ARDOT receives $43.9 million grant for Helena Bridge

The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) has received a $43.9 million grant from the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) Bridge Investment Program to rehabilitate the Mississippi River Bridge on US Highway 49 between Helena-West Helena, Arkansas and Lula, Mississippi.

This project is a joint effort between ARDOT, the lead grant applicant, and the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT), a co-applicant, to rehabilitate the Helena Bridge.

The Helena Bridge is a critical crossing of the Mississippi River of local, national and international importance. This Mississippi River crossing is nearly one mile long and is currently in “poor” condition.

The Helena Bridge rehabilitation project includes structural and general repairs to restore the bridge to its proper condition. The project will also increase the load on the bridge and give it a lifespan of 20 to 25 years. This extended service life will allow ARDOT and MDOT to monitor existing regional transportation needs and plan for future capacity needs, paving the way for a new crossing over the Mississippi River that will meet the unique conditions of the New Madrid Seismic Zone.

The letter of support for the grant application was signed by Senator John Boozman, Senator Tom Cotton and Congressman Rick Crawford.

“This grant is the result of a partnership and collaboration between Arkansas, Mississippi and other regional stakeholders,” said ARDOT Director Lori Tudor. “It is vital that we look after our existing infrastructure, make necessary upgrades and ultimately extend the life of the road or bridge where possible for the benefit of travellers. Thank you to USDOT for recognizing the importance of this project and investing in this important link between Arkansas and Mississippi.”

“The Helena Bridge serves as an important transportation link between Mississippi and Arkansas,” said MDOT Executive Director Brad White. “We are grateful to USDOT for this grant and for our partnership with ARDOT on the project. This smart investment will contribute to economic growth in the region and improve security for decades to come.”

The total estimated cost of the project is $56.6 million. After the grant funding is applied, ARDOT and MDOT will share the remaining costs equally.

After receiving grant funding, the next steps include working on project design and construction plans.

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