BATESVILLE, ARK – The 167 Project, initiated by ARDOT (Arkansas Department of Transportation), is currently underway on Ramsey Mountain, focusing on major road improvements including the construction of emergency lanes on Highway 167. This project aims to provide an alternative route in case of major accidents that could block the existing lanes, which otherwise necessitates a lengthy 36-mile, 50-minute detour through Magness and Oil Trough to cross the White River.
The 167 Project will construct a parallel emergency path adjacent to Highway 167 on Ramsey Mountain. This path will be used as an incident management tool in the event of a traffic accident that requires closing the existing Highway 167.
According to ARDOT, the emergency bypass will feature two 16-foot travel lanes with 6-foot shoulders, providing a single traffic lane in each direction. A concrete median barrier will separate the bypass from the existing lanes. Access to the emergency lanes will be controlled by an automatic gate system, ensuring they are only used during emergencies and not during normal traffic operations.
Key points about the 167 Project:
- Land Acquisition: The project became feasible when local governments from Batesville, Southside, and Independence County collaborated to purchase and donate the necessary hillside property.
- Current Status: About 90% of the land clearing is complete, and the next phase involves paving the lanes.
- Completion Timeline: The project is scheduled for completion by November 2024, although there might be delays due to the time required to procure the gates for the lanes, which could take up to six months.
Drivers should expect potential lane closures and are advised to allow extra time for their commutes during the construction period.
