JEFFERSON CITY – Motorists traveling on Interstate 70 will experience lane closures and significant delays this weekend, as multiple work zones are in place throughout the central counties of the state. The Missouri Department of Transportation says this comes at a time when several events will add to potential traffic volumes.
“Travelers using I-70 will need to plan ahead,” said Central District Engineer Machelle Watkins. “In each of the work zones, at least one lane will be closed, causing the flow to slow down. In some cases, traffic will be completely stopped for 15 minutes at a time.
Watkins said travelers may also see increased traffic volumes due to several major public events happening along I-70, such as the Chiefs home game in Kansas City and the State Cross Country Championships in Columbia.
“To help alleviate some of these delays, we ask those traveling on I-70 to consider using alternate routes to these events, or prepare extra time for expected delays,” Watkins added.
One of the key work zones that could cause delays is in Columbia, at the Sorrels Overpass Drive bridge. Demolition of the damaged overpass will begin Friday night at 9 p.m. Closures on I-70 will take place overnight and the majority will be single lane closures. Any full eastbound or westbound closures that are necessary will be brief, lasting approximately 15 minutes, before lanes will be opened and traffic is allowed to clear. The demolition must be completed by 5 a.m. on Monday.
Another major I-70 work site where MoDOT has seen significant delays is in Callaway County at the westbound Auxvasse Creek bridge, east of Kingdom City at mile marker 153. Traffic is reduced to one lane around the clock. Delays are expected, especially in the afternoon hours.
There are many other work zones along I-70 and throughout the state as well. Watkins says the best way to plan your route for weekend plans is to check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at traveler.modot.org, or by downloading the app onto your phone.
MoDOT will update motorists on the status of each work zone through the weekend, through digital signs on the road, social media, and the Traveler Information Map. MoDOT appreciates the patience of motorists and encourages all drivers to stay focused on the road, obey all traffic signs, and watch for workers on the road.
For more information and updates about these projects or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit modot.org/modot-central-district. Follow the MoDOT Central Missouri District on Facebook and Twitter for project updates.