Benton, Arkansas – Construction work to widen Interstate 30 (I-30) to six lanes in Saline County will cause multiple overnight ramp and lane closures beginning this week. According to the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), the closures will take place from Wednesday night, December 18 through Friday morning, December 20, between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. Weather permitting, crews will conduct final construction operations at key interchanges along I-30.
Impacted Ramps and Streets
The work will focus on ramps and frontage roads near West South Street and Leander Street south of I-30. Crews will alternate closing specific ramps and streets, ensuring that no more than one ramp is closed at a time. During these closures, signed detours will guide traffic to alternate routes. The affected areas and detours include:
- Frontage Road Ramp to West South Street Eastbound
- Traffic will travel under the West South Street Bridge, take the loop ramp onto the bridge, enter the roundabout, and return to West South Street Eastbound.
- Frontage Road Loop Ramp to West South Street Bridge
- Traffic will take the on-ramp to I-30 East, exit at Exit 117 (Benton), return to I-30 West, and use Exit 116 (South and Sevier Streets).
- West South Street Eastbound Loop Ramp to Frontage Road
- Local traffic can use alternate nearby roads to navigate around the closure.
- West South Street Westbound Ramp (Leander Street) to Frontage Road
- Traffic will cross the West South Street Bridge, enter the roundabout, return to West South Street Eastbound, and take the loop ramp to the frontage road.
Frontage Road Lane Reductions
In addition to the ramp closures, the Frontage Road south of I-30 will be reduced to one lane. Flaggers will be in place to direct traffic through this area safely.
Safety and Noise Considerations
Traffic control measures, including construction barrels, barricades, and signage, will be implemented to ensure safety for both drivers and construction crews. Motorists are urged to remain cautious, follow detour instructions, and watch for slower traffic speeds while traveling through the work zone. Drivers should also be aware that noise impacts may occur during nighttime construction hours in areas adjacent to the interstate.
About the I-30 Widening Project
The I-30 widening project, known as Job CA0601, is part of ARDOT’s Connecting Arkansas Program. This $187.3 million project focuses on expanding 5.5 miles of I-30 to three lanes in each direction, extending from the interchange with U.S. Highway 70 (Exit 111) to Sevier Street in Benton (Exit 116). It also includes improvements at the Highway 67 interchange (Exit 114) to enhance traffic flow and connectivity.
The widening initiative aims to address growing traffic volumes, improve safety, and support economic development in the region.
Stay Informed
Drivers are encouraged to plan their routes ahead of time and allow for possible delays during the overnight hours. For more information about this project and to stay updated on its progress, visit the official Connecting Arkansas Program website at ConnectingArkansasProgram.com.
As construction progresses, ARDOT reminds all motorists to stay vigilant in work zones, adhere to reduced speed limits, and follow traffic signage. These efforts ensure the safety of workers and commuters as ARDOT continues its commitment to improving Arkansas’ transportation infrastructure.
With work expected to conclude by Friday morning, December 20, ARDOT’s ongoing improvements to I-30 mark a significant step toward easing congestion and enhancing travel efficiency in Saline County.
