HANNIBAL - In less than two years, motorists traveling Route 61 will be using a new interchange at Route U and Mette Road south of Moscow Mills. The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission recently awarded this project to Iron Mountain Trap Rock Company of Iron Mountain, Missouri for $8,374,042.13.

This project is a cost-share between MoDOT and Crossroads Center with a total estimated cost of a little over $12 million. MoDOT's engineering team worked with Crossroad Center's engineering consultants to design the project.  In addition to the land acquired from Crossroads Center, MoDOT had enough right of way to construct the interchange without purchasing additional land.

The work involves building a new bridge over Route 61 to carry Route U and Mette Road traffic.  Ramps will be built to allow traffic off of and on to Route 61. Impact to traffic will be minimal while Route U and Mette is being rebuilt due to traffic pattern changes made by MoDOT in fall 2007. Less congestion and greater mobility will make the interchange and surrounding transportation system much more safe for the traveling public.

Construction is expected to begin in April and the work should be completed by late 2010. The public is urged to use caution during construction of the project.  A groundbreaking ceremony is being planned in cooperation with the City of Moscow Mills, Lincoln County, MoDOT and Crossroads Center.

All road work is posted on the traveler information map on the day it begins. Those traveling and commuting public are encouraged to check the online map at www.modot.org daily for new work zones. MoDOT also offers e-update messages sent directly to your email when road work is scheduled. Sign up online or call MoDOT's customer service center at 1-888-275-6636.