Joiner, Arkansas – Drivers traveling through Joiner should prepare for a temporary but significant road closure as work begins on a bridge improvement project along Highway 118.
Transportation officials announced that Highway 118, between Gooden Road and Felts Street, will be closed continuously starting at 8 a.m. on Monday, April 6, and will remain closed until 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 16. The closure is dependent on weather conditions and is necessary to allow crews to safely carry out repairs on an existing bridge.
Bridge work prompts full closure and detours
According to officials, the project will focus on replacing the superstructure units of the bridge. This type of work requires a complete shutdown of the roadway to ensure both worker safety and the proper handling of heavy construction equipment.
To help drivers navigate the area, a clearly marked detour route will be in place throughout the duration of the closure. Motorists trying to reach the west side of the closure will be directed to take Highway 118 east to Highway 61, then travel north on Highway 61 to Highway 181. From there, drivers will head west on Highway 181 to Interstate 55 and then travel south on Interstate 55 to reconnect with Highway 118.
For those heading toward the east side, the detour will follow a reverse pattern. Drivers will take Highway 118 west to Interstate 55, then go north on Interstate 55 to Highway 181. From there, they will travel east on Highway 181 to Highway 61, and finally head south on Highway 61 back to Highway 118.
Officials say multiple safety measures will be in place to alert drivers and guide them through the changes. These include digital message boards, construction barrels, barricades, and clear signage along the affected routes.
Residents and travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and remain cautious when driving near the construction zone. The temporary inconvenience is expected to support long-term improvements, helping ensure the bridge remains safe and reliable for future use.
