improvement Project
In 2003, Congress federally earmarked transportation funds
for the 8th Street Improvement Project. The City will receive
approximately $31.24 million toward the project.
The 8th Street Project is a street improvement
project on South 8th Street, from Walton Blvd east to I-540. From the
Interstate to SE “J” St, the project involves constructing an interchange with
I-540 and widening from two lanes to five lanes with curb and gutter. Between SE
“J” St. to Walton Blvd, 8th Street will become a four lane boulevard
with potential for on-street parking and wide sidewalks.
Current Status
The consultant contract for conceptual design and studies was
approved by the AHTD and FHWA in October 2007. The consultant has completed the
traffic study, environmental study and is working on the break-in-access study
to get FHWA approval for the location and design of the interchange.
The operational analysis and environmental analysis have been
submitted for review and approval to the Arkansas Highway and Transportation
Department (AHTD) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Updated:
07-07-09.
Surveying began the week of November 16. The surveyor is
traversing along 8th Street and Route 71 to verify existing control points that
were previously set and adding new control as required to complete the final
survey. The majority, if not all, of the control will be in public right of way.
However, should he be required to enter a private property, he will notify
property owners. Updated: 11-17-09
Next Steps
The next step is determining the final alignment and intersection improvements along the
corridor. When the alignment has been determined, the consultants will begin
preliminary design.
Upcoming Meetings
None scheduled at this time.
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