The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) has announced nightly lane and ramp closures on Interstate 57 between Exit 22 near Austin and Exit 82 near Newport. The closures will begin on Friday, August 7, and continue intermittently for the next 16 weeks, ending on or around November 30, weather permitting.
According to ARDOT, the closures will occur between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. each night to accommodate rehabilitation work on existing ramps. The effort will focus on improving safety and infrastructure along the stretch of road.
Officials clarified that contractors will avoid closing both northbound and southbound ramps at the same exit simultaneously. Additionally, closures will be limited to one exit at a time in each direction to prevent excessive congestion.
ARDOT will use digital message boards, construction barrels, barricades, and signage to alert drivers to the closures and direct them to alternate exits. Motorists are advised to plan routes accordingly and exercise caution in the construction areas.
For more details on the construction schedule or to report concerns, drivers may consult ARDOT’s website or contact their local district office.