ARDOT awards first project to extend Interstate 49 near Fort Smith

rk. (KNWA/KFTA) — The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) has awarded a contract worth $282.5 million to Manhattan Road & Bridge for a project that will extend Interstate 49 between Highway 22 in Barling and Interstate 40 in Alma.

The initial phase will construct a 3.1-mile section of I-49 between Highway 22 and Gun Club Road, according to a news release.

Funding for this project will come from a mix of federal highway funds, federal grants and state funds.

"This project, especially the new bridge over the Arkansas River, is a big step toward completing the I-49 corridor from Fort Smith to Texarkana," Arkansas Highway Commissioner Keith Gibson said in the release. "Once completed, I-49 will provide a safer and more efficient highway in western Arkansas."

The I-49 Extension project aims to close a 162-mile gap in the highway, creating a direct connection between the Gulf Coast, the central United States and Canada.

This extension will also link with six major east-west highways, according to the release.

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The estimated cost of the project is approximately $1.3 billion, which includes both design and construction expenses, according to the release.

Designs are being managed by the HNTB Corporation.

This 14-mile segment will feature a new bridge over the Arkansas River and new interchanges at Highway 22, Gun Club Road, Clear Creek Road and I-40.

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Additionally, Gun Club Road will be upgraded to meet highway standards.