First Improve I-70 project reaches bridge construction milestone

Bridge girders placed for the Improve I-70: Columbia to Kingdom City project

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation and its Design-Build team set the first bridge girders associated with the Improve I-70 Program on Feb. 25.

The first project of the program will add a third lane to each direction of Interstate 70 along the 20-mile stretch between Columbia and Kingdom City. It also includes I-70 interchange improvements at U.S. Routes 63 and 54.

The recently placed girders are part of a new southbound U.S. Route 63 bridge that will create a brand-new underpass along the route at Conley Road and will provide more local connectivity to businesses on each side of U.S. 63.

Improve I-70: Columbia to Kingdom City is a $405 million fixed-cost contract and is the first of several projects that will expand and improve I-70 across the state. This project is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2027, with total program completion anticipated by the end of 2030.

To learn more, visit the Improve I-70 Program website.

Road to Rocheport video shows project timelapse

In the latest Road to Rocheport video, MoDOT's Central District Maintenance Engineer Jason Shafer explained the history of the Rocheport Bridge project and the teamwork required to complete such a massive replacement. It includes a timelapse of the bridge construction milestones from 2022-2024, leading up to highlights from the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Celebrate safely this St. Patrick's Day with sober rides

The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety’s Spring Impaired Driving Campaign focuses on reminding all Missourians about the importance of choosing a sober ride, such as a rideshare, designated driver or taxi. Law enforcement will be out March 17 through April 19, removing impaired drivers from the roadway. Remember, if you feel different, you drive different.

Youth Transportation Conference applicants needed

The application period for the 2025 Youth Transportation Conference is ending soon on March 17. This year's conference will be held July 7-11 in Jefferson City on the Lincoln University campus. Registered students in grades 9-12 will apply STEM-related concepts learned in school to transportation-related issues. Up to 40 students will be selected. Apply online.

Trash-can-decorating contest deadline is March 14

The submission deadline for MoDOT's No MOre Trash! contest is on March 14. The contest encourages Missouri students to decorate and display a large trash can with the "No MOre Trash!" logo and a litter prevention message using a variety of creative mediums. Contest details and submission forms can be found on the contest's website.

Transportation History: Women's History Month

In March 1922, Seattle resident Carlia S. Westcott became the first woman granted a license to work as a marine engineer in the United States. Her achievements received a lot of positive publicity at the time, which opened the floodgates for an increased interest in engineering for women not just in the United States but across the world. Learn more.