MoDOT

Ed Hassinger is replacing director Patrick McKenna, who left in September.

Problems with the concrete and joints in the new eastbound lanes means the projected opening at the end of September will be pushed back.

The Missouri Department of Transportation is expanding I-70 to three lanes each way, with the first 20-mile section expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

Despite Missouri and Illinois reporting fewer traffic-related deaths in 2023, more than 40,000 people were killed in traffic-related incidents across the U.S. last year.

The Missouri Department of Transportation approved an Adopt-a-Highway application from the family of Kevin Johnson, who was executed in November 2022 for the killing of a Kirkwood Police Officer. The sign was up for four months before the entire program got suspended.

Missouri Republicans have vowed to take action when the General Assembly reconvenes in January to revise the highway commission’s power over the state road fund.

The Lakeshire Democrat also discussed his unusual pathway to politics on the latest episode of “Politically Speaking.”

The resolution gives the state legislature appropriations power over the state road fund, which is now under the control of the Transportation Department. Because it’s a proposed constitutional amendment, it must be approved by voters to go into effect.

The recent promise by St. Louis officials to dedicate $40 million to improve traffic safety is good news to safety advocates, but they stress that fixes are needed urgently.

The department is studying Interstate 64 from Kingshighway to Jefferson for upgrades and repairs that could take place over the next five to 10 years.