Arkansas – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has announced a temporary closure of Highway 178 across Bull Shoals Dam, scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, and Thursday, January 15, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The closures are planned to allow routine maintenance on the dam, which is critical for ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure. Officials have coordinated the closure with local emergency management and law enforcement agencies to minimize disruption and maintain safety.
“Weather permitting, Highway 178 will close across Bull Shoals Dam for routine dam maintenance,” the USACE stated. Drivers are advised to plan ahead, as access across the dam will be unavailable during the scheduled hours. Local authorities have outlined detour routes to help travelers reach their destinations safely while the maintenance work is underway.
For those traveling north of the Bull Shoals Dam closure, the recommended detour takes drivers on Highway 178 through Lakeview, then to Highway 5 south through Midway, continuing on Highway 126 south through Gassville, and finally onto Highway 412 west through Flippin before reconnecting to Highway 178 in the town of Bull Shoals. Southbound travelers are advised to use the opposite route: Highway 178 through Bull Shoals, Highway 412 east through Flippin, Highway 126 north through Gassville, Highway 5 north through Midway, and back onto Highway 178.
Officials emphasized that the detours have been designed to safely redirect traffic and maintain access for local residents, businesses, and emergency services during the two-day closure. Motorists are encouraged to allow extra travel time and follow posted signs along the detour routes.
For more information or questions regarding the closure, the Mountain Home USACE Project Office can be contacted at (870) 425-2700. Travelers can also check http://www.swl.usace.army.mil/. for updates and additional information. To stay informed on real-time traffic conditions in the area, IDriveArkansas.com offers up-to-date reports and alerts for Highway 178 and surrounding routes.
This temporary closure is part of the ongoing maintenance program at Bull Shoals Dam, which is vital for flood control, power generation, and recreational opportunities in the region. The USACE conducts regular inspections and maintenance on its dams to ensure public safety and operational efficiency.
Drivers, commuters, and visitors to the Bull Shoals area are urged to plan their trips carefully and make use of the detour routes to avoid delays. While closures can be inconvenient, the USACE stresses that the maintenance is essential for the continued safe operation of the dam and surrounding infrastructure.
With careful planning and adherence to detour instructions, the temporary closure of Highway 178 is expected to proceed smoothly, allowing maintenance crews to complete their work while minimizing impacts on travel throughout the Bull Shoals area.
