Districts Impacted
Project Summary
MoDOT is designing a project to improve the intersection of U.S. Route 36 and Missouri Route 129 near Bucklin. To improve traffic flow, improve sight distance, and reduce crash points, the existing crossover will be removed and replaced with a J-turn. With a J-turn, motorists will no longer cross multiple lanes of fast-moving traffic. Drivers at a J-turn intersection turn right in the same direction of traffic, merge into the passing lane, and then make a U-turn in the direction they intend to travel.
Project Progress
MoDOT is designing a project to replace the crossover intersection at U.S. Route 36 and MO Route 129 with J-turns.
Contractors may submit competitive bids during MoDOT's scheduled lettings. This project is scheduled to be in the February 2027 letting. The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission will consider all submitted bids at its scheduled monthly meeting in March 2027.
After the project is awarded, MoDOT will work with the contractor to determine a construction schedule.
Project News
Project Information
Learn About J-turns
The J-turn is an alternative to traditional roadway intersections on a four-lane highway. The point of these turns is to greatly reduce a significant number of severe crashes common when drivers must cross-over busy highways to reach another road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will the impact to traffic be?
Most of the construction will take place using single lane closures, however there will be times where access to Route 129 is closed.
How do J-tuns enhance safety?
J-turns have proven to be a safer alternative to a traditional roadway intersection on a four-lane highway because they greatly reduce right-angle crashes, also known as T-bone crashes. This crash type is typically the most responsible for fatalities and serious injuries at intersections. In fact, J-turns at similar intersections throughout Missouri and the nation have shown a substantial decrease in fatal and serious injury crashes. Basically, they eliminate the need for motorists to cross the high-speed lanes of traffic to get to the opposing lanes.
Studies done by the National Cooperative Highway Research Program show J-turns provide significant reduction in right-angle, “far” side crashes.
Will this project require any Right of Way?
No right of way is needed for this project.
How can I stay updated on the project’s progress?
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Need More Information?
We're here to help! If you're looking for additional information, you can contact us at:
- nwcr@modot.mo.gov
- 1-888-ASK-MODOT (1-888 275-6636) - reference Northwest District U.S. Route 36 and Route 129 intersection improvement project
- Sign up for eUpdates: Customer Service Signon (mo.gov)