Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas transportation leaders are preparing for a major boost in highway and infrastructure work after the state secured more than $105 million in new federal funding for critical projects. The Arkansas Department of Transportation will receive $105,534,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending and Community Project Funding to advance six major transportation projects across the state.
The funding was included in the latest Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) appropriation for Federal Fiscal Year 2026. Members of Arkansas’ Congressional Delegation, including John Boozman, Steve Womack, Bruce Westerman, and Rick Crawford, worked together to secure the funds.
State and federal leaders say the money will support safer travel, reduce congestion, and strengthen Arkansas’ role in regional and national commerce.
Lawmakers highlight safety growth and connectivity
Senator Boozman said the projects will help modernize key transportation corridors that are vital to Arkansas’ economy. “Modernizing and expanding key transportation corridors bolsters our economy and enhances safety,” Boozman said. “I-49 is a critical project to promote regional connectivity and commerce, while the North Little Rock Main Street Viaduct Bridge replacement will support better access for the community and industry. I was proud to champion these investments and appreciate ARDOT’s ongoing partnership to boost our state’s infrastructure capacity.”
Representative Womack said improving roads in Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley remains a top focus. “Building better roadways in Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley remains one of my top priorities in Congress,” Womack said. “I’m proud to deliver this critical funding, which will further equip ARDOT with the resources needed to accelerate key projects like the Springdale Northern Bypass, Highway 112, and Interstate 49. These improvements will not only address current congestion challenges, but they will also support our region’s long-term economic growth. Thank you to ARDOT Director Jared Wiley for his leadership and commitment to seeing these projects through to completion.”
Representative Westerman emphasized how infrastructure supports both safety and rural access. “Our state’s infrastructure plays an important role in the safety of our communities – especially for our more rural areas,” Westerman said. “Runways, roadways and bridges connect rural folks with the vital services they need while increasing access to global markets for our local farmers and manufacturers. Together, they work hand-in-hand to foster the security of its residents and the growth of our local economies. It is a privilege to work on behalf of communities across the Fourth District to secure wins that ultimately invest in the future of our great state.”
Representative Crawford pointed to major investments in eastern Arkansas corridors. “I was proud to secure $11 million for Highway 412 Corridor improvements and $6.734 million for the future I-57 project from Walnut Ridge to the Missouri state line in the FY 2026 appropriations bill for the Department of Transportation, which was just signed into law by President Trump,” Crawford said. “These dollars will improve our highways, boost safety, and support the roads our farmers, small businesses, and families rely on. I am committed to continuing to work with my colleagues in Congress to make sure Arkansas receives the necessary infrastructure investments required to support Arkansas’ outsized role in the U.S economy.”
Breakdown of funded projects statewide
The funding is split across several high-impact transportation projects:
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$59 million for the next phase of the Springdale Northern Bypass, requested by Rep. Womack
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$15.8 million for the next phase of Future Interstate 49 from Alma to Barling, requested by Sen. Boozman
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$11 million for Highway 412 corridor improvements, requested by Sen. Boozman and Rep. Crawford
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$7 million for the Highway 82 railroad overpass, requested by Sen. Boozman and Rep. Westerman
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$6.734 million for the next phase of Future Interstate 57 from Walnut Ridge to the Missouri State Line, requested by Rep. Crawford
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$3 million for the next phase of Highway 112 widening, requested by Sen. Boozman and Rep. Womack
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$3 million for an additional phase of Future Interstate 49 from Alma to Barling, requested by Rep. Womack
ARDOT Director Jared D. Wiley thanked lawmakers for their support. “We are grateful to Arkansas’ Congressional Delegation for their advocacy and support for ARDOT and our state’s infrastructure,” Wiley said. “Investing in our major highways and interstates ensures better connectivity and safety across our state and opens the door to more growth and economic development.”
Arkansas Highway Commission Chairman Philip Taldo echoed that message. “On behalf of the Arkansas Highway Commission, we want to say thank you to our Congressional Delegation for investing in Arkansas’ future,” Taldo said. “These six projects – which are improving and expanding major corridors – will have a lasting impact on transportation in our state.”
State officials say the funding positions Arkansas for long-term growth by strengthening the roads and interstates that connect communities, support businesses, and keep travelers safe.
