Arkansas – Temporary overnight ramp closures along Interstate 40 are scheduled to take place this week as crews with the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) test newly installed wrong-way detection systems.
Closures are expected to occur intermittently from 10 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, to 6 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, and again from 10 p.m. Wednesday, June 18, to 6 a.m. Thursday, June 19, weather permitting.
During these windows, off-ramps will be closed in two-hour intervals to allow for testing. Only one ramp will be closed at a time, with crews aiming to complete work on three to four ramps per night.
Emergency responders will still have access to all ramps, while other drivers will need to use alternate exits.
The testing is part of a safety initiative to evaluate and fine-tune wrong-way detection systems. These systems include vehicle sensors, CCTV cameras, illuminators, warning devices, and communication equipment.
If a motorist drives the wrong way on a ramp, LED lights will flash to alert them, while an alarm will be sent to the ARDOT Traffic Management Center to allow for immediate tracking and response.
Planned ramp closures along I-40 include:
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Westbound: Exits 161, 165, 169, 173, 183
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Eastbound: Exits 165, 169, 173, 175, 193, 202
Traffic will be directed by Highway Police with the assistance of barrels, message boards, and temporary signage.
Motorists are advised to plan ahead and use caution when traveling through work zones. For live traffic updates and alternate route planning, visit IDriveArkansas.com or ARDOT.gov.