkana, to be designated as
I-369 ....
AASHTO must take action to approve the application. ....
the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) must confirm that the highway segment meets the applicable Interstate designation regulations and criteria, and approve any associated design exception requests. Following such confirmation, the FHWA Administrator must take action to approve the addition of the highway segment to the Interstate Highway System. As of May 24, 2013, AASHTO and the FHWA Administrator have issued the required approvals.

Bring on the I-369 shields!

edit



Quote from: Grzrd on July 27, 2012, 07:32:32 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 10, 2010, 10:39:08 AM
http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/upcoming-activities/I-69-Proposed-Planning-Corridor-Citizen-Alternative.pdf
The Texarkana MPO study corridor (from link in quote at top of post) is below:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F3SH3v.jpg&hash=656ba8c81853eb60900425e902669cec2271cab1)

A question that has been in the back of mind is whether the entire I-69 Spur from Tenaha to Texarkana is intended to be designated as I-369 or as an I-x69 that would connect to the planned West Loop under study in the above map. This article (http://www.alicetx.com/news/article_463f00d1-4572-5d83-80b3-d6fbeddf84d8.html) reports that the current intent is to designate the entire approximate 115 miles of the I-69 Spur as I-369:

Quote
The Transportation Commission also designated a five-mile section of US 59 freeway on the southwest side of Texarkana as Interstate 369. The three-digit I-69 spur designation will eventually be given to the entire 115-mile section of US 59 from Texarkana to a point near Tenaha in Shelby County. This is necessary because the planned national route for I-69 leaves Texas following US 84 near Joaquin and heads northeast into Louisiana and southeast Arkansas.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 31, 2013, 08:38:03 AM
The Alliance for I-69 Texas has posted an article about the recent designations (http://www.i69texasalliance.com/NewsUpdates/update5.30.13RGV1.html), which includes a map of I-369 in the Texarkana area:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFri0Vk5.jpg&hash=fa132972a51acb356c72865955bac33ac2f5ce34)




Quote from: Grzrd on May 30, 2013, 04:38:43 PM
This article (http://www.alicetx.com/news/article_463f00d1-4572-5d83-80b3-d6fbeddf84d8.html) reports that the current intent is to designate the entire approximate 115 miles of the I-69 Spur as I-369:
Quote
The Transportation Commission also designated a five-mile section of US 59 freeway on the southwest side of Texarkana as Interstate 369. The three-digit I-69 spur designation will eventually be given to the entire 115-mile section of US 59 from Texarkana to a point near Tenaha in Shelby County. This is necessary because the planned national route for I-69 leaves Texas following US 84 near Joaquin and heads northeast into Louisiana and southeast Arkansas.

It looks like the newspaper article linked above obtained the above information from an Alliance for I-69 Texas press release that may have provided the basis for the Alliance's article.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on May 31, 2013, 09:54:49 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 30, 2013, 04:38:43 PM
A question that has been in the back of mind is whether the entire I-69 Spur from Tenaha to Texarkana is intended to be designated as I-369 or as an I-x69 that would connect to the planned West Loop under study in the above map. This article (http://www.alicetx.com/news/article_463f00d1-4572-5d83-80b3-d6fbeddf84d8.html) reports that the current intent is to designate the entire approximate 115 miles of the I-69 Spur as I-369:

Quote
The Transportation Commission also designated a five-mile section of US 59 freeway on the southwest side of Texarkana as Interstate 369. The three-digit I-69 spur designation will eventually be given to the entire 115-mile section of US 59 from Texarkana to a point near Tenaha in Shelby County. This is necessary because the planned national route for I-69 leaves Texas following US 84 near Joaquin and heads northeast into Louisiana and southeast Arkansas.

Point of order here, Grz...if the existing US 59/TX 151/AR 151 freeway in Texarkana is going to be designated as I-369, doesn't that make  that proposed Western Bypass obselete?? If that proposed route was to pass, you'd still have a gap on existing US 59 between the point where the bypass breaks off to the existing interchange with TX 151 that would have to be upgraded to Interstate standards...and how would you designate the bypass, then, if I-369 has already been assigned to the existing freeway + upgraded US 59??

Wouldn't it make more sense to run I-369 along the proposed Western Bypass and just upgrade the segment of US 59 from there to the existing US 59/TX 151 interchange and make that an even numbered I-x69 connector? And, simply make the existing US 59/TX 151/AR 151 corridor to AR 549/Future I-49 into an I-x30 loop connector??

Or...run I-369 along US 59 all the way to TX 151, then use the existing US 59 freeway to I-30, make the TX/AR 151 freeway E to AR 549/I-49 an I-x49 connector, and make the Western Bypass an I-x49 loop??

Too many questions, I know...
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 31, 2013, 11:01:45 AM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on May 31, 2013, 09:54:49 AM
Point of order here, Grz...if the existing US 59/TX 151/AR 151 freeway in Texarkana is going to be designated as I-369, doesn't that make  that proposed Western Bypass obselete?? If that proposed route was to pass, you'd still have a gap on existing US 59 between the point where the bypass breaks off to the existing interchange with TX 151 that would have to be upgraded to Interstate standards...and how would you designate the bypass, then, if I-369 has already been assigned to the existing freeway + upgraded US 59??
Wouldn't it make more sense to run I-369 along the proposed Western Bypass ...

My suspicion is that the current I-369 is an I-69 placeholder, i.e. since it was the only interstate-grade segment between I-30 and Tenaha, Texas officials went for the I-369 designation in order to keep the Tenaha-Texarkana segment "in the game".*  I believe that there is a fear that the nearby, somewhat parallel, I-49 corridor might be viewed as making a "spur" interstate grade upgrade of US 59 unnecessary.  Immediate installation of I-369 signage may be an effort to forestall that possibility. Ultimately, I think the local officials would prefer to have I-369 run along a West Loop to the TexAmericas Center, as a recent report suggests:

Quote from: Grzrd on December 07, 2012, 05:03:08 PM
The I-69 Advisory Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/i69/advisory_committee_report.pdf), combining information from the five segment committees (and current to November 5, 2012), has been posted on the TxDOT website.  Even though US 59 has received conditional approval for the I-369 designation, the Report contains a map showing an I-69 route through the TexAmericas Center and related comment (page 16/30 of pdf; page 10 of report):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F4LXPR.jpg&hash=fecb34b43536de2eb4ee452431f42583c1954a6a)
Quote
Projects in I-69 communities show how this Interstate is important to freight movement, economic growth and job creation. Examples include the TexAmericas Center, planned to be one of the largest rural business and industrial centers in the United States. This center is planned to encompass nearly 13,000 acres along I-30 just west of Texarkana.

Also, the tentative TexAmericas Center West Loop routing provides a feasible connection to a Northern Loop I-49 connection (development has essentially killed that possibility for the current I-369). It is certainly possible that neighborhood opposition may kill the West Loop; if so, they would find a way to upgrade the US 59 corridor from TX 151 southward.  If a West Loop alternative is chosen and built, then I don't think the current I-369 will ever connect to the rest of the Spur.  I think they would decommission the current I-369 and reassign the designation to the West Loop.  The current I-369 would either revert to US 59 or receive another I-x69 designation.

edit * Since I-369 is already connected to I-30, TxDOT did not have to make a representation to FHWA that it would be connected to the interstate system within 25 years.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on June 01, 2013, 03:27:24 AM
The congressional I-69 legislation obviously trumps all. I guess because TxDOT measures interstate mileage from south to north, the future I-69 takes priority. Otherwise, I-130 would make more sense (considering there are no current I-x30 spurs in Texas and none of that name in Arkansas).

Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on June 01, 2013, 05:23:08 AM
The I-69 legislation says nothing about the number 369 (or about 69W, for that matter).

PS: I-130 does exist in Arkansas (on future I-49), but it's not signed.
http://www.interstate-guide.com/i-130_ar.html
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on June 01, 2013, 08:52:00 AM
Quote from: NE2 on June 01, 2013, 05:23:08 AM
The I-69 legislation says nothing about the number 369 (or about 69W, for that matter).

PS: I-130 does exist in Arkansas (on future I-49), but it's not signed.
http://www.interstate-guide.com/i-130_ar.html

If that's true, it's anomalous to standard AHTD practice to only post the highest priority route.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on June 01, 2013, 08:12:50 PM
Quote from: NE2 on June 01, 2013, 05:23:08 AM
The I-69 legislation says nothing about the number 369 (or about 69W, for that matter).

PS: I-130 does exist in Arkansas (on future I-49), but it's not signed.
http://www.interstate-guide.com/i-130_ar.html

I-130 seems to be more of a placeholder for what will ultimately be I-49. I'd much prefer that it be switched over to the US 59/TX 151/AR 151 freeway, if that section will be bypassed by the proposed Texarkana Western Loop.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on June 01, 2013, 09:01:41 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on June 01, 2013, 08:12:50 PM
Quote from: NE2 on June 01, 2013, 05:23:08 AM
The I-69 legislation says nothing about the number 369 (or about 69W, for that matter).

PS: I-130 does exist in Arkansas (on future I-49), but it's not signed.
http://www.interstate-guide.com/i-130_ar.html

I-130 seems to be more of a placeholder for what will ultimately be I-49. I'd much prefer that it be switched over to the US 59/TX 151/AR 151 freeway, if that section will be bypassed by the proposed Texarkana Western Loop.

Since the Arkansas side of the Loop is already designated AR 549, I see no need for I-130 if it's just going to be thrown away.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on June 01, 2013, 10:19:27 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on June 01, 2013, 08:12:50 PM
I-130 seems to be more of a placeholder for what will ultimately be I-49. I'd much prefer that it be switched over to the US 59/TX 151/AR 151 freeway, if that section will be bypassed by the proposed Texarkana Western Loop.

FWIW, it has been posted on the Alliance for I-69 Texas website (http://www.i69texasalliance.com/projects%20NE.html) for a good while, but preliminary alignment planning for the West Loop is still listed as a priority:

Quote
Preliminary alignment planning is underway on the I-69 Texarkana West Loop. The relief route would connect to Interstate 30 at a point near the former Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant site, now known as TexAmericas Center. It would run south to connect to the existing US 59 route at a point northeast of Wright Patman Lake. This project is considered a priority by the Segment One Committee.

I have no idea what progress, if any, is being made on the planning.

edit

This excerpt from the map on page 19 (page 25/30 of pdf) of the I-69 Advisory Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/i69/advisory_committee_report.pdf) demonstrates that both the I-369 designation for US 59 and development of the West Loop relief route are Priorities for the Segment One Committee:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FYq4SDHU.jpg&hash=5218cccdab014517b4d9336ce2e592fafff33592)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on June 20, 2013, 12:30:06 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 09, 2012, 11:57:23 AM
The projected route through Texas can be seen on the 2011 Arkansas Highway Map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/mapping_graphics/statehighwaymap_state2011.PDF).

Here's a snip from the 2011 map:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FG47w1SP.png&hash=1fa6854c174bb254de35523973d73ec6915b1855)

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:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FODwtzgT.png&hash=620e7b31aa7046fb30b6d8a548850845c88fe36b)

The "new" AR 549 in Texarkana is designated on the map. Perhaps AHTD removed the Future I-49 routing because they thought the traveling public might become confused by the Future I-49 routing connecting to AR 549?

Maybe by this time next year AR 549 will have been designated as I-49 and the projected route will return.




Quote from: US71 on May 27, 2013, 11:08:36 PM
-AR 245 has been  fully decommissioned. It no longer exists at all at Texarkana, replaced by Four States Fairground Road. A couple signs remain, but those are likely signs missed when AHTD changed things around (such as at State Line Rd).

The Texarkana inset from the 2013 map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/mapping_graphics/2013%20AR%20State%20Highway%20Map%20-%20City%20Side.pdf) definitely has AR 245 designated from I-30 to AR 296; the map does not make it readily apparent whether it is designated from I-30 to AR 549:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FxUV2G9E.png&hash=9616106cb05cd49aba282048b3e85bf1e7bf5e52)

The list of changes in Texarkana from the 2012 map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-188.pdf) reads as follows (page 4/5 of pdf) and appears to indicate that AR 245 still exists from AR 549 to AR 296:

Quote
45. Texarkana Inset: A.) New section of Hwy. 549 added.
B.) Old part of Hwy. 245 between Arkansas Blvd. & Hwy. 296 not FCA.
C.) Hwy. 245 from Jct. 549 to Arkansas Blvd. re-designated as Hwy. 549.
D.) Hwy. 245 from State Line to Jct. 549 re-designated as Hwy. 151

What does "FCA" mean? Fully Controlled Access?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on June 20, 2013, 03:45:26 PM
They should build a flyover from NB 49 to NB 245 and one from NB 245 to WB 30 to create a shortcut for NB 49 to WB 30 traffic.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on June 20, 2013, 03:54:18 PM
Quote from: US71 on May 27, 2013, 11:08:36 PM
-AR 245 has been  fully decommissioned. It no longer exists at all at Texarkana, replaced by Four States Fairground Road. A couple signs remain, but those are likely signs missed when AHTD changed things around (such as at State Line Rd).

Were the 296 shields removed from I-30?  If not, then I consider AR 245 a fully signed active state route.  If they were removed, it might have been because they didn't want to confuse drivers who once took AR 245 south towards Shreveport.  That would explain why the signs are still up.
Quote
The Texarkana inset from the 2013 map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/mapping_graphics/2013%20AR%20State%20Highway%20Map%20-%20City%20Side.pdf) definitely has AR 245 designated from I-30 to AR 296; the map does not make it readily apparent whether it is designated from I-30 to AR 549:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FxUV2G9E.png&hash=9616106cb05cd49aba282048b3e85bf1e7bf5e52)

The list of changes in Texarkana from the 2012 map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-188.pdf) reads as follows (page 4/5 of pdf) and appears to indicate that AR 245 still exists from AR 549 to AR 296:

Quote
45. Texarkana Inset: A.) New section of Hwy. 549 added.
B.) Old part of Hwy. 245 between Arkansas Blvd. & Hwy. 296 not FCA.
C.) Hwy. 245 from Jct. 549 to Arkansas Blvd. re-designated as Hwy. 549.
D.) Hwy. 245 from State Line to Jct. 549 re-designated as Hwy. 151

What does "FCA" mean? Fully Controlled Access?

Yes, "fully controlled access".  If you look at AHTD's county maps, freeways are labelled "FCA".

Did you learn about that file from the Facebook group or did you find it on your own?  I happened to upon it after downloading the actual maps and ordering my yearly 10 maps.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on June 20, 2013, 04:05:00 PM
Quote from: bugo on June 20, 2013, 03:54:18 PM
Yes, "fully controlled access".  If you look at AHTD's county maps, freeways are labelled "FCA".

Thanks for the clarification.




Quote from: bugo on June 20, 2013, 03:54:18 PM
Did you learn about that file from the Facebook group or did you find it on your own?  I happened to upon it after downloading the actual maps and ordering my yearly 10 maps.

Today, AHTD posted a link to it in the "News" section on their homepage.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on June 20, 2013, 06:39:47 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on June 20, 2013, 12:30:06 PM

The list of changes in Texarkana from the 2012 map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-188.pdf) reads as follows (page 4/5 of pdf) and appears to indicate that AR 245 still exists from AR 549 to AR 296:


No. There are NO signs along I-30 for 245 (now posted as Four States Fair Blvd), nor along AR 296. Also no signs north of I-30 in either direction, nor SB along 549 south of I-30.

I saw two signs for AR 245 when I was there in May: one at the State Line (instead of AR 151) and one just north of the 151/549 interchange.

Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 07, 2013, 02:10:54 PM
The June, 2013 Arkansas Highways Newsletter (http://www.arkansashighways.com/newsletters/2013/June2013_final_web.pdf) has a photo of an "Exit" AR 549 BGS with Houston, Shreveport and Fort Smith as the three control cities (page 5/16 of pdf):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fx7ZeO1s.jpg&hash=ddfd1a2fb9fe82849b8797f21d216bb3d7155f36)

It will be a loooooong time before there will be interstate connections to Houston and Fort Smith.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bassoon1986 on July 07, 2013, 03:48:37 PM
Cool though that each city is in a different state
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 07, 2013, 05:08:38 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 07, 2013, 02:10:54 PM
The June, 2013 Arkansas Highways Newsletter (http://www.arkansashighways.com/newsletters/2013/June2013_final_web.pdf) has a photo of an "Exit" AR 549 BGS with Houston, Shreveport and Fort Smith as the three control cities (page 5/16 of pdf):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fx7ZeO1s.jpg&hash=ddfd1a2fb9fe82849b8797f21d216bb3d7155f36)

It will be a loooooong time before there will be interstate connections to Houston and Fort Smith.

This is along I-30 (Exit 3). Both directions, there's a single exit which splits into 2 exits.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: codyg1985 on July 07, 2013, 11:30:00 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 07, 2013, 02:10:54 PM
The June, 2013 Arkansas Highways Newsletter (http://www.arkansashighways.com/newsletters/2013/June2013_final_web.pdf) has a photo of an "Exit" AR 549 BGS with Houston, Shreveport and Fort Smith as the three control cities (page 5/16 of pdf):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fx7ZeO1s.jpg&hash=ddfd1a2fb9fe82849b8797f21d216bb3d7155f36)

It will be a loooooong time before there will be interstate connections to Houston and Fort Smith.

And not one mention at all about I-49. I contend that AHTD simply isn't serious about the concept of I-49. No Future I-49 signs to speak of, and hardly any mention of it from any of AHTD media.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on July 08, 2013, 03:03:55 AM
Where is there a future I-49 sign in Arkansas?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 08, 2013, 07:38:19 AM
Quote from: bugo on July 08, 2013, 03:03:55 AM
Where is there a future I-49 sign in Arkansas?

None, to my knowledge.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: ethanhopkin14 on July 08, 2013, 07:50:50 AM
Quote from: bugo on June 20, 2013, 03:54:18 PM
Quote from: US71 on May 27, 2013, 11:08:36 PM
-AR 245 has been  fully decommissioned. It no longer exists at all at Texarkana, replaced by Four States Fairground Road. A couple signs remain, but those are likely signs missed when AHTD changed things around (such as at State Line Rd).

Were the 296 shields removed from I-30?  If not, then I consider AR 245 a fully signed active state route.  If they were removed, it might have been because they didn't want to confuse drivers who once took AR 245 south towards Shreveport.  That would explain why the signs are still up.
Quote
The Texarkana inset from the 2013 map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/mapping_graphics/2013%20AR%20State%20Highway%20Map%20-%20City%20Side.pdf) definitely has AR 245 designated from I-30 to AR 296; the map does not make it readily apparent whether it is designated from I-30 to AR 549:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FxUV2G9E.png&hash=9616106cb05cd49aba282048b3e85bf1e7bf5e52)

The list of changes in Texarkana from the 2012 map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-188.pdf) reads as follows (page 4/5 of pdf) and appears to indicate that AR 245 still exists from AR 549 to AR 296:

Quote
45. Texarkana Inset: A.) New section of Hwy. 549 added.
B.) Old part of Hwy. 245 between Arkansas Blvd. & Hwy. 296 not FCA.
C.) Hwy. 245 from Jct. 549 to Arkansas Blvd. re-designated as Hwy. 549.
D.) Hwy. 245 from State Line to Jct. 549 re-designated as Hwy. 151

What does "FCA" mean? Fully Controlled Access?

Yes, "fully controlled access".  If you look at AHTD's county maps, freeways are labelled "FCA".

Did you learn about that file from the Facebook group or did you find it on your own?  I happened to upon it after downloading the actual maps and ordering my yearly 10 maps.

It is interesting to me that the interchange at Interstate 30 and State Line Dr. Still shows a cloverleaf intersection, although this has been converted to a diamond interchange.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 08, 2013, 08:04:55 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on July 07, 2013, 11:30:00 PM
I contend that AHTD simply isn't serious about the concept of I-49.

I also wonder how serious AHTD is about I-49.  I recently took a look at Missouri's 2011 I-49 Application Documents (page 6/8 of pdf) (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/USRNReporttoSCOHOct152011.pdf) and noticed that, in AASHTO's letter to FHWA, it was already AASHTO's position that I-49 is a statutory numerically designated corridor (which overrides any potential concern about a dual presence of I-49 and US 49 in Arkansas):

Quote
...
Dear Mr. Mendez:
This is to advise you that AASHTO is in receipt of a formal application from the Missouri Department of Transportation to establish Interstate Route 49. Section 1105 of the Intermodal surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA) Congress identified the north-south corridor from Kansas City, Missouri to Shreveport, Louisiana as a High Priority Corridor 1 (HPC 1) on the National Highway System. The corridor was designated as a future interstate route and further defined this corridor as Interstate Route 49 ....

Did they really run into an obstruction at AASHTO over the US 49 issue?




Quote from: codyg1985 on July 07, 2013, 11:30:00 PM
No Future I-49 signs

Note that the letter also expressly states that it is a "future interstate route ... further defined ... as Interstate Route 49".  It looks like AASHTO would have certainly permitted "Future I-49 Corridor" signs if AHTD had asked for them, at least as early as 2011.  AHTD can still ask for them now.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 10, 2013, 08:48:42 AM
Quote from: thefro on July 10, 2013, 06:47:24 AM
http://www.valleycentral.com/news/story.aspx?id=919619
Signs are officially going up on the 15th on the new I-69E & I-69C segments, according to this link.
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg232081#msg232081) thread)

I received an email from TxDOT this morning indicating that the installation of the I-369 shields will "probably" begin in the fall:

Quote
The I-369 signs near Texarkana will probably beginning being installed in the fall.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: ethanhopkin14 on July 10, 2013, 09:10:14 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 10, 2013, 08:48:42 AM
Quote from: thefro on July 10, 2013, 06:47:24 AM
http://www.valleycentral.com/news/story.aspx?id=919619
Signs are officially going up on the 15th on the new I-69E & I-69C segments, according to this link.
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg232081#msg232081) thread)

I received an email from TxDOT this morning indicating that I-369 shields will "probably" begin to be installed in the fall:

Quote
The I-369 signs near Texarkana will probably beginning being installed in the fall.

I will be at the signing ceremony in the Valley on the 15th. I will give a full update after.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: ethanhopkin14 on July 15, 2013, 04:10:41 PM
Here are my pictures from the signing this morning.:

https://plus.google.com/photos/108314424034130737389/albums/5900933620817858929

It was some fun
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on July 15, 2013, 06:52:24 PM
Good stuff!

The blue directional arrow panels under the white US shields need to be fixed, however. It looks horrible.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: ethanhopkin14 on July 16, 2013, 01:17:33 AM
Quote from: Road Hog on July 15, 2013, 06:52:24 PM
Good stuff!

The blue directional arrow panels under the white US shields need to be fixed, however. It looks horrible.

Agreed.  I didn't like it, but tried to not let it ruin the experience. :-D
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on July 26, 2013, 10:06:50 AM
Quote from: english si on July 26, 2012, 09:41:09 AM
How do we define Tri-Interstate Cities? 3 different 'parent'/2di interstates?

So we currently have:
San Diego (5, 8, 15), Denver (25, 70, 76), San Antonio (10, 35, 37), Fort Worth (20, 30, 35W), Dallas (a 'quad': 20, 30, 35E, 45), Houston (10, 45, 69), Oklahoma City (35, 40, 44), Kansas City (29, 35, 70), Maidison (39, 90, 94), Quad Cities (74, 80, 88), Chicago (a 'quint': 55, 57, 88, 90, 94), Bloomington (39, 55, 74), St Louis (quad: 44, 55, 64, 70), Champaign (57, 72, 74), Memphis (quad: 22, 40, 55, 69), Slidell (10, 12, 59), Birmingham (quad: 20, 22, 59, 65), Atlanta (20, 75, 85), Chattanooga (24, 59, 75), Nashville (24, 40, 65), Louisville (64, 65, 71), Cincinnatti (71, 74, 75), Indianapolis (quad:65, 69, 70, 74), Gary (quad:65, 80, 90, 95), Detroit (75, 94, 96), Toledo (75, 80, 90), Cleveland (quad: 71, 77, 480, 90), Charlestown (64, 77, 79), Bedford (70, 76, 99), Harrisburg (76, 81, 83), Baltimore (quad:70, 83, 95, 97), DC (66, 270, 95), Columbia (20, 26, 77), Greensville (40, 73, 85), Scranton (quad:476, 380, 81, 84), Binghampton (81, 86, 88), Newark (78, 280, 95), New York (quad:78, 80, 87, 95), Boston (90, 93, 95)

Future ones would include Casa Grande (8, 10, 11), Texarkana (30, 49, x69), Shreveport (20, 49, 69), Meridian (20, 59, 85) and Milwaukee (43, US41, 94).

Bump.

Was looking for something else but found this.  Kansas City is now a "quad", apparently.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 31, 2013, 08:32:04 AM
Quote from: ethanhopkin14 on July 30, 2013, 11:59:39 PM
To take a left turn here on this forum, what is the plan for the Texas segment if I-49?
(above quote from I49 in LA (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3124.msg236255#msg236255) thread)

Past posts in this thread (which includes discussion of I-49 in both SW Arkansas and Texas) discuss :

a link to the Executive Summary of the Final Environmental Impact Statement of I-49 from DeQueen to Texarkana (which includes the Texas I-49 segment):

https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg135206#msg135206, and

a cost estimate for building the Red River bridge:

https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg76274#msg76274

I don't plan on seeing the plans become reality in my lifetime.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on July 31, 2013, 01:07:20 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 31, 2013, 08:32:04 AM

I don't plan on seeing the plans become reality in my lifetime.

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FJHFlRzp.jpg&hash=fc280895ecbb168c375a580b880523b9eab0a025)

MAN, Arkansas in so many ways, has so much going for it right now.  Hope we don't look like fools because of this.  (And as you suggest, Grzrd, Texas with their stretch up to and over the Red River might drag their feet.  It will depend upon how bad the TxDOT, authors of the map above culled by KTBS 3/Shreveport, do they really want their "I-49/I-69/Crossroads to the future".)

EDIT: Earlier this month, the American Thinker ran this piece (http://www.americanthinker.com/blog/2013/07/houston_supplants_new_york.html) on how, according to The Financial Times, Houston has now supplanted New York City as America's number 1 goods port (amazing, IMO).  That's part of my guess why they like the idea of this corridor.

Now we'll see who "ponys up", as the old saying went.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Bobby5280 on July 31, 2013, 01:50:14 PM
I don't understand why I-49 was proposed to briefly cut into the NE corner of Texas in the first place. Did they run into a lot of opposition from property owners in and near Ogden, AR to having I-49 routed near or along the existing US-71 alignment East of the Texas state line? Why not keep the I-49 route north of Texarkana entirely in Arkansas?

Just looking at the proposed path and where AR-549 currently ends at US-71, I have to wonder if Texas would have any useful exits along I-49. Maybe one at Summerhill Rd? I could understand why Texas would place funding of a Red River Bridge project for I-49 way down on its list of priorities.

This routing of I-49 through the SE corner of Texas might have made more sense if a significant road like Future I-369 were able to tie into it (and complete a loop around Texarkana). But there's a huge amount of retail development where I-369 meets I-30 and a lot of residential development North of that.

I have a feeling Arkansas DOT will, at some point years in the future, be forced to redesign the segment of I-49 between Texarkana and Ashdown to stay within Arkansas, probably on the existing US-71/59 alignment. They might have to do that to prevent another Belle Vista like situation from developing.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on July 31, 2013, 02:35:02 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on July 31, 2013, 01:50:14 PM
I don't understand why I-49 was proposed to briefly cut into the NE corner of Texas in the first place. Did they run into a lot of opposition from property owners in and near Ogden, AR to having I-49 routed near or along the existing US-71 alignment East of the Texas state line? Why not keep the I-49 route north of Texarkana entirely in Arkansas?
Like I-41 in IL, TX didn't think they had enough 2dis?

OK, that makes little sense what with the suffixed I-69 routes, rather than new 2dis...
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Bobby5280 on July 31, 2013, 03:15:34 PM
The problem is Texas doesn't appear to want their section of I-49. At least that's how the situation appears to me. The I-69 corridor and various projects in Texas' biggest cities seem to be a far greater priority.

For Arkansas I-49 would have to be one of its top priorities, and logically a bigger priority than I-69. Arkansas is seeing its best growth in the Northwestern part of the state along the I-49 corridor. I think a completed I-49 corridor would do more for the state than some of the other big projects they've been pursuing.

Arkansas has been extending the US-67 freeway from Little Rock toward Walnut Ridge, but not pushing the freeway corridor through to Southern Illinois (where it might be an extension of I-30 or I-57). They're slowly extending I-530 South from Pine Bluff to a spot where I-69 might be built, maybe a decade or two from now -especially when that bridge over the Mississippi River is figured into the situation.

The I-49 corridor is far closer to completion than I-69. And that's even counting the difficulty going on with I-49 between Lafayette and New Orleans. The segment between Fort Smith and Texarkana won't be easy or cheap to build due to the mountainous terrain along parts of the route. But the Rogers/Fayetteville/Bentonville metro has turned into a very important destination along the Interstate highway system, enough so that I would expect increasing pressure for Arkansas to get I-49 completed even if that means cutting out Texas' part of the proposed route.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on July 31, 2013, 03:56:23 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on July 31, 2013, 03:15:34 PM
But the Rogers/Fayetteville/Bentonville metro has turned into a very important destination along the Interstate highway system, enough so that I would expect increasing pressure for Arkansas to get I-49 completed even if that means cutting out Texas' part of the proposed route.

Here's a wild one:

Northwest Arkansas (Rogers/Fayetteville/Bentonville), with three Fortune 500 companies (http://www.urbanplanet.org/forums/index.php/topic/115996-northwest-arkansas-and-the-fortune-500/) (and their adherents) has more Fortune 500 companies than 22 states or the District of Columbia.

With two Fortune 100 company headquarters, Northwest Arkansas alone has more in that category than Arizona (Phoenix), Colorado (Denver), Florida (Miami/Fort Lauderdale, Tampa/St. Pete, Orlando, Jacksonville), Indiana (Indianapolis) or Missouri (St. Louis, Kansas City).

And that's before you factor in "S.E.C., Inc." (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southeastern_Conference) which right now is the most highly-decorated college athletic conference (with the SEC West including member Arkansas having the last 5 of the last 6 BCS champions and 3 of the last 4 Heisman winners).

This metro area is a boom town and has been for some time.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Bobby5280 on August 01, 2013, 10:49:25 AM
Anyone visiting the area between Bentonville and Fayetteville for the first time would be surprised at just how urban that region has become. There just isn't any one particular large city anchoring it all together in a traditional city & suburbs sense. Yet a visitor can drive along I-540 through places like Rogers and Springdale and see restaurants and retailers they would find only in other large cities; I'm talking 500,000+ population and over cities.

The region has grown enough that planners really need to start identifying future superhighway corridors to improve traffic movement in the area before every possible loop route from I-540/49 gets boxed in with development. For instance, I think the route between Tulsa & Springdale needs to be Interstate quality (mostly along US-412) the whole way, not just the Cherokee Turnpike leg of it. But as each year passes it will become ever more difficult to build such a thing. The development along the border in Siloam Springs would be difficult/expensive to bypass due to the terrain. Businesses in Tontitown along US-412 are close to the road. Any future freeway connection through there would have to be on a new alignment to the south of US-412.

Rogers, Lowell, Springdale, Johnson & Fayetteville already need an East loop off I-540. Looking at what's on the East edge of those cities in Google Earth makes me think building such a loop would be a very difficult proposition, both in terms of price and politics. However, the widening that is in the works for I-540 isn't going to be enough for this area for very long.

