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Regional Boards => Mid-South => Topic started by: US71 on August 29, 2010, 08:00:40 PM

Title: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on August 29, 2010, 08:00:40 PM

Gridlock Guru (http://www.nwaonline.com/news/2010/aug/27/gridlock-guru-i-540-adds-road-names-its-e-20100827/) reports that AHTD is changing all the exit signs along I-540 between Fayetteville and the Missouri State Line to "Urban" designations... or street named exits as opposed to destinations.
I noticed this Friday on my way to Missouri. Exit 62 (US 62/AR 180) has changed from the Farmington/University of Arkansas Exit to Martin Luther King Jr Drive.

Here is my guess as to the exit changes: (UPDATED)

Exit 60 (AR 112/AR 265): currently posted as Razorback Rd/Cato Springs Rd. No change
Correct

Exit 61 (US 71): Fayetteville to ?? (Fulbright Expressway?, Airport?, School Ave {NO!})
No change

Exit 64 (AR 16 West/ Spur 112): has always been Wedington Dr, so that will probably not change.
Correct

Exit 65 (Porter Rd: no change (recently upgraded to Clearview)
Correct

Exit 66 (AR 112): "no name" exit to Garland Ave
Correct

Exit 67 (Bus 71): Fayetteville Business District to ?? (Fulbright Expressway? College Ave? {NO!!}
No change

Exit 69: Johnson to Greathouse Springs Rd or Main St
Greathouse Springs Road

Exit 72 (US 412): Springdale/Tontitown/Siloam Springs to Sunset Ave
Correct

Exit 73 (Elm Springs Road): no change... recently upgraded to Clearview
Correct

Exit 76 (Wagon Wheel Road): no change
Correct

Exit 78 (AR 264): Lowell/Cave Springs/Rogers to W. Monroe Ave
Correct

Exit 81 (Pleasant Grove Road): No change... recently upgraded to Clearview
Correct

Exit 82 (Promenade Blvd): No change... new exit, already Clearview
Correct

Exit 83 (AR 94 East): Currently posted as New Hope Road / Pinnacle Hills Pkwy. Will lose AR 94 designation, but remain New Hope/Promenade
Pinnacle Hills Parkway

Exit 85 (US 71B/AR 12): Currently Bentonville/Rogers to Walton Blvd/Walnut St
71B, WEST AR 12
SE Walton Blvd
  Walnut St

Exit 86 (US 62/ AR 102): Bentonville/Rogers to SE 14th St
West AR 102, East US 62, East AR 12
SE 14th St
  Hudson Rd

Exit 88 (AR 72): Bentonville/ Pea Ridge to NE Central

Exit 93 (US 71B): Bentonville to NW Walton Blvd

Exit 98 (AR 340): Lancashire Blvd... no change, already upgraded to Clearview
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: bugo on August 29, 2010, 09:15:30 PM
Quote from: US71 on August 29, 2010, 08:00:40 PM
Exit 69: Johnson to Greathouse Springs Rd or Main St

No more Exit 69/Johnson?  Noooooooooo!
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: agentsteel53 on August 29, 2010, 09:20:28 PM
that is okay; exit 69 on I-75 in Michigan is Big Beaver Creek.  that'll do.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on August 29, 2010, 11:48:31 PM
Quote from: bugo on August 29, 2010, 09:15:30 PM
Quote from: US71 on August 29, 2010, 08:00:40 PM
Exit 69: Johnson to Greathouse Springs Rd or Main St

No more Exit 69/Johnson?  Noooooooooo!

Better get up there and get some photos ;)
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: Brandon on August 30, 2010, 05:26:36 PM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on August 29, 2010, 09:20:28 PM
that is okay; exit 69 on I-75 in Michigan is Big Beaver Creek.  that'll do.

Big Beaver Road, not Creek.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: cjk374 on April 08, 2011, 12:14:22 AM
What "official" reason do they give for this expensive and useless (my opinion) changing of all of these exit signs?  I know in another thread, you showed the US 65 NORTH exit on I-40 at Conway being change from 3 control points to a street name...what logic do they base these changes on?  :hmmm:
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on April 08, 2011, 12:43:14 AM
Quote from: cjk374 on April 08, 2011, 12:14:22 AM
What "official" reason do they give for this expensive and useless (my opinion) changing of all of these exit signs?  I know in another thread, you showed the US 65 NORTH exit on I-40 at Conway being change from 3 control points to a street name...what logic do they base these changes on?  :hmmm:

Signs were (supposedly) out/worn out. Many were button-copy. AHTD says they got a Federal Grant to replace the signs.

