Frequently Asked Questions - Boone County Route 763 Widening Project

What improvements are being proposed by MoDOT for the current Route 763 in Columbia?
The department plans to widen Route 763 from two lanes to four lanes. The project will increase capacity and improve safety for motorists using this roadway. The design includes a 14-foot median, two seven-foot shoulders with striped bike lanes as well as curb and gutter. The construction of a six-foot sidewalk on both sides of Route 763 is also included in the design plans. After construction is completed, the posted speed may be 40 or 45 mph.

 

When is the project slated to begin and when will it be completed?
Construction on the project is currently scheduled to start in early 2008 and will be completed in late 2009.

 

How will traffic be managed during construction?
During construction, two-way traffic will be maintained at all times. Driveways to businesses will remain open during construction. The contractor will work on one half of a driveway at a time to ensure continual access to that business. Temporary detours may be used to route traffic through construction work if needed.

 

What type of pavement will be used in this improvement?
The project has been designed to include concrete or asphalt pavement options. When MoDOT receives bids for this project, the most economical pavement available at that time will be selected.

 

How much additional right of way will be needed and when will MoDOT start acquiring right of way?
In most cases, an additional 15 feet of easement for sidewalks, signs and utilities will be needed to complete the project. All relocated utilities will be installed underground. Additional right of way may be needed near intersections because of widening for additional lanes. In an attempt to accelerate the construction on the project, MoDOT is planning to ask property owners to sign a utility relocation right of entry agreement for this project. The right of entry agreement allows utility companies along the route to construct the necessary relocation of utilities in conjunction with right of way negotiations. The agreement does not transfer ownership of property to MoDOT, it only gives the utility company the right to construct utilities on their property prior to final acquisition. This allows more time for right of way negotiation without slowing down the construction process. Property owners will be contacted in early 2007 soon after right of way plans are approved.

 

How much will this project cost?
The project will cost approximately $30 million. The City of Columbia and Boone County will contribute funding for the project.

 

What public involvement has taken place on this project?
Several meetings with the public and local governments have been conducted since the public
hearing on February 24, 2004. The meetings include:
2/24/04 - Public Hearing at Oakland Junior High School
9/2/04 - North Columbia League Meeting
11/8/04 - Meeting with City of Columbia Manager
5/31/05 - Meeting with City of Columbia staff
12/5/05 - City of Columbia Council Public Hearing
9/25/06 - North Columbia League Meeting
10/2/06 - City of Columbia Council and Boone County Commission Meeting

10/25/06 - Public Meeting at Oakland Junior High School