FORT SMITH (18-July) The following lane closures are scheduled for the week of Monday, July 21, 2003, through Sunday, July 27, 2003, along I-540 in the Lowell/Springdale/Fayetteville area.  The lane closures will allow the Department's contractor to safely continue with work involving the removal of the old and weathered upper layer of the existing roadway surface and the application of a new surface to approximately 10 miles of Interstate 540, from the Van Asche underpass in northern Fayetteville to the Goad Springs Road underpass just south of the Hwy 264 Interchange in Lowell.  The project also includes work to upgrade all of the guardrail safety treatments at bridge ends and pavement markings to enhance safety for the motorists.

Southbound

 From Monday, July 21, through Sunday, July 27, I-540 traffic will be restricted to one lane southbound at locations between the Elm Springs Road Interchange [Exit 73] and the Van Asche underpass [near Exit 67].  Lane closures are expected to be limited to three miles in length at any one location.

 Northbound

 From Monday, July 21, through Sunday, July 27, I-540 traffic will be restricted to one lane northbound at multiple locations between the Johnson Interchange [Exit 69] and the Hwy 412 Interchange [Exit 72]. Lane closures are expected to be limited to three miles in length at any one location.

All lane closures will remain in place overnight each night.

 Adjustment of the times of any announced lane closures may become necessary due to weather or other unforeseen conditions.

 Motorists are reminded that the speed limit in this work zone has been reduced from 70 miles per hour to 60 miles per hour, for the safety of the construction workers and the motorists. Increased traffic enforcement is scheduled in this work area and, under Arkansas law, fines are doubled for violations in the work zone.

 Motorists are urged to use care and think ahead when traveling through the work zone.  They should remember to Merge Left Early as they approach the work zone; to Obey the Posted Speed Limits and Other Regulatory Signing; to Maintain a Steady Speed; to Leave Room between them and other vehicles; to Be Aware of Road Conditions in front of them; and to Anticipate the Unexpected Need to Stop or Reduce Speed Substantially.

 For up to date information on lane closures on this and other projects in the state, visit the internet site, www.arkansashighways.com

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