Arkansas – The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) and the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) announced that the Interstate 55 bridge spanning the Mississippi River between West Memphis, Arkansas, and Memphis, Tennessee, will now be known as Kings’ Crossing.
The new name, adopted by the Arkansas Highway Commission and the Tennessee General Assembly, honors three influential figures tied to the region: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., B.B. King, and Elvis Presley.
“It’s only fitting to name this vital crossing after three historic figures from this region,” said ARDOT Director Jared Wiley. “We’re grateful for the partnership and collaboration with TDOT on this project. It truly is the result of a regional effort that will benefit industry across this national corridor and the thousands of individuals who depend on this connection each day.”
TDOT Commissioner Will Reid described the name as a tribute to both infrastructure and heritage. “Kings’ Crossing is more than just a piece of infrastructure; it is a symbol of our collective history, heritage, and the enduring spirit of unity that defines this region,” he said. “Naming this bridge in honor of these gentlemen pays tribute to their extraordinary legacies – individuals who transcended barriers, fostered cultural exchange, and used their talents to build bridges between people.”
In July 2024, the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded nearly $400 million to Arkansas and Tennessee through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program, covering half the cost of replacing the I-55 bridge. ARDOT and TDOT each committed up to $200 million, marking the largest transportation investment in the history of both states.
The existing I-55 bridge has served travelers for 75 years. The replacement will expand capacity, improve safety standards, and meet modern seismic codes, as the structure sits on the New Madrid fault line.
According to ARDOT and TDOT, the environmental review is nearing completion, with design underway and Right-of-Way coordination expected later this year. Construction is anticipated to begin in fiscal year 2026, using the Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) delivery method to streamline planning and execution of the project.