College football is another matter. There's no question the SEC is dominant in football, but that's mainly Alabama & LSU doing a lot of the domination.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Avalanchez71 on August 01, 2013, 01:54:34 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on July 31, 2013, 03:56:23 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on July 31, 2013, 03:15:34 PM
But the Rogers/Fayetteville/Bentonville metro has turned into a very important destination along the Interstate highway system, enough so that I would expect increasing pressure for Arkansas to get I-49 completed even if that means cutting out Texas' part of the proposed route.

Here's a wild one:

Northwest Arkansas (Rogers/Fayetteville/Bentonville), with three Fortune 500 companies (http://www.urbanplanet.org/forums/index.php/topic/115996-northwest-arkansas-and-the-fortune-500/) (and their adherents) has more Fortune 500 companies than 22 states or the District of Columbia.

With two Fortune 100 company headquarters, Northwest Arkansas alone has more in that category than Arizona (Phoenix), Colorado (Denver), Florida (Miami/Fort Lauderdale, Tampa/St. Pete, Orlando, Jacksonville), Indiana (Indianapolis) or Missouri (St. Louis, Kansas City).

And that's before you factor in "S.E.C., Inc." (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southeastern_Conference) which right now is the most highly-decorated college athletic conference (with the SEC West including member Arkansas having the last 5 of the last 6 BCS champions and 3 of the last 4 Heisman winners).

This metro area is a boom town and has been for some time.

Last I checked the area already has I-540 running through it.  US 71 provides multiple lanes and I-49 is almost built out in MO.  First the US highway sign isn't good enough so they put up the spur interstate, I-540.  Now that isn't good enough.  Folks knew the limitations of the highway system when they moved in.  Why should other property owners' have their property divided up for the sake of these newcomers?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on August 01, 2013, 02:15:42 PM
Quote from: Avalanchez71 on August 01, 2013, 01:54:34 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on July 31, 2013, 03:56:23 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on July 31, 2013, 03:15:34 PM
But the Rogers/Fayetteville/Bentonville metro has turned into a very important destination along the Interstate highway system, enough so that I would expect increasing pressure for Arkansas to get I-49 completed even if that means cutting out Texas' part of the proposed route.

Here's a wild one:

Northwest Arkansas (Rogers/Fayetteville/Bentonville), with three Fortune 500 companies (http://www.urbanplanet.org/forums/index.php/topic/115996-northwest-arkansas-and-the-fortune-500/) (and their adherents) has more Fortune 500 companies than 22 states or the District of Columbia.

With two Fortune 100 company headquarters, Northwest Arkansas alone has more in that category than Arizona (Phoenix), Colorado (Denver), Florida (Miami/Fort Lauderdale, Tampa/St. Pete, Orlando, Jacksonville), Indiana (Indianapolis) or Missouri (St. Louis, Kansas City).

And that's before you factor in "S.E.C., Inc." (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southeastern_Conference) which right now is the most highly-decorated college athletic conference (with the SEC West including member Arkansas having the last 5 of the last 6 BCS champions and 3 of the last 4 Heisman winners).

This metro area is a boom town and has been for some time.

Last I checked the area already has I-540 running through it.  US 71 provides multiple lanes and I-49 is almost built out in MO.  First the US highway sign isn't good enough so they put up the spur interstate, I-540.  Now that isn't good enough.  Folks knew the limitations of the highway system when they moved in.  Why should other property owners' have their property divided up for the sake of these newcomers?

I'm guessing the other boomtowns Las Vegas and Orlando had people asking the same question.

But it may be because 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), which would be bigger than:

Des Moines/Ames (area has two thru interstates)
Wichita/Hutchinson (area has two thru interstates counting the turnpikes)
Chattanooga/Cleveland(TN) (area has three thru interstates)
Mobile/Daphne (area has two interstates, one thru)
Huntsville/Florence (area has one thru interstate)
Springfield/Branson (area has one thru interstate)
Shreveport/Texarkana (area will have 4-5 interstates, 2-3 thru ones depending upon how you count them)
Jackson/Vicksburg (area has two thru interstates)

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)  (Right now, Fort Smith has just under 300,000 in its metro.  If I-49 is linked some studies indicate it will grow to around 400,000+.)

So, indeed, I think it makes sense to finish at least the Bella Vista Bypass (though as always I am sorry some property owners will be impinged upon...always happens but it is a pain for some, boon for others).  And a whale of a lot of sense to finish I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana.  Now, whether common sense will be exercised or not...
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Bobby5280 on August 01, 2013, 03:41:32 PM
If the population of NW AR keeps growing at a fast pace they'll be forced to build additional superhighways. Traffic is already pretty bad in some areas there. They certainly don't want to have situations like those the cities of Austin and Phoenix faced (and are still dealing with in spite of new freeways finally being built in recent years).

I certainly like the approach used in many areas of Texas: identify a possible future freeway corridor. Secure the right of way and build a divided street with a median wide enough to hold a freeway that would/could be built 10-20 years or so in the future. In Wichita Falls it was relatively easy for them to build Kell Freeway as funds came available. The divided surface street had the right of way reserved for the freeway since at least since the 1970's.

I'm disappointed that kind of approach hasn't been used here in Oklahoma. In Oklahoma City, the Kilpatrick Turnpike would probably be a complete loop around OKC and Norman if ODOT and other powers that be had at least some foresight to secure that entire corridor while it was still pretty much undeveloped. Today Mustang, OK has grown over where OK-4 could have attached into the Kilpatrick Turnpike. All the development around Riverwind Casino south of Norman is covering up any possible upgrade of OK-9 into I-35. In the long term that loop highway may have to be completed, but if so it will cost a whole lot more than it would have thanks to lack of long term planning.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Scott5114 on August 04, 2013, 02:51:48 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on August 01, 2013, 03:41:32 PM
If the population of NW AR keeps growing at a fast pace they'll be forced to build additional superhighways. Traffic is already pretty bad in some areas there. They certainly don't want to have situations like those the cities of Austin and Phoenix faced (and are still dealing with in spite of new freeways finally being built in recent years).

I certainly like the approach used in many areas of Texas: identify a possible future freeway corridor. Secure the right of way and build a divided street with a median wide enough to hold a freeway that would/could be built 10-20 years or so in the future. In Wichita Falls it was relatively easy for them to build Kell Freeway as funds came available. The divided surface street had the right of way reserved for the freeway since at least since the 1970's.

I'm disappointed that kind of approach hasn't been used here in Oklahoma. In Oklahoma City, the Kilpatrick Turnpike would probably be a complete loop around OKC and Norman if ODOT and other powers that be had at least some foresight to secure that entire corridor while it was still pretty much undeveloped. Today Mustang, OK has grown over where OK-4 could have attached into the Kilpatrick Turnpike. All the development around Riverwind Casino south of Norman is covering up any possible upgrade of OK-9 into I-35. In the long term that loop highway may have to be completed, but if so it will cost a whole lot more than it would have thanks to lack of long term planning.

If it was really desired they could extend the OK-9 expressway in Cleveland County along the river for a bit and have a second bridge crossing, then tie into the current expressway west of Santa Fe Avenue (NW 24th Street in Goldsby). It would be expensive though.

Unfortunately I don't think any sort of planning here would have been possible, or at the very least really hard to pull off, since northern McClain County is a bit of mess when it comes to jurisdictions. Despite everything in that cluster having a Norman mailing address, the north side of the highway (Love's, the bank, Mason's) is all in Newcastle and the south side (Riverwind, McDonalds, Shell, the medical clinic) is in Goldsby. I don't think Goldsby even has a planning department, as it's a town of about 1,500. Meanwhile, Riverwind sits on Indian trust land, so it would have been impossible to convince the Chickasaws not to build anything on that since they don't really have a whole lot of places they can operate a casino (it is possible to get new trust land but there's a whole process to that making it more complicated than just buying a parcel of land).
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: J N Winkler on August 04, 2013, 08:15:07 PM
I happened to look through one of the Arkansas official state maps US 71 was handing out at the Wichita road meet last month, and realized that freeway I-540/US 71 (soon to be I-49) is entirely within the corporate limits of one city or another all the way from Exit 60 (Fayetteville) to Exit 93 (south end of projected Bella Vista Bypass)--a distance of about 33 miles.  It also looks to be more solidly urbanized than some of the city pairs Bobby5280 cites, such as Wichita/Hutchinson and Des Moines/Ames.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on August 04, 2013, 09:41:10 PM
Quote from: J N Winkler on August 04, 2013, 08:15:07 PM
I happened to look through one of the Arkansas official state maps US 71 was handing out at the Wichita road meet last month, and realized that freeway I-540/US 71 (soon to be I-49) is entirely within the corporate limits of one city or another all the way from Exit 60 (Fayetteville) to Exit 93 (south end of projected Bella Vista Bypass)--a distance of about 33 miles.  It also looks to be more solidly urbanized than some of the city pairs Bobby5280 cites, such as Wichita/Hutchinson and Des Moines/Ames.

This is unofficial, but going on US Census Bureau figures and growth rates for the nine counties (4 in Northwest Arkansas metro, 5 in Fort Smith metro) it looks like the population may be up to around 815,000 between the two for this year if the growth rates hold, which they certainly seem to be doing in Benton County.  And that's before this Interstate between Fort Smith and Winnipeg/Duluth is completed, completely opening FSM/NWA to the northern half of the U.S. via Interstate highways.

BTW, Bella Vista is a planned community, and the corporation which developed it, last I'm aware, bought for future development (at least a decade or two ago) the entire bloc of undeveloped land on the west side of Bella Vista's corporate limits, squarely where future I-49 will run north to south (after it curves northward west of the former Hiwasse community).  That's also where Bella Vista, currently at 25,000 plus people, will have its first paved road connection, not just Interstate, from the west.  Good planning on their part.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on August 05, 2013, 02:41:36 PM
Quote from: J N Winkler on August 04, 2013, 08:15:07 PM
I happened to look through one of the Arkansas official state maps US 71 was handing out at the Wichita road meet last month, and realized that freeway I-540/US 71 (soon to be I-49) is entirely within the corporate limits of one city or another all the way from Exit 60 (Fayetteville) to Exit 93 (south end of projected Bella Vista Bypass)--a distance of about 33 miles.  It also looks to be more solidly urbanized than some of the city pairs Bobby5280 cites, such as Wichita/Hutchinson and Des Moines/Ames.

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FTb8MeVq.png&hash=954940288376298e7a5bd7244eb1596a00dfecc2)

Note the dotted interstate line immediately south and west of Bella Vista, which has more than 25,000.  I don't know how many miles it extends to the state line but I'm guessing we're looking at between 5-8 miles.  There are a lot of people in the cul-de-sacs of this area (and from development I'm seeing there may be significantly more coming) so we may be looking at 40 miles of more-or-less urbanized area from the state line to West Fork (south of Fayetteville) on future I-49 in northwest Arkansas.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on August 05, 2013, 08:27:00 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on July 31, 2013, 03:15:34 PM
The problem is Texas doesn't appear to want their section of I-49. At least that's how the situation appears to me. The I-69 corridor and various projects in Texas' biggest cities seem to be a far greater priority.

For Arkansas I-49 would have to be one of its top priorities, and logically a bigger priority than I-69. Arkansas is seeing its best growth in the Northwestern part of the state along the I-49 corridor. I think a completed I-49 corridor would do more for the state than some of the other big projects they've been pursuing.

Arkansas has been extending the US-67 freeway from Little Rock toward Walnut Ridge, but not pushing the freeway corridor through to Southern Illinois (where it might be an extension of I-30 or I-57). They're slowly extending I-530 South from Pine Bluff to a spot where I-69 might be built, maybe a decade or two from now -especially when that bridge over the Mississippi River is figured into the situation.

The I-49 corridor is far closer to completion than I-69. And that's even counting the difficulty going on with I-49 between Lafayette and New Orleans. The segment between Fort Smith and Texarkana won't be easy or cheap to build due to the mountainous terrain along parts of the route. But the Rogers/Fayetteville/Bentonville metro has turned into a very important destination along the Interstate highway system, enough so that I would expect increasing pressure for Arkansas to get I-49 completed even if that means cutting out Texas' part of the proposed route.

First off, I can't see TX not wanting at least a piece of I-49, if only to connect the proposed western loop to the Tex Americas Center development.

Second..there is simply no way to adequately construct a western loop using the existing US 59/TX 151 freeway due to extensive development, so any western loop connecting the I-x69 extension from Carthage to Texarkana with I-49 will have to go though some portion of Texas anyway. Plus, the way that Arkansas has AR 549/Future I-49 extending beyond the US 59/71 ROW to the west would preclude any northern alignment E of that roadway.

I-69 will be the main priority for TX for the forseeable future, but that doesn't mean that they aren't considering the possibility of a connection with a future I-49 to Kansas City.

Now, if Shreveport gets wise and completes the I-49 Inner City Connector, then it gets a bit interesting, because an alternative routing northward (I-69 Carthage to Stonewall, I-49 through Shreveport) could surplant the need for an I-x69 spur to Texarkana. But, that would really tick off Marshall and Tyler and probably Texarkana, because that would put them out of the loop.

I believe they ultimately get it together and find a way to make the connection work, and the Western Loop gets built with I-49 getting some Texas mileage. Just my nickel.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: codyg1985 on August 06, 2013, 07:06:33 AM
I wonder how the exit numbers will work with I-49 dipping into Texas. I assume it may do like I-24 in GA and the numbers will just carry over?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: ethanhopkin14 on August 06, 2013, 10:53:07 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on August 06, 2013, 07:06:33 AM
I wonder how the exit numbers will work with I-49 dipping into Texas. I assume it may do like I-24 in GA and the numbers will just carry over?

I wondered that too. But I assumed the same I-24 situation.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Avalanchez71 on August 09, 2013, 01:07:30 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on August 05, 2013, 02:41:36 PM
Quote from: J N Winkler on August 04, 2013, 08:15:07 PM
I happened to look through one of the Arkansas official state maps US 71 was handing out at the Wichita road meet last month, and realized that freeway I-540/US 71 (soon to be I-49) is entirely within the corporate limits of one city or another all the way from Exit 60 (Fayetteville) to Exit 93 (south end of projected Bella Vista Bypass)--a distance of about 33 miles.  It also looks to be more solidly urbanized than some of the city pairs Bobby5280 cites, such as Wichita/Hutchinson and Des Moines/Ames.

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FTb8MeVq.png&hash=954940288376298e7a5bd7244eb1596a00dfecc2)

Note the dotted interstate line immediately south and west of Bella Vista, which has more than 25,000.  I don't know how many miles it extends to the state line but I'm guessing we're looking at between 5-8 miles.  There are a lot of people in the cul-de-sacs of this area (and from development I'm seeing there may be significantly more coming) so we may be looking at 40 miles of more-or-less urbanized area from the state line to West Fork (south of Fayetteville) on future I-49 in northwest Arkansas.
What is the signifigance of the yellow US 71 shield on that map?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on August 09, 2013, 04:21:41 PM
Quote from: Avalanchez71 on August 09, 2013, 01:07:30 PM
What is the significance of the yellow US 71 shield on that map?

Yellow shields = scenic highway.  Blue shields = scenic byway (I have no clue what the difference is.)  White shields = plain old highway.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Alps on August 09, 2013, 07:20:32 PM
Quote from: bugo on August 09, 2013, 04:21:41 PM
Quote from: Avalanchez71 on August 09, 2013, 01:07:30 PM
What is the significance of the yellow US 71 shield on that map?

Yellow shields = scenic highway.  Blue shields = scenic byway (I have no clue what the difference is.)  White shields = plain old highway.
Yellow = keep driving fast
Blue = pull over for RVs
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Avalanchez71 on August 13, 2013, 02:09:46 PM
I would be ticked off if I bought one of those homes off of a quiet cul-de-sac only to have I-49 bisect it.  The road noise alone is enough to be ticked off about.

:banghead:
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on August 13, 2013, 08:12:11 PM
Quote from: bugo on August 09, 2013, 04:21:41 PM
Quote from: Avalanchez71 on August 09, 2013, 01:07:30 PM
What is the significance of the yellow US 71 shield on that map?

Yellow shields = scenic highway.  Blue shields = scenic byway (I have no clue what the difference is.)  White shields = plain old highway.

Scenic Byway is an "official" designation, such as Boston Mountains Scenic Loop or the Pig Trail
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Scott5114 on August 16, 2013, 05:15:35 AM
Quote from: Avalanchez71 on August 13, 2013, 02:09:46 PM
I would be ticked off if I bought one of those homes off of a quiet cul-de-sac only to have I-49 bisect it.  The road noise alone is enough to be ticked off about.

:banghead:

The Bella Vista bypass has been planned for at least a decade. Anyone should do a lot of research before dropping $100,000 on...anything, really.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Brandon on August 16, 2013, 09:45:50 AM
Quote from: Scott5114 on August 16, 2013, 05:15:35 AM
Quote from: Avalanchez71 on August 13, 2013, 02:09:46 PM
I would be ticked off if I bought one of those homes off of a quiet cul-de-sac only to have I-49 bisect it.  The road noise alone is enough to be ticked off about.

:banghead:

The Bella Vista bypass has been planned for at least a decade. Anyone should do a lot of research before dropping $100,000 on...anything, really.

Never stopped the idiots near the proposed (since the 1960s) IL-53 extension in Lake County, Illinois.  Why should it stop these folks?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Avalanchez71 on August 16, 2013, 11:53:16 AM
Do you not recall Eric Estrada advertising this area back in the nineties?  He said they were quiet peaceful tracts just minutes away from convenience.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: lamsalfl on August 31, 2013, 12:35:42 AM
I-369 now appears on Google Maps.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 09, 2013, 04:18:28 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 16, 2012, 11:46:11 AM
I gave AHTD another shot and they emailed me the Executive Summary of the Texarkana to DeQueen US 71 and Texarkana Northern Loop FEIS (//www.aaroads.com/forum_images/southeast/030108_2001_09_01_aFEIS_Sum.pdf)
Quote from: Gordon on August 28, 2013, 10:01:32 PM
The Interstate 49 Coalition will host a conference at 10 a.m. Thursday at the new Arkansas Highway District 4 headquarters in Barling, Ark.
The conference will discuss updates of the I-49 project in Missouri, Louisiana and Arkansas.
(above quote from I-49 at Fort Smith's Chaffee Crossing (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=10247.msg243424#msg243424) thread)

AHTD has posted its August 29 presentation to the Interstate 49 Coalition (http://www.arkansashighways.com/PowerPoints/2013/082913_Ort_I-49Coalition.pdf), and it appears that AHTD considers the entire Texarkana Loop, in addition to mainline I-49 going through Arkansas, to be part of the overall I-49 Corridor. It also appears to exclude the current US 59/I-369 from the overall I-49 Corridor because it shows the West and Northern Loops as both being proposed instead of showing the completed US 59/I-369 (page 8/13 of pdf):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FWa1QXcV.jpg&hash=426bcf0211afc6501ad9182efd8f5d9b765d8d27)

Similarly, AHTD appears to include AR 151 as being part of the overall I-49 Corridor (page 9/13 of pdf):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F44pn2Wo.jpg&hash=f34c22076af44896175232de16a13a530d160ec3)




Quote from: US71 on June 20, 2013, 06:39:47 PM
There are NO signs along I-30 for 245 (now posted as Four States Fair Blvd), nor along AR 296. Also no signs north of I-30 in either direction, nor SB along 549 south of I-30.

The above "Texarkana Area" map also shows a remnant of AR 245 south of AR 296. Unsigned 245?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: agentsteel53 on September 09, 2013, 04:25:39 PM
I can barely tell because the map is tiny... will there be a Texas I-49?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on September 09, 2013, 04:34:04 PM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on September 09, 2013, 04:25:39 PM
I can barely tell because the map is tiny... will there be a Texas I-49?

Yes, but it won't be very long, just sort of a "hook" from Texarkana back into Arkansas.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 09, 2013, 04:42:51 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 16, 2012, 11:46:11 AM
I gave AHTD another shot and they emailed me the Executive Summary of the Texarkana to DeQueen US 71 and Texarkana Northern Loop FEIS (//www.aaroads.com/forum_images/southeast/030108_2001_09_01_aFEIS_Sum.pdf)
Quote from: US71 on September 09, 2013, 04:34:04 PM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on September 09, 2013, 04:25:39 PM
I can barely tell because the map is tiny... will there be a Texas I-49?
Yes, but it won't be very long, just sort of a "hook" from Texarkana back into Arkansas.

Here's the Selected Alternative "hook" identified in the Final Environmental Impact Statement (page 4/24 of pdf):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fsd86ZQA.jpg&hash=d8dbfc429e8174dfa045b829754541b73ebd2ebc)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on September 09, 2013, 09:23:32 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 09, 2013, 04:18:28 PM

The above "Texarkana Area" map also shows a remnant of AR 245 south of AR 296. Unsigned 245?

Possible, I suppose. One would probably have to ask AHTD.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Bobby5280 on September 10, 2013, 02:24:06 PM
Considering all of the commercial and residential development in the path of the proposed western loop in Texarkana, I'll be surprised if that stretch of superhighway ever gets built.

The proposed path would take I-369 over the Orr Chevrolet and Orr Honda car dealerships, if not some of the shops on the western end of the Texarkana Pavilion shopping center. I can't see I-369 being built "through" I-30 where that part of the loop currently ends. If the northern half of the proposed western loop ever gets built it would be easier building it west of the University Ave. exit. That adjustment would also take the alignment west of the large Pleasant Grove High School campus and an elementary school in the same neighborhood.

Whatever final alignment is chosen for the northern half of the western loop it's a guarantee a good number of homes will be consumed by the alignment. TX DOT should expect quite a bit of community resistance from residents in that area.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 10, 2013, 03:12:49 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on September 10, 2013, 02:24:06 PM
The proposed path would take I-369 over the Orr Chevrolet and Orr Honda car dealerships, if not some of the shops on the western end of the Texarkana Pavilion shopping center. I can't see I-369 being built "through" I-30 where that part of the loop currently ends

I don't think anyone is seriously considering that route anymore. Over a year ago, in this post (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg147854#msg147854), I recounted parts of a conversation with a Texarkana MPO official relevant to your observation:

Quote
I-69 Spur
They are well aware that they are located on a proposed I-69 Spur, which is why they want some signage as soon as possible.  The current climate for transportation funding has given rise to a fear that the I-69 Spur might be eliminated altogether.  The thinking is that I-69 signage would make it more difficult to eliminate the spur ...  Related to the concerns about getting spur signage as soon as possible, vocal (a minority, but vocal nonetheless) neighborhood opposition is slowing down evaluation of the West Loop alternative route to TexAmericas Center. The US 59 freeway section in question is literally the only section of the Spur that could be signed as an interstate in a relatively short period of time.  He said that they could always de-designate that section as an interstate if the West Loop were to be built.

At the time, I thought having some form of I-69 signage in Texarkana in the foreseeable future was a big stretch; however, I-369 signs should be installed by the new year.

Quote
Northern Loop
A big retail center that was built around the time of the issuance of the Northern Loop FEIS has made a connection to the current US 59 prohibitively expensive.  Also, even if construction of the West Loop were not a problem, preserving a Northern Loop corridor is not feasible due to both a lack of money and Texas state law having strong property protections for landowners. If connected to a West Loop, the only interchange between I-30 and I-49 would be at Richmond Road (FM 559). Regardless of whether a Freight Shuttle line would come to Texarkana, they are actively working on trying to get some type of multi-modal facility built at the TexAmericas Center.

Extending I-369 across I-30 is no longer being considered.




In a followup post (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg147956#msg147956), I recounted possible justifications for construction of the Northern Loop:

Quote
He did mention that Texas A & M has recently built a Texarkana campus near a possible route for the Northern Loop and that demand may grow for a Northern Loop as that campus grows.
In the intermediate term, construction of a multi-modal facility at the TexAmericas Center and/or construction of the I-69 Spur West Loop (combined with the Texas A & M - Texarkana factor) may generate enough demand/justification/need to build it.

Above said, I think the lack of corridor preservation for the Northern Loop will likely kill it.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 11, 2013, 08:41:46 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 10, 2013, 03:12:49 PM
In a followup post (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg147956#msg147956):
Quote
He did mention that Texas A & M has recently built a Texarkana campus near a possible route for the Northern Loop

In August, KTBS had a Somewhere in the ArkLaTex video feature (http://www.ktbs.com/video?clipId=9178690&autostart=true) about Texarkana, which includes some footage of the Texas A & M - Texarkana campus. Also, it has the Texarkana mayor talking about how the I-49/I-30 junction is "huge" and the reporter later commenting that Texarkana is poised to become a major distribution center.  It also has some highway footage on the Texas side with "blue ribbons" and "blue stars" in the sky, which leads to a comparison between Texarkana and Plano.




Quote from: Grzrd on September 10, 2013, 03:12:49 PM
in this post (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg147854#msg147854)
Quote
Northern Loop
If connected to a West Loop, the only interchange between I-30 and I-49 would be at Richmond Road (FM 559).

A sign pointing the way to Richmond Road is also included in the KTBS video:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FErEoAyY.png&hash=f116a5d154675eae3d1405646efb0e28d34c2716)
Title: Texarkana I-369 Shields To Be Unveiled On Sept. 23
Post by: Grzrd on September 21, 2013, 11:48:20 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 30, 2013, 04:38:43 PM
As Alex posted in the above thread, the Texas Transportation Commission has approved the I-369 designation in Texarkana:
Quote
This minute order designates the following highway segments:
• A 3.5 mile segment of US 59, from I-30 to State Loop 151 in Texarkana, to be designated as
I-369 ....
AASHTO must take action to approve the application. ....
the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) must confirm that the highway segment meets the applicable Interstate designation regulations and criteria, and approve any associated design exception requests. Following such confirmation, the FHWA Administrator must take action to approve the addition of the highway segment to the Interstate Highway System. As of May 24, 2013, AASHTO and the FHWA Administrator have issued the required approvals.

This TV video report (http://www.ktbs.com/story/23469253/i) reports that the I-369 shields will be unveiled on Monday, Sept. 23 (although the report refers to it as "I-69" instead of "I-369"):

Quote
If you travel along U.S. Highway 59 in the Texarkana area, you'll soon notice a segment of the highway officially designated as Interstate 69.
It's being touted as the gateway to economic growth in the region.
When the signage on Highway 59 is changed to I-69, it will be the 5th section in Texas to receive the official designation.
Once completed, the I-69 system will run from Canada to Mexico.
"It gives Texarkana access to the Texas ports, which is significant for growth our area, said James Carlow, Vice-Chair I-69 Alliance. "It gives us three interstates intersecting in Texarkana: I-69, I-49 and I-30."
The Texas Department of Transportation will unveil the I-69 sign on Monday, September 23rd at 2 p.m. near the parking lot of the Albertson's on 7th Street.
The public is invited to attend.

Here's a teaser that confirms the I-369 shields:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FaYfqyAK.jpg&hash=2a2ea21aa2cdc1bc3beb14e0a7d53a6908b42370)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: txstateends on September 21, 2013, 09:28:37 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 21, 2013, 11:48:20 AM

Here's a teaser that confirms the I-369 shields:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FaYfqyAK.jpg&hash=2a2ea21aa2cdc1bc3beb14e0a7d53a6908b42370)


Geez, they must have gone to the dollar store to get that plastic bag!  Heck, why bother covering it, if it's half-undone before they even unveil the sign?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: nolia_boi504 on September 23, 2013, 09:00:41 AM
Looks like Google Maps got the memo already. The west loop is already marked as I-369.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on September 23, 2013, 12:45:51 PM
The whole loop should be I-130, and there should be an I-49/I-130 duplex and a rare 3 digit duplex, I-130 and 369.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bassoon1986 on September 23, 2013, 02:06:46 PM
Quote from: bugo on September 23, 2013, 12:45:51 PM
The whole loop should be I-130, and there should be an I-49/I-130 duplex and a rare 3 digit duplex, I-130 and 369.

Why?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 23, 2013, 08:04:43 PM
Quote from: txstateends on September 21, 2013, 09:28:37 PM
why bother covering it, if it's half-undone before they even unveil the sign?

Maybe to hide the "TEXAS" on the shield, as revealed in this unveiled photo from this article (http://www.ktbs.com/story/23508100/expansion-of-i-69-continues-in-texarkana):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F5WNXXft.jpg&hash=0987cc3a32ef26609e966316b3f8547495d7208b)

Quote
In an effort to enhance mobility and encourage interstate trade in the region, the Texas Department of Transportation, with approval from the Texas Transportation Commission and in partnership with the Alliance for I-69 Texas, today officially designated 3.5 miles of US 59 as the new I-369 spur ....
The new I-369 spur runs along the existing US 59 for 3.5 miles, beginning at I-30 and continuing to South Lake Drive (State Highway 93).

edit

This KSLA video report (http://www.ksla.com/story/23511371/i-369-unveiled-as-new-spur-of-i-69) has some footage from the ceremony.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on September 23, 2013, 08:51:04 PM
Quote from: bassoon1986 on September 23, 2013, 02:06:46 PM
Quote from: bugo on September 23, 2013, 12:45:51 PM
The whole loop should be I-130, and there should be an I-49/I-130 duplex and a rare 3 digit duplex, I-130 and 369.

Why?

Because the entire loop should have a single number and I-49 and I-369 need to be continuous to I-30.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Alps on September 23, 2013, 10:40:31 PM
Quote from: bugo on September 23, 2013, 08:51:04 PM
Quote from: bassoon1986 on September 23, 2013, 02:06:46 PM
Quote from: bugo on September 23, 2013, 12:45:51 PM
The whole loop should be I-130, and there should be an I-49/I-130 duplex and a rare 3 digit duplex, I-130 and 369.

Why?

Because the entire loop should have a single number and I-49 and I-369 need to be continuous to I-30.
I do think the loop should have a single number, but then use 230, which I believe is available.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on September 24, 2013, 03:04:35 AM
It is already Future I-130 from I-30 to US 71 and I see no need to change the number.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on September 24, 2013, 03:32:25 AM
"Future I-130" is just a placeholder on AR 549 until I-49 is eventually built from I-220 in Shreveport.

Personally, they should just keep it as US 59/TX 151/AR 151 up to AR 549 until the Shreveport to I-30 portion of I-49 is completed...then make the former segment an I-230 loop. Until an ironclad decision is made to actually BUILD I-369 from Texarkana to Carthage, there's really no need for an I-x69 shield at all.

You could just cosign I-49 with AR 549 up to I-30, then north of there use AR 549.

It makes absolutely NO SENSE to run a concurrency when it's not needed.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on September 24, 2013, 05:37:44 AM
It does make sense.  Route continuity.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 27, 2013, 11:41:18 AM
I recently received an email update from AHTD regarding the designation of I-49 in Arkansas:

Quote
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.

From the attached map (NWA image is in Bella Vista, Fort Smith thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg249672#msg249672)):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fzj2k9hX.png&hash=f8c8162703328cfa6e74ded1d04602b40a2a4739)

In addition to an I-49 designation from the Texas state line to Doddridge, it looks like they are also asking for contingent approval for the Doddridge to Louisiana state line section in advance of the anticipated May 2014 opening.  A potential glitch: did AHTD avoid repeating a mistake from several years ago and get Texas to sign off on the I-49 designation from I-30 to the Texas state line (it does go approximately 500 feet into Texas)?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 27, 2013, 05:25:34 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on June 01, 2013, 10:19:27 PM
This excerpt from the map on page 19 (page 25/30 of pdf) of the I-69 Advisory Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/i69/advisory_committee_report.pdf) demonstrates that both the I-369 designation for US 59 and development of the West Loop relief route are Priorities for the Segment One Committee:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FYq4SDHU.jpg&hash=5218cccdab014517b4d9336ce2e592fafff33592)

This Alliance for I-69 Texas article (http://i69texasalliance.com/NewsUpdates/update9.25.13Texarkana.html) reports on the I-369 unveiling ceremony, and it includes comments from U.S. Representative Ralph Hall about the importance of the Texarkana West Loop relief route:

Quote
Congressman Hall said progress on I-69 will provide more efficient access to destinations throughout the state and stressed that I-69 will be an important addition to the national and international mobility system.  He pointed to the need for completion of the Texarkana West Loop as a way to better serve freight movements in the region.

