MoDOT provides update on I-70 Rocheport bridge replacement schedule and goals

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Missouri Department of Transportation says the plan for the construction of the new Interstate 70 Missouri River bridge near Rocheport to begin late next year.

MoDOT will figure out the design-build project and award the contract by July 2021.

MoDOT says the new bridge is expected to be opened to traffic by the end of 2024.

"Before we are able to move forward with any construction plans, there are several factors that we have to assess," Project Director Brandi Baldwin explained. "Last December we started the re-evaluation of an environmental study that had been completed for the bridge in 2005. In March we conducted geological testing and survey gathering that provided valuable information about the area's rock and soil stability."

By announcing goals, MoDOT plans for the project under the expected $240 million budget.

"Local, state, and federal agencies and lawmakers worked collaboratively to fund this project," said MoDOT Central District Engineer Machelle Watkins. "It is one of our top priorities to use the money entrusted to us to build a quality product that will benefit travelers for decades to come."

The current Rocheport Bridge was built in 1960 and is rated in poor condition.