... We are in the process of replacing most of the signs along I-40 from the Oklahoma state line to North Little Rock. Those "BGS's" as you call them begin losing their reflectivity, or conspicuity, after about ten years. Most of the signs we are replacing have been in place for more than 20 years. I think you'll be able to tell the difference, especially at night, between the old signs and the new ones.

    As for how these signs are being paid for, let me say that highway funding is a very complex issue. This project is being funded with a combination of federal funds plus the required state match. Our federal funds come to us in dozens of categories with specific criteria on how those funds can be used. The federal funds we are using for the sign replacement project are not funds that could be used to construct I-49. As for your suggestion that we set the money aside to later go towards I-49, that practice is not allowed.  Federal funds must be expended, or they must be returned to the federal government where they are then sent to other states. I want to point out that Arkansas has never returned money to the federal government - we have too many needs to be sending money back.


As for the Exit designation change, it has something to do with "metropolitan" areas.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: bassoon1986 on September 16, 2011, 12:33:58 PM
so in place of city names on the 540 exits, are there now signs for say "Rogers...next _ exits" ?  or a separate sign for exit 72 that says "Siloam Springs next exit" ? 
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on September 16, 2011, 06:25:07 PM
Quote from: bassoon1986 on September 16, 2011, 12:33:58 PM
so in place of city names on the 540 exits, are there now signs for say "Rogers...next _ exits" ?  or a separate sign for exit 72 that says "Siloam Springs next exit" ?  

There are signs for Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers and Bentonville that say "xx Next 6 Exits" (or however many there are).

There are separate, free standing signs for Johnson, Siloam Springs, University of Arkansas that say "xx Exit 69" (or whatever exit it is)
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: M86 on September 17, 2011, 03:54:01 AM
US71 is correct.  I noticed recently, that they changed the northbound signage for "Rogers Next 6 Exits" to "Rogers Next 5 Exits".  This is to exclude the Monroe Ave (Lowell exit).  And it makes sense. 
For some reason, the signage overhaul hasn't reached Exit 85, Exit 86, or Exit 88.  The northbound signage for Exit 86 is some of the worst I've ever seen on a sign.  It's completely faded, and barely readable.  Yet, AHTD decides to replace other signage along I-540 before the dilapidated ones along 540 at Exit 86 (and northbound Exit 85).  They have been replacing those signs for months.  I don't understand why it takes so long to put the new ones in.  That, and I can't stomach the stupid abbreviations that AHTD uses!  "Nat".. Is that natural (AR is the natural state) or national?  "Wash", "Co", "Reg"... People going by at 70 mph will not be able to make the decision!

On a side note, AHTD is putting in a cable median barrier along I-540 between Exit 86 and Fayetteville.  That's like putting a Band-Aid on a gaping wound.  Yeah, its nice, but get the issues at the core of it.  Capacity and design issues!  It just irks me beyond reason... Especially since Little Rock has the highest Interstate miles per capita of large cities.  I-540 is one of the most dangerous roadways in AR, and those in Little Rock will not address the core issue.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on September 17, 2011, 09:45:47 AM
Quote from: M86 on September 17, 2011, 03:54:01 AM
US71 is correct.  I noticed recently, that they changed the northbound signage for "Rogers Next 6 Exits" to "Rogers Next 5 Exits".  This is to exclude the Monroe Ave (Lowell exit).  And it makes sense.  
For some reason, the signage overhaul hasn't reached Exit 85, Exit 86, or Exit 88.  The northbound signage for Exit 86 is some of the worst I've ever seen on a sign.  It's completely faded, and barely readable.  Yet, AHTD decides to replace other signage along I-540 before the dilapidated ones along 540 at Exit 86 (and northbound Exit 85).  They have been replacing those signs for months.  I don't understand why it takes so long to put the new ones in.  That, and I can't stomach the stupid abbreviations that AHTD uses!  "Nat".. Is that natural (AR is the natural state) or national?  "Wash", "Co", "Reg"... People going by at 70 mph will not be able to make the decision!