Maybe those thoughts are being communicated to the new I-69 Congressional Caucus (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=10534.msg249583#msg249583) in an effort to procure 95% federal funding.  TexAmericas Center, which is near where the Texarkana West Loop would tie in to I-30, certainly appears to be anticipating construction of the West Loop because it has a link to a TxDOT I-69 video on its home page (http://texamericascenter.org/).

edit

In case anyone has missed them, ethanhopkin14 recently posted some great pics from the I-369 unveiling ceremony (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg249945#msg249945) in the "I-69 in TX" thread.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 29, 2013, 11:00:32 AM
This article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/09/29/interstate-49-completion-is-less-than-ye-874246.php) identifies Summer 2014 as the completion date for the SW Arkansas/Louisiana link and includes two photos of construction in Arkansas near the Louisiana state line (not behind paywall):

Quote
Engineers are getting excited and gearing up for the completion of Interstate 49.
Construction of I-49 from Texarkana to Shreveport, La., should be completed next summer. Both Arkansas and Louisiana highway departments agree the project should be finished in the summer of 2014.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: ethanhopkin14 on September 30, 2013, 06:27:20 PM
I went to the Interstate 369 signing ceremony last Monday in Texarkana, and on they way back home I decided to drive the new Interstate 49 corridor.  I took this picture of the overpass being built south of Dodridge, AR over US 71.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-dgNE_CXbaik/UkJiUq16g1I/AAAAAAAAA5E/rjt4O7SXmpE/w740-h553-no/115.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AmYYg-NeeDI/UkJiV49YfoI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/E_FvUlZmnnI/w740-h553-no/116.JPG)

I then drove the corridor best I could through northwestern Louisiana and crossed the built but closed off sections up there:

(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-vKpzvZAANX0/UkJiZSF_SCI/AAAAAAAAA5k/QZmUpGYyQu4/w740-h553-no/119.JPG)
That is Ida State Line Road over Interstate 49 looking northbound.

(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-h5yq9uX0ZQw/UkJiavuz7RI/AAAAAAAAA5s/n1s3pN2yhsI/w740-h553-no/120.JPG)
That is the future on ramp to northbound Interstate 49 from SH 168
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on October 13, 2013, 06:37:16 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 27, 2013, 11:41:18 AM
In addition to an I-49 designation from the Texas state line to Doddridge, it looks like they are also asking for contingent approval for the Doddridge to Louisiana state line section in advance of the anticipated May 2014 opening.  A potential glitch: did AHTD avoid repeating a mistake from several years ago and get Texas to sign off on the I-49 designation from I-30 to the Texas state line (it does go approximately 500 feet into Texas)?

FHWA has a "Designations of Future Interstate Corridors" (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/planning/national_highway_system/interstate_highway_system/dfitm.cfm) page that contains two charts providing a comparison of FHWA responsibilities in regard to administratively created corridors with FHWA responsibilities in regard to Congressionally created corridors.  Since FHWA considers I-49 to be a Congressionally created corridor, I think the answer is that Arkansas did not need to coordinate with Texas this time around. The Congressional chart provides in relevant part:

Quote
Issue: Is coordination with affected States required prior to requesting an Interstate route number?
Answer: Not if number assigned in law (endnote vi)
Endnote vi: If the future Interstate number has been assigned in the statutory language, no coordination on route numbering is required. Otherwise, coordination is generally required if the route numbering substantially affects more than one State. If the corridor in question is completely within one State, no coordination on route numbering is required unless the highway is close to a border and coordination is administratively deemed to be necessary in the public interest. Also, even where formal coordination does not occur, notifications of various kinds are required, for example, notification to AASHTO and neighboring States.

It looks like an old barrier* no longer exists for I-49 in SW Arkansas.

edit *

From Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loop_(Texarkana)) :

Quote
North of the junction with Highway 549 and U.S. Highway 71, Highway 245 is part of the north—south Corridor, a planned extension of Interstate 49 north to Kansas City. (This extension will also include Highway 549.) The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department submitted this piece, as well as its continuation west to the state line, as Interstate 130 (I-130) in fall 2000. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials denied the part from US 71 west to Texas, as "the state of Texas has not submitted a companion application for a suitable terminus in Texas", but the piece from US 71 north to I-30 was approved on December 8, 2000 as Future I-130.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on October 21, 2013, 02:19:01 AM
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3821/10397906274_10cd2657d9_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on October 21, 2013, 11:00:03 AM
Quote from: bugo on October 21, 2013, 02:19:01 AM
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3821/10397906274_10cd2657d9_o.jpg)

Beat me to it. :(
Title: I-49 Shields Coming Soon to Texarkana
Post by: Grzrd on October 27, 2013, 09:45:56 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 27, 2013, 09:23:56 AM
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"
(above quote from I-49 in AR (Bella Vista, Fort Smith) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg255815#msg255815) thread)

As previously posted above, FHWA approval for I-49 shields in SW Arkansas may come as soon as Christmas:

Quote
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 ....
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 ....
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.

It will be nice for the Texarkana, TX I-369 to have a new Texarkana, AR I-49 neighbor.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 05, 2013, 05:13:09 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on August 09, 2012, 05:23:09 PM
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)
Quote from: Anthony_JK on August 05, 2013, 08:27:00 PM
I-69 will be the main priority for TX for the forseeable future, but that doesn't mean that they aren't considering the possibility of a connection with a future I-49 to Kansas City .... I believe they ultimately get it together and find a way to make the connection work, and the Western Loop gets built with I-49 getting some Texas mileage. Just my nickel.

This Oct. 31 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/10/31/i-49-meeting-focuses-on-benefits-40901.php) reports on a Texarkana Chamber of Commerce official mentioning the possibility of an I-49/I-(3)69 interchange in the Texarkana area, as well as the possibility of Texarkana becoming a major distribution hub:

Quote
Charles Nickerson, vice president of economic development for the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce, said I-49's connection to Interstate 30 as well as possible future connection to Interstate 69, puts Texarkana in a position to be a powerful future business hub.
"Right now we're in the middle of a 350-mile radius that has access to 38 million people,"  he said. "This can make us a major hub."

An I-49/I-369 interchange may be on distant radar, but it is on radar nonetheless.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on November 05, 2013, 11:37:36 PM
I'll be so glad when I-49 opens! Yay!
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 18, 2013, 05:01:07 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 27, 2013, 07:38:46 PM
Quote from: Gordon on April 17, 2013, 05:32:06 PM
Here is a news post from AHTD on the 549 Highway, adding new exit and maybe opening it in a month. http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-109.pdf
Here's a map of the segment from the above link in Gordon's post:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsCxVs9T.jpg&hash=7215cae0f1f1e5a1a968c0160b6da855915c1526)

While in Texarkana this weekend, I drove the Texarkana Loop (including the new Northern Loop section of AR 549), primarily to clinch I-369.  While driving south on the Arkansas side, I noticed that AR 549 is still an "exit" off of the loop.  Here is an older GSV (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Texarkana,+AR&hl=en&ll=33.392243,-94.014965&spn=0.000002,0.000817&sll=32.678125,-83.178297&sspn=6.434309,13.392334&oq=texarkana+ar&t=h&hnear=Texarkana,+Miller,+Arkansas&z=21&layer=c&cbll=33.392243,-94.014965&panoid=NXDGLj7SGjAcpNyyIRDHaw&cbp=12,228.38,,0,-1.11) from when AR 245 constituted most of the Loop (I think AR 245 has been replaced with "TO US 59 and I-30" on that BGS).  I guess AHTD will create the new "TO US 59 and I-30" Exit 29 BGS when they install the I-49 signage.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 25, 2013, 11:23:14 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 05, 2013, 05:13:09 PM
This Oct. 31 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/10/31/i-49-meeting-focuses-on-benefits-40901.php) reports on a Texarkana Chamber of Commerce official mentioning the possibility of an I-49/I-(3)69 interchange in the Texarkana area, as well as the possibility of Texarkana becoming a major distribution hub:
Quote
Charles Nickerson, vice president of economic development for the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce, said I-49's connection to Interstate 30 as well as possible future connection to Interstate 69, puts Texarkana in a position to be a powerful future business hub.
"Right now we're in the middle of a 350-mile radius that has access to 38 million people,"  he said. "This can make us a major hub."

This November 25 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/11/25/official-u-s-71-dangerous-i-49-vital-97893.php) reports on comments by I-49 International Coalition President Curt Green that the completion of I-49 through Arkansas is needed for safety reasons and that the combination of I-49 and I-(3)69 will bring a lot of goods through Texarkana:

Quote
Although he travels U.S. Highway 71 in Arkansas frequently, Curt Green, president of I-49 International Coalition, still remembers a bumper sticker that reflected the concern about the highway's safety.
The bumper sticker read, "I travel U.S. 71 in Arkansas. Pray for me." ....
"Highway 71 is considered a most dangerous road,"  Green said. "I do not know anyone in Texarkana, Ark., who has not lost someone on 71. It's a very bad highway."  ....
Although many people do not realize, the ports in Louisiana including New Orleans are where more cargo is delivered than in New York City or Los Angeles. The enlargement of the Panama Canal, which will allow double- and triple-sized ships to eventually come into the canal, will mean economic growth for those cities with roadways in place to provide easy travel to move cargo, he said.
"This is going to be a phenomenal amount of cargo that will be delivered north out of the gulf," Green said. "Locally we are working with Red River Army Depot and Lone Star, and we have a 20,000-acre industrial park to tie into."  
Green complimented the work being done in Texas to upgrade U.S. Highway 59 and Interstate 69.
"Texas is the No. 1 state in the nation, and they are blowing and going upgrading 59 and 69,"  Green said. "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." ....
The lack of funding makes it even more important to keep elected officials informed of what the needs of the state are, Green said.
"We need to make sure they are aware of the need and ask them to help with any possible financial help available for interstate construction,"  he said.

It looks like the I-49 International Coalition has bought into the notion that development of the I-369 corridor provides another justification for completing I-49 from Texarkana to Fort Smith.

edit 

Here is a non-pay wall version of the article: http://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Head-of-I-49-coalition-says-road-needed-soon-5009881.php
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on December 25, 2013, 01:37:51 AM
I drove the extension north of I-30 for the first time. Why is the speed limit only 65 still?

And once again, enjoyed looking at the crazy mix of Texas and Arkansas signage down US 71 coming back. Arkansas-style signs on Texas posts and vice versa.

ADD: Also, there is absolutely no I-369 signage along I-30 still. You still have to follow US 59 and then once you get on there, you'll start to see I-369 shields.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on December 25, 2013, 08:18:16 AM
Maybe because 549 is considered a metropolitan highway and not rural ?  I-540 is 65 through Fayetteville, but 70 otherwise.

You'll also notice there are NO Overhead signs for I-369: only independent signage

Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on December 27, 2013, 01:36:05 AM
With all these road projects, Texarkana will look very different in the next 20 years.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on December 27, 2013, 08:06:30 PM
Quote from: dariusb on December 27, 2013, 01:36:05 AM
With all these road projects, Texarkana will look very different in the next 20 years.

This would be the perfect time for Love's or Pilot to start buying up land for new truck stops
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on December 28, 2013, 04:31:12 AM
I've kept reading that Texarkana is destined to be a transportation and distribution hub in the future so with all the projected truck traffic to come through the area, that wouldn't be a bad idea.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: rte66man on December 28, 2013, 12:28:48 PM
Quote from: US71 on December 27, 2013, 08:06:30 PM
Quote from: dariusb on December 27, 2013, 01:36:05 AM
With all these road projects, Texarkana will look very different in the next 20 years.

This would be the perfect time for Love's or Pilot to start buying up land for new truck stops

I'm willing to bet they already have....
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on December 28, 2013, 07:14:33 PM
Quote from: rte66man on December 28, 2013, 12:28:48 PM
Quote from: US71 on December 27, 2013, 08:06:30 PM
Quote from: dariusb on December 27, 2013, 01:36:05 AM
With all these road projects, Texarkana will look very different in the next 20 years.

This would be the perfect time for Love's or Pilot to start buying up land for new truck stops

I'm willing to bet they already have....

Wouldn't surprise me much.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on December 30, 2013, 03:06:59 AM
In a way they've already started because the Love's truck stop in Leary just west of town hasn't been there long.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 03, 2014, 12:18:05 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 04, 2012, 11:26:16 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 13, 2012, 09:20:22 PM
This article (http://www.news-journal.com/panola/news/carthage-loop-designated-as-part-of-future-i/article_0fb0095d-1389-56d7-9e8b-707440038030.html)
Quote
James Carlow, who represents the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce for the I-69 project
(above quote from I-69 in TX (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3624.msg161103#msg161103) thread)
Quote from: Grzrd on November 25, 2013, 11:23:14 AM
This November 25 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/11/25/official-u-s-71-dangerous-i-49-vital-97893.php) reports on comments by I-49 International Coalition President Curt Green that the completion of I-49 through Arkansas is needed for safety reasons and that the combination of I-49 and I-(3)69 will bring a lot of goods through Texarkana ... It looks like the I-49 International Coalition has bought into the notion that development of the I-369 corridor provides another justification for completing I-49 from Texarkana to Fort Smith.

This December 26 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/12/26/all-roads-lead-here-620528.php) reports that Carlow and Green, as well as other Texarkana business leaders, met to discuss the future importance of Interstates 49 and 69, with Green even going so far to say that every mile of I-69 that Texas completes "has just as much impact on I-49":

Quote
A group of business leaders from both sides of Texarkana, along with people such as real estate developer Curt Green, former Bowie County Judge James Carlow and Arkansas gubernatorial candidate Asa Hutchinson, met in Crossroads Business Park in Texarkana, Ark., recently to discuss the benefits of the continued expansion of I-49 and I-69. After the meeting, the three met in Green's office in Texarkana, Texas, to talk more about exciting developments in transportation for this part of the state.
"Texarkana will be the gateway for Texas, Arkansas and Louisiana,"  Green, who has been working on I-49 development for about 20 years. "We have got to put the infrastructure in place in order to have the economic growth."  
Like Green, Carlow has been hard at work for years on promoting the importance of development on I-69.
"I-69 goes all the way down to Brownsville and the Valley,"  Carlow said. "All three separate legs of I-69 terminate in Texarkana. All roads lead here ....
it is going to go through the roof around here,"  Green said. "Texas has spent $700 million on I-69 from Laredo to Texarkana, and every mile they finish has just as much impact on I-49. Texarkana is such a source of tourism into the state as traffic flows from Texas to Arkansas."
Hutchinson, who has spent the majority of his career in the private sector as a small business owner, lawyer and entrepreneur, said Arkansas will have to find some federal dollars to help it do what it needs to do to make the further interstate more probable in coming years. As governor, Hutchinson said he would fight to find money for transportation needs for the state.
"Texas has a different source of revenue, and they are largely ahead of us on I-69,"  said Hutchinson, a Republican out of Little Rock. "They have state dollars. We have to figure out how to prioritize our funding to address traffic coming into Texas into the Texarkana corridor. Since serving in Congress 10 years ago, I have supported I-49. We want to continue to send state and federal sources of revenue to accelerate the process."
Hutchinson has served as U.S. attorney for the Western District of Arkansas, representative from Arkansas' 3rd Congressional District, administrator of the Drug Enforcement Agency and under the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
"People really need to look at how developing transportation will benefit the economy in Arkansas,"  Hutchinson said.

I'm not sure if Hutchinson has the same I-49 "vision" as other Arkansas officials, but he does not seem to have any original ideas about how to finance the I-30 to I-40 section of I-49.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on January 05, 2014, 03:44:08 AM
^^ I agree Grzrd.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 21, 2014, 01:37:56 PM
The Texas Official Travel Map (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/trv/maps/texas.pdf) has been updated to include I-369 in Texarkana:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FSx0u1yL.png&hash=a92501725b655a0735c13202f5e818c2975200f9)

How much longer until I-49 will be included on the map?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on January 26, 2014, 12:48:44 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on June 20, 2013, 12:30:06 PM
The Texarkana inset from the 2013 map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/planning_research/mapping_graphics/2013%20AR%20State%20Highway%20Map%20-%20City%20Side.pdf)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FxUV2G9E.png&hash=9616106cb05cd49aba282048b3e85bf1e7bf5e52)
Quote from: US71 on September 09, 2013, 09:23:32 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 09, 2013, 04:18:28 PM
The above "Texarkana Area" map also shows a remnant of AR 245 south of AR 296. Unsigned 245?
Possible, I suppose. One would probably have to ask AHTD.

AHTD, is AR 245 still commissioned in the Texarkana area?

Hmmmm ..... US71 made his above post months before AHTD joined the Forum. Should he have availed himself of free champagne at Hawking's party? (http://www.nbcnews.com/science/internet-search-time-travelers-turns-nothing-time-2D11840962) From another thread:

https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=11442.msg273260#msg273260




Also, AHTD, this post discusses how AHTD has removed the Future I-49 projected routing from Texarkana to Ashdown (through Texas) from its highway map:

https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg228335#msg228335

Was there any particular reason why it was removed?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on February 03, 2014, 01:00:40 PM
At this time State Highway 245 exists between State Highway 296 (Sugar Hill Road) and Arkansas Boulevard. Arrangements have been made to remove this highway from the system and transfer to the city of Texarkana. This is in progress, but it's not known if the transfer will be made before the 2014 map is printed.

As for the Future I-49 projected route that appeared on the 2012 map, we made a decision to remove future routings where funding is not identified. Thus you will not find Future I-69 routed on our map because funding has not been identified - except for the Monticello Bypass that is under construction.

Can't say if it was an oversight or a jump of the gun, however upon review of the map for the 2013 edition, the above decision was made.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on February 03, 2014, 01:33:59 PM
Quote from: AHTD on February 03, 2014, 01:00:40 PM
At this time State Highway 245 exists between State Highway 296 (Sugar Hill Road) and Arkansas Boulevard. Arrangements have been made to remove this highway from the system and transfer to the city of Texarkana. This is in progress, but it's not known if the transfer will be made before the 2014 map is printed.

As for the Future I-49 projected route that appeared on the 2012 map, we made a decision to remove future routings where funding is not identified. Thus you will not find Future I-69 routed on our map because funding has not been identified - except for the Monticello Bypass that is under construction.

Can't say if it was an oversight or a jump of the gun, however upon review of the map for the 2013 edition, the above decision was made.


I noticed all the signs are gone, including along Sugar Hill Rd. So 245 appears to only exist on the maps, unless new signs have been put in place since May?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 05, 2014, 02:26:11 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 27, 2013, 07:38:46 PM
Quote from: Gordon on April 17, 2013, 05:32:06 PM
Here is a news post from AHTD on the 549 Highway, adding new exit and maybe opening it in a month. http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2013/NR%2013-109.pdf
Here's a map of the segment from the above link in Gordon's post:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsCxVs9T.jpg&hash=7215cae0f1f1e5a1a968c0160b6da855915c1526)

I recently came across this November 26 article (http://www.ktbs.com/story/24078316/officials-say-completed-i-49-will-benefit-traffic-safety).  Accompanying the article is this photograph:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtnoS2nY.png&hash=765bf79205f698921ccd0549344bd45e5d2a1078)

I think it is on AR 151 eastbound approaching the AR 549 interchange.  It initially caught my eye because it has Exit 1 and Exit 29 side-by-side. Any ideas on how this signage should appear after the redesignation of AR 549 to I-49 is completed? Will there be a need for an "End AR 151" sign at that time?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on February 05, 2014, 03:06:36 PM
The exit 29 tab is odd, AR549 merges in after the ramps leave and OSM marks it as exit 2. It does make some sense as it is AR549's exit 29. But so is 'exit 1'. Either have it as exits 1 and 2, or 29A and B.

Also, for such a short multi-state route like Loop/AR151, why have exit numbers reset at the state line? Means that if TX posted exit numbers it would go 1-2-3-1-2 or something equally confusing.

I'd imagine that all that would change is the AR549 shields would become I-49 when the interstate comes.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Brandon on February 05, 2014, 03:52:54 PM
Quote from: english si on February 05, 2014, 03:06:36 PM
The exit 29 tab is odd, AR549 merges in after the ramps leave and OSM marks it as exit 2. It does make some sense as it is AR549's exit 29. But so is 'exit 1'. Either have it as exits 1 and 2, or 29A and B.

Also, for such a short multi-state route like Loop/AR151, why have exit numbers reset at the state line? Means that if TX posted exit numbers it would go 1-2-3-1-2 or something equally confusing.

I'd imagine that all that would change is the AR549 shields would become I-49 when the interstate comes.

The Exit 1 is for AR-151 as it heads east toward AR-549 (future I-49) as this is an exit from AR-151.  The Exit 29 is for AR-549 as the main exit is off AR-549 for US-71.  However, according to Google Street View, it's Exit 2: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ll=33.386016,-94.025846&spn=0.020676,0.042272&t=m&z=15&layer=c&cbll=33.385952,-94.026137&panoid=Wp1oCO7QBiaJby8pU2VWew&cbp=12,75.94,,2,-6.3

I guess it depends on which photograph is more recent.

It beats me why AHTD even bothered with an exit number off AR-151 anyway.

I agree, the signs look easy enough to switch out with I-49 shields or simply cover in greenout and I-49 shields.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: cjk374 on February 05, 2014, 04:29:53 PM
^^ Speaking of greenout, I noticed the signs for the next exit in the background have an area greened out...I'm guessing it said "Shreveport"?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on February 05, 2014, 07:21:37 PM
Quote from: cjk374 on February 05, 2014, 04:29:53 PM
^^ Speaking of greenout, I noticed the signs for the next exit in the background have an area greened out...I'm guessing it said "Shreveport"?

For US 71? Yes, Shreveport is greened out.


There are no "END" signs for AR 151 and it's only posted Eastbound ("Northbound"), except at US 71
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7385%2F8884456811_576b286795_z_d.jpg&hash=e5d005dbabedae8ff00b6b3813c7903cf78241aa)

SB 549 at 151
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7295%2F8935812923_7be160998f_z_d.jpg&hash=29f7b8de2c53a79c847d522aaa4a4c53852cea25)

NB 549 at 151
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm6.staticflickr.com%2F5458%2F8935807697_42728a7dc1_z_d.jpg&hash=17ab7bb77ea125c027dc3c3b9b57f63ed5c642c8)



As an aside, it's strange that the "thru" highway (549) exits.  I wonder if AHTD will ever change this?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Scott5114 on February 06, 2014, 08:29:21 PM
Google shows AR-549 as I-49 now. Is this based on anything in the real world, or is it Google being Google?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on February 06, 2014, 08:36:15 PM
Quote from: Scott5114 on February 06, 2014, 08:29:21 PM
Google shows AR-549 as I-49 now. Is this based on anything in the real world, or is it Google being Google?

As of November, it was still AR 549 and no "Future I-49" signs in Arkansas.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on February 07, 2014, 04:08:51 PM
This is Google being Google.

We have alerted them of this error. When (if) they will change it is unknown.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on February 07, 2014, 09:31:13 PM
Quote from: AHTD on February 07, 2014, 04:08:51 PM
This is Google being Google.

We have alerted them of this error. When (if) they will change it is unknown.

Probably about the time I-49 is actually commissioned.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on February 07, 2014, 09:47:25 PM
Quote from: bugo on February 07, 2014, 09:31:13 PM
Quote from: AHTD on February 07, 2014, 04:08:51 PM
This is Google being Google.

We have alerted them of this error. When (if) they will change it is unknown.

Probably about the time I-49 is actually commissioned.

Google was fairly fast on the Business Loop 49's in Missouri.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on February 18, 2014, 06:04:31 PM
We received a request to post links to these documents in this thread.

FEIS: U.S. 71 - Texarkana to DeQueen and the Texarkana Northern Loop (90.4mb)
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/FEIS_U.S.71_TXK-DeQueen_and_TXK_North_Loop.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/FEIS_U.S.71_TXK-DeQueen_and_TXK_North_Loop.pdf)

FEIS: U.S. 71 - Texarkana to DeQueen and the Texarkana Northern Loop APPENDIX (100mb)
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/FEIS_U.S.71_TXK-DeQueen_and_TXK_North_Loop_(appendix).pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/FEIS_U.S.71_TXK-DeQueen_and_TXK_North_Loop_(appendix).pdf)

Enjoy!
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on February 19, 2014, 10:48:05 AM
AHTD, the last section between I 49 North LA. state line And Hwy 549 will be complete sometime this Summer. Will the Approval of designating of I 49 in Arkansas be in time to be signed as such? Have any updates on how that is going?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 21, 2014, 11:40:51 PM
Quote from: bugo on October 21, 2013, 02:19:01 AM
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3821/10397906274_10cd2657d9_o.jpg)
Quote from: Grzrd on August 07, 2012, 04:26:30 PM
Quote from: bugo on June 19, 2012, 02:58:40 PM
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)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Ff9uLy.jpg&hash=fda58ac02d68acfc7be07f31dc66eeaba3d60bba)
(above quote from I-49 in AR (Bella Vista, Fort Smith) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg166650#msg166650) thread)
Quote from: Alps on February 19, 2014, 06:41:25 PM
Quote from: AHTD on February 19, 2014, 05:46:31 PM
We are moving away from including the state name on ground-level Interstate route markers. Signs in this area that were installed incorrectly (wrong version of sign) will be removed and replaced with the correct version.
No! Please continue to include the state name! Texas has just started doing it - it reminds people what state they're in... plus we love it!
Quote from: NE2 on February 19, 2014, 06:55:06 PM
You might be an anal roadgeek if...
(bottom two quotes from I-540 Signage (ATTN AHTD) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=11592.msg279801#msg279801) thread)
Quote from: Gordon on February 19, 2014, 10:48:05 AM
AHTD, the last section between I 49 North LA. state line And Hwy 549 will be complete sometime this Summer. Will the Approval of designating of I 49 in Arkansas be in time to be signed as such? Have any updates on how that is going?

AHTD, can you talk to the powers that be about tossing a bone to anal roadgeeks (as well as Arkansas Texarkanans) and see if, since Texas proudly displays its state name on the Texarkana I-369 shields, "Arkansas" I-49 shields can be installed for the SW Arkansas I-49 signage contract in order to show a little Arkansas state pride?  :wave:
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on February 23, 2014, 12:57:51 AM
Quote from: Gordon on February 19, 2014, 10:48:05 AM
AHTD, the last section between I 49 North LA. state line And Hwy 549 will be complete sometime this Summer. Will the Approval of designating of I 49 in Arkansas be in time to be signed as such? Have any updates on how that is going?


Gordon-


We are still working on the application to FHWA to request the re-designation. If the last bit is complete before then, it will be signed SH 549. We will not open this last segment until Louisiana is at the line, otherwise it's a road that abruptly stops with nowhere to turn around.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on February 23, 2014, 10:17:00 AM
Quote from: AHTD on February 23, 2014, 12:57:51 AM
Quote from: Gordon on February 19, 2014, 10:48:05 AM
AHTD, the last section between I 49 North LA. state line And Hwy 549 will be complete sometime this Summer. Will the Approval of designating of I 49 in Arkansas be in time to be signed as such? Have any updates on how that is going?


Gordon-


We are still working on the application to FHWA to request the re-designation. If the last bit is complete before then, it will be signed SH 549. We will not open this last segment until Louisiana is at the line, otherwise it's a road that abruptly stops with nowhere to turn around.

I thought Louisiana has already finished at the state line?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on February 24, 2014, 11:21:14 PM
Not sure where they are at this time. There is some part of the Shreveport to the state line that is still under construction too. Perhaps it's all wrapped up now?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bassoon1986 on February 24, 2014, 11:33:42 PM
I-49 in north Louisiana is open from LA 1 in north Shreveport to US 71 just south of Hosston. The section from there north to AR state line has been completed but will not be open to traffic until Arkansas completed the last segment from Doddridge southward. Supposedly, we've heard on the forum that I-49 from US 71 in Hosston north to LA 168 in Ida, LA may be/will be open to local traffic only until the state line sections are complete and open but we've not confirmed it yet.

Someone feel free to find that news article hinting at the Hosston-Ida section opening soon. It's cumbersome to search and copy paste from my phone...
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on February 24, 2014, 11:52:51 PM
http://www.dotd.la.gov/administration/public_info/projects/i49north/


Progress on I-49 North:

    Right-of-way purchase and utility relocation have been completed for all sections
    Construction Completion Schedules
        Arkansas state line to La. 168, Segment A — Near Completion
        La 168 to Mira-Myrtis Road, Segment B — Near Complection
        Mira-Myrtis Road to La 2, Segment C — Near Completion
        La 2 to U.S. 71, Segment D — Near Completion
        La. 170 to U.S. 71, Segment E — Open to traffic
        La. 530 to La. 170, Segment F — Open to traffic
        La 530 to La 169, Segment G — Open to traffic
        La. 173 to La. 169, Segment H — Open to traffic
        La. 1 to La. 173, Segment I — Open to traffic
        I-220 to La. 1, Segment J - Estimated completion: Fall 2015
        I-220 to La. 1, Segment K - Estimated completion: 2016/2017


From what I have seen,  Sections B, C, and D are finished except for signage...possibly Section A as well.  Satellite views seem to indicate A, B, C, and D have all been completed.

Parts of the of the Arkansas segment south of Doddridge are in the process of being paved. When I was through there last November, it appeared like the SB lanes had been paved, but no shoulder in place yet.

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm6.staticflickr.com%2F5475%2F10945065315_f51f1ac057_z_d.jpg&hash=cdeec18eda03f9ac13ef9f02881fb492b1c3c5a1)
Miller County 4 at I-49



Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 25, 2014, 12:45:20 PM
Quote from: AHTD on January 15, 2014, 03:34:11 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 14, 2014, 06:20:14 PM
Quote from: AHTD on January 13, 2014, 05:27:54 PM
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.
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?
The oldest parts of State Highway 549 were constructed recently enough to be in compliance with current standards, so it's good to go. We are in the process of paving the remaining 4.5 miles of this route from Doddridge to the Louisiana State Line and current estimates are that it will be completed in mid-2014.
(above quote from I-49 in AR (Bella Vista, Fort Smith) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg271426#msg271426) thread)
Quote from: AHTD on February 23, 2014, 12:57:51 AM
We are still working on the application to FHWA to request the re-designation. If the last bit is complete before then, it will be signed SH 549. We will not open this last segment until Louisiana is at the line, otherwise it's a road that abruptly stops with nowhere to turn around.
Quote from: AHTD on February 24, 2014, 11:21:14 PM
Not sure where they are at this time. There is some part of the Shreveport to the state line that is still under construction too. Perhaps it's all wrapped up now?

As recently posted in the I49 in LA thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3124.msg281214#msg281214), as of Saturday, March 1, Louisiana will be ready and waiting for Arkansas to finish its last section.

