Jonas Brothers Helping to Reduce Texting and Driving

These days with one tween and another wanna-be tween in my house, our TV is tuned to shows like Hannah Montana, Suite Life on Deck and of course Jonas L.A. featuring the Jonas Brothers. While I’m not always into watching them on TV, I am interested in a new anti-texting and driving campaign the brothers are supporting.

The Jonas Brothers will be playing recreational softball games this year at minor league stadiums throughout the country. At each venue they are working with Allstate to educate fans about the dangers of texting behind the wheel.

As Kevin Jonas said in the group's announcement: "It is really important that our fans understand just how dangerous texting while driving is. Pledging not to text and drive is a promise to your friends, your family and yourself to keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel."

During the games, fans can join the Jonas Brothers in pledging not to text and drive by adding their thumbprint – the symbol of their pledge – to a banner that will be traveling with the "Road Dogs" tour. Participants will receive 'TXTNG KLLS' thumb bands to wear as a reminder of their commitment. Throughout the game, fans will also have the opportunity to win autographed t-shirts and other prizes.

The Jonas Brothers are raising awareness about a serious danger and giving the fans something to remember in a positive way. Unfortunately they are not coming to Missouri, but to take the pledge not to text and drive or for more information about the tour, visit www.facebook.com/XtheTXT.

Announcing the Amtrak Ticket Raffle Winners

Congratulations to all listed!

...for The Lincoln University WOW Weekend raffle (8/21/10) the ticket winners are:
MO River Runner ticket for one coach roundtrip- Jeff Maclin
MO River Runner ticket for one coach roundtrip- Alex Kelley

...for The Missouri State Fair raffle (8/12/10 – 8/22/10) the ticket winners are:
MO River Runner tickets for four coach roundtrip- Kristin Leiker
MO River Runner tickets for four coach roundtrip- Beth Holsather
MO River Runner tickets for two coach roundtrip- Shawn Murphy
MO River Runner tickets for two coach roundtrip- Sandy Wessel
MO River Runner ticket for one coach roundtrip- Martin Cunningham
MO River Runner ticket for one coach roundtrip- Ed Curtin
MO River Runner ticket for one coach roundtrip- Sheila Thacker
MO River Runner ticket for one coach roundtrip- Jeani Longstreth

...for The State Employee Appreciation Capitol Lawn Picnic raffle (8/20/10) the ticket winners are:
MO River Runner tickets for two coach roundtrip- Shawna Martin
MO River Runner tickets for two coach roundtrip- Wendy Libey
MO River Runner tickets for two business roundtrip- Connie Sandbothe

Amtrak provided the tickets.

Missouri Part of America's Marine Highway System

The U.S. Department of Transportation recently designated certain waterway corridors across America that will soon serve as highways of their own. The idea is to move more cargo from our highways and onto our waterway system, loading and unloading goods just like tractor trailers do. Click to see where these waterway corridors are located. http://www.marad.dot.gov/ships_shipping_landing_page/mhi_home/mhi_home.htm

If you looked at the waterway corridor map, you'll see two corridors are in Missouri. A good portion of one of the marine corridors includes the Missouri River from Kansas City to St. Louis. It is called the M-70 because it will potentially reduce freight truck congestion on Interstate 70. The new M-55 marine corridor includes the Mississippi River, which incorporates St. Louis, and is expected to reduce freight truck congestion along Interstate 55.

These marine highway corridor designations by the USDOT helps a push by MoDOT to increase waterway traffic in order to utilize all forms of transportation to their fullest. MoDOT's freight development unit has been working for close to a year to identify and prioritize strategies to increase freight traffic on Missouri waterways. http://www.modot.org/othertransportation/freight/index.htm

Increasing the usage of waterway shipping will decrease road congestion, harmful emissions, fossil fuel usage and highway maintenance costs. Think about this: one waterway barge holds the same amount of cargo that 15 rail cars and 70 tractor trailers can carry. A common waterway tow down the Missouri River has 15 barges... meaning more than 1000 tractor trailers would get removed from our roads with one simple waterway tow. Less congestion, less air pollution and possibly a less expensive product for the consumer to buy due to cheaper shipping costs. I'm on board with all of that.

Where the Revenue Meets the Road

In the past few years, MoDOT has taken an aggressive approach to sell land it no longer needs for the state's highway system. Everyone benefits from this effort:

• The proceeds from the land sales go to road and bridge projects.
• The property goes back on the tax rolls bringing in local revenue.
• Buyers get land they can develop or use in a variety of ways.
• And, MoDOT is spared maintaining property it no longer needs.

In the last fiscal year, MoDOT conveyed 344 parcels totaling 1,324 acres and generated almost $4.4 million for highway projects. A property blitz in April alone moved 15 properties and brought in almost $1 million for roads and bridges.

Next up for sale are several closed maintenance sites throughout the state and some property near a major project under way in Kansas City - kcICON. Any proceeds generated from the sale of the kcICON parcel will go directly toward paying for the project, which is improving 4.7 miles of interstate near downtown Kansas City.

Visit www.modot.org/realtyforsale for more information on the Realty to Roads program and state property for sale.

MR 340 races past the Bond Bridge in Kansas City

A Fourth of the Way There

When the Route JJ bridge over Richland Creek in Morgan County opened last week, it was the 200th bridge completed under MoDOT's Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Program. The milestone means we're a quarter of the way finished with fixing 802 of the state's worst bridges by October 2013.

