The Route 50 groundbreaking was held on February 26, 2007. Thanks to Kruger's Greenhouse for the use of their facility.
Speakers:
U.S. Senator Christopher "Kit" Bond
Missouri Highways and Transportation Commissioner Mike Kehoe
Bill Anderson, director of policy for Governor Matt Blunt
State Senator Carl Vogel
State Representative Bill Deeken
State Representative Kenny Jones
Cole County Presiding Commissioner Marc Ellinger
Randy Allen, president/CEO -- Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce
Musical Performance:
Sounds of Joy, California High School.

Two residents look over the project map before the ceremony.

Sounds of Joy, a vocal group from the California High School, sang the national anthem and a patriotic medley during the ceremony.

About 150 people were on hand to celebrate the beginning of the project.

U.S. Senator Christopher "Kit" Bond spoke about the increased safety the new highway will bring.

State and local dignitaries pose with the MoDOT's five-handled groundbreaking shovel.

Missouri Highways and Transportation Commissioner Mike Kehoe climbed aboard a track loader at the end of the ceremony.

The California Chamber of Commerce and Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce sponsored a reception, complete with Missouri-shaped cookies.