If your application drags out because of the I-540 section, why not go ahead and do a quick, separate application for the SW Arkansas AR 549 section that will give FHWA sufficient time to consider it before the state line section opens?  Otherwise, AHTD would be wasting money on completely unnecessary AR 549 signage.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on March 24, 2014, 07:56:29 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 25, 2013, 11:23:14 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 05, 2013, 05:13:09 PM
This Oct. 31 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/10/31/i-49-meeting-focuses-on-benefits-40901.php) reports on a Texarkana Chamber of Commerce official mentioning the possibility of an I-49/I-(3)69 interchange in the Texarkana area, as well as the possibility of Texarkana becoming a major distribution hub
This November 25 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/11/25/official-u-s-71-dangerous-i-49-vital-97893.php) reports on comments by I-49 International Coalition President Curt Green that the completion of I-49 through Arkansas is needed for safety reasons and that the combination of I-49 and I-(3)69 will bring a lot of goods through Texarkana

This Arkansas Business article (http://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/97720/texarkana-central-to-upcoming-transportation-growth) discusses I-49 and I-369 in Texarkana and suggests that progress on I-369 may spur some action from Arkansas on the Fort Smith-to-Texarkana section of I-49:

Quote
it's the sizable gap between Texarkana and Fort Smith through the Ouachita Mountains that remains the biggest hurdle to clear before I-49 can become a non-stop fast-track through the nation's middle.
While the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Arkansas Highway & Transportation Department have long-term plans in place to finish the approximately 170-mile section, a new interstate has made a surprise appearance in Texarkana (if anything in the slow-motion world of road-building could be described as a "surprise"  in the first place.) This new development could shift progress on I-49 into a higher gear ....
While I-69 has been sketched, adjusted and inspected since the days when Bill Clinton was president, recent years have seen the state of Texas hitting the acceleration pedal on the project, at least within its own borders. This has brought the highway to Texarkana's door.
The Alliance for I-69 in Texas is well-aware that its namesake interstate is nicknamed "The NAFTA Highway"  for its goal of connecting Canada with Mexico through the North American Free Trade Agreement. However, the Texans see their ports along the Gulf Coast and in Houston rising in importance once another project south of the border is completed. However, this project is even further south than Mexico — the Panama Canal ....
From Houston along its Gulf Coast, highways are being transformed into components of Interstate 69. The state is rallying hard, re-signing and redesignating over a thousand miles of interstate-standard highways in Texas to the I-69 route. These include spurs and connectors with names like I-69E, I-69C, I-69W and I-369.
Interstate 369 is what what will connect Texarkana with this increased number of imports due to appear in the region within the next decade.
Taking over what is now U.S. 59, I-369 will be a 115-mile spur reaching down from Texarkana to the vicinity of where the planned I-69 will cross into Texas southwest of Shreveport. The I-369 signs are already up around Texarkana and even online mapping sites display the designation.

Of course, if AHTD does not have any money ............
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Revive 755 on March 24, 2014, 08:21:25 PM
^ I-69W?  Did I miss something about another split section of I-69, or is there some bad info out there regarding the three legs connecting to Mexico?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: jbnv on March 24, 2014, 08:35:31 PM
Probably just inertia on the part of the writer.
Title: Texarkana Question for AHTD
Post by: Grzrd on April 01, 2014, 10:30:34 PM
Quote from: US71 on February 05, 2014, 07:21:37 PM
SB 549 at 151
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7295%2F8935812923_7be160998f_z_d.jpg&hash=29f7b8de2c53a79c847d522aaa4a4c53852cea25)
NB 549 at 151
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm6.staticflickr.com%2F5458%2F8935807697_42728a7dc1_z_d.jpg&hash=17ab7bb77ea125c027dc3c3b9b57f63ed5c642c8)
As an aside, it's strange that the "thru" highway (549) exits.  I wonder if AHTD will ever change this?
Quote from: AHTD on March 27, 2014, 05:59:11 PM
And speaking of I-49....
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.
(bottom quote from Arkansas State Highway 245 Removed from System (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=11956.msg288805#msg288805) thread)

AHTD, with the upcoming redesignation of AR 549 to I-49, I-49 will need to replace AR 549 on the above two signs.  To follow up on US71's question, does AHTD intend to make I-49 the "through" route when these signs are replaced?

Also, on the NB sign, does AHTD intend to include "TO I-369" as the route for Dallas?*

Similarly, on the SB sign, does AHTD intend to add "TO Dallas" to "TO Houston"?  If so, is there an intent to add I-369 to the sign (I understand that significant SB traffic will probably be coming from westbound I-30 traffic at that point and adding Dallas may not be considered necessary)?

* edit

Also on the NB sign, shouldn't Fort Smith (or possibly Texarkana) be the control city for "through" I-49 in addition to Little Rock for "TO I-30"?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: mcdonaat on April 02, 2014, 12:04:37 AM
That just startles me, though, seeing US 59 as Houston and Dallas as control cities. You have Marshall, Carthage, Nacogdoches, Lufkin... I'm sure that not much traffic would be using US 59 to get to Dallas, instead of I-30 to Dallas. I can understand Shreveport since it's the next decent sized city along I-49, but it would be like having Baton Rouge and New Orleans instead of Shreveport.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on April 02, 2014, 01:40:29 AM
Quote from: mcdonaat on April 02, 2014, 12:04:37 AM
That just startles me, though, seeing US 59 as Houston and Dallas as control cities. You have Marshall, Carthage, Nacogdoches, Lufkin... I'm sure that not much traffic would be using US 59 to get to Dallas, instead of I-30 to Dallas. I can understand Shreveport since it's the next decent sized city along I-49, but it would be like having Baton Rouge and New Orleans instead of Shreveport.

It's a bit confusing, I'll admit, but I think "Dallas" is included because AR 151/TX 151 goes ultimately to I-30 West; and the "TO US 59" is there for traffic bound for Houston (even though they could have also used Nacogoches or Lufkin just as well.

If it was my druthers, I'd plant an AR 151 shield on that BGS and sign it this way:

AR 151 (TO US 59/I-30)Texarkana Loop/Dallas/Houston (for northbound traffic on AR 549/Future I-49)
AR 151 (TO US 59) Texarkana Loop/Houston (for southbound traffic on AR 549)

BTW...when I-49 does get finally approved for Shreveport/Texarkana, they're going to need a pretty big shield to cover up that massive AR 549 shield in that BGS...or, will they just replace the sign??
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on April 02, 2014, 10:03:48 AM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on April 02, 2014, 01:40:29 AM
Quote from: mcdonaat on April 02, 2014, 12:04:37 AM
That just startles me, though, seeing US 59 as Houston and Dallas as control cities. You have Marshall, Carthage, Nacogdoches, Lufkin... I'm sure that not much traffic would be using US 59 to get to Dallas, instead of I-30 to Dallas. I can understand Shreveport since it's the next decent sized city along I-49, but it would be like having Baton Rouge and New Orleans instead of Shreveport.

It's a bit confusing, I'll admit, but I think "Dallas" is included because AR 151/TX 151 goes ultimately to I-30 West; and the "TO US 59" is there for traffic bound for Houston (even though they could have also used Nacogoches or Lufkin just as well.

If it was my druthers, I'd plant an AR 151 shield on that BGS and sign it this way:

AR 151 (TO US 59/I-30)Texarkana Loop/Dallas/Houston (for northbound traffic on AR 549/Future I-49)
AR 151 (TO US 59) Texarkana Loop/Houston (for southbound traffic on AR 549)

BTW...when I-49 does get finally approved for Shreveport/Texarkana, they're going to need a pretty big shield to cover up that massive AR 549 shield in that BGS...or, will they just replace the sign??


I wonder if the shield itself can be replaced (though you may have a ghost image) ?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: apjung on April 03, 2014, 03:52:45 AM
Has 549 been officially signed as I-49? I see it on Wikipedia but don't see it searching thru news.google.com.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interstate_49#Arkansas
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on April 03, 2014, 09:05:09 AM
Quote from: apjung on April 03, 2014, 03:52:45 AM
Has 549 been officially signed as I-49? I see it on Wikipedia but don't see it searching thru news.google.com.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interstate_49#Arkansas

As of March 17th, no.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on April 10, 2014, 05:11:43 PM
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 Northwest Arkansas 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)

Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: rickmastfan67 on April 11, 2014, 04:45:20 PM
You know AHTD, have you ever submitted a request to eliminate the 'Future I-130' designation on AR-549 that you requested back in 2000 and had approved by the AASHTO between I-30 and US-71 since you now have I-49 there (per AASHTO approval)?

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv645%2Frickmastfan67%2FInterstates%2FMISC%2FAR_I-130.png&hash=7477af92ad3963e512030c1a5dbc97cf76f40652)

Don't know if you ever submitted this to the FHWA, but eliminating it w/ the AASHTO and FHWA might be a wise idea as well. ;) :wave:
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on April 16, 2014, 01:27:30 PM
Quote from: AHTD on April 16, 2014, 12:16:08 PM
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: ....
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.
(above quote from I-49 in AR (Bella Vista, Fort Smith) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg292985#msg292985) thread)

AHTD, since the new exit numbers have already been logged, can you tell us the calculated exact mileage for I-49 in Texas?

edit

Quote from: AHTD on April 16, 2014, 02:29:47 PM
Although we don't have a final alignment yet for the section between Ft. Smith and Texarkana, we made our best guess at what those mileposts and exits will be north of I-40. There may have to be adjustments in the future
(above quote from I-49 in AR (Bella Vista, Fort Smith) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg293005#msg293005) thread)

Or, in the alternative, what was your best guess for the I-49 Texas mileage?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on April 17, 2014, 05:14:15 PM
You bet!

Here is the proposed logging of the entire I-49 corridor in Arkansas (and Texas).
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.

Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on April 17, 2014, 07:18:01 PM
Quote from: AHTD on April 17, 2014, 05:14:15 PM
You bet!

Here is the proposed logging of the entire I-49 corridor in Arkansas (and Texas).
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.
 

Most excellent! :)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on April 17, 2014, 08:44:33 PM
The in-state mileage of I-49 is very, very close to the mileage of I-40 from Dora to Memphis (284.69 miles). That will make I-49 the longest interstate in Arkansas when complete. I-40 will still be longer in terms of uninterrupted in-state mileage.

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/Themes/Button_Copy/images/buttons/mutcd_merge.png)Post Merge: April 17, 2014, 09:01:59 PM

If (yuck) I-30 is extended to the Missouri line, the total miles from Texarkana to north of Corning is approximately 315 miles if the route closely follows US 67, which would make I-30 the longest in the state. But this should be I-57 north of I-40.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on April 17, 2014, 10:37:48 PM
Quote from: AHTD on April 17, 2014, 05:14:15 PM

Here is the proposed logging of the entire I-49 corridor in Arkansas (and Texas).
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)


I can almost pick out some of the major roadways. Exit 84, for example, appears to be US 59/70/71 east of DeQueen and Exit 60 seems to line up with AR 108 north of Ashdown.  However, it appears there is (at least for now) no exit planned for Lockesburg?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: txstateends on April 17, 2014, 11:11:56 PM
Quote from: AHTD on April 17, 2014, 05:14:15 PM

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)

So:  Exit 42 = State Line Ave.-US 59/71

The TX exits won't have to renumber because of the proximity to AR, I assume?

If so, then:
Exit 44 & 46 are....  FM 1397 and the Texarkana I-369 connection?  Or are both 2 instances of FM 1397 (since it's 'U' shaped)?

Will AR and TX team up to build the 5+ miles together somehow, or is TX on it's own for it's part (besides the new Red River crossing, which I assume will be collaborative)?

Yeah, I know, it's *very* early in the funding and the construction-timetable game at this point.....
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on April 17, 2014, 11:34:34 PM
Don't know, but here are a few things to consider.


If memory serves, at one time there was some question as to whether or not I-49 would even run through Texas. This would have required all southbound traffic to proceed to Texarkana, Arkansas to access I -30. Since the proposed route crosses into Texas, TxDOT can build its own connector to I -30 on their side of the state line (think commerce and economic development here), but in order to do so would have to provide the contiguous I-49 connection back into Arkansas.


All that to say, the prevailing thought is each state will pay its own way. But anything can happen. One never knows when a $2 Billion+ earmark will surface. ;)



Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: yakra on April 18, 2014, 01:08:51 PM
Apologies if this has been mentioned elsewhere on the forums, but has the Texarkana segment received FHWA approval, as either I-49 proper or Future I-49?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on April 18, 2014, 01:43:33 PM
Quote from: AHTD on April 17, 2014, 11:34:34 PM
Don't know, but here are a few things to consider.


If memory serves, at one time there was some question as to whether or not I-49 would even run through Texas. This would have required all southbound traffic to proceed to Texarkana, Arkansas to access I -30. Since the proposed route crosses into Texas, TxDOT can build its own connector to I -30 on their side of the state line (think commerce and economic development here), but in order to do so would have to provide the contiguous I-49 connection back into Arkansas.


All that to say, the prevailing thought is each state will pay its own way. But anything can happen. One never knows when a $2 Billion+ earmark will surface. ;)

A cryptic quote, AHTD!  Me hopey, to paraphrase an old saying.   ;-)

(And AHTD, let me modify this.  Somewhere on this forum there's a picture taken from a PowerPoint Texas Department of Transportation presentation, used by a Shreveport television station, showing the key corridor (from Canada through the central U.S. to both Mexico and (the nation's largest ports on) the Gulf of Mexico) that will run through Arkansas with a completed I-49.

I've only lived in northwest Arkansas since 2002, but old-timers here tell me how long the not-for-long-named I-540 took to build.  But that was before I-49 dropped all the way from Kansas City to just above the Arkansas border.  And before I-49 was extended north all the way to Texarkana as is about to happen in a matter of a month or two.  And well before Texas became America's second most populous state, and started to build its section of I-69 which will give both Houston and the Lower Rio Grande Valley (as well as the Texas ports in America's "top 10 biggest ports") access to a lot of markets.  And, frankly, before Northwest Arkansas became "home" officially to the world's largest company and, as of this summer, 800,000 people between that region and its neighbor Fort Smith.

My guess (and though I know you see it too you're not privvy to say how much yet, that's for us to find out through you later) is that there are a LOT of people all over the place now (as opposed to way back in "Y2K") who have a GIGANTIC interest in seeing a completed I-49.  I used elsewhere the analogy that I-49 is closing in on our state like the pincer of a huge crab (bad analogy as a crab uses such to break things, and I-49 will BUILD, a lot, of things).  The announcement of the resignage (sic?) this week will make the claw close just a bit more.  And with every mile said "claw" closes, said "LOT of people" (including those who hold some significant pursestrings) will take even more notice.)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on April 18, 2014, 02:29:15 PM
Quote from: yakra on April 18, 2014, 01:08:51 PM
Apologies if this has been mentioned elsewhere on the forums, but has the Texarkana segment received FHWA approval, as either I-49 proper or Future I-49?

AHTD posted upthread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3321.msg291988#msg291988) that AHTD submitted its application to FHWA on March 31, and AHTD represented in its application that it anticipates a June, 2014 opening for the final section:

Quote from: AHTD on April 10, 2014, 05:11:43 PM
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)

My guess is that AHTD will receive approval in time for I-49 signage to be installed on the final section before the June opening; replacing the current AR 549 signs with I-49 signs north of the final section might take a longer time.




Quote from: O Tamandua on April 18, 2014, 01:43:33 PM
Somewhere on this forum there's a picture taken from a PowerPoint Texas Department of Transportation presentation, used by a Shreveport television station, showing the key corridor (from Canada through the central U.S. to both Mexico and (the nation's largest ports on) the Gulf of Mexico) that will run through Arkansas with a completed I-49.

Both the above-referenced map and a similar map can found at this post in another thread:

https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=4510.msg292611#msg292611
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on April 18, 2014, 03:45:37 PM
Thank you, Grzrd!  AHTD, here is the map I referred to:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FDuNOAKU.png&hash=3b96930655c8f4fbbec54edcb724ba9a87f4c770)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on April 18, 2014, 07:46:40 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on April 18, 2014, 01:43:33 PM
A cryptic quote, AHTD!  Me hopey, to paraphrase an old saying.   ;-)

(And AHTD, let me modify this.  Somewhere on this forum there's a picture taken from a PowerPoint Texas Department of Transportation presentation, used by a Shreveport television station, showing the key corridor (from Canada through the central U.S. to both Mexico and (the nation's largest ports on) the Gulf of Mexico) that will run through Arkansas with a completed I-49.

To be fair to AHTD, media coverage in Arkansas generally emanates from Little Rock, which is a long way from the I-49 corridor, and consists of the Little Rock TV stations and the DOG. You shouldn't conflate media coverage with AHTD's PR efforts.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on April 18, 2014, 09:47:18 PM
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/pressroom/dot1436shreveport.cfm . Here is a federal highway promotion for I 49. So I think there will not be a problem naming I 49 from Texarkana to Shreveport.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on April 21, 2014, 01:21:45 PM
Quote from: yakra on April 18, 2014, 01:08:51 PM
Apologies if this has been mentioned elsewhere on the forums, but has the Texarkana segment received FHWA approval, as either I-49 proper or Future I-49?

We do not know the answer to this question.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on April 21, 2014, 01:35:33 PM
Quote from: Road Hog on April 18, 2014, 07:46:40 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on April 18, 2014, 01:43:33 PM
A cryptic quote, AHTD!  Me hopey, to paraphrase an old saying.   ;)

(And AHTD, let me modify this.  Somewhere on this forum there's a picture taken from a PowerPoint Texas Department of Transportation presentation, used by a Shreveport television station, showing the key corridor (from Canada through the central U.S. to both Mexico and (the nation's largest ports on) the Gulf of Mexico) that will run through Arkansas with a completed I-49.

To be fair to AHTD, media coverage in Arkansas generally emanates from Little Rock, which is a long way from the I-49 corridor, and consists of the Little Rock TV stations and the DOG. You shouldn't conflate media coverage with AHTD's PR efforts.

Hate to burst any bubbles, but consider the Highway Trust Fund. That is the priority because it impacts every state. Some (Arkansas) more than others. The best we can do now is build the sections that we can and hope for some additional funding. It's likely you will see bypasses constructed around Greenwood, Waldron or Mena next. But even that's a guess.

Remember: just because construction is beyond grasp at this time, doesn't mean we aren't working on it. There is much environmental being done as we speak. We do what we can as we can and try to be in position when the money is found.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on April 22, 2014, 01:13:53 AM
Quote from: Gordon on April 18, 2014, 09:47:18 PM
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/pressroom/dot1436shreveport.cfm . Here is a federal highway promotion for I 49. So I think there will not be a problem naming I 49 from Texarkana to Shreveport.

Doesn't the I-49 North/I-220 interchange have to be completed as well as the final segment connecting with Arkansas built before they can officially plant I-49 shields? Also...how will the controversy over the I-49 Inner City Connector affect signage? If I-49 has to be rerouted through LA 3132 and I-220 (or, I-20 west and I-220), wouldn't that change the milepost signage greatly??
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on April 22, 2014, 05:57:50 AM
No. I was on the new section open to traffic that terminates at North Market(La 1) in Shreveport and it had I-49 shields up.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: robbones on April 22, 2014, 07:47:52 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on April 22, 2014, 01:13:53 AM
Quote from: Gordon on April 18, 2014, 09:47:18 PM
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/pressroom/dot1436shreveport.cfm . Here is a federal highway promotion for I 49. So I think there will not be a problem naming I 49 from Texarkana to Shreveport.

Doesn't the I-49 North/I-220 interchange have to be completed as well as the final segment connecting with Arkansas built before they can officially plant I-49 shields? Also...how will the controversy over the I-49 Inner City Connector affect signage? If I-49 has to be rerouted through LA 3132 and I-220 (or, I-20 west and I-220), wouldn't that change the milepost signage greatly??

Once the south extension is completed, the entire interstate in LA will have to be renumbered.  For example, the I 10 interchange would be exit 165, 166, or 167 depending on the exact  mileage the extension will be.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: RBBrittain on April 23, 2014, 01:38:04 AM
Quote from: AHTD on April 21, 2014, 01:21:45 PM
Quote from: yakra on April 18, 2014, 01:08:51 PM
Apologies if this has been mentioned elsewhere on the forums, but has the Texarkana segment received FHWA approval, as either I-49 proper or Future I-49?

We do not know the answer to this question.
The Texarkana MPO website has posted this copy of the Highway Commission's minute order, approved last week, authorizing the changeover from AR 549 to I-49 once FHWA approval is received:  http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/announcements/Highway549_Section_1_AHTD.pdf

So now, FHWA is literally the only remaining obstacle to I-49 in Texarkana.  I suspect they'll approve it closer to the opening south of Doddridge, which IMO will be a joint AHTD/LaDOTD ceremony at the border with FHWA participation. (Ironically, I-49 North will get its first connection to other interstates thru Texarkana, not Shreveport. :D )
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: RBBrittain on April 23, 2014, 01:46:29 AM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on April 22, 2014, 01:13:53 AM
Quote from: Gordon on April 18, 2014, 09:47:18 PM
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/pressroom/dot1436shreveport.cfm . Here is a federal highway promotion for I 49. So I think there will not be a problem naming I 49 from Texarkana to Shreveport.

Doesn't the I-49 North/I-220 interchange have to be completed as well as the final segment connecting with Arkansas built before they can officially plant I-49 shields? Also...how will the controversy over the I-49 Inner City Connector affect signage? If I-49 has to be rerouted through LA 3132 and I-220 (or, I-20 west and I-220), wouldn't that change the milepost signage greatly??
IIRC the originally approved I-49 North route thru Shreveport used LA 3132 & I-220, with the existing I-49 north of LA 3132 expected to be renamed I-149.  (This was when everyone assumed the Inner City Connector would never happen.)  But then to this day virtually every milepost on I-40 in Tennessee assumes it was built thru Overton Park in Memphis; TDOT played with the exit numbers in Memphis to cover up the rerouting.  That would be an easy precedent for LaDOTD to follow, whether the Inner City Connector is built or not.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on April 23, 2014, 03:02:50 AM
Quote from: RBBrittain on April 23, 2014, 01:46:29 AM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on April 22, 2014, 01:13:53 AM
Quote from: Gordon on April 18, 2014, 09:47:18 PM
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/pressroom/dot1436shreveport.cfm . Here is a federal highway promotion for I 49. So I think there will not be a problem naming I 49 from Texarkana to Shreveport.

Doesn't the I-49 North/I-220 interchange have to be completed as well as the final segment connecting with Arkansas built before they can officially plant I-49 shields? Also...how will the controversy over the I-49 Inner City Connector affect signage? If I-49 has to be rerouted through LA 3132 and I-220 (or, I-20 west and I-220), wouldn't that change the milepost signage greatly??
IIRC the originally approved I-49 North route thru Shreveport used LA 3132 & I-220, with the existing I-49 north of LA 3132 expected to be renamed I-149.  (This was when everyone assumed the Inner City Connector would never happen.)  But then to this day virtually every milepost on I-40 in Tennessee assumes it was built thru Overton Park in Memphis; TDOT played with the exit numbers in Memphis to cover up the rerouting.  That would be an easy precedent for LaDOTD to follow, whether the Inner City Connector is built or not.

Really?? From everything I have read from LADOTD, the plan was to keep I-49 from I-220 South to I-20, then run I-49 temporarily through I-20 west to I-220. Re-routing to LA 3132 and I-220 was never in the plans. Plus, the ICC enviromental studies just concluded that LA 3132 wasn't up to Interstate standards and needed improvements before it could be resigned as I-49, and that the I-220 bridge across Cross Lake would have to be reconstructed.

The main reason that the original North-South Expressway was truncated at I-20 was local opposition from the community of Allendale, and the lack of funding. (The segment now covered by the ICC was placed in the Federal Aid Primary system for future planning.)

In any case, the I-220 North interchange with I-49 is fully funded and under construction, and will be completed by next year, so that makes this a moot point. More than likely, the ICC will be built and the gap closed without rerouting.

Also..because the segment between I-220 South and I-20 would have connected to two Interstates, an even 3di would have been more likely (like I-249).
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: RBBrittain on April 23, 2014, 03:15:05 AM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on April 23, 2014, 03:02:50 AM
Quote from: RBBrittain on April 23, 2014, 01:46:29 AM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on April 22, 2014, 01:13:53 AM
Quote from: Gordon on April 18, 2014, 09:47:18 PM
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/pressroom/dot1436shreveport.cfm . Here is a federal highway promotion for I 49. So I think there will not be a problem naming I 49 from Texarkana to Shreveport.

Doesn't the I-49 North/I-220 interchange have to be completed as well as the final segment connecting with Arkansas built before they can officially plant I-49 shields? Also...how will the controversy over the I-49 Inner City Connector affect signage? If I-49 has to be rerouted through LA 3132 and I-220 (or, I-20 west and I-220), wouldn't that change the milepost signage greatly??
IIRC the originally approved I-49 North route thru Shreveport used LA 3132 & I-220, with the existing I-49 north of LA 3132 expected to be renamed I-149.  (This was when everyone assumed the Inner City Connector would never happen.)  But then to this day virtually every milepost on I-40 in Tennessee assumes it was built thru Overton Park in Memphis; TDOT played with the exit numbers in Memphis to cover up the rerouting.  That would be an easy precedent for LaDOTD to follow, whether the Inner City Connector is built or not.

Really?? From everything I have read from LADOTD, the plan was to keep I-49 from I-220 South to I-20, then run I-49 temporarily through I-20 west to I-220. Re-routing to LA 3132 and I-220 was never in the plans. Plus, the ICC enviromental studies just concluded that LA 3132 wasn't up to Interstate standards and needed improvements before it could be resigned as I-49, and that the I-220 bridge across Cross Lake would have to be reconstructed.

The main reason that the original North-South Expressway was truncated at I-20 was local opposition from the community of Allendale, and the lack of funding. (The segment now covered by the ICC was placed in the Federal Aid Primary system for future planning.)

In any case, the I-220 North interchange with I-49 is fully funded and under construction, and will be completed by next year, so that makes this a moot point. More than likely, the ICC will be built and the gap closed without rerouting.

Also..because the segment between I-220 South and I-20 would have connected to two Interstates, an even 3di would have been more likely (like I-249).
The way Shreveport is laid out, I-20 as the non-ICC I-49 route would have been incredibly out of the way; upgrading LA 3132 would make more sense, as a lot of thru traffic would use it anyway.  (In fact, the upgrades you're talking about are now an official "build" alternative, not just the "no build" alternative, to the ICC.) And though strictly speaking an even 3di seems to make more sense, that obviously didn't apply to I-369 in Texarkana (presently a spur off I-30, but planned as a thru connection from I-69 at Tenaha, TX north to I-30 & possibly I-49); IIRC the sources I read specifically suggested I-149 for that section.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on April 23, 2014, 03:24:06 AM
Quote from: RBBrittain on April 23, 2014, 03:15:05 AM
The way Shreveport is laid out, I-20 as the non-ICC I-49 route would have been incredibly out of the way; upgrading LA 3132 would make more sense, as a lot of thru traffic would use it anyway.  (In fact, the upgrades you're talking about are now an official "build" alternative, not just the "no build" alternative, to the ICC.) And though strictly speaking an even 3di seems to make more sense, that obviously didn't apply to I-369 in Texarkana (presently a spur off I-30, but planned as a thru connection from I-69 at Tenaha, TX north to I-30 & possibly I-49); IIRC the sources I read specifically suggested I-149 for that section.

Not necessarily, since the only through traffic that would use the LA 3132/I-220 routing is traffic headed to-from points westward (i.e., Longview or Dallas) to-from points southward (Alexandria/Opelousas/Lafayette/Baton Rouge). And even then, that would require a major reconstruction of the I-49/I-220 South interchange to widen the S-W movements (the ramps of the current 4-level stack only handle one lane of traffic each). There is still plenty of traffic that uses I-49 to reach downtown, and the need for direct access from I-49 North that doesn't rely on US 71/LA 1 would justify the ICC on its own right.

Remember also that a loop alternative (along with widening of existing N/S arterials) was also provided as part of the original North-South Expressway studies in 1990, but was rejected for not providing direct freeway access to downtown.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on April 23, 2014, 04:43:53 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on March 24, 2014, 07:56:29 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 25, 2013, 11:23:14 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 05, 2013, 05:13:09 PM
This Oct. 31 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/10/31/i-49-meeting-focuses-on-benefits-40901.php) reports on a Texarkana Chamber of Commerce official mentioning the possibility of an I-49/I-(3)69 interchange in the Texarkana area, as well as the possibility of Texarkana becoming a major distribution hub
This November 25 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/11/25/official-u-s-71-dangerous-i-49-vital-97893.php) reports on comments by I-49 International Coalition President Curt Green that the completion of I-49 through Arkansas is needed for safety reasons and that the combination of I-49 and I-(3)69 will bring a lot of goods through Texarkana

This Arkansas Business article (http://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/97720/texarkana-central-to-upcoming-transportation-growth) discusses I-49 and I-369 in Texarkana and suggests that progress on I-369 may spur some action from Arkansas on the Fort Smith-to-Texarkana section of I-49:

Quote
it's the sizable gap between Texarkana and Fort Smith through the Ouachita Mountains that remains the biggest hurdle to clear before I-49 can become a non-stop fast-track through the nation's middle.
While the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Arkansas Highway & Transportation Department have long-term plans in place to finish the approximately 170-mile section, a new interstate has made a surprise appearance in Texarkana (if anything in the slow-motion world of road-building could be described as a "surprise"  in the first place.) This new development could shift progress on I-49 into a higher gear ....
While I-69 has been sketched, adjusted and inspected since the days when Bill Clinton was president, recent years have seen the state of Texas hitting the acceleration pedal on the project, at least within its own borders. This has brought the highway to Texarkana's door.
The Alliance for I-69 in Texas is well-aware that its namesake interstate is nicknamed "The NAFTA Highway"  for its goal of connecting Canada with Mexico through the North American Free Trade Agreement. However, the Texans see their ports along the Gulf Coast and in Houston rising in importance once another project south of the border is completed. However, this project is even further south than Mexico — the Panama Canal ....
From Houston along its Gulf Coast, highways are being transformed into components of Interstate 69. The state is rallying hard, re-signing and redesignating over a thousand miles of interstate-standard highways in Texas to the I-69 route. These include spurs and connectors with names like I-69E, I-69C, I-69W and I-369.
Interstate 369 is what what will connect Texarkana with this increased number of imports due to appear in the region within the next decade.
Taking over what is now U.S. 59, I-369 will be a 115-mile spur reaching down from Texarkana to the vicinity of where the planned I-69 will cross into Texas southwest of Shreveport. The I-369 signs are already up around Texarkana and even online mapping sites display the designation.

Of course, if AHTD does not have any money ............



Grzrd, I want to "bump" this post. That was a fascinating article in Arkansas Business on TXK, with a fascinating graphic, too: 

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fassets.inarkansas.com%2F47362%2Finterstate-49-interstate-69-texarkana-353.jpg&hash=82ef148ff6a063e4ad6f5d3335a827611c578a18)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on April 23, 2014, 05:03:09 PM
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fassets.inarkansas.com%2F47362%2Finterstate-49-interstate-69-texarkana-353.jpg&hash=82ef148ff6a063e4ad6f5d3335a827611c578a18)

I'm reposting Grzrd's comments from earlier, plus some more from the aforementioned Arkansas Business "Texarkana" article from a few weeks ago (March 24)...it may be reporter's hyperbole, it may be wishful thinking, but MAN, it's juicy with I-49/I-69 stuff:

QuoteTexarkana central to upcoming transportation growth (http://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/97720/texarkana-central-to-upcoming-transportation-growth?page=all)

"Interstate 49 is just one of the big road dreams becoming a reality for Texarkana. With its southern terminus in Lafayette, La., I-49 is a planned north-south route that will end in the Kansas City area. From there, travelers can continue north toward the Canadian border via either I-29 or I-35. Interstate 49 will fill in a longitudinal gap that has been missing from the nation's road map as the only north-south route between Jackson, Miss., and Dallas. Trucks picking up shipments from the Port of New Orleans traveling to the northern plains and beyond will no longer have to go out of their way through Memphis and St. Louis. It will save at least three hours of driving time to get from the Gulf of Mexico to Kansas City, and under normal circumstances, reduce the travel time from New Orleans to less than 12 hours....

