Route Z construction begins

Construction starts Tuesday on a stretch of road just east ofColumbiathat is expecting to see a significant increase in traffic later this year.

MoDOT and Boone County are working together on the routeZoverpass and intersection atSaint Charles Road.

Construction will add an extra lane on the overpass Tuesday requiring crews to build a new bridge.

“Putting in an extra lane on the bridge allows for traffic to stop and make a left movement while other traffic can go around and head north or south,” Michael Schupp, MoDOT engineer said.

The second change is adding a3-footshoulder and a new overlay on Route Z I-70 to Saint CharlesRoad.

Part of the reason for the expansion is to accommodate pedestrian traffic.

“Weare also going to construct a roundabout at the intersection ofSt. Charles Roadand Route Z. Thisis a much needed project especially with the completion of Battle High school,”Schupp says.

The new school will become home to more than1,000students and150staff members andwith the added traffic, the city wanted further improvements.

The city andMoDOTare cost sharing the$2.3millionproject.