The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has announced plans to undertake roadway improvements along Route 142 in Oregon County, near Billmore, Missouri. Central to this project is the replacement of the existing bridge that spans the Eleven Point River, which will be raised alongside a section of the roadway to combat persistent flooding issues. This construction work will affect local resources protected under Section 4(f) of the U.S. Department of Transportation Act of 1966.
Section 4(f) serves to shield significant historical, wildlife, and recreation areas from being adversely impacted by transportation projects. According to a MoDOT public notice, the project includes two such locations known as "The Narrows" on either side of the Eleven Point River. Notably, the west entrance of The Narrows, an area nestled between Frederick Creek and the river known for its scenic ridgeline and springs, will be temporarily shut for safety while construction is underway.
The Narrows East Access on the opposite bank will also be closed temporarily. This site includes a concrete boat ramp and a paved parking area. Details suggest that the boat ramp will be out of reach for public use during this part of the construction. The bridge currently in use, labeled T0395, is of historical significance, with a construction date going back to 1957. It stands as a testament to past engineering and transportation milestones, shaped into a 10-panel Warren polygonal pony truss.
Despite these significant changes, MoDOT ensures that river traffic will be minimally impacted, facing brief interruptions mainly when new girders are set and the old truss span is removed. Simultaneously, locals driving along Route 142 should anticipate the sight of construction equipment, staged along the newly established access road off the route. MoDOT, in coordination with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), has moved to allow the public to review and comment on these proposed changes, particularly the de minimis impact determination on the protected Narrows areas and the historic bridge T0395, as outlined in their statement.