...it's the sizable gap between Texarkana and Fort Smith through the Ouachita Mountains that remains the biggest hurdle to clear before I-49 can become a non-stop fast-track through the nation's middle.

While the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Arkansas Highway & Transportation Department have long-term plans in place to finish the approximately 170-mile section, a new interstate has made a surprise appearance in Texarkana (if anything in the slow-motion world of road-building could be described as a "surprise"  in the first place.) This new development could shift progress on I-49 into a higher gear....

While I-69 has been sketched, adjusted and inspected since the days when Bill Clinton was president, recent years have seen the state of Texas hitting the acceleration pedal on the project, at least within its own borders. This has brought the highway to Texarkana's door.

The Alliance for I-69 in Texas is well-aware that its namesake interstate is nicknamed "The NAFTA Highway"  for its goal of connecting Canada with Mexico through the North American Free Trade Agreement. However, the Texans see their ports along the Gulf Coast and in Houston rising in importance once another project south of the border is completed. However, this project is even further south than Mexico — the Panama Canal ....A major expansion of the Panama Canal began in 2007 widening the lanes of the waterway to allow shipping freighters triple the size of what's currently allowed to navigate between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Currently, most large ships from Asia have the choice of either docking somewhere on the western seaboard of the United States and have their cargo trucked across the country or to make the lengthy detour around the tip of South America to access the eastern seaboard. With a larger Panama Canal, those ships will be able to at last take a shortcut and make their way to Houston or New Orleans in a matter of days instead of weeks.

From Houston along its Gulf Coast, highways are being transformed into components of Interstate 69. The state is rallying hard, re-signing and redesignating over a thousand miles of interstate-standard highways in Texas to the I-69 route. These include spurs and connectors with names like I-69E, I-69C, I-69W and I-369.

Interstate 369 is what what will connect Texarkana with this increased number of imports due to appear in the region within the next decade.
Taking over what is now U.S. 59, I-369 will be a 115-mile spur reaching down from Texarkana to the vicinity of where the planned I-69 will cross into Texas southwest of Shreveport. The I-369 signs are already up around Texarkana and even online mapping sites display the designation.

Ten years ago, Texarkana had only one interstate. Today, it has the visible makings of three. (One more than West Memphis, the reigning hot spot in Arkansas for busy interstate junctions.) With $513 million to be saved annually by transportation companies across the seven-state area to be served by I-49 and the fast-approaching status of I-69 from the south, it's a safe bet Texarkana will remain in the middle of it all for decades to come."
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on April 25, 2014, 02:28:15 AM
Yeah I loved this article. I think Texarkana is in for it's most successful boom/era since the 40's when Red River Army Depot and Lone Star Army Ammunition Plants were built.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on April 25, 2014, 06:37:31 AM
Will the Mena bypass run from Polk County road 70 near Irons Fork Lake to the proposed US 71 connector near the bowling alley just north of Old Potter?  I wonder if it will be signed as I-49, US 71, AR 549, or something else?  If it is indeed signed as US 71 it would mean that current US 59/71 through Mena would be US 59 solo, which would be interesting because locals always call the road US 71 and they never refer to it as US 59.  I assume CR 70 will be upgraded and added to the state highway system when I-49 is built because it is in rough shape and not capable of handling highway traffic.  I also wonder how I-49 will interchange with US 59/270 on each side of. Foran Gap.  All questions with unknown answers that only time will reveal.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 14, 2014, 12:49:21 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 10, 2014, 08:37:24 PM
This May 9 article (http://www.ktbs.com/story/25477884/louisiana-welcome-center-planned-for-i-49-north) reports that a twelve-month study has begun to determine the best location for a welcome center along southbound I-49 North in Louisiana, no farther south than just below Ida
Quote from: US71 on May 12, 2014, 08:30:45 PM
I wonder if AHTD will follow suit around Doddridge?
(above quotes from I49 in LA (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3124.msg298255#msg298255) thread)

I recently had an email Q & A with the Tourism Research & Information Services of the Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism in order to see if Arkansas had any plans to build a Welcome Center counterpart to the one under study in Louisiana:

Quote
Q: Louisiana is now conducting a site study for a Welcome Center on southbound I-49 near the AR state line.  Is Arkansas planning on a new Welcome Center on northbound I-49 north of the state line?

A: Arkansas operates a Welcome Center in Texarkana; currently there is not another one planned for this area.

Here is a link to the arkansas.com page for the Texarkana Welcome Center:
http://www.arkansas.com/welcome-centers/texarkana.aspx

I suppose they do not see the need to build a new Welcome Center approximately thirty miles away from the Texarkana Welcome Center.  It looks like it is now up to the Fouke Monster (http://www.foukemonster.net/sightings.htm) to increase his appearances in order to gin up some tourism between the Louisiana state line and Texarkana.  :spin:
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: jbnv on May 14, 2014, 04:19:33 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 14, 2014, 12:49:21 PM
Quote
Q: Louisiana is now conducting a site study for a Welcome Center on southbound I-49 near the AR state line.  Is Arkansas planning on a new Welcome Center on northbound I-49 north of the state line?
A: Arkansas operates a Welcome Center in Texarkana; currently there is not another one planned for this area.

Why yes, Arkansas, I will be more than happy to proceed all the way to I-30, go west to the first Texas exit, turn around and go back and go out of my way to your welcome center. Or I may just pull off to the side of the road shortly past the border and relieve myself there.

EDIT: I don't know where the Texarkana rest area is. Looks like it is actually east of Texarkana. As US 71 said, there's also the one on US 71 north of Texarkana, if they keep it open. Point is that I'll probably find some way to take care of my needs before I get to either rest stop.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 14, 2014, 09:55:13 PM
Quote from: jbnv on May 14, 2014, 04:19:33 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 14, 2014, 12:49:21 PM
Quote
Q: Louisiana is now conducting a site study for a Welcome Center on southbound I-49 near the AR state line.  Is Arkansas planning on a new Welcome Center on northbound I-49 north of the state line?
A: Arkansas operates a Welcome Center in Texarkana; currently there is not another one planned for this area.

Why yes, Arkansas, I will be more than happy to proceed all the way to I-30, go west to the first Texas exit, turn around and go back to your welcome center. Or I may just pull off to the side of the road shortly past the border and relieve myself there.

There is also the "Red River" Rest Area on US 71 just south of the Red River, but AHTD has been threatening for years to close it, according to the people who work there.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on May 22, 2014, 11:41:08 AM
Any updates as to when the final south Miller county I-49 section will be finished?  :wave:  Gotta be getting close, I should think...especially since we've left the cold weather behind for now.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on May 22, 2014, 12:33:09 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on May 22, 2014, 11:41:08 AM
Any updates as to when the final south Miller county I-49 section will be finished?  :wave:  Gotta be getting close, I should think...especially since we've left the cold weather behind for now.

Last report I heard was end of August/beginning of September.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: FLRoads on May 25, 2014, 09:13:53 AM
I was in Texarkana last week and noticed that there is no signage to designate the small portion of freeway between State Line Avenue and Arkansas 549. I had thought this was Arkansas 151 (from what I've seen on maps and some plans for the Texarkana loop on here) and would have seen at least one shield in each direction, but did not. So is that piece of freeway just an implied extension of Texas 151 or does it even have a designation (even hidden)?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 25, 2014, 11:07:25 AM
Quote from: flaroads on May 25, 2014, 09:13:53 AM
I was in Texarkana last week and noticed that there is no signage to designate the small portion of freeway between State Line Avenue and Arkansas 549. I had thought this was Arkansas 151 (from what I've seen on maps and some plans for the Texarkana loop on here) and would have seen at least one shield in each direction, but did not. So is that piece of freeway just an implied extension of Texas 151 or does it even have a designation (even hidden)?

Courtesy of US71 from upthread:

Quote from: US71 on February 05, 2014, 07:21:37 PM
There are no "END" signs for AR 151 and it's only posted Eastbound ("Northbound"), except at US 71
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7385%2F8884456811_576b286795_z_d.jpg&hash=e5d005dbabedae8ff00b6b3813c7903cf78241aa)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on May 30, 2014, 03:29:25 PM
Quote from: US71 on May 22, 2014, 12:33:09 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on May 22, 2014, 11:41:08 AM
Any updates as to when the final south Miller county I-49 section will be finished?  :wave:  Gotta be getting close, I should think...especially since we've left the cold weather behind for now.
Last report I heard was end of August/beginning of September.

This May 25 Texarkana Gazette article (behind pay wall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/05/25/arkansas-section-of-i-49-slated-for-comp-296160.php) includes a photograph (not behind pay wall) and reports that completion is still slated for summer, with no further specifics:

Quote
Curt Green, president of I-49 International Coalition ....
The expansion of I-49 in north Caddo Parish, La., was celebrated Nov. 26, 2013, as state leaders and area representatives from coalitions gathered to recognize a completion of the roadway.
Green said it was thrilling to take a drive on the roadway after the ceremony.
The opening was of 30 miles from the Arkansas state line to north of Shreveport. The ceremony was held at Christian Faith Worship Center on North Market Street in Shreveport.
"Every mile is important, and we have one less mile now to try to get funded,"  Green said. "It was something last time I was driving on the two-lane road with rain and everything else to think about that in a few months I would be driving on an interstate between Shreveport and Texarkana."  
By summer 2014, I-49 will be complete in Arkansas ....
When I-49 is completed from Shreveport to Texarkana, more than $1 billion will have been spent on this leg of the project about $600 million in Caddo Parish and an estimated $400 million in Miller County
...




The May 25 Texarkana Gazette has another article (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/05/25/texarkana-will-be-northern-bookend-of-in-823715.php) about I-369 and the greater I-69 "system":

Quote
Former Bowie County Judge James Carlow .... is also the third vice chairman for the Alliance for I-69 Texas Board Members and serves on the Northeast Texas portion of the group ....
A big breakthrough for the project came last year when approval was granted to sign the section in Texarkana of Interstate 369.
"This was a big deal, which assures I-369 will come to I-30 in Texarkana,"  Carlow said. "Texarkana is the northern bookend."

Carlow said what has kept him so passionate about a project that has kept his interest and involvement for longer than those who are graduating this May have lived is not a hard question to answer.
"I believe this project will help the Bowie and Miller counties prosper in the future, just as I-30 already has. With I-49, I-30 and I-69 all connecting here, we can greatly enhance our jobs and commerce and sustain our growth,"  he said ....
Curt Green, a real estate developer whose work for Interstate 49 has mirrored the work Carlow has done on I-69. Throughout the years, the two have built a strong working relationship and helped each other to accomplish their goals for roadways they knew would be beneficial for the region.
"Curt and I believe that this area needs both I-49 and I-69 to create the synergies we need to make Texarkana a vibrant community for the next generation,"  Carlow said, adding, "TxDOT and the I-69 Alliance has been our biggest ally."
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on May 30, 2014, 04:33:53 PM
Thank you, Grzrd!

I've got a lowly, only anecdotal story from yesterday to add to Mr. Green's comments:

I went out west of Bella Vista to see how the bridge on Rocky Dell Hollow Road (atop the second section of the BV bypass, set to open in the fall) was coming.  A few hundred feet off the road I noticed a ArkDOT or subcontractor fuel trailer leaking profusely.  Had no idea how to stop it and it's not my property so I called 911...Gravette police, Gravette fire, city of Bella Vista and Ark DOT subcontractors all responded.

I could hear the poor fire engine siren winding and weaving its way through the curved roads they now have to traverse, and it took them several minutes to get there.  GPD and the subcontractors, however, just peeled down the dirt carriageway of future I-49.  They were all saying what a blessing it will be for emergency vehicles getting to west Bella Vista when this is finished.  Just a reminder that things WILL change, maybe big time, when we have a fully linked I-49 in the NWA metro.

Now imagine such convenience for multiple cities from Winnie and Duluth to the ports of Houston and south Louisiana and onto Brownsville/McAllen/Laredo, then remember that when the Panama Canal is finished ship traffic that for the longest time has been docking in Los Angeles will be heading in ever greater numbers to the aforementioned ports.

It's very sobering, and I can see why a guy like this has been devoted to this project (whether or not he personally lives to see benefits) for his community longer than today's graduating seniors at Texas, Liberty-Eylau, Arkansas and Pleasant Grove high schools have been alive.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on June 12, 2014, 08:46:02 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 14, 2014, 12:49:21 PM
I recently had an email Q & A with the Tourism Research & Information Services of the Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism in order to see if Arkansas had any plans to build a Welcome Center counterpart to the one under study in Louisiana:
Quote
Q: Louisiana is now conducting a site study for a Welcome Center on southbound I-49 near the AR state line.  Is Arkansas planning on a new Welcome Center on northbound I-49 north of the state line?
A: Arkansas operates a Welcome Center in Texarkana; currently there is not another one planned for this area.
....It looks like it is now up to the Fouke Monster (http://www.foukemonster.net/sightings.htm) to increase his appearances in order to gin up some tourism between the Louisiana state line and Texarkana.  :spin:

This TV video (http://www.ktbs.com/story/25754179/fouke-leaders-discuss-i-49-plans) reports that Fouke leaders do not want to rely on the Monster and are working to get a Welcome Center in Fouke:

Quote
Interstate 49 promises economic growth across the country, as well as, in some of our own communities.
The City of Fouke is hoping to take advantage of that potential growth ....
Pat Allen of Fouke is the president of the "Citizens for a Better Community" group.
"I believe I-49 will quadruple the size of Fouke within five to ten years," said Allen ....
Community leaders say they're working to get a visitor welcome center in Fouke, but no final decision has been made.




Quote from: US71 on May 22, 2014, 12:33:09 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on May 22, 2014, 11:41:08 AM
Any updates as to when the final south Miller county I-49 section will be finished?  :wave:  Gotta be getting close, I should think...especially since we've left the cold weather behind for now.
Last report I heard was end of August/beginning of September.

The TV video also confirms US71's intel:

Quote
The section of I-49 south of Doddridge is expected to open in late August or early September.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on June 13, 2014, 05:08:05 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on June 12, 2014, 08:46:02 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 14, 2014, 12:49:21 PM
I recently had an email Q & A with the Tourism Research & Information Services of the Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism in order to see if Arkansas had any plans to build a Welcome Center counterpart to the one under study in Louisiana:
Quote
Q: Louisiana is now conducting a site study for a Welcome Center on southbound I-49 near the AR state line.  Is Arkansas planning on a new Welcome Center on northbound I-49 north of the state line?
A: Arkansas operates a Welcome Center in Texarkana; currently there is not another one planned for this area.
....It looks like it is now up to the Fouke Monster (http://www.foukemonster.net/sightings.htm) to increase his appearances in order to gin up some tourism between the Louisiana state line and Texarkana.  :spin:

This TV video (http://www.ktbs.com/story/25754179/fouke-leaders-discuss-i-49-plans) reports that Fouke leaders do not want to rely on the Monster and are working to get a Welcome Center in Fouke:

Quote
Interstate 49 promises economic growth across the country, as well as, in some of our own communities.
The City of Fouke is hoping to take advantage of that potential growth ....
Pat Allen of Fouke is the president of the "Citizens for a Better Community" group.
"I believe I-49 will quadruple the size of Fouke within five to ten years," said Allen ....
Community leaders say they're working to get a visitor welcome center in Fouke, but no final decision has been made.




Quote from: US71 on May 22, 2014, 12:33:09 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on May 22, 2014, 11:41:08 AM
Any updates as to when the final south Miller county I-49 section will be finished?  :wave:  Gotta be getting close, I should think...especially since we've left the cold weather behind for now.
Last report I heard was end of August/beginning of September.

The TV video also confirms US71's intel:

Quote
The section of I-49 south of Doddridge is expected to open in late August or early September.
Cool!
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on June 15, 2014, 01:15:41 AM
Quote from: O Tamandua on May 30, 2014, 04:33:53 PM
Thank you, Grzrd!

I've got a lowly, only anecdotal story from yesterday to add to Mr. Green's comments:

I went out west of Bella Vista to see how the bridge on Rocky Dell Hollow Road (atop the second section of the BV bypass, set to open in the fall) was coming.  A few hundred feet off the road I noticed a ArkDOT or subcontractor fuel trailer leaking profusely.  Had no idea how to stop it and it's not my property so I called 911...Gravette police, Gravette fire, city of Bella Vista and Ark DOT subcontractors all responded.

I could hear the poor fire engine siren winding and weaving its way through the curved roads they now have to traverse, and it took them several minutes to get there.  GPD and the subcontractors, however, just peeled down the dirt carriageway of future I-49.  They were all saying what a blessing it will be for emergency vehicles getting to west Bella Vista when this is finished.  Just a reminder that things WILL change, maybe big time, when we have a fully linked I-49 in the NWA metro.

Now imagine such convenience for multiple cities from Winnie and Duluth to the ports of Houston and south Louisiana and onto Brownsville/McAllen/Laredo, then remember that when the Panama Canal is finished ship traffic that for the longest time has been docking in Los Angeles will be heading in ever greater numbers to the aforementioned ports.

It's very sobering, and I can see why a guy like this has been devoted to this project (whether or not he personally lives to see benefits) for his community longer than today's graduating seniors at Texas, Liberty-Eylau, Arkansas and Pleasant Grove high schools have been alive.

This may be splitting hairs, but noteworthy that we are not a DOT. We do not regulate ports, airfields or railroads. Our responsibility is only the highways. There has, however, been talk again of making us a DOT. Hopefully the name WOULD be ArkDOT and not ARDOT.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on June 15, 2014, 11:48:15 AM
How many cars a day traverse the Benton County portion of AR 549?  I'm guessing very few.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: jbnv on June 16, 2014, 03:04:38 PM
Quote from: AHTD on June 15, 2014, 01:15:41 AM
This may be splitting hairs, but noteworthy that we are not a DOT. We do not regulate ports, airfields or railroads. Our responsibility is only the highways.

From a limited-government perspective, that actually is quite logical.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on June 16, 2014, 05:45:40 PM
Quote from: AHTD on June 15, 2014, 01:15:41 AM
Quote from: O Tamandua on May 30, 2014, 04:33:53 PM
Thank you, Grzrd!

I've got a lowly, only anecdotal story from yesterday to add to Mr. Green's comments:

I went out west of Bella Vista to see how the bridge on Rocky Dell Hollow Road (atop the second section of the BV bypass, set to open in the fall) was coming.  A few hundred feet off the road I noticed a ArkDOT or subcontractor fuel trailer leaking profusely.  Had no idea how to stop it and it's not my property so I called 911...Gravette police, Gravette fire, city of Bella Vista and Ark DOT subcontractors all responded.

I could hear the poor fire engine siren winding and weaving its way through the curved roads they now have to traverse, and it took them several minutes to get there.  GPD and the subcontractors, however, just peeled down the dirt carriageway of future I-49.  They were all saying what a blessing it will be for emergency vehicles getting to west Bella Vista when this is finished.  Just a reminder that things WILL change, maybe big time, when we have a fully linked I-49 in the NWA metro.

Now imagine such convenience for multiple cities from Winnie and Duluth to the ports of Houston and south Louisiana and onto Brownsville/McAllen/Laredo, then remember that when the Panama Canal is finished ship traffic that for the longest time has been docking in Los Angeles will be heading in ever greater numbers to the aforementioned ports.

It's very sobering, and I can see why a guy like this has been devoted to this project (whether or not he personally lives to see benefits) for his community longer than today's graduating seniors at Texas, Liberty-Eylau, Arkansas and Pleasant Grove high schools have been alive.

This may be splitting hairs, but noteworthy that we are not a DOT. We do not regulate ports, airfields or railroads. Our responsibility is only the highways. There has, however, been talk again of making us a DOT. Hopefully the name WOULD be ArkDOT and not ARDOT.

That would require a constitutional amendment, I'm sure. Do any other state agencies regulate those other things?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bjrush on June 16, 2014, 06:41:29 PM
Arkansas Department of Aeronautics is AHTDs aviation counterpart

They have four people in their LR headquarters
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on June 25, 2014, 03:02:21 PM
We have the approval for re-designating State Highway 549 in Southwest Arkansas as I-49.

http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf)

The current estimate for completion of the segment between Doddridge and the Louisiana state line is this fall.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on June 25, 2014, 03:11:16 PM
Quote from: AHTD on June 25, 2014, 03:02:21 PM
We have the approval for re-designating State Highway 549 in Southwest Arkansas as I-49.

http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf)

The current estimate for completion of the segment between Doddridge and the Louisiana state line is this fall.

It was announced at today's dedication in Alma that it will be a joint dedication (LADOTD/AHTD) at the state line sometime within the next 90 days.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on June 25, 2014, 03:16:58 PM
Quote from: AHTD on June 25, 2014, 03:02:21 PM
We have the approval for re-designating State Highway 549 in Southwest Arkansas as I-49.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf)

AHTD, since designation of the completed segment is effective immediately, does the Department anticipate installing shields on the completed section before the Doddridge-to-state line section opens?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 02, 2014, 12:49:10 PM
Quote from: dariusb on April 20, 2012, 12:41:18 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 19, 2012, 12:06:30 PM
I recently took a look at Texarkana's 25 year transportation plan (adopted September, 2009), which provides a plan through 2035.  Page 15/44 of the Proposed Transportation Projects pdf (http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/Tuts/Chapter-10.pdf) sets forth TxDOT's Unconstrained Project List, which are projects that have been identified but are not within the twenty-five year scope of the plan (they are given a "Year of Expenditure" of 2036). Both I-49 and the Northern Loop are in TxDOT's "YOE 2036" category ...
I don't know why the Texas portion of I-49 and the Northern Loop are projected to be built so far into the future especially considering the area the road will be going through, just north of Northwest Texarkana/Redlick, is the fastest developing part of the city. Hopefully it's built well before 2036 otherwise it will be a big mess.

This June 24 TV video (http://www.ktbs.com/story/25859385/txdot-hosts-public-meeting-to-discuss-future-transportation-needs) reports that a public meeting was recently held in Atlanta, TX regarding the new, upcoming twenty-five year plan:

Quote
Transportation officials met with residents in Northeast Texas Tuesday night to discuss future transportation needs.
The public meeting was held at the TXDOT District Headquarters in Atlanta.
Officials outlined transportation goals in the state and region for the next 25 years ....
Texas Department of Transportation spokesperson Marcus Sandifer says there are more than 1,000 people entering the state each day and that's why there's a great demand for transportation needs.
"We have two interstate highways that are coming through this area, I-49 and I-369*," explained Sandifer.

He says they're reaching out to the public for feedback on the future of all transportation modes including, transit, pedestrian, bicycle and freight.
TXDOT officials are holding meetings in all 25 districts.
Sandifer says another big issue they plan to address is the state's aging infrastructure and the challenges with funding.
"We have very limited funds that we have to deal with, so we need everyone's ideals on what can be done and the most efficient and safest ways to use the funds," said Sandifer.

It will be interesting to see if I-49 and the Northern Loop will be beyond the scope of this twenty-five year plan, too.  The Texarkana MPO's website (http://www.texarkanampo.org/calendar-of-events.html) indicates that the public comment period for its Metropolitan Transportation Plan is scheduled to begin on August 18 (the MPO has also scheduled an Open House public meeting regarding the plan on August 18).



Quote from: Grzrd on June 01, 2013, 10:19:27 PM
This excerpt from the map on page 19 (page 25/30 of pdf) of the I-69 Advisory Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/i69/advisory_committee_report.pdf) demonstrates that both the I-369 designation for US 59 and development of the West Loop relief route are Priorities for the Segment One Committee:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FYq4SDHU.jpg&hash=5218cccdab014517b4d9336ce2e592fafff33592)

Given that, during the past five year period, the Segment One Committee identified the West Loop as a priority, it will be interesting to see if the West Loop appears in the twenty-five year plan, and, if so, how far into the future.

edit

* Speaking of I-49 and I-369, I wonder if the below left-hand BGS from the TV video will need to be modified to include I-49 once AHTD installs the I-49 shields from the Texas state line to the Louisiana state line?:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FxL6fPfs.png&hash=6e5212fea6769d2fa32e142f8fa2373513ab6536)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on July 10, 2014, 02:49:47 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on June 25, 2014, 03:16:58 PM
Quote from: AHTD on June 25, 2014, 03:02:21 PM
We have the approval for re-designating State Highway 549 in Southwest Arkansas as I-49.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf)

AHTD, since designation of the completed segment is effective immediately, does the Department anticipate installing shields on the completed section before the Doddridge-to-state line section opens?

No, we will wait until the last section is complete and the highway is open to traffic. At least that's the decision as of today.

Could change.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 10, 2014, 03:01:21 PM
Quote from: AHTD on July 10, 2014, 02:49:47 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on June 25, 2014, 03:16:58 PM
Quote from: AHTD on June 25, 2014, 03:02:21 PM
We have the approval for re-designating State Highway 549 in Southwest Arkansas as I-49.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf)

AHTD, since designation of the completed segment is effective immediately, does the Department anticipate installing shields on the completed section before the Doddridge-to-state line section opens?

No, we will wait until the last section is complete and the highway is open to traffic. At least that's the decision as of today.

Could change.
That may confuse people looking for I-49 and finding AR 549. Maybe some "Future" signage at strategic points?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on July 11, 2014, 06:45:56 AM
Quote from: US71 on July 10, 2014, 03:01:21 PM
Quote from: AHTD on July 10, 2014, 02:49:47 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on June 25, 2014, 03:16:58 PM
Quote from: AHTD on June 25, 2014, 03:02:21 PM
We have the approval for re-designating State Highway 549 in Southwest Arkansas as I-49.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf)

AHTD, since designation of the completed segment is effective immediately, does the Department anticipate installing shields on the completed section before the Doddridge-to-state line section opens?

No, we will wait until the last section is complete and the highway is open to traffic. At least that's the decision as of today.

Could change.
That may confuse people looking for I-49 and finding AR 549. Maybe some "Future" signage at strategic points?

Ha!  Like that prevented them from leaving the I-540 shields up for at least long enough for everybody to get used to the new number.  AHTD: trying to confuse drivers since 1913.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 11, 2014, 01:58:37 PM
Quote from: US71 on July 08, 2014, 03:58:28 PM
Quote from: bugo on July 05, 2014, 07:38:41 AM
I ordered my copy, but will it be online before it comes in the mail?
Doesn't appear to be on-line yet, but I received my maps today.
- I-49 replaces I-540 north of Alma. Also along AR 549 south of Texarkana (which is also shown as complete into Louisiana.
(above quote from When will the PDF of the 2014 Arkansas highway map be online?(AHTD) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=12839.msg310967#msg310967) thread)

Since the 2014-15 Arkansas Highway Tourist Map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/Trans_Plan_Policy/mapping_graphics/tourist.aspx) is now online, it is worth noting that, in addition to I-49's first appearance on the map, I-369 makes its initial appearance:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F0MiDTnq.png&hash=a519da3a36a28831252b44046e9d684ab304f03b)         (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FRdRDWPd.png&hash=d5c1461955752c045fa989fd417350835f10a40d)




Quote from: US71 on July 10, 2014, 03:01:21 PM
Quote from: AHTD on July 10, 2014, 02:49:47 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on June 25, 2014, 03:16:58 PM
Quote from: AHTD on June 25, 2014, 03:02:21 PM
We have the approval for re-designating State Highway 549 in Southwest Arkansas as I-49.
http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf (http://www.arkansashighways.com/forums/I-49-approval-south.pdf)
AHTD, since designation of the completed segment is effective immediately, does the Department anticipate installing shields on the completed section before the Doddridge-to-state line section opens?
No, we will wait until the last section is complete and the highway is open to traffic. At least that's the decision as of today.
Could change.
That may confuse people looking for I-49 and finding AR 549.

Why wait? May as well install the new signage in order to match the new map.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: RBBrittain on July 12, 2014, 12:41:04 AM
Quote from: AHTD on June 15, 2014, 01:15:41 AM
This may be splitting hairs, but noteworthy that we are not a DOT. We do not regulate ports, airfields or railroads. Our responsibility is only the highways.
I knew about ports & airfields, but I thought AHTD did regulate the railroads -- at least what little state regulation survived the Staggers Rail Act.  Wasn't that part of the old Transportation Commission, whose powers went to AHC & AHTD after Nick Wilson got it shut down?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 12, 2014, 08:02:30 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 01, 2014, 10:30:34 PM
Quote from: US71 on February 05, 2014, 07:21:37 PM
SB 549 at 151
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7295%2F8935812923_7be160998f_z_d.jpg&hash=29f7b8de2c53a79c847d522aaa4a4c53852cea25)
NB 549 at 151
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm6.staticflickr.com%2F5458%2F8935807697_42728a7dc1_z_d.jpg&hash=17ab7bb77ea125c027dc3c3b9b57f63ed5c642c8)
As an aside, it's strange that the "thru" highway (549) exits.  I wonder if AHTD will ever change this?
AHTD, with the upcoming redesignation of AR 549 to I-49, I-49 will need to replace AR 549 on the above two signs.  To follow up on US71's question, does AHTD intend to make I-49 the "through" route when these signs are replaced?

AHTD, this snip of the Texarkana inset on the back (city) side of the 2014-15 Arkansas Highway Tourist Map (http://www.arkansashighways.com/Trans_Plan_Policy/mapping_graphics/State%20Highway%20Map%20-%20City%20Side%202014-2015.PDF) does not reflect I-49 as the "through" route:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFbWcjZI.png&hash=3ff6f48c7ce6867905dd6f9813aefcc26deda8bd)

Is this simply a map oversight/carryover from the AR 549 designation, or does the Department intend to make I-49 the "through" route?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: amroad17 on July 12, 2014, 08:31:34 PM
Wasn't the freeway leading to/from Texas finished before the AR 549/Future I-49 section was completed?  This could be the reason Future I-49 is not the "through route" besides the interchange being a directional-T.  As long as there are two lanes through each leg of the ramps, it should not matter which is the "through route."
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 12, 2014, 09:24:55 PM
Quote from: amroad17 on July 12, 2014, 08:31:34 PM
Wasn't the freeway leading to/from Texas finished before the AR 549/Future I-49 section was completed?  This could be the reason Future I-49 is not the "through route" besides the interchange being a directional-T.  As long as there are two lanes through each leg of the ramps, it should not matter which is the "through route."
Yes.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Wayward Memphian on July 12, 2014, 11:20:49 PM
Going to Galveston from Fayetteville next week and sure wish I 49 and I-49 was done. Just looking at the proposed routes, it would shave well over an hr. off that trip time. 
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 18, 2014, 10:16:57 AM
The Texarkana MPO has posted the Arkansas Highway Commission Minute Order (http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/announcements/Highway549_Section_1_AHTD.pdf) designating I-49 in SW Arkansas, which includes a map on the second page:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FR9ixXsB.png&hash=b9936c245d7b9376faafeb19fd0284a3fdc5c43b)

In addition to the map being historically interesting in general, I think the 4.24 mile blue line represents the first segment of I-49 in Arkansas to have I-49 as its original designation.  A small indication of progress..............
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bassoon1986 on July 18, 2014, 10:27:59 AM
What are the numbered circles next to each Arkansas highway?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 18, 2014, 10:48:34 AM
Quote from: bassoon1986 on July 18, 2014, 10:27:59 AM
What are the numbered circles next to each Arkansas highway?

