Heavy holiday traffic expected on Missouri River bridge

Memorial Day weekend kicks off holiday travel and MoDOT is advising drivers to expect some longer delays over the Missouri River Bridge.

MoDOT says it expects many Missouri residents to head to the Lake of the Ozarks for the holiday weekend, many of which will need to use the Missouri River bridge.

Since the beginning of May the westbound lanes have been closed and drivers detoured over to the eastbound lanes. MoDOT says to expect longer delays and heavier traffic during peak travel times.

So MoDOT engineers said Memorial Day weekend travelers who might be heading to the lake should try to avoid the bridge if possible.

If drivers are coming from Kansas City or near the KC area, they recommend taking Highways 5, 87 or 50.

For St. Louisans or anyone near that area: Highway 54 is the best bet.

MoDOT said anyone coming from the Columbia area will probably have to take the bridge, so it asks drivers to be patient and plan extra time.

MoDOT is also advising to be aware of possible delays on the eastbound lanes on Sunday and Monday as people return from their weekend holiday.

Drivers can check the traffic flow and conditions beforehand. MoDOT has a mobile app available for phones as well as its interactive travel map.

MoDOT asks that drivers not use the app while they’re driving and ask someone else in the car to check on it.

MoDOT closed the westbound lanes on May 1 for repairs and repainting and expect the bridge to be closed for about four months from the initial closing date, so expect delays during the Fourth of July weekend as well.