That has caused repeated navigation restrictions and resulted in extensive dredging. With Montgomery Point Lock and Dam, river traffic will be able to flow unimpeded across our state. That's good news for Arkansas. There are more than 1,000 miles of navigable waterways in Arkansas, and each of our state's counties is within 65 miles of one. For too long, we've ignored the advantages of having one of the most extensive river systems in the nation.
Some industries prefer river travel to carry their products.
Unfortunately, Arkansas hasn't provided them enough incentives to locate here. They've instead gone where they've been invited, and they've taken their jobs with them. Waterborne transportation is safer, cleaner and quieter than other forms of transportation, and it opens up our already clogged highway system. It's one of the things we're studying as we formulate our transportation plan and one of the things that will help Arkansas compete in the next century. I hope you are enjoying the Christmas season, and I hope you take the time to see the holiday decorations across the state.