AHTD has a contractor doing the signs and they appear to be doing them in order. 264 signage was just upgraded last month, so there must be a delay.  Part of the reason the signage looks so bad for Exit 86 (US 62/AR 102) is some of the signs got damaged when the Olive St /SW 28th St bridge got widened last year (again proving AHTD is reactive, not proactive).

Oh, and it didn't help that they had to fix the signs at Exit 69  :pan:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm5.static.flickr.com%2F4104%2F5221269601_0018fef9a6_d.jpg&hash=e83728daedf9308d6e1e50d9cb73695f049ac090)  (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm6.static.flickr.com%2F5137%2F5562126862_ec4393517f_d.jpg&hash=b610cf68d75eda24ab220037494cc82026220cda)
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: M86 on September 18, 2011, 08:45:07 AM
The Olive/28th bridge widening did not affect the signage on I-540 for Exit 86 at all.  The signs were already in huge disrepair, but the construction didn't make them worse.

And I saw the Johnson/Exit 69 sign craziness... and noticed it right away.  So much money wasted...

My favorite AHTD gaffe is the signage on the southbound off-ramp at Exit 86.  It says Hudson Road is to the west (right). 

And, they replaced a "north" banner on an I-540 sign with a black on white.  It irks me every time I drive by it.


Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on September 18, 2011, 09:19:58 AM
Quote from: M86 on September 18, 2011, 08:45:07 AM
The Olive/28th bridge widening did not affect the signage on I-540 for Exit 86 at all.  The signs were already in huge disrepair, but the construction didn't make them worse.

And I saw the Johnson/Exit 69 sign craziness... and noticed it right away.  So much money wasted...

My favorite AHTD gaffe is the signage on the southbound off-ramp at Exit 86.  It says Hudson Road is to the west (right). 

And, they replaced a "north" banner on an I-540 sign with a black on white.  It irks me every time I drive by it.


I noticed that banner last week on my way home from Springfield. I meant to get a photo, but didn't.

I wrote AHTD about "Great House Spring Rd" and they already knew about the mistake. Their response was something like "We didn't know better because the street signs are wrong"

I'm curious how they will handle Exit 85 (71B/AR 12) given 540 runs along the city limits between Rogers and Bentonville.

Now if you look at SB signage for Exit 86, it's in much better shape. It also uses the 1970's -style shield for US 62, but NB uses an earlier design.  I need to remember to get photos next time I'm up that way.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: Scott5114 on September 18, 2011, 10:04:24 AM
Is the Greathouse sign a patch or an all new sign?
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on September 18, 2011, 10:34:31 AM
Quote from: Scott5114 on September 18, 2011, 10:04:24 AM
Is the Greathouse sign a patch or an all new sign?

All New.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: M86 on September 19, 2011, 02:29:33 AM
Quote from: US71 on September 18, 2011, 09:19:58 AM
Quote from: M86 on September 18, 2011, 08:45:07 AM
The Olive/28th bridge widening did not affect the signage on I-540 for Exit 86 at all.  The signs were already in huge disrepair, but the construction didn't make them worse.

And I saw the Johnson/Exit 69 sign craziness... and noticed it right away.  So much money wasted...

My favorite AHTD gaffe is the signage on the southbound off-ramp at Exit 86.  It says Hudson Road is to the west (right). 

And, they replaced a "north" banner on an I-540 sign with a black on white.  It irks me every time I drive by it.


I noticed that banner last week on my way home from Springfield. I meant to get a photo, but didn't.

I wrote AHTD about "Great House Spring Rd" and they already knew about the mistake. Their response was something like "We didn't know better because the street signs are wrong"

I'm curious how they will handle Exit 85 (71B/AR 12) given 540 runs along the city limits between Rogers and Bentonville.

Now if you look at SB signage for Exit 86, it's in much better shape. It also uses the 1970's -style shield for US 62, but NB uses an earlier design.  I need to remember to get photos next time I'm up that way.

I'm one of those who like the newer shields of everything (I know I'll get a lot of crap for that!).  I hate the old fonts... What does AR use for older state shields?  I hate it.
I noticed that they signed the "Hobbs State Park and Conservation Area" at Exit 86, rather than Exit 85.  It'll be interesting to see the new Exit 85/86 signage.

Also, why are they inconsistent with the new signage?  Some of the exit tabs are Clearview, and some aren't.  It drives the OCD in me crazy!  If you're going to do Clearview, do it right and consistently.

