JACKSONVILLE, Ark. — Crews working on the Highway 67/167 widening project found concerns with the Vandenberg Boulevard overpass, which requires immediate repairs.
A contractor found a hole in the bridge deck near the center line, and the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) said crews are working quickly to fix it.
Their goal is to get temporary repairs done in time for Thanksgiving.
"It's a concern," ARDOT Media Communications Manager Ellen Coulter said. "It's something that needs to be fixed quickly."
Coulter said the right northbound lane of Highway 67/167 on the overpass near Vandenberg Boulevard is closed for repair, and she hopes it doesn't last long.
"Possibly just overnight tonight until we can get it back open for Thanksgiving," Coulter said.
This would be a temporary fix to get through the busy travel week.
"These repairs will likely take place in the overnight hours," Coulter said. " We hope it doesn't impact too many people, but please expect delays. This is a busy travel highway, especially during rush hour and holiday week."
Coulter said its crews will likely make a more long-term repair after Thanksgiving until the bridge can be replaced.
"We understand this bridge has been showing its age," Coulter said. "We've had to have short-term patches over the years, and it's definitely something that needs to be addressed for the longer term."
Whether you're driving through construction zones, Coulter has a message for drivers around the state.
"We always just like to remind people to slow down [and] put your phone down," Coulter said. "Navigating work zones is tough, even whether workers are present. So be safe, especially during a holiday week."
As for the rest of the highway widening project, it's still in the beginning stages, so ARDOT asks for continued patience as they plan to finish it in late 2027.
ARDOT also said there will be no main lane closures from now through the weekend to help with Thanksgiving travel.