I-55 bridge expected to reopen this Sunday

Congestion has unforeseen positive effects on local businesses

By DON WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

As the I-55 bridge repairs continue as scheduled, with an expected re-opening of March 24th, the construction progress is moving forward smoothly according to TDOT. The pouring of polymer concrete (PMC) has commenced in the second week of the two week closure of the I-55 bridge over the Mississippi River. Crews are averaging approximately 1000 feet of pour per day and are reportedly working around the clock to _nish on time.

However, congestion in the area has been a concern, with traf_c coming to a halt last Saturday due to a car accident on I-40. The already congested traf_c was backed up for more than 10 miles, causing extreme delays for commuters. First responders have stated that they are prepared to airlift patients to Memphis in the case of a grave emergency should traf_c be backed up again.

Hudson Hallum, the director of Crittenden County EMS, highlighted the potential consequences of limited access to Memphis hospitals after the recent anti-war protests briey shut down traf_c on I-40 and explained that without certain critical care services on this side of the river, community health becomes signi_cantly compromised. To mitigate the impact of bridge closures, Hallum stated that they had implemented emergency action plans for limited river access.

The continued closure of the I-55 bridge has also had an unforeseen positive impact on the local area, with some West Memphis business owners noting an uptick in business. Establishments such as Applebee’s, Red Pier, and others adjacent to the service roads and highways have seen an increase in customers as traf_c is is slowed or backed up through the area.

Crews from TDOT are working around the clock, often to some spectacular views, to reopen the I-55 bridge by this Sunday.

Photo courtesy of TDOT