Districts Impacted
In a multifaceted project, MoDOT is looking to replace a bridge, realign Missouri Route 5, and reconfigure the intersection of Route 5 and Morgan County Route J.
Intersection Improvements
Y intersections, as they are sometimes referred to, have been found to have more crashes than T intersections due to limited sight distance and improper use. The intersection of Route 5 and Route J, in its current Y configuration, has a history of improper use – failing to stop at the stop sign and vehicles pulling out in front of oncoming traffic – and crashes.
To address these issues, MoDOT is proposing reconfiguring the intersection to meet at a 90-degree “T”, which, with advanced warning rumble strips, will increase sight distance, improve drivability, and provide motorists with a warning of the upcoming stop.
Bridge replacement and roadway realignment
The Route 5 bridge over Gravois Creek, northwest of Gravois Mills, is slated for replacement in 2028. Built in 1963, the structure is deteriorating, and the bridge design limits the available rehabilitation options, of which carry a significant cost. Based on the age of the bridge, cost, and projected life, MoDOT is moving forward with a full bridge replacement, which will offer the community decades of reliable access across Gravois Creek. The new structure will be wider at 40 feet, matching the roadway.
Route 5 on either side of the bridge will be realigned to improve the curve and update the roadway to meet current design standards for the existing speed limit.
Current bridge facts at a glance
| Built | Deck width | Bridge length | Average daily traffic |
| 1963 | 30 feet | 383 feet | 4,632 vehicles |
PUBLIC MEETING
- An open-house-style in-person public meeting with members of the project team on hand to provide information, receive direct feedback, and answer questions.
- There will be no formal presentation, so members of the public can come and go as they please.
- Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2026, from 4:30 to 6 p.m.
- Versailles City Hall, Council Chambers, located at 104 N. Fisher in Versailles.
PROJECT PROGRESS
MoDOT is in the process of designing safety enhancements and improvements to Route 5 and Route J, while minimizing impacts on people, property, and the environment. These improvements include:
- A new bridge on Route 5 over Gravois Creek.
- Realigning Route 5 just south of Gravois Creek.
- Reconfiguring the Route 5 and Route J intersection to meet at a 90-degree “T.”
This project is projected to require new right-of-way acquisition and some temporary easements.
The estimated cost of engineering, right-of-way, and construction is $6.7 million. This cost may change.
MoDOT is hosting a three-week open comment period Nov. 10 – Dec. 1, 2026. During this time, the community and interested parties may explore the preliminary plans for the proposed improvements, ask questions, and submit input to help guide the design and construction of the project. There are multiple ways in which the public may participate in this process:
- In-person - An open-house-style public hearing will be held Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2026, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Versailles City Hall located at 104 N. Fisher in Versailles. The project team will be on hand to answer questions, provide information, and receive input about the project. There will be no formal presentation, so attendees may come and go as they please at any time during the advertised hours.
- Online - All meeting exhibits will be available on this website, and feedback may be submitted using the form below.
- By email – Send comments to CDCR@modot.mo.gov with the subject line: Route 5 intersection improvements in Morgan County.
- By traditional mail – Comments may be mailed to Missouri Department of Transportation, 1511 Missouri Boulevard, Jefferson City, MO 65109, postmarked by Dec. 1, 2026. Please reference: Route 5 intersection improvements in Morgan County.
The project is currently scheduled to be part of MoDOT's November 2027 letting when contractors may submit competitive bids. The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission may award the contract as part of their December 2027meeting and, if the contract is awarded, a notice to proceed date will also be given. That is the earliest date the contractor may begin work.
These improvements are projected to take place during 2028.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What improvements are being planned?
MoDOT is in the process of designing safety enhancements and improvements to Route 5 and Route J, while minimizing impacts on people, property, and the environment. These improvements include:
A new bridge on Route 5 over Gravois Creek.
Realigning Route 5 just south of Gravois Creek.
Reconfiguring the Route 5 and Route J intersection to meet at a 90-degree “T.”
What is the anticipated timeline for the project?
Construction is currently scheduled to begin in spring 2028 and be completed by the end of 2028.
Can MoDOT accomplish this within the existing right of way?
MoDOT is working to acquire the necessary right-of-way and temporary easements for this work.
How would construction impact traffic?
The specific construction impacts have yet to be determined.
What if I have further questions?
You may email cdcr@modot.mo.gov or call us at 888 ASK MODOT (1-888-275-6636). Please reference Route 5 intersection improvements in Morgan County on your inquiries.
How can I stay updated on the project’s progress?
Sign up for project-specific updates using the form below.
News & Updates
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Input sought on safety improvements to Route 5 and Route J in Morgan County
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is exploring multiple safety enhancements on Missouri Route 5, northwest of Gravois Mills. Community input is being sought now, via an in-person public meeting and a three-week...