A major transportation milestone was celebrated Thursday as the first stage of the Greenwood Bypass officially opened to traffic, marking the beginning of a new era for travel through the city.
City officials, community leaders, and representatives from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) gathered June 4 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony before opening the new section of roadway to motorists.
The newly completed bypass, which will eventually become part of Highway 10, is located south of the current highway and stretches from Highway 96 to South Coker Street. Construction on the project began in 2024 and includes approximately one mile of new roadway, three new bridges, and improvements designed to enhance traffic flow and safety throughout the area.
With the opening of the bypass, traffic patterns in Greenwood have changed significantly. ARDOT simultaneously closed a portion of the existing Highway 10 between Bell Road and Highway 96, allowing crews to begin the second phase of the project. That work includes reconstructing the roadway and replacing the bridge over Heartsill Creek.
Motorists traveling between Highway 10 West, West Elm Street, and the Highway 10/96 intersection are now being routed along the newly opened bypass. Access to downtown Greenwood remains available through an extended section of Main Street, which now connects directly to the new roadway.
A stop sign has also been added at the western end of the bypass where it intersects South Coker Street and West Elm Street.
Construction barrels, barricades, and signage have been placed throughout the area to help drivers navigate the new traffic pattern. Officials are encouraging motorists to remain alert and use caution while traveling through the construction zone.
The Greenwood Bypass project represents a significant investment in the city’s transportation infrastructure and is expected to improve traffic efficiency while supporting future growth in the community. Once all phases of construction are completed, the bypass will officially carry the Highway 10 designation.
(RNN PHOTOS / PEGGY BARGER) The first phase of the Greenwood Bypass opened to traffic June 4. The project includes a new route connecting Highway 96 to South Coker Street while allowing construction crews to begin improvements and bridge replacement work along the existing Highway 10 corridor.
