Arkansas – In an ongoing effort to improve road safety, crews across Arkansas have started installing Cable Median Barriers (CMB) throughout the state. The initiative, which will continue through August, aims to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries, particularly those resulting from head-on collisions. These types of crashes often occur when vehicles veer out of their travel lanes, cross the median, and collide with vehicles traveling in the opposite direction. The installation of CMB is expected to provide a critical safety feature, preventing such incidents and making the state’s highways and interstates safer for everyone.
The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) is overseeing this extensive project, which spans multiple highways and interstates. By placing CMB in strategic locations along high-risk areas, the state hopes to curb the number of fatal and serious injuries resulting from head-on crashes. While many of these crashes are preventable, the installation of CMB acts as a physical barrier that can mitigate the severity of collisions, offering greater protection to drivers and passengers.
Targeted Highways and Interstates
Crews are working diligently to install CMB across various locations, with lane closures and detours in place in certain areas. Weather permitting, work is expected to occur during August on the following highways and interstates:
• Interstate 30 (I-30): Crews will install CMB from Fulton in Hempstead County, traveling north through Nevada, Clark, Hot Spring, and Saline Counties, and concluding in Pulaski County at the I-30/I-530/I-440 interchange in Little Rock.
• Interstate 40 (I-40): CMB installation stretches from the Falkner/Conway County line near Conway, moving south through Faulkner and Pulaski Counties, and ending near Lonoke in Lonoke County.
• Interstate 49 (I-49): Work will be carried out along I-49 from Alma in Crawford County, heading north through Fayetteville in Washington County.
• Interstate 530 (I-530): CMB installation will take place near the I-30/I-530/I-440 interchange.
• Interstate 540 (I-540): Crews will install barriers in Van Buren, Crawford County, near the I-540/I-40 interchange.
• Highway 5: CMB installation will begin along the Pulaski/Faulkner County line near Cabot.
• Highway 7: Work will be carried out from El Dorado in Union County, north through Camden in Ouachita County.
• Highway 167: Crews will install CMB from Fordyce in Dallas County, heading north through Cleveland County, Grant County, and ending at the Highway 167/I-530 interchange in Saline County.
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Traffic Impact and Safety Precautions
As part of the project, motorists may encounter inside lane closures along these highways. Drivers are advised to remain cautious and be aware of any temporary barriers, construction barrels, and signs that will direct them around closed lanes. Digital message boards will also provide real-time updates on traffic conditions. The timing of closures and lane restrictions is subject to change based on weather conditions or other unforeseen factors. For the most up-to-date information, travelers can visit IDriveArkansas.com.
While the CMB installations may cause some disruptions, the long-term benefits far outweigh any temporary inconveniences. By installing these barriers, the state is making a concerted effort to protect its residents and visitors. The presence of CMB can dramatically reduce the likelihood of fatal head-on crashes, providing a safer driving environment for everyone on the road.
Looking Ahead
The installation of Cable Median Barriers is just one of many steps Arkansas is taking to improve the safety of its highways. While it may take time to complete all installations, the progress made in August will set the stage for future safety enhancements. The addition of these barriers aligns with the state’s commitment to reducing traffic-related fatalities and creating a safer driving experience for all Arkansans.
As crews continue their work throughout the month, drivers are urged to stay informed and adhere to all traffic alerts. The project not only represents a critical safety measure but also a community-wide effort to protect lives and enhance the quality of travel across Arkansas.
