Motorist Alert: Work Continues on I-44

Pulaski County Line East to Route 17

WILLOW SPRINGS  - The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has announced that work will continue through the end of the month on I-44 from the Pulaski County line east 8.1 miles to Route 17. Chester Bross Construction of Hannibal, Mo., is the contractor for the project, which includes milling existing asphalt and resurfacing with an asphalt overlay.

According to MoDOT Operations Engineer Ed Hess, work on the project began Oct. 3 and should continue for approximately two more weeks, weather permitting. “Milling should be finished on Thursday and, if the weather cooperates, resurfacing will begin on Friday in the east bound lane,” Hess explained. “Steps have been taken to minimize delays within the work zone. The schedule has been adjusted so that crews will be off the roadway before the peak afternoon traffic time. For example, work is scheduled to begin at 4 a.m. and end by 3 p.m. on Friday.”

MoDOT Senior Construction Inspector David Prock emphasized that work will take place on Saturday if rain prevents crews from working on Thursday. “If crews do work on Saturday, the schedule is to end by noon to minimize interruption to traffic,” Prock said. “An announcement will be made later in the week if Saturday work is scheduled.”

The 8.1-mile stretch of I-44 is the first of a three-phase project, which will result in an overlay of new asphalt throughout the Pulaski County portion of the interstate. This work will provide a smoother driving surface and increase safety for motorists. The project is slated for a Spring 2006 completion date.

“The goal for all MoDOT projects is to deliver on our commitment to providing roads that are smoother, safer, sooner,” said MoDOT South Central District Engineer Tom Stehn. “While this may result in temporary delays, we appreciate your patience as we carry out our work.

“Your feedback is important to MoDOT. Please call our Customer Service Center with questions or comments, toll free, at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (1-888-275-6636).”