A proposed bypass project in Pocahontas, Arkansas, has passed its human and environmental impact studies, paving the way for future development.
The project, estimated to cost $19.5 million, is meant to divert heavy truck traffic from the Central Business District (CBD) in Pocahontas, while also improving mobility in the CBD and surrounding city.
To do this, the proposed plan will construct a new roadway connection between Highway 90 and Highway 67, which sits north of the city. The new bypass would be placed on 2.6 miles of acquired land, providing two 12-foot lanes and paved shoulders.
The road design also includes a roundabout at the Highway 90 intersection and traffic signals at Highway 115 and Highway 67. ArDOT’s public information officer said a traditional stoplight will not suffice for the area due to heavy truck traffic. According to Mayor Keith Futrell, the project has long been a request of the town’s residents.
Following public feedback sessions in 2024 and 2025, the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) made several adjustments to the preferred design alternative. These changes include shifting the Country Club Road alignment to the northeast and adding a retaining wall along Highway 90 to minimize property impacts to nearby businesses.
The total project cost of $19.5 million will come from state and federal sources, with the city of Pocahontas contributing roughly $1.6 million.
With the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) now issued, the project can move into its next phase of development.
Photo by Thomas Fuhrmann from Pexels
For more of the latest from the expansive government marketplace, check Government Market News daily for new stories, insights and profiles from public sector professionals. Check out our national contracting newsletter here.
