Arkansas Awarded Contract to Raise Highway 71
The state approved a $17.1 million project to elevate a flood-prone section of the highway by up to 8 feet.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Construction
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On August 14, 2026, the Arkansas Department of Transportation awarded a $17,063,675 contract to McGeorge Contracting Co. to raise a 1.47-mile section of U.S. Highway 71. The project aims to elevate the roadway above headwater levels to prevent future flooding from the Red River.
Why it matters
The project addresses long-standing vulnerabilities exposed by severe flooding, specifically the May 2015 closure of the highway. By raising the grade, the state seeks to maintain reliable access for the 13,000 vehicles that use the road daily.
The project covers a 1.47-mile stretch and requires 440 days to complete. It involves 7.3 acres of land acquisition and aims to increase highway elevation by up to 8 feet.
The players
Arkansas Department of Transportation
This state agency is responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of the state's highway and bridge infrastructure.
McGeorge Contracting Co.
This construction firm, based in Pine Bluff, is the primary contractor selected for the Highway 71 elevation project.
Federal Highway Administration
This federal agency provides oversight and funding for state road projects and issued the initial clearance for this construction.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
This federal agency regulates activities affecting the nation's waters and wetlands, including permitting for infrastructure development.
The details
The construction plan includes extensive earthwork and asphalt paving to lift the roadway grade, alongside the installation of a 6,500-foot-long 42-inch water main. To account for the project's impact on one-third of an acre of wetlands, ArDOT is utilizing credits from the Sulphur River mitigation area.
Timeline
May 29, 2015: Highway 71 closed due to Red River flooding.
September 2021: Federal Highway Administration provided environmental clearance.
June 4, 2026: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued the required wetlands permit.
August 12, 2026: ArDOT opened the construction bidding process.
August 14, 2026: ArDOT officially awarded the construction contract.
Market Landscape
This project follows a pattern of federally compliant environmental mitigation required by policies like the National Environmental Policy Act. By securing wetland credits, the state aligns its infrastructure expansion with broader regulatory demands for ecological impact management.
Drivers can expect 440 days of construction-related activity along this 1.47-mile stretch, which may influence local travel times. While the upgrades are designed to prevent future closures, commuters should monitor official state traffic alerts for potential lane adjustments.
The takeaway
Proactive infrastructure upgrades aimed at climate resilience are becoming essential for maintaining key state transportation corridors. Residents in flood-prone zones should prepare for long-term construction projects as agencies prioritize structural prevention over temporary repairs.
Further reading
Learn more about ongoing infrastructure developments across the state in the Arkansas Construction section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Texarkana Today.
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