There are certain days in the life of a community that people remember for years. I believe Friday, August 14, will be one of those days.

At 10:00 a.m., we will celebrate the opening of the new bridge over Crooked Creek leading into downtown Harrison. This isn’t just another ribbon-cutting. It marks the completion of the largest ARDOT project in our city's history, and I hope every citizen who can will join us for this special occasion.

Projects of this size don’t happen by accident. They require vision, planning, funding, engineering, and an incredible amount of hard work. We are fortunate to have a wonderful partner in the Arkansas Department of Transportation, and this bridge is another example of what can be accomplished when state and local governments work together toward a common goal.

One thing we should never take for granted is having ARDOT’s District Headquarters right here in Harrison. Many of the people who work there live here, raise their families here, and care about this community just as much as the rest of us. They aren’t just building roads and bridges — they’re helping build Harrison’s future. We are fortunate to call them our neighbors and friends, and we sincerely appreciate their dedication and partnership.

When this project was first announced, we were thrilled to learn Harrison would receive such a significant investment. Like many of you, I also knew the construction period would test our patience. For nearly three years, motorists adapted to detours, businesses adjusted, and neighborhoods experienced more traffic than anyone would have preferred.

Through it all, the crews from West Plains Bridge Company showed up day after day. Whether it was the heat of summer, cold winter mornings, or rainy days, they continued moving this project forward. Their professionalism and commitment did not go unnoticed. On behalf of our community, thank you for a job well done.

This bridge is more than concrete and steel. It represents progress. It improves safety, enhances access to our downtown, and serves as another investment in Harrison’s future. Long after the construction equipment is gone, this bridge will continue serving our community for generations.

I hope you’ll make plans to join us on Friday, August 14, at 10:00 a.m. Let’s come together to celebrate this historic achievement and, just as importantly, to thank the many people whose hard work made it possible. It’s a day our community can be proud of, and I hope we fill the area with citizens showing our appreciation for everyone who helped make this remarkable project a reality.

Jerry Jackson moved to the community in 1980 and was voted Mayor in 2018. He ran and won re-election in 2022. Email info@harrisonar.gov to contact the mayor’s office.