I've emailed AHTD a few times.  There's an obvious missing "AR 102" shield missing from the signage assembly at the northbound Exit 86 off-ramp.  And it hasn't been fixed... Yet they updated a few signs along the same ramp.  It boggles my mind.  I think the AHTD needs a huge "clean-up"... The fact that Little Rock has one of the highest Interstate miles per capita further drives me insane.




Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on September 19, 2011, 11:17:20 AM
M86:

I think some of the inconsistencies may be the result of some of the signs being replaced individually perhaps by AHTD over the last couple years rather than during the Upgrade project which is being done by a contractor (Elm Springs Road was replaced a couple years ago, as was Wagon Wheel Rd. Promenade Blvd is a new exit)

But you know Arkansas does everything on the cheap (like not posting 71 along 540).

If you contact AHTD, write directly to Joe Shipman (Joe.Shipman at arkansashighways.com). If you go through Little Rock, it will delay things a few days or you'll get an idiot who doesn't understand your question (I once asked when the state shields went from State xx Road to Arkansas XX and was told "we quit using those signs in 1971 because the MUTCD was revised")

Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: agentsteel53 on September 19, 2011, 11:42:40 AM
Quote from: US71 on September 19, 2011, 11:17:20 AM(I once asked when the state shields went from State xx Road to Arkansas XX and was told "we quit using those signs in 1971 because the MUTCD was revised")



did you actually get a correct answer to that?  my guess is around 1932 but a definite answer would be awesome
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on September 19, 2011, 11:57:46 AM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on September 19, 2011, 11:42:40 AM
Quote from: US71 on September 19, 2011, 11:17:20 AM(I once asked when the state shields went from State xx Road to Arkansas XX and was told "we quit using those signs in 1971 because the MUTCD was revised")



did you actually get a correct answer to that?  my guess is around 1932 but a definite answer would be awesome

Nope. I'm guessing they changed when the square font was eliminated. but AHTD never could answer my question.  :pan:
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: agentsteel53 on September 19, 2011, 12:05:03 PM
Quote from: US71 on September 19, 2011, 11:57:46 AM


Nope. I'm guessing they changed when the square font was eliminated. but AHTD never could answer my question.  :pan:

oh, you're right!  the 1932 is I think when they switched away from fully embossed to printed-number.  indeed, I know of no round font "STATE ROAD" signs and no block font signs with "ARKANSAS" so the transition might indeed be 1948 or just after.

in other news, I just received a photo of a US-71 shield with cateyes.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on September 19, 2011, 12:33:51 PM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on September 19, 2011, 12:05:03 PM
Quote from: US71 on September 19, 2011, 11:57:46 AM


Nope. I'm guessing they changed when the square font was eliminated. but AHTD never could answer my question.  :pan:

oh, you're right!  the 1932 is I think when they switched away from fully embossed to printed-number.  indeed, I know of no round font "STATE ROAD" signs and no block font signs with "ARKANSAS" so the transition might indeed be 1948 or just after.

in other news, I just received a photo of a US-71 shield with cateyes.

Tease.

Oh, the 3 Missouri cut-outs I sent a while back (61, 160, 136) don't exist anymore: the pizza place was destoyed by the Joplin tornado. :(
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: agentsteel53 on September 19, 2011, 01:07:11 PM
Quote from: US71 on September 19, 2011, 12:33:51 PM

Oh, the 3 Missouri cut-outs I sent a while back (61, 160, 136) don't exist anymore: the pizza place was destoyed by the Joplin tornado. :(

start digging.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on September 19, 2011, 01:41:04 PM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on September 19, 2011, 01:07:11 PM
Quote from: US71 on September 19, 2011, 12:33:51 PM

Oh, the 3 Missouri cut-outs I sent a while back (61, 160, 136) don't exist anymore: the pizza place was destoyed by the Joplin tornado. :(

start digging.

Nothing left
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: M86 on September 20, 2011, 01:16:00 AM
Quote from: US71 on September 19, 2011, 11:17:20 AM
M86:

I think some of the inconsistencies may be the result of some of the signs being replaced individually perhaps by AHTD over the last couple years rather than during the Upgrade project which is being done by a contractor (Elm Springs Road was replaced a couple years ago, as was Wagon Wheel Rd. Promenade Blvd is a new exit)

But you know Arkansas does everything on the cheap (like not posting 71 along 540).

