MoDOT to hold meeting Wednesday about proposed changes to I-70/Highway 63 interchange
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
MoDOT will meet with people Wednesday to talk about expected improvements to parts of Interstate 70 in Boone County.
Officials are scheduled to share the results of a study for an 18-mile stretch of the interstate between just east of Route BB to just east of Route Z. The recommendations include proposed changes to the I-70 and Highway 63 interchange in Columbia.
We're seeking public comments on the ongoing study of a large section of Interstate 70 in Boone County, including potential alternatives at 70/63 Connector. The comment period kicks off this Wednesday with a public meeting at the ARC.
— MoDOT Central District (@MoDOT_Central) October 31, 2022
More details: https://t.co/dYesIx41JA pic.twitter.com/n0IZWDufoX
MoDOT proposes adding two flyover lanes that connect southbound Highway 63 to westbound I-70. The proposal is expected to allow drivers to skip the interchange and head west into Columbia.
The proposed changes would decrease the number of stoplights at the interchange from three to two. Officials believe the changes would create a 17% decrease in drivers using the interchange.
MoDOT would also remove the left exit bridge from I-70 to the Business Loop to allow for the flyover lanes. Removal of the bridge would allow the department to move funds used to improve the safety of the bridge.
MoDOT would need to phase in the proposed changes due to a lack of funding to complete the estimated $194 million project all at once.
Officials plan to meet with the community about the proposed changes at the ARC in Columbia from 4 to 6 p.m.
Anyone unable to attend the meeting can submit feedback online through Friday, Nov. 18.
