LITTLE ROCK (6-23) – The Arkansas Highway Commission has approved $12 million in federal funding for local Transportation Enhancement Program projects in Arkansas for 2011, according to Highway Commission Chairman R. Madison Murphy of El Dorado.

The funds cover 74 grant projects across the state, including one in Prairie County in DeValls Bluff. The Enhancement category of funding was created by Congress in 1991 for non-traditional transportation related projects.  Examples of eligible work include historic preservation, beautification, pedestrian/bicycle facilities and scenic highway enhancements.  Since 1993, the Commission has approved about 360 local enhancement projects statewide totaling over $55 million.

The project in DeValls Bluff will cost approximately $200,000 and involves converting a portion of the town’s old “railroad bed” (where the railroad tracks where once located) into an upscale pedestrian trail. The trail will include lighting, benches and other amenities. The city of DeValls Bluff and The Arnold Family Foundation are partnering with the Highway Department on the project.

“The Commission provides the citizens of Arkansas with the best possible system of highways,” stated Murphy.  “I am very pleased that we are also able to assist local communities with projects such as these.  The local pride that is created by these projects can’t be measured.  We are glad to play a small role in their development.”

Information Release
Office of the Director
Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department
PO Box 2261, Little Rock, AR 501-569-2227