Local transportation projects go up for review

Through April 17, the public can comment on proposed amendments to the 2008-11 Transportation Improvement Program – a schedule of improvements planned by various Ozarks agencies – and the Major Thoroughfare Plan, a component of the Long Range Transportation Plan.

Proposed additions to the TIP are:

• A roadway prioritization study for Ozark;

• City Utilities transit projects, including development of a conceptual plan for the fleet management facility, transfer facility improvements, and bus shelter and bench maintenance;

• Entrance improvements to the Missouri State University Darr Agricultural Facility, including turn-lane improvements on Kansas Expressway;

• More funding for the Kearney Street Bridge; and

• Elimination of the planned guard cable project on U.S. Highway 65.

Proposed additions to the MTP are:

• Extension of Seminole Street across West Bypass as a secondary arterial;

• Extension of Battlefield Road across West Bypass and up to U.S. Highway 60 as a primary arterial;

• Relocation of the proposed Golden Avenue extension north of Kearney Street;

• Reclassification of U.S. Highway 60 from James River Freeway to State Highway 174 as an expressway; and

• Relocation of the proposed State Highway ZZ extension.

Proposed changes will be available for review at OTO, 840 Boonville Ave. Comments can be submitted in writing to OTO at PO Box 8368, 840 Boonville Ave., Springfield, MO, 65801; by e-mail to sedwards@ozarkstransportation.org; or by fax to (417) 864-1881.

The Springfield area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s board of directors will review the amendments at noon April 17 at the Busch Municipal Building. Public comments may be made at that time.