Notice to Media

Bids Approved for Highway 90

October 3, 1997 -- Highway Commissioner J. W. "Buddy" Benafield has announced the awarding of a contract to reconstruct four bridges on Highway 90 between Corning and Rector. Robertson, Inc. of Poplar Bluff, Missouri submitted the low bid of $1,740,412.37 for the work.

The work to be done under this contract is the first of three phases to replace or improve all the bridges on Highway 90 between Rector and Highway 135. The work contained in this contract is for the four bridges on the west end of this section of Highway 90 nearest Highway 135. Phase two will repair or replace the bridges on the east end nearest Rector, and the final phase will focus on the remaining bridges in the middle.

"When we looked at this project almost two years ago, we found that Highway 90 provided a vital link between eastern and western Clay County, especially for farm traffic," Benafield said. "Once all three phases of the work are complete, we will have an excellent route for all traffic, including farm traffic, in this county."

State Representative Richard Simmons of Rector pointed out the importance of Highway 90 to the farm economy in Clay County. "We have been facing a very dangerous situation, especially during the farm hauling season, along that stretch of Highway 90 that will be the subject of the bridge replacements," Simmons noted. "We have been very fortunate that there have not been more accidents in that area than we have had thus far."

Simmons praised the work of various groups in getting the project underway. "This project may never have become a reality without the cooperative efforts of the Corning and Rector Chambers of Commerce," Simmons stated. "We also received a great deal of support from the agricultural-related businesses in the county."

State Senator Mike Todd of Paragould praised the quick action of the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) for addressing the needs of Clay County. "I am very pleased with the level of importance the Highway Department has put into this project," Todd said. "When Commissioner Benafield and (AHTD) Director Dan Flowers visited Rector a couple of years ago with (AHTD) District Engineer Joe Barnett, they sensed the urgency of the project and began the process. Without their interest in Clay County and our economy, we might still be waiting for this project."

Simmons pointed out that, while some communities and individuals focus on major highway widenings, he has focused his attention on the improvement of farm-to-market roads. "Since farming is the basis of our economy, we have to have a way to transport our products out of Clay County. While I certainly support major improvements to highways such as 67 and 62, I feel we need to put some extra emphasis on the roads that are the backbone of our economy.

For Further Information Contact:

Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department
10324 Interstate 30, Little Rock, AR 72209
Tel: 501-569-2000
FAX: 501-569-2400
e-mail: info@arkansashighways.com