If you contact AHTD, write directly to Joe Shipman (Joe.Shipman at arkansashighways.com). If you go through Little Rock, it will delay things a few days or you'll get an idiot who doesn't understand your question (I once asked when the state shields went from State xx Road to Arkansas XX and was told "we quit using those signs in 1971 because the MUTCD was revised")



Thanks for the tip.  They also do not post US 62 along I-540 between Exit 86 in Rogers and Exit 62 in Fayetteville.  Why the hate for co-signing?  NW Arkansas has a lot of road-related issues that need addressing ASAP... mainly capacity and design issues... *Sigh* I wish this state would give their DOT the funding they need, and stop directing it all towards Little Rock.  But from what I've heard, AHTD needs to clean house too, and get rid of some of those that have been there since the Jimmy Carter administration.

Also, US71, are you familiar with the roadway-lighting policy of AHTD?  I had emailed them about some sort of roadway lighting of I-540 (Roadway lighting is seriously lacking here - on city-maintained and state-maintained roads) in Rogers/Bentonville/Springdale/Fayetteville... It's considered an urban section.  The response I got back was "It is not our policy to install roadway lighting.  I would recommend consulting the cities or counties for that request."  Yet, I've seen roadway lighting along I-40 in rural areas at exits/entrances, and installed in Jonesboro and Conway.  I highly doubt the cities or counties installed that.  Isn't that a bit ridiculous?

Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on September 20, 2011, 08:15:04 AM
Quote from: M86 on September 20, 2011, 01:16:00 AM
Quote from: US71 on September 19, 2011, 11:17:20 AM
M86:

I think some of the inconsistencies may be the result of some of the signs being replaced individually perhaps by AHTD over the last couple years rather than during the Upgrade project which is being done by a contractor (Elm Springs Road was replaced a couple years ago, as was Wagon Wheel Rd. Promenade Blvd is a new exit)

But you know Arkansas does everything on the cheap (like not posting 71 along 540).

If you contact AHTD, write directly to Joe Shipman (Joe.Shipman at arkansashighways.com). If you go through Little Rock, it will delay things a few days or you'll get an idiot who doesn't understand your question (I once asked when the state shields went from State xx Road to Arkansas XX and was told "we quit using those signs in 1971 because the MUTCD was revised")



Thanks for the tip.  They also do not post US 62 along I-540 between Exit 86 in Rogers and Exit 62 in Fayetteville.  Why the hate for co-signing?  NW Arkansas has a lot of road-related issues that need addressing ASAP... mainly capacity and design issues... *Sigh* I wish this state would give their DOT the funding they need, and stop directing it all towards Little Rock.  But from what I've heard, AHTD needs to clean house too, and get rid of some of those that have been there since the Jimmy Carter administration.

I think Bugo asked them a few years ago why 62 and 71 aren't posted and got a BS answer about only posting the "highest priority" road.  However, I believe there are US 71 shields on Porter Road and on AR 112.

Quote

Also, US71, are you familiar with the roadway-lighting policy of AHTD?  I had emailed them about some sort of roadway lighting of I-540 (Roadway lighting is seriously lacking here - on city-maintained and state-maintained roads) in Rogers/Bentonville/Springdale/Fayetteville... It's considered an urban section.  The response I got back was "It is not our policy to install roadway lighting.  I would recommend consulting the cities or counties for that request."  Yet, I've seen roadway lighting along I-40 in rural areas at exits/entrances, and installed in Jonesboro and Conway.  I highly doubt the cities or counties installed that.  Isn't that a bit ridiculous?

Sounds like typical AHTD: half the people seem clueless. I wish Gridlock Guru was still around so someone could ask him to find out.

[/quote]
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on September 20, 2011, 10:05:08 PM
Hey, M86: I caught that Hudson Road error today. Also the lack of arrows for 62/12/102.  Also looks like AHTD (or a contractor) is putting up new sign poles, so maybe the new signage will be up in a few weeks.

Also caught a crew changing "Bridge May Ice Cold Weather" signs to "Bridge Ices Before Roads" . Sadly, they were going south while I was going north. By the time I had turned around, they had finished and moved on. :(
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: M86 on September 24, 2011, 03:43:13 AM
Quote from: US71 on September 20, 2011, 10:05:08 PM
Hey, M86: I caught that Hudson Road error today. Also the lack of arrows for 62/12/102.  Also looks like AHTD (or a contractor) is putting up new sign poles, so maybe the new signage will be up in a few weeks.

