Bobby Hopper, Arkansas Highway Commissioner, dies

ARDOT says Hopper was the longest serving Highway Commissioner serving a total of 16 years.

ARKANSAS, USA — The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) has announced the death of Arkansas Highway Commissioner, Bobby Hopper.

“The Arkansas Department of Transportation and Arkansas Highway Commission are deeply saddened by the news that the longest serving Highway Commissioner, Bobby Hopper, has passed away,” said ARDOT.

ARDOT says Hopper served a total of 16 years on the Highway Commision making him the longest serving Highway Commissioner. Hopper served twice as Chairman from 1987 through 1988 and again in 1997 through 1998.

“Bobby Hopper built a legacy of public service, hard work and perseverance in working towards a vision” according to ArDOT Director Lorie Tudor.

ARDOT says Hopper’s determination was most evident in the work put forth to make Interstate 49 between Alma and Bella Vista a reality, which includes the Bobby Hopper Tunnel that opened in 1999.

Hopper once said he was there “from the start to the finish” of the I-49 project and was proud of how it changed Arkansas’ landscape.

“While we have lost a great friend, a wonderful person, and a dedicated servant of the people, he and his legacy will never be forgotten,” says Tudor.

President Bill Clinton also released the following statement regarding Hopper’s death:

“Bobby was a remarkable person — a good man, a great friend, a model citizen, and one of the finest and most effective Highway Commissioners ever. I loved him, and my thoughts and prayers are with Lois, Regina, Robert, and all who will miss him. We need more people like him in public life.”