Arkansas Department of Transportation plans to expand Interstate 49

Bryanna Moore
·1 min read

CRAWFORD COUNTY, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — The Arkansas Department of Transportation announces plans to expand Interstate 49.

The nearly $1 billion expansion project will stretch from the Highway 22 exit to Gun Club Road in Crawford County.

Jason Hughey, the District Four Engineer for ARDOT, said the initiative aims to ease the journey for drivers traveling south of I-49 who wish to continue north toward Northwest Arkansas without exiting the interstate.

Arkansas Department of Transportation plans lane-widening project for 2027

Hughey emphasized that the benefits of the project extend beyond local residents, benefiting travelers and companies from out of state as well.

“This will be a major freight moving corridor,” said Hughey. “We’re going to have two major interstates that connect right here in the River Valley, which opens up so many possibilities for commerce.”

Hughey noted that ARDOT has yet to finalize the selection of contractors for the project. However, he confirmed that construction is slated to start by the middle of next year.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.