LITTLE ROCK (09-17) - Bernardin Lochmueller Associates, a consulting firm with an office in Evansville, Indiana, is currently conducting a study to update the travel forecast model for the northwest Arkansas region, according to Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) Director Dan Flowers.  

     One of the initial tasks of the study is collecting data concerning the travel patterns of the motoring public making trips crossing the study area.  Six of the most traveled non-Interstate highways on the outskirts of the two county area (Benton and Washington) will be surveyed to determine trip origin and destination, purpose, time of day and other relevant information. 

     The survey procedure will consist of a short interview of selected drivers leaving the area at the chosen locations.  The interviews will be conducted at only one survey location per day.  Surveys are scheduled to begin September 20 and continue through September 30, and will be conducted during daylight hours.  No surveys will be made during fog or inclement weather. 

     Safety for the motorists and the survey personnel will be of utmost concern.  The stations will be marked by advance warning signs, traffic cones and flags.  It is not expected that there would be any significant delay for vehicles passing through the stations. 

                                                                              #####