Manila, Arkansas – Drivers in the Manila area are being urged to plan ahead as a long-term highway closure is set to begin next week to allow for major bridge work. A section of Highway 77 south of Manila is scheduled to close around the clock starting at 8 a.m. Monday, February 9, and will remain closed until 5 p.m. Thursday, March 12, weather permitting.
Transportation officials say the extended closure is needed so crews can safely replace the bridge over Ditch Number 20, which is located about two miles south of Highway 18. The work is part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and keep the highway in good condition for future travel.
Detours and local access during construction
While the bridge replacement is underway, Highway 77 will remain open to local traffic only on each side of the closure. Drivers traveling through the area will need to follow posted detours to get around the work zone.
A signed detour route will be in place for both directions of travel. Northbound drivers will be directed to take Highway 158 east to Highway 181 north, then continue west on Highway 18 to return to Highway 77. Southbound traffic will follow Highway 18 east to Highway 181 south, then Highway 158 west back to Highway 77.
To help keep motorists informed, crews will install digital message boards, construction barrels, barricades, and clear signage along the route. These warnings are intended to alert drivers well in advance and guide them safely through the detour.
The Arkansas Department of Transportation encourages drivers to slow down near work zones, follow posted signs, and allow extra travel time during the closure. For the latest road conditions, updates, and travel planning tools, motorists can visit IDriveArkansas.com or ARDOT.gov before heading out.
