Resurfacing Project on Route 52, AA & J in Bates & Vernon Cos. to Begin Week of March 16

Bates & Vernon Counties – Drivers can expect lane closures and occasional traffic delays on Missouri Route 52 and Route J in Bates County and Vernon County Route AA for a resurfacing project beginning the week of March 16, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

This is the work being done on this project:

• Missouri Route 52 from Missouri/Kansas state line east approximately 27 miles to Bates County Route BB
  • Contractor will add a new surface
  • Contractor also will do structural work to bridge over northbound I-49 lanes (Exit 131)
  • Contractor will add guardrail in areas and rumble strips
• Bates County Route J from Route F south approximately four (4) miles to Route 52
  • Contractor will add a new surface
• Vernon County Route AA from Route M west of Schell City south nearly 13 miles to Route 52
  • Contractor will add a new surface

In addition, contractor crews will add permanent striping.

Traffic impacts:

• Traffic reduced to one lane where contractor crews are working
• Drivers will encounter flaggers and pilot cars where crews are working. Drivers should wait for the pilot vehicle before proceeding through the work zone or before entering the work zone from a side road.
• Route 52 over I-49 will be CLOSED for up to 166 days while contractor works on bridge
  • I-49 traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction
  • Westbound Route 52 drivers will be directed along a signed detour north on I-49 to Bates County Route F (Exit 136) at Passaic and back south on I-49
  • Eastbound Route 52 drivers will be directed along a signed detour south on I-49 to Route 52 (Exit 130) south of Butler
• No signed detour for work on Bates County Route J and Vernon County Route AA
• Drivers should find alternate routes to avoid work zones
• Signs and message boards will alert drivers approaching the work zones
• Check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map for road closings/traffic impacts

Weather and/or scheduling delays could alter the work schedule.

Project information:

• Prime contractor: APAC-Central Inc., Springfield
• Total project cost: $6.1 million
• Completion date: November 11, 2026

For more information, call MoDOT in Springfield at 417-895-7600 or visit www.modot.org/southwest

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