Missouri Route 265 New Bridge Construction in Taney County

What is the purpose of the new bridge over Route 65?

The new bridge allows access to both the northbound and southbound lanes of U.S. Route 65 without having to cross the center median.

Why is this not becoming an interchange?

Due to current funding levels, MoDOT could not include the ramps needed to create a full interchange. However, the bridge and roadway have been designed to accommodate future ramps if funding becomes available.

Isn’t the Ozark Mountain High Road planned to connect to Route 65 in this area?

Yes, the new bridge will be built along the previously planned right-of-way alignment for the Ozark Mountain High Road. If funding becomes available to construct the High Road’s southern segment, the bridge will be positioned for the High Road to intersect with U.S. 65 at that location.

Will Route 65 be closed during construction?

U.S. Route 65 will remain open for the majority of construction. However, nighttime short-term delays and closures will occur as crews place the bridge beam/girder over U.S. Route 65. 

How will the project affect Carpenter Drive and Cedar Valley Road?

Carpenter Drive and Cedar Valley Road will connect to both the new bridge over Route 65 and to Route 265 south of the bridge. Most of the construction will occur away from these outer roads. Traffic impacts on Carpenter Drive and Cedar Valley Road will include brief closures of up to 15 minutes as crews complete work to tie the bridge into the outer roads.

How is this project supposed to improve the safety of the intersection?

This project removes signals on Route 65, allowing northbound and southbound traffic to continue without stopping at red lights. The design also eliminates the risk of a 90-degree collision with high‑speed traffic at the current intersection. By adding acceleration and deceleration lanes on Route 65—where drivers can adjust their speed before merging or turning—the project helps reduce impacts on overall traffic flow.