The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) said this week that the westbound side of the bridge that crosses the Missouri River in Jefferson City will be closed for deck repairs and painting starting in April and lasting for approximately four months.
The eastbound lanes of the bridge, which carries Routes 54/63, will remain open and will be re-striped so that it has room for two lanes traveling east and two lanes traveling west.
The contract for the $7 million project recently was awarded to Saffo Contractors of Wilmington, Delaware.
“We’re continuing to narrow down the specifics on this project so we can provide motorists with as much advance notice as possible,” Patty Lemongelli, construction and materials engineer for MoDOT’s Central District, said. “We’re hoping folks will begin now to prepare for the closure, knowing it will happen sometime in early to mid-April.”
MoDOT said it will work with drivers to ensure the bridge remains accessible.
“We know closing the bridge will be a concern, especially for commuters,” Lemongelli said. “We will do all we can to minimize the impact and keep motorists informed about the project. In return, we’re asking those who might have the flexibility to alter their commute times to consider that option.”