Construction work continues on I-70 after semi-truck crash

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

On Tuesday morning, a semi-truck hit a concrete barrier, closing westbound Interstate 70 in Columbia for approximately two and a half hours.

"We had extraordinary response from fire, EMS and police. They were able to clear the crash within about 2.5 hours. So the delays to the construction work were very minimal," Improve I-70 Program Director Eric Kopisnki.

Kopisnki said that there are still about three years left of work on the I-70 and Highway 63 interchange.

According to Kopisnki, about 72,000 vehicles travel through this are every day and with football season starting, there will be even more. His message for drivers is when you see construction signs, slow down and pay attention.

Kopisnki said during the Sept. 11-13 weekend, westbound I-70 in that area will be shut down in that area to set the remaining girders

"So anyone in the Columbia area, is encouraged to be informed to allow for additional travel time. The eastbound I-70 will be open free flow movement, but anyone trying to access the connector or travel westbound I-70 from 63, there will be delays for that weekend," Kopisnki said.

ABC 17 News reached out to Missouri State Highway Patrol to see if any extra safety precautions were in place following the crash, but MSHP referred to the Columbia Police Department since the crash was in its jurisdiction. CPD redirected ABC 17 News back to MSHP.