Heads up, Boone County motorists: a section of North Outer Road 70 near Little Cedar Creek is scheduled for a closure that could impact your commute. Starting next Thursday, the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) will shut down the road for an extensive culvert extension under Interstate 70. The project, aimed at bolstering the infrastructure at mile marker 134.8, is expected to run through February 2026, MoDOT reported.
There won't be an official detour in place, but signage will guide drivers to alternative routes well in advance of reaching the closure. MoDOT will first ensure partial access to Callaway County Route J/Millersburg from Exit 137 is reopened, with the Route J ramp onto westbound I-70 set to open on the night of September 24. However, the exit ramp from westbound I-70 to, Route J will remain off-limits.
MoDOT has a clear message to drivers during this construction period: "MoDOT asks all motorists to work with us by buckling up, putting your phone down, obeying all traffic signs, and slowing down and moving over in work zones." They emphasize that the safety and cooperation of the public are crucial for a smooth improvement process.
This closure is not just a minor adjustment, but part of a larger initiative - MoDOT’s Statewide Improve I-70 Program. This program is set to enhance a 20-mile stretch between Columbia and Kingdom City by adding a third lane of travel each way. The extensive work includes interchange upgrades at U.S. Route 63 and U.S. Route 54. The funding, a hefty $405 million, comes from Missouri's FY2024 budget which earmarked $2.8 billion in General Revenue for the I-70 expansion project. This will not only reconstruct all three lanes but, will also future-proof the interstate for increased traffic demands.
As these projects unfold, MoDOT urges residents to stay updated on work schedules which are, as always, heavily dependent on the weather. For the latest information, and any changes to the construction timelines, keep an eye on MoDOT announcements and plan your travel accordingly.
