Hwy. 9 project set to begin

The Arkansas State Highway Commission has opened bids for improvements to roadways in Izard County, according to Commissioner Cliff Hoofman of North Little Rock.

The first project will construct three miles of passing lanes and replace two bridges on Highway 9. Twin Lakes Quarrys Inc. of Mountain Home, Ark., was awarded the contract at $7,305,112.81.

"These improvements will feature the addition of one northbound and one southbound passing lane located between Melbourne and Brockwell," stated Hoofman. "This and the two new bridges along his stretch of roadway are going to make this a much safer highway for motorists traveling in this area."

The purpose of the second project is to reconstruct .36 mile of College Drive at Ozarka College in Melbourne. Township Builders Inc. of Little Rock, Ark., was awarded the contract at $905,411.

"This project will begin at Highway 69 and continue southward to the college," stated Hoofman.

Hoofman said work could begin on the projects in two to four weeks, weather permitting. Completion is expected on College Drive in early 2010. The passing lanes on Highway 9 should be completed in early 2011.