BENTONVILLE, AR — Cyclists, pedestrians, and vehicles can now navigate a safer and more efficient 1.5-mile stretch of Eighth Street, from Southwest I-Street to Southeast J-Street. Featuring a four-lane boulevard with necessary turn lanes, a two-way cycle track, and sidewalks, the project is one of the most comprehensive complete streets in Northwest Arkansas. This project supports the citywide goal of Bentonville, Arkansas, to preserve, promote, and sustain an excellent quality of life.

“Enhancing street safety for cyclists and pedestrians creates a more secure and accessible environment for everyone, promoting healthier and more sustainable urban mobility,” said Aaron Boehmler, Project Manager at Burns & McDonnell. “Projects like this enable us to make essential improvements that cater to a diverse range of users.”

The team carefully integrated bicycle and pedestrian facilities with vehicular turning movements during the design of intersections and traffic signals. The project included safety enhancements, including improved pedestrian and bike crossings, traffic signals with leading pedestrian intervals, lighting, and reduced lane widths to slow vehicular speeds.

This roadway is a vital area to the Bentonville community, supporting commercial, residential, and mixed uses. It also forms the southern boundary of the downtown district along part of the corridor and is adjacent to both the existing Walmart headquarters, as well as the newly constructed headquarters. All work was approved by the Arkansas Department of Transportation and conformed to Federal Highway Administration requirements due to various federal funding sources.

Working from more than 75 offices around the world, Burns & McDonnell designs and builds critical infrastructure. Founded in 1898, Burns & McDonnell is 100 percent employee-owned and driven by engineers, construction professionals, architects, planners, technologists, and scientists.