July 1, 2020—For immediate release
JEFFERSON CITY - The Missouri Department of Transportation will suspend road construction and routine maintenance operations starting at noon on Thursday, July 2 through 10 p.m. on Sunday, July 5 to accommodate increased traffic on the highways.
Lane and bridge closures already in place around the state will remain during the holiday weekend. Drivers are urged to be alert to sudden closures due to emergency situations.
With relaxed restrictions following the lifting of statewide COVID-19 health orders on June 16—and with the July 4th holiday coming on a Saturday—traffic is expected to be heavy on Missouri’s roads all weekend. MoDOT is reminding motorists to be attentive, courteous and responsible.
“We’re seeing a disturbing increase in aggressive driving,” said Natalie Roark, state maintenance director. “Please, for your own safety and the safety of others, slow down, don’t drive impaired or distracted and look out for each another.”
There were 15 people killed and 58 seriously injured in traffic crashes in Missouri during the 2019 Fourth of July holiday. Of the 73 people killed or injured, 18 were involved in a crash where there was at least one substance-impaired driver.
“Road conditions can change in an instant,” Roark said. “Always be alert when driving, and remember, Buckle Up Phone Down.”
Motorists can find everything they need to plan for summer travel at MO on the GO, MoDOT’s suite of mobile information tools that shares the latest news on work zones, road conditions and traffic incidents. You can access it online at modot.org/mo-go.
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For more information, call MoDOT at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org. To receive the latest statewide news and text alerts, signup for e-updates.