WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. – The replacement bridge for Interstate 55 over the Mississippi River will bear the name “Kings’ Crossing,” a tribute to three legendary figures tied to Memphis: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., blues icon B.B. King and rock ‘n’ roll pioneer Elvis Presley.
Tennessee and Arkansas transportation officials unveiled the name during a joint ceremony on Thursday at the Hernando de Soto Bridge, the current 75-year-old structure spanning from Memphis to West Memphis. The designation recognizes the profound cultural and historical influence of the three men on the region.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his final public speech at Mason Temple in Memphis on April 3, 1968, the night before his assassination at the Lorraine Motel. B.B. King, known as the “King of the Blues,” was born in Mississippi but rose to fame in Memphis, where he hosted the radio show “King’s Spot” on WDIA. Elvis Presley, dubbed the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” launched his career in Memphis at Sun Studio and made his home at Graceland.
The new bridge, part of the $850 million America’s River Crossing project, will feature wider lanes, shoulders and modern seismic standards to enhance safety and reliability for the 50,000 daily vehicles crossing the river. Construction is slated to begin in early 2026, with completion expected by 2030. The existing bridge will remain open during the build.
Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner Lee Martin emphasized the symbolic importance: “Kings’ Crossing will not only connect two states but also celebrate the enduring legacy of these kings who shaped Memphis and beyond.” Arkansas Department of Transportation Director Lorie Rice added that the name reflects the shared heritage of the Mid-South communities.
The project, funded through federal infrastructure grants and state bonds, addresses the aging span’s structural needs while improving traffic flow between Arkansas and Tennessee. Officials anticipate minimal disruptions during construction phases.
