For years, the Arkansas Red River Commission has explored potential benefits by extending navigation on the Red River from Shreveport-Bossier to Texarkana. Despite ongoing studies, funding remains a significant hurdle for the project.
Current discussions revolve around the Red River navigation expansion, which proponents argue could address transportation and commerce needs, enhance irrigation, and generate hydroelectric power beneficial for the farming community. A feasibility study funded by the Arkansas Red River Commission and conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 2019 suggested that broadening the river could positively impact around 10 businesses and 25 unique shipment traffic flows.
The proposed navigation extension would conclude at the Index Bridge on U.S. Highway 71, north of Texarkana. The head of the Red River Valley Association (RRVA) supports the expansion, noting that it could improve the overall river system. By addressing erosion and debris issues that currently damage locks and dams, the project might enhance the functionality of existing infrastructure.
The J. Bennett Johnson Waterway will be a system of five locks and dams that allows shipping on 236 miles of the Red River.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is also evaluating the costs related to operating and maintaining the three locks and dams involved—one in Louisiana and two in Arkansas.
Locals have speculated on social media whether this project might influence ongoing efforts in Arkansas to legalize riverboat gambling. While the navigation expansion could bring various benefits to the region, the project’s future remains uncertain amid financial and logistical challenges.
You can submit your questions or concerns by email at CEMVK-PPMD-Civil-Works@usace.army.mil or by mail to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg District, Attn: CEMVK-PMP, 4155 Clay St., Vicksburg. More information can be found on the USACE project website. Comments and questions can be submitted up until 30 days after the Notice of Intent is published, which has not yet happened.
We are curious, and a little excited that it could happen. Having been around the shifting Red for a long time, we have questions submitted to the RRVA about the project… We will follow the story!
