Hagarville, Arkansas – Drivers in Johnson County should prepare for temporary traffic changes later this month as the Highway 123 bridge over Gee Creek closes for rehabilitation work.
According to transportation officials, the bridge is scheduled to be closed around the clock from 6 a.m. Monday, July 20, through 6 p.m. Friday, July 24, weather permitting.
The temporary closure will allow construction crews to complete rehabilitation work designed to improve the bridge and extend its service life.
During construction, Highway 123 will remain open only to local traffic on both sides of the closure, while through traffic will be directed to a signed detour.
Detour routes announced for drivers
Motorists traveling to the north side of the closure will be directed to travel south on Highway 123, then east on Highway 164, continue north on Highway 7, and finally reconnect with Highway 123.
Drivers heading to the south side of the closure will follow the reverse route by traveling north on Highway 123, south on Highway 7, west on Highway 164, and back to Highway 123.
Transportation officials encourage motorists to allow extra travel time and follow all posted detour signs while work is underway.
The rehabilitation of the Gee Creek bridge represents only the first phase of planned work along Highway 123.
After repairs to the Gee Creek bridge are completed, attention will shift to the Historic Big Piney Creek Bridge, which is also located on Highway 123.
Officials said that bridge is expected to close for approximately 14 weeks while it undergoes its own rehabilitation project.
The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) said it will announce the exact closure dates for the Big Piney Creek Bridge in a separate news release once the schedule has been finalized.
During that future project, another detour using Highway 7 and Highway 164 will be established to help drivers travel around the construction area.
Transportation officials also reminded visitors planning trips to the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest recreation areas along Highway 123 to prepare for the upcoming traffic changes and possible delays.
Motorists are encouraged to monitor future announcements from ARDOT for updated schedules and additional travel information as both bridge rehabilitation projects move forward.
