The Missouri Department of Transportation held a public hearing from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10 to discuss phases 3 and 4 of the multi-phase project to upgrade U.S Route 67 in Butler County. 

Phase 3 of the U.S. 67 project includes future access at Neelyville, Missouri and upgrading an approximately five-mile section of U.S. 67 to four lanes from County Road 352 to near County Road 272. Phase 4 includes upgrading the last three-mile section of U.S. 67 to reach the Missouri/Arkansas state line. Right of way and easements will be acquired for this project.

With funds previously dedicated to the U.S. 67 corridor and the additional $60 million in funding from general revenue, a total of 7 miles of interstate-standard upgrades are now funded. This will bring the progress to Neelyville, Missouri and will allow a portion of phase 3 to be constructed.

“Currently, we have funding for phases 1B and 2, which will tentatively be let in September 2024,” said MoDOT Project Manager Tim Pickett. “The next segment that’s funded for construction extends from County Road 352 to near Neelyville. This project will include upgrading the segment to four lanes and possible access upgrades at Neelyville. Tentatively, this could be let as early as March 2026.”

Pickett explained once the 7 miles of funded upgrades are completed, 4.5 miles will remain to reach the Missouri/Arkansas state line.