AASHTO Journal, 03 July 2015
U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said the Federal Highway Administration’s emergency relief account is sending $1 million to help the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department cover costs of repairing federal-aid roads damaged by recent floods throughout the state.
“We are aware of the state’s urgent need to repair damage caused by the recent flooding,” said Foxx. “The funding provided today represents a down-payment on our commitment to Arkansas for additional federal support.”
State officials are continuing to assess the damage. Seventeen counties have been declared disaster areas by Gov. Asa Hutchinson.
The FHWA emergency funds will be used on State Highway 41 and SH-71 in Franklin County to repair landslide damage and protect piers and bridge abutments along the Red River. The money will also help resurface damaged roads and repair embankments.
“We’re working closely with Arkansas to ensure the state can begin making repairs as soon as possible,” said Acting Federal Highway Administrator Gregory Nadeau. “Emergency relief funds help expedite repairs so area drivers can resume their daily lives.”