Converting U.S. 412 to interstate standard faces many challenges, officials say

Westside Eagle Observer by Ron Wood June 13, 2023

SILOAM SPRINGS -- Highway officials in Arkansas and Oklahoma are starting to get an idea of just how much time, work and money will be required to carry out a congressional mandate to convert about 190 miles of U.S. 412 between Interstate 35 in Oklahoma and Interstate 49 in Springdale into an interstate highway. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation and the Arkansas Department of Transportation are initiating a study of the project in coordination with the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority and Federal Highway Administration. Connecting Northwest Arkansas and north central Oklahoma with an interstate highway would encourage economic development along the corridor and expand opportunities for employment in the region, according to officials in both states. Nelson Peacock, president and CEO of the Northwest Arkansas Council, said developing the region's transportation infrastructure is critical to future mobility as the region continues to see rapid growth. View the full article: EagleObserver.com