Though Interstate 44 became much smoother and safer in 2005, this year promises even more construction on the cross-state route. A number of significant projects are planned between March and December 2006, and travelers should expect lane changes and slower speeds in work areas.
One of the most significant projects will occur in Crawford County, near Cuba, where more than 12 miles of the westbound lanes will be reconstructed. As happened last summer when the eastbound lanes were rebuilt, this project will require running traffic head-to-head, in each direction in the eastbound lanes. Work will begin as early as March 1 and most of the construction should be completed before heavy vacation travel begins on Memorial Day weekend.
Among the more than 25 projects that are scheduled for I-44, other major work that will require periods of head-to-head traffic include:
- widening five miles near Pacific and replacing a mile of pavement near Eureka;
- adding two lanes, realigning curves and building a bridge near Rolla; and
- reconstructing 15 miles of eastbound highway from the Pulaski County line to Lebanon.
Construction dates will become firm as contracts are signed.
“Check the MoDOT Web site for project dates,” said Operations Engineer Ed Hess. “We’ll also post information on message boards along the interstate.”
Other short-term projects on I-44 involve closing one lane of traffic at a time to smooth existing surfaces, repaving sections and erecting guard cable in medians. These efforts are all part of MoDOT’s Smoother, Safer, Sooner program.
For MoDOT, minimizing delays and maximizing communication with motorists is the main goal.
“Though we’ll do all we can to minimize delays, the roadwork will likely impact shipping schedules, routes for trucking companies and routine travel for motorists,” said Hess. “We’ll publicize when and where projects take place, so travelers can be prepared. The important thing to keep in mind is that I-44 will be a much better road in the end.”
Hess said Thursday, Friday and Sunday afternoons were the busiest in past construction seasons, so drivers will be advised to avoid peak travel times when possible.
“We’ll encourage drivers to plan ahead by visiting www.modot.org or calling our customer service centers at 1-888 ASK MODOT,” Hess said. “That way they can find out where crews are working.