Section numbers, I believe.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on July 18, 2014, 06:49:14 PM
Yes, they are section numbers.  If the section number has a letter, it is a "bannered" route.  xS would be x Spur, yT would by y Truck, zB would be Business z.  There are some business routes that have a C, which technically makes the road x City, even though all of them that I know of are signed as xB business routes.  There are also a few xA routes that are also signed as business routes.  I assume the A stands for "alternate."
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on July 18, 2014, 06:52:27 PM
That poor stretch between AR 151 and just south of I-30 has had four numbers: AR 245, Future I-130, AR 549, and I-49.  This minute order didn't decommission I-130 so there is an implied duplex of I-49 and I-130 from I-30 south to US 71.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 18, 2014, 07:56:01 PM
Quote from: bugo on July 18, 2014, 06:52:27 PM
That poor stretch between AR 151 and just south of I-30 has had four numbers: AR 245, Future I-130, AR 549, and I-49.  This minute order didn't decommission I-130 so there is an implied duplex of I-49 and I-130 from I-30 south to US 71.
Since I-49 has been approved, I think I-130 is a moot point, especially since it was never posted even as "Future I-130"
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: jbnv on July 19, 2014, 08:22:23 PM
Quote from: bugo on July 18, 2014, 06:49:14 PM
Yes, they are section numbers.  If the section number has a letter, it is a "bannered" route.  xS would be x Spur, yT would by y Truck, zB would be Business z.  There are some business routes that have a C, which technically makes the road x City, even though all of them that I know of are signed as xB business routes.  There are also a few xA routes that are also signed as business routes.  I assume the A stands for "alternate."
What's the difference between a Business route and a City route? (Apparently none since they aren't signed differently.)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on July 19, 2014, 09:40:00 PM
Quote from: jbnv on July 19, 2014, 08:22:23 PM
Quote from: bugo on July 18, 2014, 06:49:14 PM
Yes, they are section numbers.  If the section number has a letter, it is a "bannered" route.  xS would be x Spur, yT would by y Truck, zB would be Business z.  There are some business routes that have a C, which technically makes the road x City, even though all of them that I know of are signed as xB business routes.  There are also a few xA routes that are also signed as business routes.  I assume the A stands for "alternate."
What's the difference between a Business route and a City route? (Apparently none since they aren't signed differently.)

They're pretty much the same.  Arkansas used to have a lot of C routes but they were converted to B routes.  I don't know of any signed C routes.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 20, 2014, 11:24:56 AM
Quote from: bugo on July 19, 2014, 09:40:00 PM
Quote from: jbnv on July 19, 2014, 08:22:23 PM
Quote from: bugo on July 18, 2014, 06:49:14 PM
Yes, they are section numbers.  If the section number has a letter, it is a "bannered" route.  xS would be x Spur, yT would by y Truck, zB would be Business z.  There are some business routes that have a C, which technically makes the road x City, even though all of them that I know of are signed as xB business routes.  There are also a few xA routes that are also signed as business routes.  I assume the A stands for "alternate."
What's the difference between a Business route and a City route? (Apparently none since they aren't signed differently.)

They're pretty much the same.  Arkansas used to have a lot of C routes but they were converted to B routes.  I don't know of any signed C routes.
The last CITY route I knew was actually old Business 71 in Bentonville (SW A St, West Central aka US 71 Mk II). It was mostly signed as 71B, but there was one cutout marker with a banner for CITY 71. I really wish I'd thought of getting a photo :(
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on July 21, 2014, 07:22:13 AM
Quote from: US71 on July 20, 2014, 11:24:56 AM
Quote from: bugo on July 19, 2014, 09:40:00 PM
They're pretty much the same.  Arkansas used to have a lot of C routes but they were converted to B routes.  I don't know of any signed C routes.
The last CITY route I knew was actually old Business 71 in Bentonville (SW A St, West Central aka US 71 Mk II). It was mostly signed as 71B, but there was one cutout marker with a banner for CITY 71. I really wish I'd thought of getting a photo :(

Or the sign itself.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 21, 2014, 10:56:38 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 06, 2012, 06:18:58 PM
The I-69 Segment One Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/seg1_final.pdf) contains an interesting map which ... shows the Northern Loop connection to I-49 as a "Committee Suggested I-69 Connecting Route" ...(page 21/155 of pdf; page 15 of document):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVWdNt.png&hash=921f62b57bd046ee3b52463703852412e2f2bc60)
Quote from: Grzrd on June 01, 2013, 10:19:27 PM
This excerpt from the map on page 19 (page 25/30 of pdf) of the I-69 Advisory Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/i69/advisory_committee_report.pdf) demonstrates that both the I-369 designation for US 59 and development of the West Loop relief route are Priorities for the Segment One Committee:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FYq4SDHU.jpg&hash=5218cccdab014517b4d9336ce2e592fafff33592)

The Texarkana MPO has posted its Draft Texarkana Urban Transportation Study ("TUTS") 2015-2040 Metropolitan Transportation Plan ("MTP") (http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/program-documents/MPT%20Draft%207_14_2014.pdf).  The importance of I-49 is directly addressed as follows (page 94/101 of pdf; page 87 of document):

Quote
Interstate 49 is an Interstate Highway that is incomplete and consists of four segments.
The original portion is located within the state of Louisiana, with its southern terminus at I-10 in Lafayette, LA, and its  northern end terminating at I-435 and I-470 in Kansas City. The link between Lafayette LA, and Texarkana is almost completed, and there is a loop around the northeast part of Texarkana, Arkansas ending at State Line Avenue (US 71).
Continuation of I-49 through Fort Smith northward is necessary to actually make good use of the southern portions of I-49.  At this time I-49 south from Kansas City connects to I-549 and ends at Fort Smith, south of I-40.
At the end of I-49 at Texarkana, US 71 connects and goes north. US 71 is not a high-speed high traffic route and the 180 miles takes over 3 ½ hours through the Ouachita Mountains.
Freight and passenger travel from the north as well as the south would benefit greatly from a continuation of I-49.

By implication, the Draft MTP recognizes the future importance of the short section of I-49 through Texas.




After a quick scan of the document, I could not find a direct reference to either the West Loop or the Northern Loop.  However, the Draft MTP appears to defer to the I-69 Advisory Committee regarding I-69 Corridor issues (page 30/101 of pdf; page 23 of document):

Quote
The I-69 Corridor: This program being studied in Texas extends from Texarkana, Texas, and Stonewall, Louisiana, to Laredo and the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas. With Houston near the midpoint, Interstate 69 will improve regional mobility and provide new freight movement capacity accessing seaports at Houston, Freeport, Victoria, Point Comfort, Corpus Christi and Brownsville. It will extend the reach of Texas ports into new national and international markets.
Interstate 69 in Texas is being developed as a series of upgrades to existing highways in the corridor. Over time, these projects will bring the entire route to interstate highway standards.
The Texas Transportation Commission appointed the I-69 Corridor Advisory Committee to evaluate the current and long-term needs for I-69 corridor. The committee published a report in December 2008 that provided similar recommendations as the I-35 analysis.

As a result, it appears that the upper map quoted above reflects the future far-range importance of the Northern Loop and that the lower map quoted above shows the more immediate importance of the West Loop.  In regard to the West Loop, the Draft MTP does emphasize the importance of developing the TexAmericas Center (page 90/101 of pdf; page 83 of document), although it mentions neither the I-69 Corridor/ I-369 nor the West Loop.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on July 21, 2014, 11:36:15 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 06, 2012, 06:18:58 PM
The I-69 Segment One Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/seg1_final.pdf) contains an interesting map which ... shows the Northern Loop connection to I-49 as a "Committee Suggested I-69 Connecting Route" ...(page 21/155 of pdf; page 15 of document):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVWdNt.png&hash=921f62b57bd046ee3b52463703852412e2f2bc60)


I see that the map assumes a further western bypass connection for I-369 to the Western Loop to I-49 rather than the current I-369/US 59/TX 151 loop. What would that do for the segment of US 59 from the Western Loop to the current loop....and, more important, does that mean that those "I-369" shields on the current US 59 Texarkana loop are all for naught, and that I-130 might acutally be the ultimate signing after all?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 21, 2014, 01:34:24 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on July 21, 2014, 11:36:15 AM
does that mean that those "I-369" shields on the current US 59 Texarkana loop are all for naught, and that I-130 might actually be the ultimate signing after all?

If and when the I-369 designation is shifted to the new terrain route that would service the TexAmericas Center and presumably, by virtue of the Northern Loop, continue to an interchange with I-49, then I would prefer an even first digit I-x30 designation for the "inner" Texarkana Loop that would include an overlap with I-49 from I-30 to the current AR 151 and an overlap with US 59 from I-30 to the current TX 151, but would be the sole designation along the current AR 151 and TX 151.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Avalanchez71 on July 21, 2014, 06:47:13 PM
Talk about overkill and confusion.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 22, 2014, 01:40:56 PM
AHTD: do you have any updates on how Doddridge to the Louisiana State Line is coming along? Still aiming for the end of September to have it open?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on July 22, 2014, 04:07:42 PM
Current estimates are closer to November. We have, however, begun meeting with our friends at LADOTD to coordinate a ribbon cutting at the state line.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: jbnv on July 22, 2014, 05:45:46 PM
Quote from: AHTD on July 22, 2014, 04:07:42 PM
Current estimates are closer to November. We have, however, begun meeting with our friends at LADOTD to coordinate a ribbon cutting at the state line.

We're getting a different message in the "I-49 in Louisiana" thread:
Quote from: Grzrd on July 22, 2014, 03:12:19 PM
This article (http://www.thetowntalk.com/article/20140722/NEWS01/307220025/Interstate-49-North-slowly-progressing-Shreveport), primarily about the Segment K grubbing work near Shreveport, reports that LaDOTD has completed its section of I-49 North from Hosston to the state line, that Arkansas expects to complete its last four miles to the state line "by August", and that the joint opening might happen in mid-September:

Quote
For Gard Wayt, executive director of the I-49 International Coalition, the next hurdles are to get funding for I-49 from Fort Smith to Texarkana in Arkansas, and to finish the last Louisiana segment of I-49 from Lafayette to New Orleans.
"There has been some progress made in that area,"  he said.
I-49 North in Caddo Parish is mostly done, except for the MLK-area work and the last bit to the state line. "It"˜s complete from Highway 1 to the Arkansas line, though it's not open for traffic beyond Hosston," he said.
There's the roughly four-mile stretch on Inner City connector from I-20 to I-220 that is mired in local politics and construction of a housing project in Allendale, as well as other home construction in the central Shreveport neighborhood. Until that's resolved, I-49 traffic will have to use I-20 west to travel north on I-220 to I-49.
"We're ready to go,"  he said. "Arkansas is pushing their contractor on those four miles from Doddridge. They're supposed to be finished by August. The two departments of Transportation are talking about a mid-September opening."
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 22, 2014, 06:34:57 PM
Quote from: jbnv on July 22, 2014, 05:45:46 PM
Quote from: AHTD on July 22, 2014, 04:07:42 PM
Current estimates are closer to November. We have, however, begun meeting with our friends at LADOTD to coordinate a ribbon cutting at the state line.

We're getting a different message in the "I-49 in Louisiana" thread:
Quote from: Grzrd on July 22, 2014, 03:12:19 PM
This article (http://www.thetowntalk.com/article/20140722/NEWS01/307220025/Interstate-49-North-slowly-progressing-Shreveport), primarily about the Segment K grubbing work near Shreveport, reports that LaDOTD has completed its section of I-49 North from Hosston to the state line, that Arkansas expects to complete its last four miles to the state line "by August", and that the joint opening might happen in mid-September:

Quote
For Gard Wayt, executive director of the I-49 International Coalition, the next hurdles are to get funding for I-49 from Fort Smith to Texarkana in Arkansas, and to finish the last Louisiana segment of I-49 from Lafayette to New Orleans.
"There has been some progress made in that area,"  he said.
I-49 North in Caddo Parish is mostly done, except for the MLK-area work and the last bit to the state line. "It"˜s complete from Highway 1 to the Arkansas line, though it's not open for traffic beyond Hosston," he said.
There's the roughly four-mile stretch on Inner City connector from I-20 to I-220 that is mired in local politics and construction of a housing project in Allendale, as well as other home construction in the central Shreveport neighborhood. Until that's resolved, I-49 traffic will have to use I-20 west to travel north on I-220 to I-49.
"We're ready to go,"  he said. "Arkansas is pushing their contractor on those four miles from Doddridge. They're supposed to be finished by August. The two departments of Transportation are talking about a mid-September opening."

Maybe they'll only open one lane in each direction until everything is done? Of course, if it's just landscaping, the road could probably be opened anyway.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bassoon1986 on July 22, 2014, 11:49:05 PM
Tell me who is going to take I-49 all the way to I-20, west on 20 and then back north (technically east) on I-220 to get to I-49 north?? Sounds like a good post for our ridiculous detours thread. I get that an interstate detour probably has to follow another interstate highway for a detour, even though LA 3132 is the better route.
Title: Re: Texarkana; (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Molandfreak on July 23, 2014, 03:51:34 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 06, 2012, 06:18:58 PM
The I-69 Segment One Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/pub_inv/committees/i69/seg1_final.pdf) contains an interesting map which references the Freight Shuttle, shows the Northern Loop connection to I-49 as a "Committee Suggested I-69 Connecting Route", and shows a direct "Committee Suggested I-69 Connecting Route" between Carthage and Nacogdoches as a "Truck Route" (instead of a Relief Route).  It even looks like a Toll 49 extension to the I-69 Spur ("East Texas Hourglass (http://toll49.org/project/hourglass)") is under consideration (page 21/155 of pdf; page 15 of document):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVWdNt.png&hash=921f62b57bd046ee3b52463703852412e2f2bc60)
What the fuck? This was posted in 2012? What is Texas doing putting an Interstate on a corridor that might not be on the final routing when finished?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on July 23, 2014, 10:34:34 AM
Quote from: jbnv on July 22, 2014, 05:45:46 PM
Quote from: AHTD on July 22, 2014, 04:07:42 PM
Current estimates are closer to November. We have, however, begun meeting with our friends at LADOTD to coordinate a ribbon cutting at the state line.

We're getting a different message in the "I-49 in Louisiana" thread:
Quote from: Grzrd on July 22, 2014, 03:12:19 PM
This article (http://www.thetowntalk.com/article/20140722/NEWS01/307220025/Interstate-49-North-slowly-progressing-Shreveport), primarily about the Segment K grubbing work near Shreveport, reports that LaDOTD has completed its section of I-49 North from Hosston to the state line, that Arkansas expects to complete its last four miles to the state line "by August", and that the joint opening might happen in mid-September:

Quote
For Gard Wayt, executive director of the I-49 International Coalition, the next hurdles are to get funding for I-49 from Fort Smith to Texarkana in Arkansas, and to finish the last Louisiana segment of I-49 from Lafayette to New Orleans.
"There has been some progress made in that area,"  he said.
I-49 North in Caddo Parish is mostly done, except for the MLK-area work and the last bit to the state line. "It"˜s complete from Highway 1 to the Arkansas line, though it's not open for traffic beyond Hosston," he said.
There's the roughly four-mile stretch on Inner City connector from I-20 to I-220 that is mired in local politics and construction of a housing project in Allendale, as well as other home construction in the central Shreveport neighborhood. Until that's resolved, I-49 traffic will have to use I-20 west to travel north on I-220 to I-49.
"We're ready to go,"  he said. "Arkansas is pushing their contractor on those four miles from Doddridge. They're supposed to be finished by August. The two departments of Transportation are talking about a mid-September opening."

Our post on this subject is the most current information. Understand this can - and has - and probably will again - change(d).
Thus the comments referenced by the Coalition.

Stay tuned!
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on July 27, 2014, 12:44:52 PM
To AHTD,  The last 4 miles of future I 49 at the LA. line. On the AHTD site on projects, miller county job number 030355 still shows red color. All other jobs are blue for completed. I thought this was the bridge contract that was let before the paving contract. Are they still working on the bridges?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on July 27, 2014, 04:30:02 PM
Quote from: Gordon on July 27, 2014, 12:44:52 PM
To AHTD,  The last 4 miles of future I 49 at the LA. line. On the AHTD site on projects, miller county job number 030355 still shows red color. All other jobs are blue for completed. I thought this was the bridge contract that was let before the paving contract. Are they still working on the bridges?
Which bridge? I know CR4 is finished and open.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Gordon on July 27, 2014, 10:31:19 PM
There are 6 main lane bridge's that were bid on that project. Over 71 hwy, and east and west Fork Kelly Bayou.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on July 28, 2014, 10:54:54 AM
Please reference www.idrivearkansas.com (http://www.idrivearkansas.com) for the most up-to-date construction information. The map you reference is updated by planning on a less frequent schedule than IDRIVE.

Be sure to click on the orange lines that represent construction projects. We have added an "additional information" link that will take you to a more detailed project page.

Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on August 06, 2014, 04:21:02 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on December 07, 2012, 05:03:08 PM
I-69 Advisory Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/i69/advisory_committee_report.pdf) ... (page 16/30 of pdf; page 10 of report)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F4LXPR.jpg&hash=fecb34b43536de2eb4ee452431f42583c1954a6a)
Quote from: Grzrd on July 21, 2014, 10:56:38 AM
The Texarkana MPO has posted its Draft Texarkana Urban Transportation Study ("TUTS") 2015-2040 Metropolitan Transportation Plan ("MTP") (http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/program-documents/MPT%20Draft%207_14_2014.pdf) ....
After a quick scan of the document, I could not find a direct reference to either the West Loop or the Northern Loop.

I recently stumbled across a February 2014 Power Point presentation (http://texarkanacitytx.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=1004&MediaPosition=&ID=1044&CssClass=) that includes a slide envisioning "I-69 TXK Western Loop" going to the TexAmericas Center and north of I-30 (continuing as the Northern Loop?):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fhefr89N.png&hash=268330ca79f9cb78eec8a9bdf67f3c4bd3211a1f)

It looks like the more recent slide envisions a routing slightly to the east of the routing in the previous slide.  It's also interesting that the more recent slide suggests a Northern Loop connection to I-49, which makes sense considering the Intermodal Center part of the slide includes I-30, I-49 and I-69 shields.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on August 07, 2014, 09:09:26 PM
This article (http://www.kspr.com/news/local/missouri-amendment-failure-affects-arkansas-road-project/21051620_27350842) reports on the impact that Missouri's rejection of the transportation sales tax will have on the Arkansas section of the Bella Vista Bypass, but I am posting in this thread because of the following graphic accompanying the article:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFeWbkz1.jpg&hash=f93346188791bf3693a1b7cbd77b92fed56267f7)

AHTD, I know it's too late for NWA, but is there still a possibility to get the state name on the SWA shields?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on August 07, 2014, 11:50:26 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 07, 2014, 09:09:26 PM

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFeWbkz1.jpg&hash=f93346188791bf3693a1b7cbd77b92fed56267f7)

That's better than most other media I-49 graphics AND MoDOT's site graphics ;)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on August 11, 2014, 10:19:32 AM
Not in the cards.....
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on August 11, 2014, 10:46:21 AM
Why do the brand new I-530 shields at the end of AR 530 in Pine Bluff have the state name but the I-49 shields don't?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on August 11, 2014, 10:50:36 AM
Define brand new.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on August 11, 2014, 11:32:06 AM
Nice way to avoid the question. 

"Contemporary".  Is that better?  Why are the I-49 signs that were produced in the same era far uglier than the I-530 signs?  Why has Arkansas gone from producing attractive shields to some of the ugliest in the nation?  Why are the numbers almost bigger than the shield?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on August 11, 2014, 11:55:14 AM
Quote from: bugo on August 11, 2014, 10:46:21 AM
Why do the brand new I-530 shields at the end of AR 530 in Pine Bluff have the state name but the I-49 shields don't?
Quote from: AHTD on August 11, 2014, 10:50:36 AM
Define brand new.

FWIW that section of AR 530 was opened to traffic on September 12, 2013:

https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3524.msg245569#msg245569

edit

Here is StreetView imagery of two of the shields (https://www.google.com/maps/@34.174294,-91.986796,3a,75y,276.01h,84.56t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sFrVWdzO9b4j5J39xkTvliw!2e0):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoTFSaQI.png&hash=597050c75c63b3c310b718dc702f867c01b6e74c)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: agentsteel53 on August 11, 2014, 04:09:48 PM
I bet the 530s were extant stock that were installed.

still doesn't explain why Arkansas abandoned the classic '57 spec shield in favor of the garish '70 spec with overlarge numbers.  I think this means California is the only state left that still uses '57 spec fairly consistently.  well, shit.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Molandfreak on August 11, 2014, 05:20:57 PM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on August 11, 2014, 04:09:48 PM
I bet the 530s were extant stock that were installed.

still doesn't explain why Arkansas abandoned the classic '57 spec shield in favor of the garish '70 spec with overlarge numbers.  I think this means California is the only state left that still uses '57 spec fairly consistently.  well, shit.
Wyoming?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on August 11, 2014, 06:15:25 PM
Quote from: Molandfreak on August 11, 2014, 05:20:57 PM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on August 11, 2014, 04:09:48 PM
I bet the 530s were extant stock that were installed.

still doesn't explain why Arkansas abandoned the classic '57 spec shield in favor of the garish '70 spec with overlarge numbers.  I think this means California is the only state left that still uses '57 spec fairly consistently.  well, shit.
Wyoming?
Most of the time.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: agentsteel53 on August 11, 2014, 06:24:53 PM
Quote
Quote from: US71 on August 11, 2014, 06:15:25 PM

Wyoming?
Most of the time.

good point.  often enough to count; that's for sure.

Mississippi puts one up on occasion these days.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Molandfreak on August 11, 2014, 07:42:53 PM
I think Iowa has a good amount, too
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: agentsteel53 on August 11, 2014, 08:36:23 PM
Quote from: Molandfreak on August 11, 2014, 07:42:53 PM
I think Iowa has a good amount, too

yep.  I feel like someone told me that Iowa has gone to neutered '70 spec, but I may be conflating that with Arkansas.  I know Iowa's US route shields are more recently '70 spec instead of '61, as of the last 5 years or so.

New Mexico uses '57 spec a lot as well, but that's because New Mexico, and not indicative of any set policy.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on August 11, 2014, 08:45:24 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 06, 2014, 04:21:02 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on December 07, 2012, 05:03:08 PM
I-69 Advisory Committee Report and Recommendations (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/i69/advisory_committee_report.pdf) ... (page 16/30 of pdf; page 10 of report)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F4LXPR.jpg&hash=fecb34b43536de2eb4ee452431f42583c1954a6a)
Quote from: Grzrd on July 21, 2014, 10:56:38 AM
The Texarkana MPO has posted its Draft Texarkana Urban Transportation Study ("TUTS") 2015-2040 Metropolitan Transportation Plan ("MTP") (http://www.texarkanampo.org/documents/program-documents/MPT%20Draft%207_14_2014.pdf) ....
After a quick scan of the document, I could not find a direct reference to either the West Loop or the Northern Loop.

I recently stumbled across a February 2014 Power Point presentation (http://texarkanacitytx.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=1004&MediaPosition=&ID=1044&CssClass=) that includes a slide envisioning "I-69 TXK Western Loop" going to the TexAmericas Center and north of I-30 (continuing as the Northern Loop?):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fhefr89N.png&hash=268330ca79f9cb78eec8a9bdf67f3c4bd3211a1f)

It looks like the more recent slide envisions a routing slightly to the east of the routing in the previous slide.  It's also interesting that the more recent slide suggests a Northern Loop connection to I-49, which makes sense considering the Intermodal Center part of the slide includes I-30, I-49 and I-69 shields.
When all of these roads/intermodal facility are built there's no telling what future Texarkana/Hooks area will look like.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on August 27, 2014, 03:03:51 PM
Quote from: mcdonaat on May 15, 2014, 09:20:40 PM
I knew that I-49's wide median would allow for a 75 MPH speed limit to be posted, but I never thought that it could go without the cable barrier.
Are there any plans to talk with Arkansas about making I-49 from the state line to Texarkana as a 75 MPH speed limit?
(above quote from I49 in LA (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3124.msg299715#msg299715) thread)

I don't think Arkansas will post a 75 MPH speed limit, but a 28.9 mile project to install a cable median barrier from the LA state line to Texarkana is scheduled for the November 5 letting (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/General/Next_Three_Lettings.pdf):

Quote
County Miller
Route I-49
Job No. 030435
Job Name La. St. Line-Texarkana (Cable Median Barrier)
Type Work (S) Safety
Length 28.9
Cost Range $5 - $10 Million
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on August 27, 2014, 03:17:00 PM
Arkansas does not have any 75 mph sections.

This section between the Louisiana state line and Texarkana will be classified as a rural Interstate and as such the speed limit will be 70 mph and for trucks it will be 65 mph.

Look for the last section of this route to be complete toward the early days in November!

Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: agentsteel53 on August 27, 2014, 03:24:54 PM
Quote from: AHTD on August 27, 2014, 03:17:00 PM
Arkansas does not have any 75 mph sections.

given speed limit increases in Louisiana and Texas recently, I would imagine Arkansas state legislature is looking at the possibility.  any bills in the works?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: AHTD on August 27, 2014, 03:34:46 PM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on August 27, 2014, 03:24:54 PM
Quote from: AHTD on August 27, 2014, 03:17:00 PM
Arkansas does not have any 75 mph sections.

given speed limit increases in Louisiana and Texas recently, I would imagine Arkansas state legislature is looking at the possibility.  any bills in the works?

Nope.

That authority rests solely with the Arkansas Highway Commission. Nothing in the works.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: agentsteel53 on August 27, 2014, 04:25:38 PM
Quote from: AHTD on August 27, 2014, 03:34:46 PM
Nope.

That authority rests solely with the Arkansas Highway Commission. Nothing in the works.

well I've got an idea for your bosses...
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: mcdonaat on August 27, 2014, 07:36:21 PM
Quote from: AHTD on August 27, 2014, 03:17:00 PM
Arkansas does not have any 75 mph sections.

This section between the Louisiana state line and Texarkana will be classified as a rural Interstate and as such the speed limit will be 70 mph and for trucks it will be 65 mph.

Look for the last section of this route to be complete toward the early days in November!
Well, to be honest, it seems like Arkansas will create a speed trap. Slowing down from 75 to 70, with cable barriers in place, seems like a ridiculous thing to do. I'd love to see Texas make I-49 75 or 80 for the small stretch where it crosses state lines.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on August 27, 2014, 08:23:20 PM
Quote from: mcdonaat on August 27, 2014, 07:36:21 PM
Well, to be honest, it seems like Arkansas will create a speed trap. Slowing down from 75 to 70, with cable barriers in place, seems like a ridiculous thing to do. I'd love to see Texas make I-49 75 or 80 for the small stretch where it crosses state lines.
I'm sure there will be Reduced Speed Ahead signs (if any drivers are paying attention)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: codyg1985 on August 28, 2014, 06:32:54 AM
Before Alabama raised its portion of US 78/Future I-22 to 70 mph from 65 mph, MDOT posted REDUCED SPEED AHEAD signs going eastbound before crossing into Alabama. The speed limit on Mississippi's portion of US 78 has been 70 mph for a while now.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: RBBrittain on October 05, 2014, 03:49:09 AM
AHTD, is there any more word on the opening of I-49 to Louisiana?  IDriveArkansas only has "Late 2014", and the main site is down right now.  Does "November" mean just before the election (so President Obama, Secretary Foxx, etc. can stump for both Mark Pryor & Mary Landrieu), or just after it (so both Pryor & Tom Cotton can take credit while keeping a straight face, while the President, Secretary, etc. stumps for Landrieu in her likely runoff)?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on October 05, 2014, 10:18:40 AM
Quote from: RBBrittain on October 05, 2014, 03:49:09 AM
AHTD, is there any more word on the opening of I-49 to Louisiana?  IDriveArkansas only has "Late 2014", and the main site is down right now.  Does "November" mean just before the election (so President Obama, Secretary Foxx, etc. can stump for both Mark Pryor & Mary Landrieu), or just after it (so both Pryor & Tom Cotton can take credit while keeping a straight face, while the President, Secretary, etc. stumps for Landrieu in her likely runoff)?

I have my doubts the President will be there...it's possible, but I have my doubts. Mike Beebe and "Bobby" Jindal, maybe. AHTD and LADOTD directors and commission members, very likely (especially Dick Trammel who thinks he's in charge of everything).

The last word on the opening I heard was end of October/beginning of November.  A lot of people have been asking on  Facebook  (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Build-I-49/288089113623) as well, but things have been rather quiet.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on October 05, 2014, 06:03:24 PM
This will make travel between Shreveport and Texarkana so much easier.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: JON30 on October 06, 2014, 11:03:22 AM
I emailed a district engineer with the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department last week.  He informed me that the section from Doddridge to the Louisiana state line is currently scheduled to be complete by November 10th.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on October 06, 2014, 06:56:58 PM
Ok great.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on October 06, 2014, 07:55:48 PM
Quote from: JON30 on October 06, 2014, 11:03:22 AM
I emailed a district engineer with the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department last week.  He informed me that the section from Doddridge to the Louisiana state line is currently scheduled to be complete by November 10th.
If it's anywhere close to that time, I'm hoping to be there. Hopefully all the "No-Tels" in Texarkana won't be sold out ;)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on October 08, 2014, 10:57:46 AM
Quote from: JON30 on October 06, 2014, 11:03:22 AM
I emailed a district engineer with the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department last week.  He informed me that the section from Doddridge to the Louisiana state line is currently scheduled to be complete by November 10th.

On the LaDOTD side, I just received an email indicating that the opening will be on November 10:

Quote
We plan to open the northernmost portions of I-49 on November 10th.

AHTD, has a time been set for the ribbon cutting?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on October 16, 2014, 11:55:19 AM
The October 15, 2014 Texarkana Gazette (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/10/15/ribbon-cutting-slated-to-open-last-leg-o-939596.php) reports that the ribbon-cutting will occur at noon, November 10, at the state line.

Quote
After at least four decades of planning and more than $3.2 billion in taxpayer funds spent, Interstate 49 will soon connect Arkansas and Louisiana.
The Shreveport, La.-based Coordinating and Development Corp. will hold an official ceremony celebrating the opening of the final I-49 leg connecting Arkansas and Louisiana at noon Nov. 10 at the state line, near Ida. There, the interstate's final leg will be officially recognized as connecting the two states.
More than $3.2 billion total in federal funds went to connecting I-49 from Lafayette, La., to Texarkana, Ark.–a transportation project that represents the largest public works transportation route ever constructed in the Ark-La-Tex.
After Nov. 10, I-49 will fully connect New Orleans to Missouri, following a federal effort that started as early as 1968.

My understanding is that the article erroneously reports that Coordinating and Development Corp. will hold the ceremony.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bassoon1986 on October 16, 2014, 12:11:58 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 16, 2014, 11:55:19 AM
The October 15, 2014 Texarkana Gazette (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/10/15/ribbon-cutting-slated-to-open-last-leg-o-939596.php) reports that the ribbon-cutting will occur at noon, November 10, at the state line.

Quote
After at least four decades of planning and more than $3.2 billion in taxpayer funds spent, Interstate 49 will soon connect Arkansas and Louisiana.
The Shreveport, La.-based Coordinating and Development Corp. will hold an official ceremony celebrating the opening of the final I-49 leg connecting Arkansas and Louisiana at noon Nov. 10 at the state line, near Ida. There, the interstate's final leg will be officially recognized as connecting the two states.
More than $3.2 billion total in federal funds went to connecting I-49 from Lafayette, La., to Texarkana, Ark.–a transportation project that represents the largest public works transportation route ever constructed in the Ark-La-Tex.
After Nov. 10, I-49 will fully connect New Orleans to Missouri, following a federal effort that started as early as 1968.

My understanding is that the article erroneously reports that Coordinating and Development Corp. will hold the ceremony.

Also erroneous that "I-49 will fully connect New Orleans to Missouri." The two are connected, but not by a continuous I-49...
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on October 16, 2014, 03:21:14 PM
Quote from: bassoon1986 on October 16, 2014, 12:11:58 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 16, 2014, 11:55:19 AM
The October 15, 2014 Texarkana Gazette (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/10/15/ribbon-cutting-slated-to-open-last-leg-o-939596.php) reports that the ribbon-cutting will occur at noon, November 10, at the state line.

