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Bridge Work in Laclede County Could Cause Slow Downs for Drivers on I-44

MODOT

Bridge work in Laclede County this fall could mean lane closures and traffic delays on I-44.  MODOT plans to build a new I-44 Outer Road bridge over the Gasconade River west of Hazelgreen.  Work will begin next week.

The project includes building a new bridge on a new alignment between the existing Gasconade River Bridge, along Historic Route 66, and the I-44 bridges across the river. The existing bridge was closed to traffic in December 2014 due to extensive deterioration, according to MODOT.

The initial work, it said, will also include blasting operations, which could slow traffic on I-44. Lane closures and traffic delays on I-44 are possible as the project progresses this fall. And construction crews plan to build a causeway to haul material from the west side of the Gasconade River to the east side. That will restrict navigational traffic on the river after Labor Day weekend.

The entire project is scheduled for completion in August 2019.

Michele Skalicky has worked at KSMU since the station occupied the old white house at National and Grand. She enjoys working on both the announcing side and in news and has been the recipient of statewide and national awards for news reporting. She likes to tell stories that make a difference. Michele enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking, camping and leisurely kayaking.