LITTLE ROCK — Motorists should consider avoiding Interstate 40 in Prairie County or at least allotting more time for a trip through the area because construction is slowing heavy traffic.
The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department said Thursday that increased summertime travel has contributed to heavy congestion in the work zone between Little Rock and Memphis.
“We want motorists to be aware that the construction zone is there and to plan accordingly,” Highway Director Scott Bennett said in a news release. “Whether a driver chooses to stay on I-40 or use an alternate route, it’s going to take longer to travel between North Little Rock and West Memphis. Be aware of that, and factor it into your travel plans.”
The $56 million project features work on both sides of the interstate, leaving a single lane for through traffic in each direction for 10 miles near the White River bridge. Construction will continue through summer 2013.
Up to 40,000 vehicles travel through the work zone each day.