Main Street Bridge in Harrison Nearing Completion

HARRISON, AR. - For Harrison residents, the long-awaited Main Street Bridge is nearing completion, with an expected opening in late summer 2026. After closing on January 2, 2024, for demolition and reconstruction, the project is now about 85% finished.

Jason House from West Plains Bridge & Grading, the company building the bridge, confirmed the late summer target. He added that the project is currently "ahead of schedule and within budget." The new bridge, costing an estimated $10 million, was designed with a phased construction plan. This approach helped minimize disruptions and worked with the natural flow of Crooked Creek and Lake Harrison.

West Plains Bridge & Grading was selected for the job due to their competitive bid and expertise. A local crew from Harrison has been working hard on the bridge, and despite the project's complexity, House reported that "nothing out of the ordinary" has occurred during construction.

The bridge uses a modern "drilled shaft foundation," a method where deep holes are drilled, reinforced with steel, and filled with concrete for a strong base.

During construction, drivers have relied on alternate routes like Lakeshore Drive. To manage traffic and safety, speed cushions were installed on Spring Street near the Brandon Burlsworth Youth Center. Additionally, Central Avenue saw temporary changes in April 2025 to accommodate the work.

While the city plans a celebration for the bridge's reopening, specific details are still being worked out. Harrison City Councilwoman Gwen Hoffmann noted that although a celebratory moment is definite, the exact timing and nature of the event depend on a confirmed completion date from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT). Rumors of a car parade celebrating transportation history have been discussed but are on hold for now.

Residents' patience will soon be rewarded as the new Main Street Bridge prepares to open, making travel across Crooked Creek much smoother.