Travelers taking to the roads to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday are reminded to prepare for more than a dozen major work zones on interstates across the state. As the Lake of the Ozarks is a prime holiday destination, motorists should plan for delays at the Route 54/63 Missouri River Bridge in Jefferson City. The traffic has been reduced to two lanes in each direction over one bridge. Delays are expected on Friday afternoon and also Sunday and Monday.
Drivers will also encounter delays in work zones on Interstate 70 and Interstate 44 for resurfacing and bridge repairs across the state. Lane restrictions are also expected on several other interstates including I-35, I-435, I-55, and I-270. The majority of the construction work is for pavement and bridge repairs. A list of these work zones is available HERE.
While most work zones will not be active over the Fourth of July weekend, it may be necessary for some lane closures to remain in place due to ongoing construction. Most routine work zones will stop at noon Friday, July 1 and will resume at 9 a.m. Tuesday, July 5.
“The Fourth of July is one of the biggest travel holidays of the year, plus it’s the time when quite a bit of road work is happening. People should plan ahead and allow extra time for their trips especially if their travels take them over the Missouri River bridge in Jefferson City,” said Patty Lemongelli, construction and materials engineer with MoDOT’s Central District.
Motorists should pay attention to all signing, follow the posted speed limits, and take turns merging every other car, like a zipper, where lanes are closed. Always wear safety belts and be alert for slowed traffic, narrowed lanes or a reduced number of lanes.