Districts Impacted
Project Summary
The Missouri Route 7 bridge over Interstate 44 was built in 1977. While the supporting structures are in good condition, the driving surface has deteriorated, is in poor condition, and needs replaced. The new bridge deck will have new drains, bridge approaches upgraded, and new, updated guardrail installed.
Project Progress
The Missouri Department of Transportation and its consultant have designed a new deck to extend the functional life of the bridge.
The estimated cost for these improvements, including engineering and construction, is $2.7 million. This cost may change.
A public meeting will be held at Richland City Hall on June 24, 2025, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. There will be no formal presentation, and participants may come and go to submit comments at any time during the meeting. The project team will be on hand to answer questions and discuss the project.
Additionally, there are three other ways to submit your input on the project:
-
Online - The meeting exhibits will also be made available online at the project webpage https://www.modot.org/projects/missouri-route-7-bridge-rehabilitation-over-interstate-44-pulaski-county. While there, comments may be submitted via an online form.
-
By email – Send your comments to CDCR@modot.mo.gov with the subject line: Pulaski County Route 7 Bridge.
-
By mail – Comments may be mailed, postmarked by July 8 to Pulaski County Route 7 Bridge, c/o MoDOT, 1511 Missouri Boulevard, Jefferson City, MO, 65102.
The project is scheduled to be part of MoDOT’s January 2026 letting when contractors may submit competitive bids. The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission may award the contract the following month. If awarded, the notice to proceed date will be in March 2026. This is the earliest date the contractor may begin work.
Current plans call for Missouri Route 7 over I-44 to close during construction, up to 145 calendar days. A detour will be signed using I-44 at Exit 153 for eastbound traffic and Exit 145 for westbound traffic. At this time, construction is anticipated to start in the summer of 2026 and be completed by Dec. 1, 2026.
Additional nighttime single-lane closures on I-44, under the bridge, may be necessary for the safety of I-44 motorists.
Current Bridge Condition
Project Location
Project Documents
Project News
-
MoDOT seeking public input on Missouri Route 7 bridge project
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo – The Missouri Route 7 bridge over Interstate 44 in Pulaski County, west of Waynesville, needs rehabilitation. Built in 1977, the supporting structures are in good condition, but the bridge’s deck – or driving surface – has...
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is MoDOT replacing the bridge deck?
The Pulaski County Route 7 bridge over Interstate 44 was built in 1977. While the supporting structures are in good condition, the driving surface has deteriorated, is in poor condition, and needs replacement.
How will the construction affect traffic?
For the safety of our construction crews and motorists, the bridge will be closed during construction for up to 145 days. Detours will be signed using I-44 Exit 153 and Exit 145. Some nighttime single lane closures will likely be necessary on I-44.
Why is MoDOT closing the bridge?
Closing the bridge gives construction crews space to work, provides added safety for them and the traveling public, and shortens the construction timeframe, reducing the amount of time traffic is impacted.
Who can I contact with further questions?
You may email cdcr@modot.mo.gov or call us at 888 ASK MODOT (1-888-275-6636). Please reference Pulaski County Route 7 over I-44 Project on your inquiries.
How can I stay updated on the project’s progress?
Sign up for project-specific updates using the form below.