Quote
After at least four decades of planning and more than $3.2 billion in taxpayer funds spent, Interstate 49 will soon connect Arkansas and Louisiana.
The Shreveport, La.-based Coordinating and Development Corp. will hold an official ceremony celebrating the opening of the final I-49 leg connecting Arkansas and Louisiana at noon Nov. 10 at the state line, near Ida. There, the interstate's final leg will be officially recognized as connecting the two states.
More than $3.2 billion total in federal funds went to connecting I-49 from Lafayette, La., to Texarkana, Ark.–a transportation project that represents the largest public works transportation route ever constructed in the Ark-La-Tex.
After Nov. 10, I-49 will fully connect New Orleans to Missouri, following a federal effort that started as early as 1968.

My understanding is that the article erroneously reports that Coordinating and Development Corp. will hold the ceremony.

Also erroneous that "I-49 will fully connect New Orleans to Missouri." The two are connected, but not by a continuous I-49...

They already were connected via I-55.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on October 16, 2014, 07:02:36 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 16, 2014, 11:55:19 AM
The October 15, 2014 Texarkana Gazette (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/10/15/ribbon-cutting-slated-to-open-last-leg-o-939596.php) reports that the ribbon-cutting will occur at noon, November 10, at the state line.

Quote
After at least four decades of planning and more than $3.2 billion in taxpayer funds spent, Interstate 49 will soon connect Arkansas and Louisiana.
The Shreveport, La.-based Coordinating and Development Corp. will hold an official ceremony celebrating the opening of the final I-49 leg connecting Arkansas and Louisiana at noon Nov. 10 at the state line, near Ida. There, the interstate's final leg will be officially recognized as connecting the two states.
More than $3.2 billion total in federal funds went to connecting I-49 from Lafayette, La., to Texarkana, Ark.–a transportation project that represents the largest public works transportation route ever constructed in the Ark-La-Tex.
After Nov. 10, I-49 will fully connect New Orleans to Missouri, following a federal effort that started as early as 1968.

My understanding is that the article erroneously reports that Coordinating and Development Corp. will hold the ceremony.

WOW. So much fail with that article.

You mean, Arkansas should take any credit for I-49 built between Lafayette and Shreveport?? Really???

And, let's fund and build I-49 South, the Shreveport ICC, the segment between Texarkana and Fort Chaffee, the BVB, and maybe even fix that Bruce Watkins Drive thing, before declaring victory, OK??

Opening the Shreveport-Texarkana segment will be a tremendous achievement, but let's not get too heady yet. Still a ways to go.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on October 16, 2014, 07:36:54 PM
I-49 South has nothing to do with connecting New Orleans to Missouri.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on October 16, 2014, 07:59:44 PM
Quote from: NE2 on October 16, 2014, 07:36:54 PM
I-49 South has nothing to do with connecting New Orleans to Missouri.

Really?? If you are talking about completing I-49 from New Orleans to Kansas City, it has a lot to do with it.

And yes, I'm well aware of I-55 already connecting NOLA with KCM. The article was about I-49, though.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on October 16, 2014, 08:08:47 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on October 16, 2014, 07:59:44 PM
Quote from: NE2 on October 16, 2014, 07:36:54 PM
I-49 South has nothing to do with connecting New Orleans to Missouri.

Really?? If you are talking about completing I-49 from New Orleans to Kansas City, it has a lot to do with it.

And yes, I'm well aware of I-55 already connecting NOLA with KCM. The article was about I-49, though.

I-10 is about 20 miles shorter than I-49 (and you save another 15 miles by cutting over on US 190). I-49 South may benefit the intermediate points, but for New Orleans to Shreveport and north it's shit.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on October 16, 2014, 09:07:28 PM
Understood, and still not my point. The article was still about I-49, and the author's misstatement about completing I-49 as a connection between NOLA and Missouri.

And for the record, I do believe that I-55 is actually shorter.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on October 16, 2014, 09:29:44 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on October 16, 2014, 09:07:28 PM
Understood, and still not my point. The article was still about I-49, and the author's misstatement about completing I-49 as a connection between NOLA and Missouri.
Then why did you mention I-49 South? Only the huge part in Arkansas and the Bella Vista bypass are necessary to connect NO to KC.

Quote from: Anthony_JK on October 16, 2014, 09:07:28 PM
And for the record, I do believe that I-55 is actually shorter.

Holy crap, it's essentially the same distance going I-55 to I-70 as going I-49 all the way. More proof that I-49 has nothing to do with NO-KC through traffic.

(PS: going via Little Rock and Springfield saves about 100 miles over both, though a fair amount is two-lane.)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: jbnv on October 17, 2014, 09:23:41 PM
Not to mention that only for people in south Louisiana is I-49 South needed to "complete" I-49.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on October 20, 2014, 01:39:18 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 16, 2014, 11:55:19 AM
The October 15, 2014 Texarkana Gazette (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/10/15/ribbon-cutting-slated-to-open-last-leg-o-939596.php) reports that the ribbon-cutting will occur at noon, November 10, at the state line.

Quote
After at least four decades of planning and more than $3.2 billion in taxpayer funds spent, Interstate 49 will soon connect Arkansas and Louisiana.
The Shreveport, La.-based Coordinating and Development Corp. will hold an official ceremony celebrating the opening of the final I-49 leg connecting Arkansas and Louisiana at noon Nov. 10 at the state line, near Ida. There, the interstate's final leg will be officially recognized as connecting the two states.
More than $3.2 billion total in federal funds went to connecting I-49 from Lafayette, La., to Texarkana, Ark.–a transportation project that represents the largest public works transportation route ever constructed in the Ark-La-Tex.
After Nov. 10, I-49 will fully connect New Orleans to Missouri, following a federal effort that started as early as 1968.

My understanding is that the article erroneously reports that Coordinating and Development Corp. will hold the ceremony.

This is still great news, regardless of some of the errant details.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: txstateends on October 20, 2014, 03:16:07 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on October 20, 2014, 01:39:18 PM
Quote
After Nov. 10, I-49 will fully connect New Orleans to Missouri

This is still great news, regardless of some of the errant details.

Well, it is *sorta* correct, I-49 will fully connect after Nov. 10, it just doesn't say exactly when....
(attempting to hide from the tomatoes and eggs under a desk I no longer have :D )
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 05, 2014, 01:49:05 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 16, 2014, 11:55:19 AM
The October 15, 2014 Texarkana Gazette (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/10/15/ribbon-cutting-slated-to-open-last-leg-o-939596.php) reports that the ribbon-cutting will occur at noon, November 10, at the state line.

Ceremony Time Change Alert!  For those thinking of attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony, this AHTD Information Release (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2014/NR%2014-316.pdf) states that the ceremony is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and not noon:

Quote
WHAT: Dedication event to celebrate completion of the final section of Interstate 49 between Texarkana, AR and Shreveport, LA ....
WHEN: Monday, November 10 at 1:00 p.m.
WHERE:
The event will take place at the Arkansas-Louisiana state line on the new location of I-49. To access the event area travel I-49 north from Shreveport or I-49 south from Texarkana to the new section. A ribbon cutting will take place across the new lanes.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on November 05, 2014, 02:14:06 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 05, 2014, 01:49:05 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 16, 2014, 11:55:19 AM
The October 15, 2014 Texarkana Gazette (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/10/15/ribbon-cutting-slated-to-open-last-leg-o-939596.php) reports that the ribbon-cutting will occur at noon, November 10, at the state line.

Ceremony Time Change Alert!  For those thinking of attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony, this AHTD Information Release (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2014/NR%2014-316.pdf) states that the ceremony is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and not noon:

Quote
WHEN: Monday, November 10 at 1:00 p.m.
WHERE:
The event will take place at the Arkansas-Louisiana state line on the new location of I-49. To access the event area travel I-49 north from Shreveport or I-49 south from Texarkana to the new section. A ribbon cutting will take place across the new lanes.
As of now, I will be there.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 07, 2014, 02:29:57 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 27, 2014, 03:03:51 PM
I don't think Arkansas will post a 75 MPH speed limit, but a 28.9 mile project to install a cable median barrier from the LA state line to Texarkana is scheduled for the November 5 letting (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/General/Next_Three_Lettings.pdf)

AHTD posted the contract award for this project (http://www.arkansashighways.com/ProgCon/letting/Nov%20'14%20Award%20List.pdf) today:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FgKqICjv.png&hash=b7dc343e3dc67d4d1589f58cce12d304e029fa2b)

Some new work to begin after the Nov. 10 opening.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 09, 2014, 06:45:54 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 07, 2014, 09:09:26 PM
AHTD, I know it's too late for NWA, but is there still a possibility to get the state name on the SWA shields?
Quote from: AHTD on August 11, 2014, 10:19:32 AM
Not in the cards.....

The following graphic from this article about the upcoming ribbon cutting (http://www.magnoliareporter.com/news_and_business/regional_news/article_d7b53144-66bf-11e4-8f3c-a7acc9d3b561.html) provides yet another tease about what might have been:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F3FRc2t9.jpg&hash=21a713acfac94da97acbb010414698cc232f60b8)

Maybe on the Bella Vista Bypass when the time comes ..................
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 10, 2014, 06:34:04 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 10, 2014, 04:30:49 PM
LaDOTD has issued a press release about the ribbon cutting (http://wwwapps.dotd.la.gov/administration/announcements/Announcement.aspx?key=6197) that describes Gov. Jindal as the "highlight" of the grand occasion
(above quote from I49 in LA (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3124.msg2019310#msg2019310) thread)

For the sake of comparison, here is AHTD's press release about the ribbon cutting (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2014/NR%2014-319.pdf). Regarding the installation of I-49 shields, it states that approximately 200 AR 549 signs in the Texarkana/ Miller County area will be replaced with I-49 shields beginning this week:

Quote
Arkansas and Louisiana officials gathered at the state line today to dedicate completion of the final segment of a new Interstate connecting Texarkana, AR to Shreveport, LA. The Federal Highway Administration recently designated the entire section as Interstate 49, replacing what was Highway 549 in Arkansas. Approximately 200 existing Highway 549 signs will be replaced with I-49 signs beginning  this week.
"We dedicate a lot of our Arkansas highway projects,"  said Arkansas State Highway and Transportation (AHTD) Director Scott Bennett. "But it's not every day that we open one of this magnitude."

Last call for AR 549 photos in the Texarkana area!
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on November 10, 2014, 07:23:03 PM
I want one of the AR 549 signs. I doubt that AHTD would sell me one, though.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on November 10, 2014, 07:28:17 PM
Quote from: bugo on November 10, 2014, 07:23:03 PM
I want one of the AR 549 signs. I doubt that AHTD would sell me one, though.
Have Agentsteel make you one ;)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 11, 2014, 01:50:05 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 10, 2014, 06:34:04 PM
here is AHTD's press release about the ribbon cutting (http://www.arkansashighways.com/news/2014/NR%2014-319.pdf).

This Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/11/11/i-49-opens-from-city-to-shreveport-600007.php) reports on one speaker looking to the future with both I-49 and I-69 in Texarkana and another speaker reminiscing about how John Paul Hammerschmitt brought home the bacon for the Arkansas I-49 side of the Northern Loop:

Quote
The celebration actually started more than two hours earlier at Copeland's restaurant in Texarkana, Ark ....
"This is more than just about a celebration of a road opening,"  said Texarkana Chamber of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer Bill Cork to the Copeland's crowd. "This is a celebration of community spirit 28 years in the making. We are looking at one day having three interstates connecting right here–I-30, I49 and I-69. This can only result from the vision of all you people in this room that make things like this happen."  ....
Curt Green, president of the I-49 International Coalition .... then welcomed former Texarkana Chamber President Robert E. "Swede"  Lee to speak.
Lee recalled his introduction to I-49 being a newspaper article about the Shreveport Chamber of Commerce meeting addressing the roadway's possible future northern expansion.
"I cut the article out and taped it to my desk and I later called the Shreveport Chamber president and suggested we get together and discuss extending I-49 northward and he agreed,"  Lee said. "From there it became a long and hard learning process about how highways are built. I found out you have to go to Washington D.C. to get it done."
While in Washington D.C. attempting to get whatever money he could, Lee said he met Arkansas' U.S. Sen. John Paul Hammerschmitt.
"John Paul told me it might cost as much as half-a billion dollars to build the interstate through Arkansas and I asked him if he was crazy,"  Lee said. "But John Paul was able to get as much as $300 million for the Arkansas portion and earmarked $70 million out of it to help pay for I-49's loop around Texarkana on the Arkansas-side."

At least Texarkana benefitted from the earmark era.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on November 11, 2014, 10:50:48 PM
Mr Hammerschmidt did indeed bring home the "bacon" for I-49 in NW Arkansas, though "Prissy" Hickerson is pretty much credited for the Texarkana Loop.

Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: apjung on November 14, 2014, 01:12:29 AM
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.
http://goo.gl/maps/9G0nC
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: MikeSantNY78 on November 14, 2014, 10:40:06 PM
Quote from: apjung on November 14, 2014, 01:12:29 AM
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.
http://goo.gl/maps/9G0nC
Open Street Map has that stretch filled in, too; showing as U.C. (dotted blue) from LA 1 to I-220, and proposed (dotted teal) from I-220 down to N. Hearne (the upper half of the ICC)...
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on November 16, 2014, 04:20:41 PM
Quote from: apjung on November 14, 2014, 01:12:29 AM
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.
http://goo.gl/maps/9G0nC
North of Doddridge, I see Google has it dually-signed I-49/ AR 549.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on November 17, 2014, 02:14:15 AM
I want an authentic AR 549 shield. If I were going to get Jake to make me a sign, it would be something odd like a US 412 cutout.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dfwmapper on November 17, 2014, 09:49:18 PM
Quote from: US71 on November 16, 2014, 04:20:41 PM
North of Doddridge, I see Google has it dually-signed I-49/ AR 549.
Took a few days to get it approved, but 549 is gone now.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on November 18, 2014, 02:57:24 AM
I've heard that Fouke, Ark wants to capitalize on it's location along the route by opening a hotel, truck stop or both.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on November 18, 2014, 03:02:09 AM
Quote from: dariusb on November 18, 2014, 02:57:24 AM
I've heard that Fouke, Ark wants to capitalize on it's location along the route by opening a hotel, truck stop or both.
They could have done that at any time in the past 90 years.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on November 18, 2014, 08:32:58 AM
Quote from: bugo on November 17, 2014, 02:14:15 AM
I want an authentic AR 549 shield. If I were going to get Jake to make me a sign, it would be something odd like a US 412 cutout.

I have an Arkansas "STATE 471 ROAD"  cut-out I had made :)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on November 20, 2014, 03:39:09 AM
Quote from: NE2 on November 18, 2014, 03:02:09 AM
Quote from: dariusb on November 18, 2014, 02:57:24 AM
I've heard that Fouke, Ark wants to capitalize on it's location along the route by opening a hotel, truck stop or both.
They could have done that at any time in the past 90 years.
They've also expressed interest in having an Arkansas Travel Center open near them in hopes of increasing visibility of Fouke and maybe even  bringing development. Don't know how ambitious/serious they are in pursuing these projects but it would be nice to see the town grow.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on November 20, 2014, 11:45:46 AM
I'm very happy for you all down there with last week's "grand opening" on I-49, Darius!  :spin:
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on November 20, 2014, 05:20:48 PM
Quote from: O Tamandua on November 20, 2014, 11:45:46 AM
I'm very happy for you all down there with last week's "grand opening" on I-49, Darius!  :spin:
Oh most definitely. It's great driving down to Shreveport without being stuck behind slow pokes, 18 wheelers and having to slow down/stop in every little town. More importantly I hope this highway along with the I-69 spur give Texarkana the shot in the arm they've needed for a long time.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: codyg1985 on November 21, 2014, 06:55:09 AM
Quote from: dariusb on November 20, 2014, 03:39:09 AM
Quote from: NE2 on November 18, 2014, 03:02:09 AM
Quote from: dariusb on November 18, 2014, 02:57:24 AM
I've heard that Fouke, Ark wants to capitalize on it's location along the route by opening a hotel, truck stop or both.
They could have done that at any time in the past 90 years.
They've also expressed interest in having an Arkansas Travel Center open near them in hopes of increasing visibility of Fouke and maybe even  bringing development. Don't know how ambitious/serious they are in pursuing these projects but it would be nice to see the town grow.

I wonder if AHTD has any plans for a Welcome Center in that area? Same for LaDOTD on their side of the state line?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: roadman65 on November 21, 2014, 08:28:30 AM
Quote from: dariusb on November 20, 2014, 03:39:09 AM
Quote from: NE2 on November 18, 2014, 03:02:09 AM
Quote from: dariusb on November 18, 2014, 02:57:24 AM
I've heard that Fouke, Ark wants to capitalize on it's location along the route by opening a hotel, truck stop or both.
They could have done that at any time in the past 90 years.
They've also expressed interest in having an Arkansas Travel Center open near them in hopes of increasing visibility of Fouke and maybe even  bringing development. Don't know how ambitious/serious they are in pursuing these projects but it would be nice to see the town grow.
They need to do that as none of the I-49 interchanges have many motorists services at them between Shreveport and Texarkana.  Even Texarkana itself has no motels at the interchanges with I-49 yet. 

That would be a wise idea to take advantage of that opportunity.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bassoon1986 on November 21, 2014, 09:39:59 AM
Quote from: roadman65 on November 21, 2014, 08:28:30 AM
Quote from: dariusb on November 20, 2014, 03:39:09 AM
Quote from: NE2 on November 18, 2014, 03:02:09 AM
Quote from: dariusb on November 18, 2014, 02:57:24 AM
I've heard that Fouke, Ark wants to capitalize on it's location along the route by opening a hotel, truck stop or both.
They could have done that at any time in the past 90 years.
They've also expressed interest in having an Arkansas Travel Center open near them in hopes of increasing visibility of Fouke and maybe even  bringing development. Don't know how ambitious/serious they are in pursuing these projects but it would be nice to see the town grow.
They need to do that as none of the I-49 interchanges have many motorists services at them between Shreveport and Texarkana.  Even Texarkana itself has no motels at the interchanges with I-49 yet. 

That would be a wise idea to take advantage of that opportunity.

LA 1 is the only one that has gas stations right off the exit, and that's still considered Shreveport to me. Fouke has one IIRC and it's maybe a mile north of the US 71 exit. There was one gas station years ago in Belcher along US 71, but it was very old.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on November 21, 2014, 10:47:20 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on November 21, 2014, 06:55:09 AM
I wonder if AHTD has any plans for a Welcome Center in that area? Same for LaDOTD on their side of the state line?

Re AHTD and Fouke:

Quote from: Grzrd on June 12, 2014, 08:46:02 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 14, 2014, 12:49:21 PM
I recently had an email Q & A with the Tourism Research & Information Services of the Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism in order to see if Arkansas had any plans to build a Welcome Center counterpart to the one under study in Louisiana:
Quote
Q: Louisiana is now conducting a site study for a Welcome Center on southbound I-49 near the AR state line.  Is Arkansas planning on a new Welcome Center on northbound I-49 north of the state line?
A: Arkansas operates a Welcome Center in Texarkana; currently there is not another one planned for this area.
This TV video (http://www.ktbs.com/story/25754179/fouke-leaders-discuss-i-49-plans) reports that Fouke leaders ... are working to get a Welcome Center in Fouke:
Quote
Interstate 49 promises economic growth across the country, as well as, in some of our own communities.
The City of Fouke is hoping to take advantage of that potential growth ....
Pat Allen of Fouke is the president of the "Citizens for a Better Community" group.
"I believe I-49 will quadruple the size of Fouke within five to ten years," said Allen ....
Community leaders say they're working to get a visitor welcome center in Fouke, but no final decision has been made.

Re LaDOTD:

Quote from: Grzrd on May 10, 2014, 08:37:24 PM
Quote from: txstateends on December 06, 2011, 05:38:58 PM
Are there plans at all for welcome centers on I-49 for either side (or both) of the state line?
Quote from: Urban Prairie Schooner on August 30, 2013, 04:19:53 PM
Quote from: lamsalfl on August 28, 2013, 02:50:09 PM
Will there be a Louisiana Welcome Center on I-49 southbound?
From Google imagery there is a telltale cleared space adjacent to the future I-49 SB lanes, just south of the LA 170 interchange, that may correspond to a future rest area/potential welcome center - it looks too large to be a weigh station.
This May 9 article (http://www.ktbs.com/story/25477884/louisiana-welcome-center-planned-for-i-49-north) reports that a twelve-month study has begun to determine the best location for a welcome center along southbound I-49 North in Louisiana, no farther south than just below Ida:
Quote
A continual ribbon of I-49 concrete will soon transport visitors out of Arkansas into Shreveport. Now a study is under way for a new roadside welcome center.
The 12-month study will review the best location along the southbound lanes of Interstate 49. The visitor center would be located no farther south than just below Ida.

The Coordinating & Development Corporation that helps finance a number of government construction projects will conduct the study.
Once a site is located and designed, a state appropriation would have to be sought through the Department of Transportation and Development. DOTD would construct and maintain the center. Staffing would fall under the tourism arm of the lieutenant governor's office.
In addition to welcoming tourists, the visitors information center would be important as part of a designated Hurricane Evacuation Route once I-49 is completed through Lafayette and beyond.
(above quote from I49 in LA (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3124.msg298255;topicseen#msg298255) thread)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on December 08, 2014, 10:47:20 AM
Quote from: dariusb on November 18, 2014, 02:57:24 AM
I've heard that Fouke, Ark wants to capitalize on it's location along the route by opening a hotel, truck stop or both.

This December 5 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/12/05/ua-graduate-study-assesses-fouke-s-econo-492244.php) reports that some University of Arkansas graduate students are completing their assessment of how Fouke can capitalize on its economic potential, which includes two exits on I-49:

Quote
Fouke's mayor said he is looking forward to a preliminary report from University of Arkansas students that will hopefully give his town the tools it needs to create a stronger community and economy.
Mayor Terry Purvis will travel to Little Rock on Wednesday to visit with UA Clinton School of Public Service economics students whose fall class project was a study of Fouke's potential for economic development.
The graduate students began their project in September, and they will present their findings to the mayor, city council and the public in January, Purvis said.
Five students of Professor Ellen Fitzpatrick visited Fouke in October to interview residents and learn more about the local economy. They were accompanied by Sedef Akgungor, visiting Fulbright Fellow and professor of economics at Dokuz Eylul University in Izmir, Turkey.
"I don't know what they're going to say, but I'm super exited they picked Fouke to study in their class on economic development,"  Purvis said. "They've been working on this for a couple of months. I went up to Little Rock, and they came here to talk to our citizens. -They asked us how we would like to see our community 10 years from now and what kind of economic development we would like to see."  ....
Fouke, 13 miles south of Texarkana, has a population of 865 and its own school district. Purvis said the town's commercial tax base includes a grocery store, a dollar store, a couple of convenience stores and two restaurants.
"With the opening of I-49 from Texarkana to Baton Rouge, we've got a transportation hub that makes us look even better. We've got two interstate exits here in Fouke
, and when this highway is done, it's going to connect Canada to New Orleans."
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on December 08, 2014, 03:52:31 PM
Since Fouke is fairly close to Texarkana, they could also use the "great place to raise a family" angle to attract new residents/businesses there as well.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on December 08, 2014, 10:24:24 PM
Fouke will become a bedroom community to Texarkana, if it isn't already one. If so, it will become even more of one. I expect for some gas stations to be built at the interchanges and possibly some burger joints and maybe even a motel or two. The population will explode. In a few decades, they might even get a Walmart.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Anthony_JK on December 08, 2014, 11:17:21 PM
Quote[...] from Texarkana to Baton Rouge...


UGH.  :pan: :pan: :pan: :pan: :pan: :pan: :pan: :pan:


Lafayette, people. I-49 goes to Lafayette. Google Maps is your friend.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on December 09, 2014, 12:00:14 AM
^Lol!
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on December 09, 2014, 12:02:47 AM
Quote from: bugo on December 08, 2014, 10:24:24 PM
Fouke will become a bedroom community to Texarkana, if it isn't already one. If so, it will become even more of one. I expect for some gas stations to be built at the interchanges and possibly some burger joints and maybe even a motel or two. The population will explode. In a few decades, they might even get a Walmart.
I can see that happening.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: apjung on December 09, 2014, 10:05:50 PM
Fouke will have to expand its city limits. Currently it's only a square mile town but I can see it expand to 4 square miles and surround I-49.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on December 10, 2014, 02:43:43 AM
^Right. I can see them then maybe opening a motel/hotel or truck stop.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: robbones on December 10, 2014, 01:45:41 PM
I 49 shields are up around Texarkana.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on December 10, 2014, 03:13:28 PM
Quote from: robbones on December 10, 2014, 01:45:41 PM
I 49 shields are up around Texarkana.
Cool!
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on December 12, 2014, 03:24:00 PM
This December 10 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/12/10/tmpo-to-discuss-highway-designation-411155.php) reports that the Texarkana MPO, at its December 10 Policy Board meeting, was planning to discuss removing the Strategic Highway Network designation from U.S. 71 and reassigning it to I-49:

Quote
U.S. Highway 71 may lose a designation that Interstate 49 will gain during a meeting at 10:30 a.m. today of the Texarkana Metropolitan Planning Organization's Policy Board.
Board members, who will meet in the Texarkana, Texas, City Council Chamber in the city's municipal building at 220 Texas Blvd., will consider issuing a statement removing the Strategic Highway Network designation from U.S. 71 and reassigning it to I-49.
The portion of I-49 connecting Shreveport, La., to Texarkana opened Nov. 10.

I have yet to see anything in articles or on the Texarkana MPO website (http://www.texarkanampo.org/index.html) confirming that the reassignment took place.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on December 12, 2014, 05:41:05 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on December 03, 2014, 04:42:53 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on December 01, 2014, 03:04:55 PM
the Texas Transportation Commission's June, 2007 authorization of a feasibility study (http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/adm/2007/minutes/jun14_special.pdf) for a Texarkana toll road
The link to the Texas Transportation Commission's Minute Order does not include the Exhibit A list of 80 proposed toll road projects; however, TxDOT has emailed me a pdf of Exhibit A .... Here is a snip from Exhibit A:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FttGhArU.png&hash=55532b4cebfd97bc338e66687353cbd63356f8b4)
(above quote from Interstate 49 Texas (5 miles) (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=14100.msg2024842#msg2024842) thread)

I recently emailed TxDOT and asked if the 2007 toll study regarding I-69, I-49, and the Northern Loop had ever been conducted.  The TxDOT response:

Quote
Thank you for your patience in our response.  We had to search our archives so it took a bit of time to find the answer to your inquiry.  A very high-level and preliminary toll feasibility study was done near Texarkana and other places in the state over a decade ago but nothing was done beyond that.  Thank you.

However, I'm not sure if "over a decade ago" would be in regard to a 2007 study ............  Nevertheless, it does seem clear that nothing further has been done.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on December 16, 2014, 12:30:28 PM
This December 14 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/12/14/signs-of-unity-842363.php) reports that Texas and Arkansas may soon have similar "Welcome to Texarkana" signs along I-30 (if TxDOT and FHWA grant a size waiver on the Texas side), and that such signs may be in the future for I-49 and I-69 [I-369]:

Quote
Visitors coming to Texarkana on I-30 eventually will be welcomed on the east and west sides of town.
During their Dec. 8 meeting, the Texarkana, Texas, City Council members expressed interest in putting in a city welcome sign for visitors coming from the west. Texarkana, Ark., is already working to complete a welcome sign for visitors coming from the east on I-30.
Ward 3 Council Member Tina Veal-Gooch said she supported the idea and wanted to know the exact language on the Arkansas-side sign so the Texas side could use that language as well. She said she liked the idea of "Welcome to Texarkana, USA"  on the sign.
Incoming Keep Texarkana Beautiful President Tom Sadowski proposed the Texas sign, according to City Manager John Whitson.
"Keep Texarkana Beautiful has asked the city of Texarkana, Texas, to build a matching sign on the Texas side for eastbound I-30 traffic approaching Texarkana," Whitson wrote in a Dec. 11 email. "We are not aware of any opportunities to build such a sign on private property. Therefore, our sign will likely be in TxDOT (right of way). If we do build in the TxDOT right of way, we will have to meet the rules and regulations set out by TxDOT and/or the Federal Highway Administration. KTB believes that we can get a waiver on the size from (the Federal Highway Administration), thus permitting us to exceed the size limitations as enforced by TxDOT."  ....
"The TxDOT rules state, "˜Proposed Gateway Monuments shall ... be in proper size and scale with its surroundings. The maximum size of the gateway monument face shall not exceed 400 square feet total (note, the Arkansas sign is 792 square feet, 198 percent the size permitted in the I-20 right of way). The height shall not exceed 20 feet above existing grade. Monument widths exceeding 20 feet will not be allowed for gateway monuments on the interstate, although the Federal Highway Administration may consider waiving this limitation on a case-by-case basis.'"

Texarkana, Ark., Public Works Director Paul Hackleman said the sign being constructed just outside the the Country Hills Subdivision should be complete prior to the end of the year, but weather will be the determining factor. The sign is 44 feet by about 17 or 18 feet.
The next step in completing the sign will be to put the letters on it. Hackleman said as construction on other arteries around the region are complete, there will be more of a need for other, similar signs.
"The city needs the entry signs not only for both states, but for all major entry points to Texarkana," Hackleman wrote in a Dec. 12 email. "Texarkana, Ark., is very proud to have Texarkana, Texas, moving forward with a similar sign on I-30. We will need the same for I-69, I-49, (U.S.) Highway 67, (U.S.) Highway 71 and (U.S.) Highway 82."

The I-69 [I-369] sign would not have an Arkansas "match" since I-369 will have a northern terminus at either I-30 or I-49 and will not enter Arkansas.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on December 16, 2014, 12:43:44 PM
This December 14 Texarkana Gazette editorial (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/12/14/fast-and-open-road-is-difference-maker-133153.php) speculates on how the recently opened section of I-49 will affect the interaction between Texarkana and Shreveport:

Quote
The road to Shreveport just got shorter.
It took a long time to build this important stretch of Interstate 49, but the wait was worth it ....
But which city benefits most?
On the surface, it seems like Shreveport would.
It's easy to imagine people from here trekking down in greater numbers to the casino boats or the stores, restaurants and cultural offerings our city isn't big enough to support.
But does Texarkana have anything that Shreveport residents would drive up here buy, see or do? Reciprocation by our southern neighbor might be slow in coming. At least for now.
I-49 also puts two airports in easy reach of both cities.
Is it worth the hour trip? Flyers in Dallas and other large metro areas often drive an hour or more just across town to get to the airport. This might actually be an easier drive.
On the other hand, I-49 running south also opens up truck traffic coming from or through here to the river port in Shreveport. This is significant. Until the region around Texarkana can demonstrate a viable need to make it worthwhile to extend the Red River Navigation Channel farther north, this opens up a relatively low-cost transportation option to the Gulf and beyond.
The losers in the deal seem to be all those small towns that dot U.S. Highway 71 between Texarkana and Shreveport. They are suddenly off the beaten track, almost irrelevant.
Not to themselves, of course, or to the regional economy. But irrelevant to a transportation infrastructure bent on getting people and goods from one place to another with no obligation to what's in between. About the only civilization you see now after leaving Shreveport going north on I-49 is the backside of Fouke, Ark. ....
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 04, 2015, 03:57:24 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 11, 2013, 08:41:46 AM
KTBS had a Somewhere in the ArkLaTex video feature (http://www.ktbs.com/video?clipId=9178690&autostart=true) about Texarkana .... A sign pointing the way to Richmond Road is also included in the KTBS video:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FErEoAyY.png&hash=f116a5d154675eae3d1405646efb0e28d34c2716)
Quote from: Grzrd on December 08, 2014, 10:47:20 AM
This December 5 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/12/05/ua-graduate-study-assesses-fouke-s-econo-492244.php) reports that some University of Arkansas graduate students are completing their assessment of how Fouke can capitalize on its economic potential, which includes two exits on I-49
Quote from: dariusb on December 08, 2014, 03:52:31 PM
Since Fouke is fairly close to Texarkana, they could also use the "great place to raise a family" angle to attract new residents/businesses there as well.
Quote from: bugo on December 08, 2014, 10:24:24 PM
Fouke will become a bedroom community to Texarkana, if it isn't already one.

