MARYVILLE, Mo. – Motorists on southbound U.S. Route 71 will want to use extra caution beginning next week. Construction of a new ramp from 285th Street to southbound U.S. Route 71 will mean drivers will now be merging differently than they’ve done in the past.
Right now, traffic from Route V/Business U.S. 71 uses an outer ramp and flows directly into the right-hand or driving lane of southbound U.S. Route 71. Southbound through traffic uses the passing or left-hand lane, making merging unnecessary.
Beginning Monday, May 1, crews will begin work on the right shoulder of the ramp and onto a portion of U.S. Route 71. This work will move drivers on that outer ramp towards the left side of the ramp, putting them into the passing lane when they join U.S. Route 71, causing a merge point that previously did not exist.
Signs will be posted for motorist on both the outer ramp and the through lanes, warning them of the upcoming merge. All motorists are urged to use caution and politely allow traffic ample room to merge.
This work and traffic change is scheduled to be in place for approximately two months. All work weather dependent and schedules could change.
MoDOT encourages all motorists to slow down, buckle up, eliminate distractions and drive safely to ensure everyone is able to Arrive Alive.
For more information on this and other MoDOT projects, call 1-888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636
) or visit www.modot.org/northwest and view the online Traveler Information Map. In addition, MoDOT provides updated information on Twitter @MoDOTNorthwest and Facebook at www.facebook.com/MoDOTNWDistrict.
###