Notice to Media

Route Selected for Proposed Newark Bypass

LITTLE ROCK (7-14) – Alternate 3 has been selected as the preferred route for a proposed bypass of the town of Newark in Independence County, according to Dan Flowers, Director of the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD).

Currently, Highway 69 passes through Newark and includes a 90-degree turn in the downtown area. Four bypass alternates were studied to improve traffic flow in and around Newark. "Based on the findings of an Environmental Assessment and information gathered at a public hearing held March 23, 1999 in Newark, we believe Alternate 3 would benefit the area the most," Flowers said.

Alternate 3 begins at the Highway 69/Highway 122 intersection just south of Newark and proceeds west and north on new location before intersecting Highway 69 just west of town. Total length of the bypass is approximately 1.8 miles. The project also includes a short relocation of Highway 69 in the town of Magness.

Flowers noted the AHTD will begin appraising and acquiring the needed right of way in the near future. Construction could begin sometime in the year 2000.

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