Temporary overnight ramp closures on Interstate 40 are scheduled to test wrong-way detection systems. These closures will occur intermittently from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Tuesday, July 8, Wednesday, July 9, and Thursday, July 10.
Crews will close specific off-ramps in two-hour intervals to conduct the tests. The wrong-way detection systems being tested include vehicle sensors, closed-circuit television cameras, illuminators, hardware controllers, warning devices, and communications equipment. If a motorist is detected traveling in the wrong direction, LED lights will flash as a warning. An alarm will also be sent to the Arkansas Department of Transportation Traffic Management Center for tracking purposes.
The plan is to close only one ramp at a time and complete testing on three to four ramps each night. Emergency responders will have access to the ramps at all times; other motorists must use alternate exits.
The affected ramps include:
– Eastbound Exit 148
– Westbound Exit 148
– Westbound Exit 193
– Eastbound Exit 199 (White River Rest Area)
– Westbound Exit 199 (White River Rest Area)
– Eastbound Exit 202
– Westbound Exit 202
Traffic control measures will be implemented by Highway Police using barrels, message boards, and signage. For more travel information, visit IDriveArkansas.com or ARDOT.gov.
Information from this article can be found here.
