I-44 work underway in Springfield

Work is underway on the expansion of Interstate 44 in north Springfield.

The work, which calls for the widening of I-44 to six lanes between Kansas Expressway and U.S. Highway 65, began during the week of March 10, with traffic impacts starting today, according to news releases from the Missouri Department of Transportation.

The project additionally includes the replacement of I-44 bridges at Broadway, Grant and National avenues, the construction of a pedestrian underpass and trail improvements east of Grant Avenue, resurfacing of I-44 between Chestnut Expressway and West Bypass and the construction of a 2,550-feet sound wall south of I-44 from the National Avenue bridge west. Jefferson City-based Capital Paving & Construction LLC was awarded the $70.7 million contract, with completion expected in May 2027.

A MoDOT notice indicates an eastbound I-44 traffic shift is starting the week of March 24 in the area of the Glenstone Avenue interchange.

The release indicates that the awarded construction cost is $70.7 million, with $13.4 million coming from general revenue funds passed by the General Assembly and governor's office. Former Gov. Mike Parson's fiscal 2025 budget includes $727.5 million to expand and improve stretches of I-44 in Springfield, Joplin and Rolla.