Rock blasting for bypass begins

BENTONVILLE -- Kolb Grading began rock blasting operations on the west side of Peach Orchard Road on Thursday, according to a news release from the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department.

The rock blasting is part of the Bella Vista Bypass construction project. Weather permitting, it will occur several times a week for about 30 days, the release states.

The blasting will happen about 2,000 feet west of Peach Orchard Road between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Department officials ask the public to watch for warning signs and safety personnel.

The project includes the construction of about six miles of the bypass, extending from U.S. 71B to Arkansas 72, the release states. Initially two lanes will be constructed and another two will be added in the future.

This project is part of the Connecting Arkansas Program, which is paid for through a 10-year, half-cent sales tax.

Motorists should exercise caution when approaching and traveling through all highway work zones.

Additional travel information can be found at IDriveArkansas.com or ArkansasHighways.com.

-- Special to The Weekly Vista

General News on 01/28/2015