ARDOT Washington Co Highway 62

Project Overview

Emery Sapp & Sons (ESS) successfully partnered with the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) to complete a $37.5-million resurfacing project along Interstate 49 in Washington County. Beginning in March 2024 and completed in early 2025, the project improved 42 lane miles of I-49 between the Crawford County Line and Highway 62, enhancing ride quality, durability, and long-term performance along this critical transportation corridor.

The scope of work included extensive spall repairs, placement of a 2-inch asphalt overlay with an additional ¾-inch ultrathin surface layer, and strengthening of base shoulders throughout the corridor. A key challenge was maintaining traffic flow through one of the busiest sections of I-49, particularly south of the West Fork exit. To minimize impacts to the traveling public, ESS coordinated closely with ARDOT to shift all paving operations to nighttime hours—allowing work to progress efficiently while keeping daytime traffic moving safely.

Safety remained a top priority throughout the project. ESS crews conducted regular Job Safety Analysis (JSA) meetings and Toolbox Talks to proactively identify hazards and reinforce safe work practices. In partnership with Time Striping, ESS implemented comprehensive traffic control measures that protected both workers and motorists during all phases of construction.

Through strong collaboration, adaptive scheduling, and a commitment to safety and quality, ESS delivered a successful infrastructure improvement that benefits the local community and the thousands of travelers who rely on Interstate 49 each day.