Rison Mayor Charles Roberts is urging residents to contact the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) to request a new sidewalk along the Magnolia Street (Hwy. 35) overpass. ARDOT is currently accepting public comments on its Draft Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) for the 2027-2030 fiscal years, with the comment period open until July 28. Because the overpass is part of the state highway system, ARDOT is solely responsible for any structural upgrades.
Built in 1937, the historic overpass currently poses a significant safety hazard for pedestrians. While there is a partial sidewalk at the top, there are no connecting walkways leading to it. This forces pedestrians to either walk dangerously close to traffic inside the guard rails or balance on a narrow, steep embankment outside of them.
Mayor Roberts estimates that dozens of people cross the bridge daily and believes a safe walkway would increase foot traffic. Highlighting the severe danger, Roberts recounted a time he attempted to walk the overpass himself but "chickened out" due to safety concerns, ultimately accepting a ride instead. Residents are highly encouraged to email or mail their comments to ARDOT to prioritize this critical pedestrian safety improvement in the upcoming four-year statewide plan.