The Missouri Department of Transportation broke ground Dec. 1 for the new Interstate 44-Highway 39 interchange in Mount Vernon. The $10.8 million project, which should be complete by the end of 2009, includes a new five-lane bridge, lighted exit ramps and a fifth lane for the I-44 business loop. Guests on hand for the ceremony included southwest Missouri Congressman Roy Blunt, Mount Vernon Economic Development Director Jane Hood and Lawrence County Commissioner Rodney Barnes.