The bustling activity on U.S. Route 54 is about to hit a new gear as rehab work over Missouri Boulevard pushes past the half-way point. Next week, drivers should brace for lane shifts and ramp closures. Starting the evening of August 5, the right lane construction will necessitate east and westbound traffic to move onto their respective left lanes, as announced by the Missouri Department of Transportation.
For those who frequently traverse these roads, it's crucial to note that the westbound U.S. Route 54 off-ramp to Missouri Boulevard will be closed for the first time during this rehabilitation phase. Other closures, persisting from the first phase, include the eastbound U.S. Route 50 off-ramp to westbound U.S. Route 54 and the Missouri Boulevard on-ramp to eastbound U.S. Route 54. According to MoDOT, "traffic delays on U.S. Route 54 could stretch for several miles at peak daily commute times and weekend travels."
Despite the inconvenience, these restrictions are in the interest of safety. Motorists will have to adhere to an 11-foot width restriction and observe speed reductions throughout this phase, expected to last until early October. This specification is particularly relevant for drivers of wider vehicles, such as boats and RVs, who would need an over-dimension permit from MoDOT’s Motor Carrier Services.
The ongoing constructions is weather-dependent, and as such, could face schedule adjustments. MoDOT has a simple request for motorists: buckle up, phone down, and abide by the signs.
