LITTLE ROCK (5-27) The following lane closure has been scheduled for the week of Thursday, May 29, through Saturday, May 31, 2003, along I-540 in the Springdale to Lowell area.  This lane closure will allow the Department's contractor to safely begin a project involving the removal of the old and weathered upper layer of the existing roadway surface and applying a new surface to 6.5 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 will also include work to upgrade all of the guardrail safety treatments at bridge ends and pavement markings to enhance safety for the motorists.

From Thursday, May 29 through Saturday, May 31, I-540 traffic will be restricted to one lane southbound from near the Hwy 264 [Exit 78] Interchange to just south of the Wagon Wheel Rd. Overpass [Exit 76].  The lane closure will remain in place overnight each night.

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

The Arkansas Highway Commission awarded a $4,246,290 contract for this project to APAC–Arkansas, Inc., McClinton-Anchor Division, of Fayetteville, in April 2003.  The project is anticipated to be complete by Fall 2003.

Motorists are reminded that the speed limit in this work zone is being reduced from 70 miles per hour to 60 miles per hour, for the safety of both the construction workers and the traveling public. Increased traffic enforcement is scheduled in this work area as well 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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