Upcoming infrastructure upgrades will lead to a significant closure on one of Jasper County's key roadways. Starting from 6 a.m. on August 21, through noon of August 29, and then again from September 2 to September 5, all lanes of Route 171 will be shut down at the crossing with Route 96, just west of Carthage. This was confirmed by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) on their website, with an alert to drivers to prepare to seek alternative routes.
During the closure, construction crews will be working to set girders for a new bridge over Route 171—a piece of the larger project that's aimed to replace the current Route 96 bridge. MoDOT's advisory states that traffic will be diverted "up and over Route 171 on- and off-ramps in both directions." They are further urging motorists to anticipate slowed traffic and prepare for possible delays in their commutes.
The labor-intensive job will cause Route 171 to be closed in both directions during these periods. However, drivers will be relieved to know that the route will reopen for the Labor Day weekend, providing a brief respite from detours. Officials have warned that the work schedule could shift subject to weather conditions or other unforeseen scheduling conflicts, advice which serves as a reminder for travelers to stay informed on the latest road conditions.
Information regarding traffic disruptions and any potential changes to this plan can be accessed by motorists through the MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map, posted on their website. This work is part of a project that, with a budget of $2.8 million, promises to erect a bridge that is not only slightly higher but also 12 feet longer than the existing structure. Completion of the entire replacement project is tentatively marked for November 19.
