MEMPHIS, Tenn. — There is new optimism amid a new plan between the Arkansas and Tennessee Departments of Transportation to build a replacement I-55 bridge.
The current bridge has been around since the 1940s, but TDOT and ARDOT are hoping a $400 million grant will cover half the cost, while the remaining $400 million is split between the two organizations.
While there is no word yet on how many lanes this new bridge will have, an ARDOT spokesperson said there will likely be six at the minimum.
The new bridge would be built right next to the existing one, which transportation leaders said could help fix traffic problems, and make the bridge safer in case of an earthquake.
TDOT's website lists these benefits:
- Improves bridge resiliency and reduces future maintenance costs
- Safeguards against incidents such as earthquakes
- Offers increased mobility
- Enhances local and regional freight movement
- Provides improved linkages and rerouting opportunities for Memphis and the tri-state area
- Provides efficient mobility for existing and planned growth
- Improves environmental sustainability by lowering vehicle emissions
“We saw back in May of 2021 when the I-40 bridge was shut down for 80 something days and we had to rely solely on the 55 bridge, it’s just not capable of handling the traffic capacity,” said Dave Parker with ARDOT.
“This is a national security matter, it is of that level of importance," said Ted Townsend, Greater Memphis Chamber President & CEO. "In the event that something happens, we can make sure products can continue to flow.”
ARDOT said the current I-55 bridge will not be shut down until the new one is finished. If the grant is approved, Parker says the bridge should be ready to go in five to six years.