JONESBORO, Ark.—The return of Arkansas State University students to campus this week is creating significant traffic congestion in Jonesboro, local police report, as construction projects continue in key areas around the university.
While official fall enrollment numbers are not yet available, the increase in activity follows record-breaking enrollment during the spring semester, according to the university. Jonesboro Police Sergeant Michael Bush described the annual back-to-school traffic surge as a predictable challenge.
Bush identified Red Wolf Boulevard and the core of the city as particular trouble spots, especially during busy times such as lunch and dinner hours. He noted that construction on Johnson Avenue, which has reduced westbound traffic to a single lane, is further exacerbating delays.
“It’s not really going to increase your time a lot because of the speed,” Bush said, discouraging drivers from taking residential back roads, which may not significantly reduce travel time due to slower speed limits in those areas.
Bush advised drivers to remain calm and avoid reckless behavior, which could lead to traffic citations or accidents. “Just take a deep breath because you’re not going to get anywhere,” he warned. “The only thing you’re going to end up doing is meeting one of us either because of your driving or because you crashed.”
With the combination of construction and the anticipated high number of returning students, slowdowns are expected to persist in the coming weeks. Drivers are urged to plan ahead, exercise patience, and remain aware of their surroundings to ensure safety.
For updates on traffic and construction projects, residents are encouraged to monitor local traffic resources.