The highly anticipated opening of the Middle Road bridge at Gold Creek arrived Tuesday.

This project was made possible through a partnership between the City of Conway and Faulkner County.

“This bridge project is a reflection of what’s possible when everyone works together,” said Mayor Bart Castleberry. “Many thanks to Faulkner County for partnering with us to resource and energize this project. Thanks also to our construction contractor Thomco Inc and our engineers at Garver.”

The wider, safer bridge will be better suited for future growth in the area.

“Traffic drives our lives. Faulkner County is pleased to partner with the City of Conway to improve traffic safety on the Middle Rd bridge project,” said Faulkner County Judge Allen Dodson.

The new bridge is double the width of the former bridge and has greater hydraulic efficiency for storm water runoff. In addition, the former bridge had narrow metal railings, while the new bridge features safer concrete barriers for better protection.