Arkansas News Bureau
LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas Highway Commission on Friday approved more than 100 road projects for funding with federal stimulus money the state has received.
The commission also voted to make a joint request with the state of Missouri for up to $305 million in additional federal stimulus funds for work on the Bella Vista bypass in Northwest Arkansas. The 15-mile project would connect Interstate 540 with Bentonville and Bella Vista and carry traffic west and north into Missouri.
Arkansas has been allocated $351.5 million in stimulus funding for highway projects, and the 103 projects approved Friday will cost about $335.8 million.
Of the projects, about $123 million must be obligated for construction by June 30, the commission was told. The remaining $228 million must be obligated by March 2, 2010.
The projects range from roads and bridges to utility relocation and traffic signals, and include $45 million to $50 million for the Vilonia bypass in Faulkner County, and $15 million to $20 million for improvements to the Interstate 630 and 430 interchange in west Little Rock.
A welcome center in West Memphis, estimated to cost about $10.5 million, also is planned.
During Friday’s commission meeting, state Highway Director Dan Flowers, said teaming with Missouri for additional grant funds for the Bella Vista bypass would improve the state’s chances of getting the funding.
The federal stimulus package includes $1.5 billion in supplemental grant funds for which states can apply. However, none of the projects can be more than $300 million.
Arkansas will request $225 million, the commission voted Friday. Missouri will request $80 million.
“This is our best shot,” said commission member Madison Murphy of El Dorado. “It will be very difficult to complete the bypass without it.”