This January 25, 2015 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2015/01/25/state-expert-delivers-presentation-on-de-382511.php) reports that the group recommends that Fouke concentrate on community values, try to avoid becoming known merely as a bedroom community to Texarkana, avoid the type of unmanaged growth associated with Richmond Road in Texarkana, TX, and capitalize on the Fouke Monster (http://www.foukemonster.net/):

Quote
With the last portion of Interstate 49 now open to provide a nonstop ride between Shreveport, La., and Texarkana, the connection may soon give Fouke a "road map"  for economic growth.
During a 90-minute presentation to about 30 Fouke residents at the city's community center Saturday, Romerse Biddle, a Clinton School of Public Service student team member and intern with Arkansas Economic Development Commission, delivered such a road map concept to help the city with economic growth ....
"For growth, you need a common vision of what you want that's family-friendly," he said. "You don't want strip clubs and alcohol sales, and growth can be a good thing if it's the type of thing you want and you can manage."
Biddle then cited Richmond Road in Texarkana, Texas, as a prime example of unmanaged growth–owing to the traffic.
"Zoning laws are good things because they protect community values,"  he said.
Besides avoiding unmanaged growth, Biddle told his audience that they also need to avoid growth stagnation–something that happened to Garland City, Ark., after 1995.
"Garland had U.S. Highway 82 and the Red River, along which development could have been made, but they missed out on it,"  he said.
Biddle then to told his audience that they also need to conduct a community assessment of what is unique to Fouke.
"Show what you have that other communities don't have,"  he said. "You need to put together a community resume. Fouke has a lot of unique things about it. A lot of people think that Fouke is a bedroom community to Texarkana and that idea isn't unique to Fouke, but it does sometimes cause a town population to decline.

"The reason young people leave their town is because they don't find any identity with their town."
Biddle then said his research indicated that most people living in Fouke were between 25 and 35 years old.
He the said that Fouke had a lot of recreational area and campsites could be the city's future.
"There are two things people in this area like,"  he said. "They like nature, and they like to be scared. That's where tourism focused on the Fouke Monster can start. Fouke is a community like no other."




Meanwhile, in Texas, this February 2, 2015 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2015/02/02/i-30-i-369-projects-slated-for-this-year-592172.php) reports that I-369 is close to achieving a minor milestone: its first maintenance contract since it received the I-369 designation:

Quote
Part of Interstate 30, part of Interstate 369 and an I-30 bridge are now closer to getting some repair and replacement attention from the Texas Department of Transportation.
During a recent meeting, both the Texarkana Metropolitan Planning Organization's Technical Committee and Policy Board agreed on three projects to receive funds from the Texas State Proposition 1 measure approved by voters in last year's November election.
Of the three projects, two are designated as resurfacing efforts. One for less than a quarter-mile extension along I-30 between its junction with I-369 to it's intersection with Farm To Market Road 559. The other is further south on I-369 and extends for a one-mile stretch of the interstate's length between U.S. Highway 82 and Texas State Highway 93.
The third project involves replacing a bridge as well as the bridge's approaches on I-30 near its intersection with Farm To Market Road 2253, said Alan Morrison, Texarkana TMPO study director ....
Work on all three projects is expected to start later this year.

Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: robbones on February 11, 2015, 02:33:54 PM
I noticed that the I 369 mms were put up on the far northern section. Going NB it starts as mm 111.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on March 01, 2015, 06:18:00 PM
I wonder when will work began on I-49 going north from Texarkana to Ashdown, DeQueen etc.? Anyone have any idea?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Bobby5280 on March 01, 2015, 10:44:37 PM
Who knows? I doubt anything will happen on that portion of I-49 within the next 5 years.

My guess is AHTD will put a higher priority on I-49 in the Fort Smith area. The short segment at Fort Chaffee is nearing completion. There is a lot of demand to fill the gap between it and the I-49 & I-40 interchange at Alma. Once that segment can be built I-49 can begin inching its way South towards Texarkana.

There is also a possibility AHTD might build sections of I-49 near some of the towns along the route and then fill in the gaps later. This would be kind of like what TX DOT is doing in South Texas with I-69C and I-69W.

The only way I can see Arkansas building sections of I-49 near Texarkana is if Texas gets a real plan in place to build their little part of it.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on March 02, 2015, 12:04:35 AM
I have heard from at least 2 sources that the Mena bypass will be the next section to be built south of Fort Smith. I'm assuming it will get the venerable AR 549 designation and will be built as a super 2. It would be nice to get trucks out of Mena. US 59/71 is very narrow through Mena and the lanes aren't much wider than a typical truck.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on March 02, 2015, 02:57:32 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on March 01, 2015, 10:44:37 PM
Who knows? I doubt anything will happen on that portion of I-49 within the next 5 years.

My guess is AHTD will put a higher priority on I-49 in the Fort Smith area. The short segment at Fort Chaffee is nearing completion. There is a lot of demand to fill the gap between it and the I-49 & I-40 interchange at Alma. Once that segment can be built I-49 can begin inching its way South towards Texarkana.

There is also a possibility AHTD might build sections of I-49 near some of the towns along the route and then fill in the gaps later. This would be kind of like what TX DOT is doing in South Texas with I-69C and I-69W.

The only way I can see Arkansas building sections of I-49 near Texarkana is if Texas gets a real plan in place to build their little part of it.
Yeah that's true. I had forgot about the Texas section and I agree about the sections in NWA and Ft. Smith being completed before they concentrate on any new sections.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on March 02, 2015, 09:24:30 AM
Quote from: bugo on March 02, 2015, 12:04:35 AM
I have heard from at least 2 sources that the Mena bypass will be the next section to be built south of Fort Smith. I'm assuming it will get the venerable AR 549 designation and will be built as a super 2. It would be nice to get trucks out of Mena. US 59/71 is very narrow through Mena and the lanes aren't much wider than a typical truck.
Yeah, they took a 4-Lane road and re-striped it for 5. You get big trucks and it's near impossible to get around them.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bjrush on March 02, 2015, 02:29:59 PM
That is how AHTD connects new terrain routes. Bypassing the towns first then connecting the bypasses. I would guess Mena is first
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Scott5114 on March 02, 2015, 02:58:38 PM
Quote from: bjrush on March 02, 2015, 02:29:59 PM
That is how AHTD connects new terrain routes. Bypassing the towns first then connecting the bypasses. I would guess Mena is first

I assumed that was standard practice. Missouri does it that way too.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: NE2 on March 02, 2015, 03:17:04 PM
Quote from: Scott5114 on March 02, 2015, 02:58:38 PM
Quote from: bjrush on March 02, 2015, 02:29:59 PM
That is how AHTD connects new terrain routes. Bypassing the towns first then connecting the bypasses. I would guess Mena is first

I assumed that was standard practice. Missouri does it that way too.

On the other hand, Oklahoma built the rural pieces of I-40 west of OKC first, and opened all the bypasses together in 1970 so all the Route 66 towns would get fucked simultaneously.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: msunat97 on March 09, 2015, 11:16:08 AM
Drove through Texarkana last Friday on I-30 from Dallas to Little Rock...first time since the completion of the work...it looked great.  It was great to see the bypass ramps open & in use.  Now if only I-49 can move further North...
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on March 09, 2015, 08:03:00 PM
^I know right. That'd be great!
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: O Tamandua on March 09, 2015, 10:46:22 PM
Quote from: US71 on March 02, 2015, 09:24:30 AM
Quote from: bugo on March 02, 2015, 12:04:35 AM
I have heard from at least 2 sources that the Mena bypass will be the next section to be built south of Fort Smith. I'm assuming it will get the venerable AR 549 designation and will be built as a super 2. It would be nice to get trucks out of Mena. US 59/71 is very narrow through Mena and the lanes aren't much wider than a typical truck.
Yeah, they took a 4-Lane road and re-striped it for 5. You get big trucks and it's near impossible to get around them.

When they finally get a bypass and I-49 through Ashdown, people won't have to worry about a active railroad which actually curves into the right side northbound lane (with an unlit crossing) of a major u.s. thoroughfare (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47xcjz_L66Y) as does the Arkansas Western in that town at Whittaker St. and U.S. 71, starting near the 0:35 marker of the video.  You can't see it entering the lane but that's why the train goes so slow and is laying on the horn.  At this time it's also essentially going through the parking lot of Big Jake's barbeque, on the other side of the tracks.

It's my understanding that there was a derailment at this curve one time.  I think those tank cars north-and-eastbound (this train is west-and-southbound at the curve) are usually loaded with propane bound for Nashville, AR.

(EDIT: you can see him making the north-and-eastbound run at this same crossing from a distance at the 3:53 mark of that video. The signal with lights in the distance (and the railroad signal to the right of it) are on the Kiamichi RR there which sees daily traffic as well, and the train is coming off of the Kansas City Southern Shreveport sub (railroad signals in the foreground for that) which we all have seen parallels U.S. 71 closely especially from Ashdown to the Texas state line.  This is a bottleneck that won't be missed, I'm guessing, when the future I-49(/I-69 link nearby) is commissioned around that town.)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: txstateends on March 10, 2015, 04:05:33 AM
I've seen that Ashdown RR video before, sounds like that RR corridor needs a bypass! :D
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Bobby5280 on March 12, 2015, 01:07:27 PM
I feel sorry for some of the home owners in Ashdown, especially anyone living on East Whittaker Street. You probably would need to really like trains and not mind all the blaring horns to stomach living in that town.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: jbnv on March 12, 2015, 11:39:42 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on March 12, 2015, 01:07:27 PM
I feel sorry for some of the home owners in Ashdown, especially anyone living on East Whittaker Street. You probably would need to really like trains and not mind all the blaring horns to stomach living in that town.
I've lived within a few miles of busy tracks multiple times in my life. You get used to them and end up sleeping right through them.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on March 13, 2015, 12:37:51 AM
Quote from: jbnv on March 12, 2015, 11:39:42 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on March 12, 2015, 01:07:27 PM
I feel sorry for some of the home owners in Ashdown, especially anyone living on East Whittaker Street. You probably would need to really like trains and not mind all the blaring horns to stomach living in that town.
I've lived within a few miles of busy tracks multiple times in my life. You get used to them and end up sleeping right through them.


I'm about 1/4 mile from a crossing that sees maybe 3-4 trains a day. Never heard any go through at night and pretty much ignore them during the day... except about once a week when someone really lays into the train horn
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on March 13, 2015, 05:19:40 AM
Quote from: jbnv on March 12, 2015, 11:39:42 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on March 12, 2015, 01:07:27 PM
I feel sorry for some of the home owners in Ashdown, especially anyone living on East Whittaker Street. You probably would need to really like trains and not mind all the blaring horns to stomach living in that town.
I've lived within a few miles of busy tracks multiple times in my life. You get used to them and end up sleeping right through them.

The house I grew up in is 1000 feet from the railroad tracks and yes, you get used to them. Right now I live several miles from the nearest railroad grade crossing and I kind of miss the sound of the trains late at night. I had a friend who lived 500 feet from the railroad and when a train would come by, it would shake the house and the rotating light would shine through the windows. The dogs would howl when the train was coming by.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on March 13, 2015, 05:22:57 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on March 12, 2015, 01:07:27 PM
I feel sorry for some of the home owners in Ashdown, especially anyone living on East Whittaker Street. You probably would need to really like trains and not mind all the blaring horns to stomach living in that town.

I feel sorry for Ashdown residents, especially those on the south end of town, for another reason: there's a huge stinky paper mill there. Ashdown is one place where I will never live. We always called it "Assdown" because it smells like ass.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on March 13, 2015, 09:17:20 AM
Quote from: bugo on March 13, 2015, 05:22:57 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on March 12, 2015, 01:07:27 PM
I feel sorry for some of the home owners in Ashdown, especially anyone living on East Whittaker Street. You probably would need to really like trains and not mind all the blaring horns to stomach living in that town.

I feel sorry for Ashdown residents, especially those on the south end of town, for another reason: there's a huge stinky paper mill there. Ashdown is one place where I will never live. We always called it "Assdown" because it smells like ass.
Smells like really cheap, nasty sauerkraut. So does southeast of Pine Bluff.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on March 24, 2015, 01:53:45 PM
International Paper Mill south of Texarkana doesn't smell too nice either.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: cjk374 on March 25, 2015, 06:50:38 AM
Name a paper mill that smells like a country fresh day?
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on March 29, 2015, 11:58:36 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 04, 2015, 03:57:24 PM
this February 2, 2015 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2015/02/02/i-30-i-369-projects-slated-for-this-year-592172.php) reports that I-369 is close to achieving a minor milestone: its first maintenance contract since it received the I-369 designation:
Quote
... part of Interstate 369 ... closer to getting some repair and replacement attention from the Texas Department of Transportation.
During a recent meeting, both the Texarkana Metropolitan Planning Organization's Technical Committee and Policy Board agreed on three projects to receive funds from the Texas State Proposition 1 measure approved by voters in last year's November election.
Of the three projects, two are designated as resurfacing efforts. One ... is further south on I-369 and extends for a one-mile stretch of the interstate's length between U.S. Highway 82 and Texas State Highway 93.

This March 26 article (http://txktoday.com/news/interstate-369us-59-to-be-resurfaced-in-texarkana/) reports that TxDOT will resurface a 3.3 mile (not 1 mile) section of I-369 between I-30 (not U.S. 82) and SH 93, and that the project should begin in May and conclude by the end of the summer:

Quote
A section of Interstate 369/US 59 in Texarkana will receive a new riding surface this year according to plans approved in March by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
"We will be resurfacing a 3.3-mile section of the highway between I-30 and State Highway 93 (Lake Drive). We will also be doing similar work on a short section of the I-30 eastbound auxiliary lanes between I-369 and Richmond Road,"  said Kenny Icenhower, area engineer for TxDOT in Texarkana. "Some of the old pavement will be removed, repairs made to the underlying materials and then the entire roadway will be repaved."
This work was made possible by additional funding received from the Proposition 1 that Texas voters overwhelmingly approved in November. This allocation directs a portion of oil and gas tax revenues into the State Highway Fund in an effort to address roadway congestion, safety and the growing demands on the state's infrastructure.
R. K. Hall of Paris, TX, was awarded the contract for the construction project with a bid of $2.9 million.
Work on the project should begin in May and be completed by the end of the summer, Icenhower said.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: bugo on March 31, 2015, 06:22:40 PM
It would be funny if I-69 in Texas would be cancelled leaving I-369 an orphaned route (which is really what it is now).
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Molandfreak on April 01, 2015, 01:31:08 PM
Quote from: bugo on March 31, 2015, 06:22:40 PM
It would be funny if I-69 in Texas would be cancelled leaving I-369 an orphaned route (which is really what it is now).
It really should just be I-130 as-is.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: english si on April 02, 2015, 12:28:57 PM
I-130 is the other side of Texarkana (now signed as I-49).

Personally I'd have existing I-369 forming half of I-249, if it needs the blue-and-red signs.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Greybear on April 03, 2015, 12:14:05 AM
Ever thought about I-369 becoming I-230 and having it loop around to I-49, if I-69 were to be abandoned.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: dariusb on April 03, 2015, 03:03:40 AM
^Sounds good to me.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Molandfreak on April 03, 2015, 03:54:07 PM
Quote from: Greybear on April 03, 2015, 12:14:05 AM
Ever thought about I-369 becoming I-230 and having it loop around to I-49, if I-69 were to be abandoned.
It should be that way regardless of weather I-69 is abandoned. ;-)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on April 03, 2015, 09:59:06 PM
Quote from: cjk374 on March 25, 2015, 06:50:38 AM
Name a paper mill that smells like a country fresh day?
Alanland ;)
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on April 21, 2015, 10:29:30 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 06, 2014, 04:21:02 PM
I recently stumbled across a February 2014 Power Point presentation (http://texarkanacitytx.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=1004&MediaPosition=&ID=1044&CssClass=) that includes a slide envisioning "I-69 TXK Western Loop" going to the TexAmericas Center and north of I-30 (continuing as the Northern Loop?):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fhefr89N.png&hash=268330ca79f9cb78eec8a9bdf67f3c4bd3211a1f)
... It's also interesting that the ... slide suggests a Northern Loop connection to I-49, which makes sense considering the Intermodal Center part of the slide includes I-30, I-49 and I-69 shields.

This April 11 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2015/04/11/funding-economic-engines-428416.php) reports on a recent presentation by the President of the Interstate 49 International Coalition, Curt Green, that includes emphasis on the importance of  the future connection of I-49 to the TexAmericas Center:

Quote
As president of the Interstate 49 International Coalition, Curt Green let his audience know Thursday that Texarkana represented a smooth-running motor at the Economic Engines of the Ark-La-Tex meeting.
The meeting, known as the Tri-State Conference, focused on how cities such as Texarkana, which sits in I-49's corridor, could become one of those such engines.
Green also cited TexAmericas Center ... as poised to help fuel Texarkana as an economic engine. He emphasized TexAmericas because of its large open real estate and strategic position near the future intersection of Interstate 30 and I-49–once the last 140 miles of I-49 connecting Fort Smith, Ark., to Texarkana are built.
Formed in 1997 in the aftermath of the Base Realignment and Closure Commission's review of the RRAD, TexAmericas now has 12,000 acres available for modern industrial and commercial business development–space that is also inside a designated foreign trade zone, Green explained.
As a not-for-profit industrial development company, the center is in the process of repairing and maintaining 36 miles of rail system, 200 miles of roadway, 240,000 square feet of warehouse space and 170,000 square feet of dry storage space. ....
Texas is also getting serious about opening the Interstate 69 corridor, he said. One portion of it received official designation along a stretch of U.S. Highway 59 in Texarkana with a ceremony in September 2013.

Although the I-49 "intersection with I-30" that would provide access to TexAmericas Center, if ever, would probably be via the Northern Loop with the actual I-30 interchange being with a new terrain I-369 west of the current I-369, the big picture (putting aside roadgeek details) is that the I-49 boosters are joining the the I-69 Corridor boosters in emphasizing the importance of good access to the TexAmericas Center.

Otherwise, the article does not have any new I-49 funding or construction developments, but it does include a new rallying cry for I-49 boosters: "Too Close to Stop Now":

Quote
Green gave the audience an update on the interstate's status, since it's "Too Close to Stop Now,"  when it comes to completion.
"Where we are today?"  he asked. "We have a roadway that is now 80 percent complete, with 5 percent of that remaining 20 percent now being worked on in the 140-mile stretch between Fort Smith and Texarkana. The remaining 15 percent of that stretch still needs funding. Since work started on getting the interstate extended north throughout the rest of Louisiana in the 1980s, you can see that Louisiana has done a good job of making it a financial priority down here."
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on July 11, 2015, 11:13:04 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on December 16, 2014, 12:30:28 PM
This December 14 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/12/14/signs-of-unity-842363.php) reports that Texas and Arkansas may soon have similar "Welcome to Texarkana" signs along I-30 (if TxDOT and FHWA grant a size waiver on the Texas side), and that such signs may be in the future for I-49 and I-69 [I-369]:
Quote
During their Dec. 8 meeting, the Texarkana, Texas, City Council members expressed interest in putting in a city welcome sign for visitors coming from the west. Texarkana, Ark., is already working to complete a welcome sign for visitors coming from the east on I-30 ....
Texarkana, Ark., Public Works Director Paul Hackleman said the sign being constructed just outside the the Country Hills Subdivision should be complete prior to the end of the year, but weather will be the determining factor ....
"The city needs the entry signs not only for both states, but for all major entry points to Texarkana,"  Hackleman wrote in a Dec. 12 email. "Texarkana, Ark., is very proud to have Texarkana, Texas, moving forward with a similar sign on I-30. We will need the same for I-69, I-49, (U.S.) Highway 67, (U.S.) Highway 71 and (U.S.) Highway 82."

This article (https://txktoday.com/news/ribbon-cutting-officially-opens-welcome-to-texarkana-sign/) reports that a ribbon cutting was recently held for the I-30 Arkansas sign near the I-49 interchange:

Quote
The Texarkana Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Welcome to Texarkana sign along Interstate 30 Friday morning.
The sign which welcomes westbound I-30 drivers to Texarkana just before the Interstate 49 interchange ...

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FxMFld4D.jpg&hash=8928594c675a1a7505e424bd4a78896d99c8b8d5)

The article does not mention whether any progress for a similar sign has been made on the Texas side.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: txstateends on July 13, 2015, 07:43:27 AM
Holy crap, that's a *big* monument sign....  Are they all going to be that big?

The only thing I've seen that's even relatively close in size was the Sam Houston statue on the NB side of I-45 coming up to Huntsville.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 06, 2015, 07:03:32 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 01, 2014, 10:30:34 PM
Quote from: US71 on February 05, 2014, 07:21:37 PM
SB 549 at 151
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7295%2F8935812923_7be160998f_z_d.jpg&hash=29f7b8de2c53a79c847d522aaa4a4c53852cea25)
...
As an aside, it's strange that the "thru" highway (549) exits.  I wonder if AHTD will ever change this?
AHTD, with the upcoming redesignation of AR 549 to I-49, I-49 will need to replace AR 549 ... To follow up on US71's question, does AHTD intend to make I-49 the "through" route ... ?

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):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fb9Y9tPp.jpg&hash=61c239f848e3038030222eb9bdaffb23f4627a8c)

Alas, the exit sign for I-49 to exit onto itself can still be seen in the distance.  :no:  Maybe AHTD wanted to avoid a left exit for AR 151.  :)

edit

More recent imagery of the above BGSes is discussed in the I-49 in Arkansas (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2144668#msg2144668) thread.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on September 18, 2015, 12:17:02 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 03, 2014, 12:18:05 PM
This December 26 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2013/12/26/all-roads-lead-here-620528.php) reports that Carlow and Green, as well as other Texarkana business leaders, met to discuss the future importance of Interstates 49 and 69, with Green even going so far to say that every mile of I-69 that Texas completes "has just as much impact on I-49"
Quote from: Grzrd on March 24, 2014, 07:56:29 PM
This Arkansas Business article (http://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/97720/texarkana-central-to-upcoming-transportation-growth) discusses I-49 and I-369 in Texarkana and suggests that progress on I-369 may spur some action from Arkansas on the Fort Smith-to-Texarkana section of I-49
Quote from: Grzrd on April 21, 2015, 10:29:30 PM
This April 11 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2015/04/11/funding-economic-engines-428416.php) reports on a recent presentation by the President of the Interstate 49 International Coalition, Curt Green, that includes emphasis on the importance of  the future connection of I-49 to the TexAmericas Center

This September 18 Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2015/09/18/officials-stress-importance-of-completin-873174.php) reports on a recent presentation by Curt Green in which he remarked that Texas' I-69 development could provide an incentive to complete I-49 in Arkansas because "a traffic jam is coming to Texarkana":

Quote
While the Fouke Monster might be considered a "missing link"  between primitive man and modern man, but for Curt Green, the real missing link is between Fort Smith, Ark., and Texarkana, Ark.
During a presentation before members of the Shreveport, La.-based Coordinating and Development Corp. at Fouke's Stanley Davis Community Center on Thursday, Green, who serves as I-49 International Coalition president, delivered a 15-minute, 45-slide presentation to about 125 local and area residents and officials ....
The missing highway between Fort Smith and Texarkana is estimated to cost $2.6 billion to construct, and Green said finding that money is the project's greatest obstacle. This is because funding is so uncertain given the $18 trillion national debt ....
Green added that Texas' Interstate 69 project could provide incentive to finish up in Arkansas, as it shows a future Houston connection to I-49–as evidenced by a 3-mile portion of U.S. Highway 59 being re-designated as part of the future I-69 during a dedication ceremony two years ago in Texarkana.
"A traffic jam is coming to Texarkana, so it's very important that we get I-49 completed,"  he said.




Quote from: Grzrd on November 11, 2014, 02:00:44 PM
This Texarkana Gazette article (behind paywall) (http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/2014/11/11/i-49-opens-from-city-to-shreveport-600007.php) suggests that Mena may be the first town on the Fort Smith-to-Texarkana section to have I-49 construction:
Quote
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.”
(above quote from I-49 in Arkansas (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3324.msg2019588#msg2019588) thread)

Unfortunately, the September 18 article does not report whether Green provided any clues this time about the possible first project for the Fort Smith-to-Texarkana section of I-49.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on October 13, 2015, 09:03:57 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on June 12, 2014, 08:46:02 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 14, 2014, 12:49:21 PM
I recently had an email Q & A with the Tourism Research & Information Services of the Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism in order to see if Arkansas had any plans to build a Welcome Center counterpart to the one under study in Louisiana:
Quote
Q: Louisiana is now conducting a site study for a Welcome Center on southbound I-49 near the AR state line.  Is Arkansas planning on a new Welcome Center on northbound I-49 north of the state line?
A: Arkansas operates a Welcome Center in Texarkana; currently there is not another one planned for this area.
....It looks like it is now up to the Fouke Monster (http://www.foukemonster.net/sightings.htm) to increase his appearances in order to gin up some tourism between the Louisiana state line and Texarkana.  :spin:
This TV video (http://www.ktbs.com/story/25754179/fouke-leaders-discuss-i-49-plans) reports that Fouke leaders do not want to rely on the Monster and are working to get a Welcome Center in Fouke:
Quote
Interstate 49 promises economic growth across the country, as well as, in some of our own communities.
The City of Fouke is hoping to take advantage of that potential growth ....
Pat Allen of Fouke is the president of the "Citizens for a Better Community" group.
"I believe I-49 will quadruple the size of Fouke within five to ten years," said Allen ....
Community leaders say they're working to get a visitor welcome center in Fouke, but no final decision has been made.

This article (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2015/oct/13/fouke-mulls-reservoir-welcome-center-spot/) reports that AHTD does not want to pursue the possibility of a Fouke welcome center because the agency believes that the cost would be prohibitive:

Quote
Deryl Jones would like a new reservoir to be built in the Sulphur River Wildlife Management Area. He also believes there should be a welcome center in town on Interstate 49.
A couple of state agencies disagree. Jones, chairman of the Miller County Rural Development Authority, based in Fouke, said his group will persist ....
Clarice Allen, a Texarkana lawyer writing on behalf of the city of Fouke, in 2014 asked the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department to begin a feasibility study to determine the best site in Fouke for a welcome center. Fouke is only 15 miles from the Louisiana state line on I-49, she wrote, is the first city northbound, and has the utilities and other necessary services readily available.
Fouke also has property owners willing to sell or dedicate land for the welcome center, Allen wrote.
No thanks, the Highway Department responded.
The department, in partnership with the state Department of Parks and Tourism, already has two welcome centers in the Texarkana area, agency director Scott Bennett wrote to Allen.
The creation of a third welcome center would duplicate services already available at those two welcome centers, Bennett wrote, adding that the cost of a third would be "beyond the capabilities of either agency."
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Grzrd on February 07, 2016, 01:51:01 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 01, 2012, 11:45:35 AM
The Alliance for I-69 Texas, in an article on its website, I-69 Scores Victory in Passage of MAP-21 Highway Bill (http://i69texasalliance.com/NewsUpdates/update7.1.12.html), indicates that the Texarkana I-69 Spur will eventually be a 3di:
Quote
A 5-mile section of US 59 connecting to I-30 in Texarkana is being processed for designation as part of an I-69 system element. Because the primary national I-69 route extends into Louisiana south of Texarkana in Shelby County, section 118-mile section from I-30 south to Tenaha will be on the I-69 system but its specific numbering will be determined under the guidelines for interstate spur routes which carry a three-digit number using the number of the main route with an odd-number prefix such as 369 or 569.
Quote from: robbones on February 11, 2015, 02:33:54 PM
I noticed that the I 369 mms were put up on the far northern section. Going NB it starts as mm 111.

July 2015 Google StreetView imagery (https://www.google.com/maps/@33.4416496,-94.0966756,3a,75y,1h,90t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s_DB_xZi761049_4KJVa_gQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) shows mile marker 108 just south of the I-369/ I-30 interchange:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FNawlyTQ.jpg&hash=87e43a50159f9cf678ae99f7eac352f9d0c7f654)

Proceeding northward, the mile marker numbers decrease. Are these mile markers preexisting US 59 mile markers?  If so, then it is a notable coincidence that the numbers are very close to what they will be under I-369's mileage (assuming "mainline" I-369 will not be on the proposed TexAmericas Center relief route corridor, but that's another discussion (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=10684.msg2083699#msg2083699)).
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: yakra on February 08, 2016, 12:53:17 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 07, 2016, 01:51:01 PM
Proceeding northward, the mile marker numbers decrease. Are these mile markers preexisting US 59 mile markers?
Increasing southbound, I'd guess that they're preexisting US 59 mile markers. IIRC TX uses this offbeat mile reference system on non-interstates, measuring from the northernmost, and... westernmost? edges of the state. (If you wanna see some wacky hijinks, check out the exit numbering on TX130.) I'm sure there are a few TX experts on here who know more about it than I do and can explain in better detail.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: Road Hog on February 08, 2016, 01:53:14 AM
Quote from: yakra on February 08, 2016, 12:53:17 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 07, 2016, 01:51:01 PM
Proceeding northward, the mile marker numbers decrease. Are these mile markers preexisting US 59 mile markers?
Increasing southbound, I'd guess that they're preexisting US 59 mile markers. IIRC TX uses this offbeat mile reference system on non-interstates, measuring from the northernmost, and... westernmost? edges of the state. (If you wanna see some wacky hijinks, check out the exit numbering on TX130.) I'm sure there are a few TX experts on here who know more about it than I do and can explain in better detail.

Yes, if I have it right, north-south mileages are measured from a straight line extended east and west from the top of the Panhandle. East-west mileages are measured from the longitude of the westernmost tip of the state near El Paso. So the overall zero point where the two lines intersect is somewhere in New Mexico.  :sombrero:

Apparently the reference marker system didn't come about until the late 1980s.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: US71 on February 08, 2016, 09:42:59 AM
My guess would be 369 mileposts. All Texas highways have mileag, but it's usually a small "collar" below the route sign. Given these are more expressway/interstate-style, I would say they are for I-369 mileage.
Title: Re: Texarkana (Future I-49, I-69 Spur)
Post by: lordsutch on February 08, 2016, 01:50:59 PM
Quote from: Road Hog on February 08, 2016, 01:53:14 AM
Yes, if I have it right, north-south mileages are measured from a straight line extended east and west from the top of the Panhandle. East-west mileages are measured from the longitude of the westernmost tip of the state near El Paso. So the overall zero point where the two lines intersect is somewhere in New Mexico.  :sombrero:

Apparently the reference marker system didn't come about until the late 1980s.

Technically the zero point is ten miles west and ten miles north of said point (http://onlinemanuals.txdot.gov/txdotmanuals/trm/reference_markers_coordinates.htm).

That said, the mile marker numbering should be somewhere in the 200s if it's based on the Texas state system, so it's definitely based on I-369 mileage. If I had to guess, whoever installed the mile markers installed them backwards (north-to-south, according to the TxDOT rules, instead of south-to-north, according to the Interstate rules), not realizing the origin point is supposed to be Tenaha.