will be closed to traffic from Route RA south approximately ½ mile, for
the installation of several drilled shafts for a joint research project
with University of Missouri (MU), Missouri Science and Technology (MS&T), Missouri Transportation Institute (MTI) and MoDOT.
Signs and barricades will be in place to alert motorists to the closure. Motorists will need to use alternate routes
during this time or existing road systems in the area during the
project. The road closure is necessary to allow the testing and
drilling equipment to stay in place without interruptions.
The
project is a joint undertaking between MU, MS&T, MTI and MoDOT to
research site conditions with their respect to bridge structures. The
outcome of this project is to ultimately affect the design of bridges
and highways and allow MoDOT to construct them more cost effectively.
"Our area was chosen as one of the test sites because one of the
preferred shale formations is relatively shallow in depth," said MoDOT
Geotechnical Specialist Lydia Brownell. "This location allowed for a
cost savings within the research project due of reduced drilling
depth," added Brownell. "Several companies are donating their time and
efforts for this project and we felt the road closure would allow them
to complete their work safely and quickly," said Brownell.
All
roadwork is posted on the traveler information map on the day it
begins. Those traveling and the commuting public are encouraged to
check the online map at www.modot.org
daily for new work zones. MoDOT also offers e-update messages sent
directly to your email when roadwork is scheduled. Sign up online or
call MoDOT's customer service center at 1-888-275-6636.