Also caught a crew changing "Bridge May Ice Cold Weather" signs to "Bridge Ices Before Roads" . Sadly, they were going south while I was going north. By the time I had turned around, they had finished and moved on. :(
Ahhh... Yes... And AR 12 is new for Exit 86.  AR 12 was at Exit 85 (Walton Blvd/Walnut St).  AHTD moved that up to Exit 86.
They have been replacing everything, signage wise.  I'm still twiddling my thumbs for Exit 85/86... I drive from Exit 86 (one of the worst gridlocks in NWA at peak times, if not all of AR) to the Lowell exit (Exit 78).  US71, if you have access to traffic counts, I'd love to see them.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on September 24, 2011, 09:08:50 AM
Quote from: M86 on September 24, 2011, 03:43:13 AM
Quote from: US71 on September 20, 2011, 10:05:08 PM
Hey, M86: I caught that Hudson Road error today. Also the lack of arrows for 62/12/102.  Also looks like AHTD (or a contractor) is putting up new sign poles, so maybe the new signage will be up in a few weeks.

Also caught a crew changing "Bridge May Ice Cold Weather" signs to "Bridge Ices Before Roads" . Sadly, they were going south while I was going north. By the time I had turned around, they had finished and moved on. :(
Ahhh... Yes... And AR 12 is new for Exit 86.  AR 12 was at Exit 85 (Walton Blvd/Walnut St).  AHTD moved that up to Exit 86.
They have been replacing everything, signage wise.  I'm still twiddling my thumbs for Exit 85/86... I drive from Exit 86 (one of the worst gridlocks in NWA at peak times, if not all of AR) to the Lowell exit (Exit 78).  US71, if you have access to traffic counts, I'd love to see them.


That must be brand new. Last I saw, 12 got rerouted around downtown along 94 and 62, then south along 2nd  (old 62). As soon as I get my photos uploaded, I'll ask AHTD about the arrows and maybe find out about 12.

You should be able to find traffic count info on the AHTD website, but it may take a little bit of looking around.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: M86 on September 25, 2011, 01:47:52 AM
I'm speculating on the AR 12 routing.  Sorry, I should've said that.  I noticed AR 12 being signed at the southbound off ramp at Exit 86 (not on the mainline, but they haven't updated that signage yet).  Also, they signed Hobbs State Park/Conservation Area at Exit 86 now, instead of Exit 85 (northbound only).  And Hobbs State Park/Conservation Area signage appears at both the southbound and northbound off ramps at Exit 86.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: M86 on October 01, 2011, 03:17:02 AM
I have an update:  Exit 85 & 86 signage along I-540 has been replaced (for the most part... not complete yet).  Apparently, now, AR 12 is routed along Walton Blvd (US 71B) in Bentonville east to I-540, then north along 540 to Exit 86 (SE 14th St/Hudson Rd), then to the east along US 62.  This, all according to the new BGS's for Exit 85 and Exit 86 that were just recently put up.  I'm not sure of the routing of AR 12 off of US 62... I may go investigate tomorrow.

Also to note:  On the BGSs at Exit 85, the "B" in the US 71B shield is full-size.  I also noticed a AR 12 shield on a northbound BGS that was in a 3-di AR shield for Exit 86.  Honestly, the signage looks really bad.  I was liking the Clearview, but someone f'ed up these ones.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on October 02, 2011, 06:01:59 PM
Quote from: M86 on October 01, 2011, 03:17:02 AM
I have an update:  Exit 85 & 86 signage along I-540 has been replaced (for the most part... not complete yet).  Apparently, now, AR 12 is routed along Walton Blvd (US 71B) in Bentonville east to I-540, then north along 540 to Exit 86 (SE 14th St/Hudson Rd), then to the east along US 62.  This, all according to the new BGS's for Exit 85 and Exit 86 that were just recently put up.  I'm not sure of the routing of AR 12 off of US 62... I may go investigate tomorrow.

Also to note:  On the BGSs at Exit 85, the "B" in the US 71B shield is full-size.  I also noticed a AR 12 shield on a northbound BGS that was in a 3-di AR shield for Exit 86.  Honestly, the signage looks really bad.  I was liking the Clearview, but someone f'ed up these ones.

