LITTLE ROCK (5-15) The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) has selected a Preferred Alternative for Highway 13 in Carlisle, according Dan Flowers, AHTD Director.

     An Environmental Assessment (EA) has been completed for Highway 13 from Interstate 40 south to Highway 70 in Carlisle.  After careful consideration of information contained in the EA and the comments received at the Location Public Hearing held on April 3, 2007 at Carlisle, the AHTD, in conjunction with the Federal Highway Administration, has identified the Preferred Alternative for the proposed project.  A map of the Preffered Alternative is attached.

     The Preferred Alternative includes widening existing Highway 13 and North Bankhead Avenue from the Interstate 40 eastbound exit ramp south to West 8^th Street.  The roadway will then be constructed on new location to connect with South Bankhead Avenue in the vicinity of West Reid Street.  It will then extend southward to line up with Highway 13 South.  Improvements include widening to two 12-foot travel lanes, adding a continuous left turn lane, curb and gutter, and 5-foot sidewalks at select locations.  A local road connection from the West End community to Highway 70 utilizing International Drive will be provided as part of the project.

     The next steps will be completing design surveys, archeological investigation and reporting, and finalizing the design.  Once the design is complete and the right of way limits are established, a Design Public Hearing will be held.  After comments from the Design Public Hearing have been addressed, the AHTD will request approval from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in order to proceed with implementation.  Construction of the improvements can be scheduled once FHWA approval is obtained and funds become available.