Whoever said “The shortest distance between two points is…. under construction” had a good point.  This year in Missouri that point will be made loud and clear with more than 1,000 work zones statewide. 

These work zones mean that Missourians will be enjoying smoother, safer roads by the end of 2006.  The passage of Amendment 3 by voters in 2004 has given us a great opportunity to significantly improve our state’s roads.

With that additional funding, we have developed the Smooth Roads Initiative, which will bring 2,210 miles of our busiest highways into good condition.  Along with smoother roads, we will have brighter striping, larger signs and rumble stripes that alert drivers when they are veering off the roadway. 

The highway miles included in the Smooth Roads Initiative account for 60 percent of all traffic on the state system.  About 86 percent of Missouri's population lives within 10 miles of one of these roads.

Gov. Matt Blunt challenged us to accomplish all of this work by the end of the year – one full year ahead of schedule.  It will be tough, but we will meet the governor’s challenge and the people of Missouri will be the winners.

The Smooth Roads Initiative, however, means we will be fixing roads almost everywhere you go in Missouri this year.  These work zones could lead to delays, inconvenience and frustration.  We’ll be working to minimize disruptions by working at night and shortening project time frames.  Plus, we’ll keep you informed of upcoming projects, so you’re not caught off guard. 

As we approach Memorial Day and the kick off of the summer travel season, I encourage Missouri motorists to keep in mind that there are mothers, fathers, sons and daughters in each of these work zones striving to make everyone’s roads better.  I want all of them to arrive home safely at the end of each workday, just as I want every driver to arrive alive at their destination.

Please slow down, pay close attention, watch for other motorists, never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol and always buckle up as you drive through work zones.  You can also plan ahead by visiting www.modot.org where we have an interactive work zone map to help you avoid highway construction altogether.