HELENA-WEST HELENA, Ark. — The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) has received a $43.9 million grant from the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) Bridge Investment Program for repairs on Helena Bridge which connects Helena-West Helena, Arkansas to Lula, Mississippi.
The project is a collaborative effort between ARDOT, and the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT), who co-applied for the rehabilitation of the Helena Bridge. In total, the project is estimated to cost $56.6 million. ARDOT and MDOT will split the remaining cost evenly.
The Helena Bridge is a critical point of crossing in the Mississippi River. This bridge is nearly one mile long and is currently rated as being in “poor” condition, according to ARDOT.
The repair project will include structural repairs to bring the help improve the bridge’s rating to a higher level. The project also will increase the load rating of the bridge and give it a service life of 20 to 25 years.
The extended service life would allow ARDOT and MDOT to monitor existing regional transportation needs and plan for future capacity needs.
“The Helena Bridge serves as an important transportation link between Mississippi and Arkansas,” said MDOT Executive Director Brad White. "We're appreciative of USDOT for this grant award and for our partnership with ARDOT on the project. This wise investment will drive economic growth in the area and increase safety for decades to come."
