Notice to Media

Gravette to Receive Railroad Overpass

LITTLE ROCK (6-30) -- The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) is proceeding with a project to construct a railroad overpass on Highway 72 in the town of Gravette, according to Highway Commissioner Jonathan Barnett of Siloam Springs.

A joint funding agreement has been reached between the City of Gravette and the AHTD for the overpass project. The AHTD will pay for the roadway approaches to the overpass and will assume maintenance responsibilities once the new facility is in place. The City has agreed to acquire the necessary right of way, make all utility adjustments, and finance the overpass structure. The City will also take over ownership of the old roadway once the project is complete.

“This is a project the City of Gravette has pursued in a very professional manner,” Barnett commented. “They didn’t simply come to us and ask that we build them a new overpass. They came and asked what they could do to help expedite the project. It’s a good feeling to help a community that is willing to help itself.”

AHTD Director Dan Flowers said communication between the City and the Department has been underway on this subject for several months. “Mayor Fladagar and others with the City have been very cooperative. We have formed a very strong partnership regarding this project. This should be a win-win situation for both groups,” Flowers said

Flowers and Barnett said the project still must go through the required environmental assessment, right of way acquisition, and final design process. The project will be scheduled for construction as soon as these activities are complete.

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