Transportation projects receive state approval

Preservation of Missouri's existing highway system as well as new road and bridge construction are among transportation improvements approved Oct. 19 by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, according to a press release from the Missouri Department of Transportation.

The $4.6 billion road and bridge improvement plan, called the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, covers fiscal years 2000-2004. It was approved by the commission following a public comment period.

"This represents work the Missouri Department of Transportation will undertake in the next five years," said MoDOT Director Henry Hungerbeeler. "It includes projects for safety improvements, preservation, major construction and local projects."

He added, "Through public comments, we learn what people think of the state's transportation priorities and what we can do to improve. This input also is used by our long-range planning staff for use in future studies."

In addition to highway projects, the plan includes improvements for aviation, rail, waterways and transit. The statewide program also identifies transportation improvements selected by metropolitan planning organizations in Columbia, Joplin, Kansas City, St. Joseph, St. Louis and Springfield.

"This is a rolling plan we prepare annually," Hungerbeeler said. "As we complete one year of projects, another year is added. The (program) addresses issues such as economic development and preservation that are important to Missouri's prosperity."

Hungerbeeler said more preservation projects may be included for 2004 based on findings of a comprehensive needs study and long-range plan expected to be completed next year.

The Statewide Transportation Improvement Program can be viewed online at

www.modot.state.mo.us/stip2K.

Copies also are available at the department's district offices in Chesterfield, Hannibal, Jefferson City, Joplin, Kansas City, Macon, St. Joseph, Sikeston, Springfield and Willow Springs. Project lists of metropolitan planning organizations are available at regional MoDOT offices.