Jacksonville, Arkansas – After a full year of construction, the new North James Street Bridge over Highway 67/167 in Jacksonville is scheduled to open to traffic on Monday, October 21. The project marks a significant milestone as part of the broader effort to improve and expand Highway 67/167 to six lanes between Main Street and Vandenberg Boulevard.
Reconnecting the Community
The reopening of the North James Street Bridge will reestablish access between John Harden Drive and T.P. White Drive, which had been temporarily severed during construction. For the initial phase of the reopening, one lane of traffic in each direction will be open, with three-way stops installed at both intersections with the frontage roads to manage traffic flow.
The bridge was originally closed on October 23, 2023, to allow for the construction of bridge footings while keeping the main lanes of Highway 67/167 open. The project has remained on schedule, and as promised, the new bridge will open within the estimated one-year timeframe.
Ongoing Construction and Future Improvements
Although the bridge will reopen to traffic on October 21, construction will continue in the area to further enhance the infrastructure. Once fully completed, the bridge will feature two lanes in each direction, with signal lights installed at both frontage road intersections.
During this transition period, traffic will be regulated using barrels and barricades, and the public is encouraged to drive cautiously through the work zone. As areas adjacent to the highway are still under construction, nighttime noise impacts may occur, and drivers should anticipate slower speeds through the area.
Enhancing Traffic Flow in Jacksonville
The North James Street Bridge project is a key component of the ongoing Highway 67/167 expansion, which aims to improve traffic flow and connectivity in Jacksonville. Once the expansion is complete, the increased lane capacity will help reduce congestion and support smoother travel through the region.
As residents prepare for the bridge’s reopening, they are advised to stay alert for any traffic changes and follow posted speed limits in the work zone. The completion of this bridge brings Jacksonville one step closer to a fully modernized roadway system, ensuring safer and more efficient travel for all.
