New I-55 bridge project receives nearly $400M in federal funding
”America’s River Crossing” announced by ARDOT, TDOT
By DONALD WILBURN
donaldfwilburn@gmail.com
After months of discussions and deliberations, it has been of_cially con_rmed that a new bridge will be constructed across the Mississippi River, connecting Memphis and Arkansas. The decision was made following meetings with residents in Crittenden and Shelby counties in April, where concerns were raised about the safety and ef_ciency of the existing I-55 bridge.
The United States Department of Transportation has allocated $393.75 million to help fund the project, with the states of Arkansas and Tennessee each contributing around $250 million. The new bridge, which will be known as America’s River Crossing, is set to replace the current historical landmark bridge that was designated as such in 2021.
Of_cials have expressed concerns about the vulnerability of the existing bridge to serious damage in the event of an earthquake, as well as its outdated infrastructure. Tennessee Congressman Steve Cohen announced the federal investment, emphasizing the signi_cance of the grant in securing the construction
See BRIDGE, page A2
A rendering of what the new bridge may look like. The design phase and a number of environmental and economic impact surveys will be implemented in coming months.
image by TDOT BRIDGE
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of the new bridge. Cohen also made it a point in the announcement that president Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed in 2021 helped provide the majority of funds for the project.
Renderings of the new bridge have already been released, with the project estimated to cost nearly $900 million. However, Dave Parker from the Arkansas Department of Transportation has suggested that the _nal cost could range from $800 million to $1 billion. City and state leaders are hopeful that the new bridge will alleviate traf_c congestion, create job opportunities, and stimulate economic growth in both Memphis and West Memphis.
Memphis Mayor Paul Young and West Memphis Mayor Marco McClendon have both expressed optimism about the project, highlighting the potential bene_ts it could bring to the region. Residents and visitors alike have eagerly anticipated the construction of the new bridge, with some expressing concerns about the safety and stability of the current structure.
While there is no set date for the commencement of construction, TDOT of_cials have indicated that the project must have the necessary funds obligated by 2026. Completion of the bridge is estimated to be around 2030, with public meetings scheduled to take place in August to further discuss the replacement project.
The I-55 bridge project is expected to support 64,000 vehicles per day by the year 2050, further solidifying Memphis’ status as a key logistics hub in the region.
