Monette, Arkansas – A long-debated safety upgrade is finally moving forward in Monette after local and county leaders approved plans for a new traffic signal at one of the area’s most dangerous intersections.
The Craighead County Quorum Court voted on Monday to approve the installation of a traffic light at the intersection of Highway 18 and Highway 139, located along the city’s north bypass. The decision follows earlier approval from the Monette City Council, which supported the project in May. With both local government bodies now in agreement, the plan moves ahead with shared funding from Monette, Craighead County, and the Arkansas Department of Transportation.
Officials say the intersection has developed a troubling reputation since it opened in 2017, with close to 100 reported crashes over that time. The frequency of accidents has made it one of the most closely watched traffic safety concerns in the region, prompting repeated discussions about how to reduce risks for drivers.
Once completed, the new signal will become only the second traffic light in the city of Monette. For many residents, it represents a major change in how traffic will flow through the area, especially at a crossing where vehicles approach from multiple directions at relatively high speeds.
The project carries an estimated price tag of $1.9 million and includes more than just a traffic signal. Plans also call for the construction of twin turn lanes designed to improve traffic movement and reduce congestion at peak times. In addition, drainage upgrades are included to address water runoff issues that can also affect driving conditions.
Temporary flashing caution lights will be installed ahead of the new signal to help alert drivers to the upcoming changes, especially during the transition period before the full system becomes active.
Monette Mayor Bob Blankenship has described the intersection as a long-standing concern for drivers in the community, saying that many residents have expressed anxiety about navigating the crossing safely.
“You hear people talk about, I’m afraid to try to cross the road there because of the fear of trying to negotiate that with traffic coming from different angles. So, I think it will be an assurance to people that it will be a lot safer,” Blankenship said.
While he acknowledged that no traffic improvement project can completely eliminate accidents, he said the installation of a signal will significantly reduce risks and improve overall safety at the intersection.
“Will it eliminate accidents? No, you can’t eliminate accidents. Will it help? We think very much so. And so, it’s a plus for the city,” Blankenship said.
The timeline for the project suggests that construction could begin as early as June. However, officials estimate that full completion may not occur until late summer of 2027, meaning the project will take place over an extended construction period.
During that time, drivers in the area are expected to see phased work, temporary traffic adjustments, and the installation of warning systems as crews prepare the intersection for the new signal and expanded roadway features.
For Monette residents, the project represents both a major infrastructure investment and a long-awaited response to years of safety concerns at a heavily traveled intersection. As planning transitions into construction, officials say the goal remains simple: reduce crashes and make one of the city’s busiest crossings safer for everyone who uses it.
