Local lawmaker optimistic state will receive funds for I-70 expansion, despite opposition

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

In January, Gov. Mike Parson proposed the state spend $859 million to expand parts of Interstate 70 to three lanes.

This expansion would affect parts of Boone County and suburban areas in the St. Louis and Kansas City areas.

The House Committee met Tuesday morning to discuss aspects of budgeting, which includes the funds for the proposed expansion.

House committee chair Rep. Cody Smith (R-Carthage) proposed the state use funds from HB19, rather than creating funds specifically for Interstate 70.

Red. David Tyson Smith (D-Columbia) said he thinks this could possibly be used as an advantage for the committee down the road to pass the bill.

"The problem is, then it gives them that leverage as we get down the line as to how it's gonna get funded I think that's what's going on," Tyson Smith said.

David Tyson Smith still expects the state to receive the money for the expansion.

"I think the senate's putting something together so if this doesn't work, something is going to happen," Tyson Smith said. "I'd be very surprised if nothing happened. I think everyone agrees that we need to do something about I-70, from the governor on down, so I think we're gonna get this money."  

Cody Smith also said the committee will discuss the expansion again when reviewing other large building projects.

Tyson Smith said he believes the senate is currently working on a package for the expansion of Interstate 70 as well, which he believes could cost more than $1 billion.

An official vote has not been made yet. David Tyson Smith said the budget process will continue for eight more weeks.