The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) is scheduled to close the Lake Harrison Bridge on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024. The existing bridge will be demolished, and a new structure will be built, scheduled to be completed in 2026 for approximately $10 million.
City of Harrison Engineer and DOO Wade Phillips said, “We are purposely slowly draining Lake Harrison to make demolition and construction easier for the crew by reducing the width of the stream below the bridge. The water is being reduced by two slide gates in the weir, which we can open to let water pass through and lower the lake level.”
This demolition and construction zone will inconvenience those who use the trails around Lake Harrison. Most of the trail will still be open. It is assumed only to affect the areas nearest the demolition and construction.
The DOT published an alternate route for drivers to encourage using the Bypass and Hwy. 7 during this time.
Phillips wants to remind local drivers the best alternative route might be Lakeshore Drive between Main Street and South Pine Street. “We want to encourage people not to use South Spring in front of the Youth Center as a detour. Many students are in that area, and we want to keep them as safe as possible.”
Jackson added, “My apologies in advance for the inconvenience. Progress can be painful, but remember how difficult it was to get through the Highway 43/65 project and how nice it is now.”
Follow the City of Harrison’s Facebook page for updates on the construction. Visit harrisonar.gov to sign up for TextMyGov to get updates on additional street closures.
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