Project on Missouri River Bridge to begin, may cause delays

Crews will begin work on the Missouri River Bridge Wednesday morning.

The project may cause traffic delays for Jefferson City drivers as it will require a number of lane restrictions.

Crews will close one lane of the westbound bridge Wednesday.

MoDOT says the closures will take place during off-peak traffic times. One lane of the westbound bridge will always remain open and all lanes will be open during morning and evening rush hour.

In April, the westbound bridge is expected to close for about four months. During this time, traffic in both directions will be shifted onto the eastbound bridge.

While inconvenient for drivers, MoDOT says work on the over 60-year-old bridge is crucial. They encourage drivers to use an alternate route or work from home, if possible.

“This work, though inconvenient, will allow us to properly maintain one of our most valuable assets and investments,” Patty Lemongelli, construction and materials engineer for MoDOT’s Central District, said. “If not properly maintained, this bridge would cost $100 million to

The westbound bridge was built in 1955 and carries about 28,000 vehicles per day.