DRAT! You beat me to this (I'll have photos in a couple days). As far as AR 12, it follows US 62 back to N 2nd (formerly 62B, formerly US 62), then back south to E Locust  (AR 12 East).  62B has been removed from service, and the City of Rogers has take over Walnut east of 8th and 2nd north of Walnut to Locust.

I'll be in the area tomorrow and will see if I have time to investigate further.

Updated info 10-3-11

This is confusing:

According to the new exit signage, EB AR 12 has a short multiplex with NB I-540 (and US 71/ US 62) before heading east on US 62.

BUT all other signage seems to indicate AR 12 still follows US 71B to AR 94/8th Street in Rogers, north to US 62/Hudson Rd , east to 2nd Street, then south to Locust before heading east towards Beaver Lake.


Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: M86 on October 03, 2011, 02:19:53 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 02, 2011, 06:01:59 PM
Quote from: M86 on October 01, 2011, 03:17:02 AM
I have an update:  Exit 85 & 86 signage along I-540 has been replaced (for the most part... not complete yet).  Apparently, now, AR 12 is routed along Walton Blvd (US 71B) in Bentonville east to I-540, then north along 540 to Exit 86 (SE 14th St/Hudson Rd), then to the east along US 62.  This, all according to the new BGS's for Exit 85 and Exit 86 that were just recently put up.  I'm not sure of the routing of AR 12 off of US 62... I may go investigate tomorrow.

Also to note:  On the BGSs at Exit 85, the "B" in the US 71B shield is full-size.  I also noticed a AR 12 shield on a northbound BGS that was in a 3-di AR shield for Exit 86.  Honestly, the signage looks really bad.  I was liking the Clearview, but someone f'ed up these ones.

DRAT! You beat me to this (I'll have photos in a couple days). As far as AR 12, it follows US 62 back to N 2nd (formerly 62B, formerly US 62), then back south to E Locust  (AR 12 East).  62B has been removed from service, and the City of Rogers has take over Walnut east of 8th and 2nd north of Walnut to Locust.

I'll be in the area tomorrow and will see if I have time to investigate further.


I wanted to take pictures, but I'm afraid of pulling off on the shoulder of 540, especially in that area.  That's pretty much signing your death certificate. :).
On a side note, I was driving south from Missouri around 8 PM tonight, and noticed that they closed off the left lane of 540 south of Exit 86, for the installation of the cable median barrier.  I sincerely hope that is closed overnight only, and not during the day.  Otherwise, my commute is going to be hell... and that's saying that lightly.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on October 03, 2011, 08:39:37 AM
Quote from: M86 on October 03, 2011, 02:19:53 AM
I wanted to take pictures, but I'm afraid of pulling off on the shoulder of 540, especially in that area.  That's pretty much signing your death certificate. :).

Depends what time of day. The hardest part is waiting for semis to pass. I'm usually in the grass, so if something gets hit, it's the van and not me  :spin:. Though if there is LOTS of traffic, I may simply try to do a "drive-by" shot.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: M86 on October 06, 2011, 01:00:07 AM
US71, what area of AR do you live in, if you don't mind me asking?  You can private message me if you want.... I'm not totally familiar with AARoads yet. :)
Also, AHTD updated all of the Exit 86/Exit 85 signage now (10/5)... Complete with horrible/ridiculous abbreviations on the signage (Reg, Ar, Comm, Med, Ctr, Dist, Nat).
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on October 06, 2011, 09:54:10 AM
Quote from: M86 on October 06, 2011, 01:00:07 AM
US71, what area of AR do you live in, if you don't mind me asking?  You can private message me if you want.... I'm not totally familiar with AARoads yet. :)
Also, AHTD updated all of the Exit 86/Exit 85 signage now (10/5)... Complete with horrible/ridiculous abbreviations on the signage (Reg, Ar, Comm, Med, Ctr, Dist, Nat).

Are those MUTCD standard abbreviations?

Where do I live? Hmmm... well, the mileposts on 540 are within a half mile of being accurate to where my apartment is, and I can see Oklahoma from my back door (well, not quite)  :)

In other words: Ft Smith.  :biggrin:
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: M86 on October 07, 2011, 01:32:28 AM
The abbreviations are not in compliance, from what I've found/researched.  MUTCD has a list of acceptable abbreviations for signage... but I'm not sure if it's a "has to be" or "recommendation only" type of thing. Abbreviations on road signs drive me crazy.  :)  I've been wanting to send them an email about it. 

One of my big gripes with the new signage:  No mention of Centerton (west of Bentonville on 102, and now, a decent sized town)... It seems like an obvious addition.  Although AHTD did decide to sign Eureka Springs for southbound 540.  I'll take what I can get.  Yet they kept the Bentonville/Rogers "Business Dist" signs.  Why sign the Bentonville Business "Dist" for Exit 86?  It makes no sense.  Sorry... If only I was in charge... :)
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: codyg1985 on October 07, 2011, 07:19:28 AM
Quote from: M86 on October 06, 2011, 01:00:07 AM
US71, what area of AR do you live in, if you don't mind me asking?  You can private message me if you want.... I'm not totally familiar with AARoads yet. :)
Also, AHTD updated all of the Exit 86/Exit 85 signage now (10/5)... Complete with horrible/ridiculous abbreviations on the signage (Reg, Ar, Comm, Med, Ctr, Dist, Nat).

The only one of those that is listed in the latest MUTCD (section 1A.15) is "Ctr" for Center. If "Nat" refers to National, then according to the MUTCD it should be "Nat'l"

I don't see anything yet that says whether other abbreviations are allowed or not.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: US71 on October 07, 2011, 09:46:07 AM
Quote from: M86 on October 07, 2011, 01:32:28 AM
The abbreviations are not in compliance, from what I've found/researched.  MUTCD has a list of acceptable abbreviations for signage... but I'm not sure if it's a "has to be" or "recommendation only" type of thing. Abbreviations on road signs drive me crazy.  :)  I've been wanting to send them an email about it. 

One of my big gripes with the new signage:  No mention of Centerton (west of Bentonville on 102, and now, a decent sized town)... It seems like an obvious addition.  Although AHTD did decide to sign Eureka Springs for southbound 540.  I'll take what I can get.  Yet they kept the Bentonville/Rogers "Business Dist" signs.  Why sign the Bentonville Business "Dist" for Exit 86?  It makes no sense.  Sorry... If only I was in charge... :)

Well, they probably can't sign the Business District for Bentonville at Exit 88 since 72 has been deleted between 540 and Bus 71.  As for Eureka Springs, it IS a tourist attraction. 

Centerton is posted on some of the non-interstate guide signs.  But if they include Centerton, what about Garfield? ;)

If you DO contact AHTD (I need to, also), let me know what they say.
Title: Re: Named Exits on I-540
Post by: M86 on October 08, 2011, 07:27:04 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 07, 2011, 09:46:07 AM
Quote from: M86 on October 07, 2011, 01:32:28 AM
The abbreviations are not in compliance, from what I've found/researched.  MUTCD has a list of acceptable abbreviations for signage... but I'm not sure if it's a "has to be" or "recommendation only" type of thing. Abbreviations on road signs drive me crazy.  :)  I've been wanting to send them an email about it. 

One of my big gripes with the new signage:  No mention of Centerton (west of Bentonville on 102, and now, a decent sized town)... It seems like an obvious addition.  Although AHTD did decide to sign Eureka Springs for southbound 540.  I'll take what I can get.  Yet they kept the Bentonville/Rogers "Business Dist" signs.  Why sign the Bentonville Business "Dist" for Exit 86?  It makes no sense.  Sorry... If only I was in charge... :)

Well, they probably can't sign the Business District for Bentonville at Exit 88 since 72 has been deleted between 540 and Bus 71.  As for Eureka Springs, it IS a tourist attraction. 

Centerton is posted on some of the non-interstate guide signs.  But if they include Centerton, what about Garfield? ;)

If you DO contact AHTD (I need to, also), let me know what they say.

Previously, Eureka Springs was only signed for northbound 540 (no southbound signage at all).  The new signage includes southbound signage for Eureka Springs.  I was hoping that they would include Centerton (they've grown to almost 10,000 population-wise) when they updated the signage.
And "Rogers Business Dist" is only signed for southbound for Exit 86, and "Bentonville Business Dist" is only signed for northbound for Exit 85.  I've never understood this.

And "Nat" does refer to "National"... and yes, it should be "Nat'l".  Funny, because when I first drove by it at 70 MPH, I thought of "natural", since Arkansas is the "Natural State".