Fifty-four bridges are under construction, with another 548 remaining to be repaired or replaced. Many of the bridges are being closed completely to speed construction, and this has proven to be an effective plan of action. MoDOT is repairing or replacing a bridge every 2.5 days under the program.

Sobriety checkpoints tonight

Today kicks off Missouri's You Drink & Drive, You Lose campaign, and I will be posting from a checkpoint in St. Louis. Stay tuned for details...

Ten Reasons You Should Be Riding the Missouri River Runner

10. We work 7 days a week; Missouri River Runner operates 7 days a week and it is the coolest ride to the Missouri State Fair; the St. Louis Arch; KC BBQ! Matter of fact, tell us your Amtrak travel story on our facebook page and let us know if we can share it!
9. We sell the best traveling dogs in the state…hotdogs that is, you can eat and ride on our Missouri River Runner.
8. All your friends are doing it; Ridership has been up seven percent from last year.
7. Amtrak’s Customer Service Index indicated that we are third in the nation on their customer service chart, so relax, rest assured we will get you there.
6. Can you say Day trip? You can easily travel with your friends on the Missouri River Runner with a day trip into Washington, Hermann, Warrensburg, Sedalia...!
5. We collect cans! For a program that helps Capitol City Habitat for Humanity and Amtrak build a home for the needy. Read our Press Release.
4. What a view of the Missouri River you’re going to have!
3. Riding Amtrak qualifies you as being "An Earth Air Pollution Avenger" because riding Amtrak will help save us all from air pollution. Wear your title well, hero.
2. You can get your work done while riding; internet hot spots and AC jacks are available in most trains...so unfortunately this will mean you will no longer have any excuse for not getting your work done while traveling for your boss, so now you will have to make up new ones. ;)
1. Be stress free, we will get you there on time! On-time performance is at an average of 92 percent for the year!

Missouri River Runner

New DWI Laws to Sober Drunk Drivers

If you’ve ever had an alcoholic drink or two, you know that it can be a little while before you feel back to normal. Unfortunately, many people still think they can handle themselves after a drink or more and drive. However, sometimes one drink is all it takes to make the difference between life and death behind the wheel.

Beginning next week, new Missouri DWI legislation will crack down on drunk drivers and make Missouri roads safer.

Missouri’s You Drink & Drive, You Lose campaign takes place Aug. 20 through Sept. 6. Law enforcement will participate in statewide sobriety checkpoints and DWI saturation patrols enforcing Missouri’s DWI laws and keeping impaired drivers off the road. At the same time, advertising messages will remind drivers of the consequences of impaired driving.

The new DWI law which goes into effect Aug. 28 will:
• Increase jail time for repeat DWI offenders and those with higher blood alcohol levels
• Move more cases from municipal courts to state courts, where penalties can be tougher
• Mandate better record-keeping for DWI cases so that repeat offenders can be properly tracked; and
• Offer offenders opportunities to participate in a DWI court program that incorporates treatment and close monitoring instead of going to jail.

In 2009, 280 people were killed, 1,140 seriously injured and 3,719 received minor injuries in Missouri crashes involving an impaired driver.

Please remember to hand your keys over if you’ve been drinking, or offer to give someone else a ride if you’re sober. Let’s all get home safely. To learn more about impaired driving and how you can Arrive Alive, visit www.savemolives.com.

First in the Nation - Completed as Promised

Hundreds of people gathered on the new Osage River Bridge today in Tuscumbia, Mo., to celebrate a new bridge that offers a much-needed connection for businesses, travelers, farmers and the military in mid-Missouri. It was truly heart-warming to see people of all ages and backgrounds gathering to celebrate something that links each of us - transportation.

Standing on the new structure, I couldn't help but breathe a sigh of relief. As the marching band played and the crowd covered their hearts for the national anthem, it was hard not to notice the Depression-era bridge immediately next to us. The difference between the bridge this community had been using every day and the bridge they will now use is striking, and I was happy to be on the wider, smoother, sturdier structure as the ceremony began.

This project was the first in the nation to begin after stimulus funding was approved by President Obama in Feb. 2009. Within minutes, this community began reaping the benefits as sparks flew and work began to replace a crumbling structure with something they can rely on for decades to come. It was a great sight to see this project completed as promised and see the smiles of so many of the Missourians it will serve.

Fabulous, Fantastic Fair Fun!

Become a part of state history when you sign the new
30-foot bridge beam before it's used in an upcoming project.

As of today, it's officially fair time!

With a newly repaired or replaced state bridge opening every 2.5 days, the Missouri Department of Transportation thinks it's cause to celebrate. So MoDOT is offering visitors to the Missouri State Fair a chance to be a part of the historic progress taking place.

Fairgoers will be invited to sign their names to a 30-foot bridge beam that will later become part of the support for a new bridge on Route U over Spring Fork Creek in Pettis County. The beam, about as long as a stretch limo, is four feet wide, almost two feet thick and weighs more than 10 tons.

Check out a great video below of the new beam being put in the place at the highway gardens and see the contrast when it is placed next to an old bridge beam.



Lots of other activities take place the highway gardens and transportation exposition center. The annual No MOre Trash! Day is scheduled for Aug. 13, with special activities that include an appearance by Buttons the Clown, trash can painting, games, snacks and a puppet show. Inside the air-conditioned exposition center you'll find interactive displays featuring games, contests and giveaways. Kids can participate in a scavenger hunt for a chance to win a bike donated by Cecil's Cyclery of Sedalia.

And who would miss their chance to see Barrel Bob up close? Visitors can have their photo taken with Barrel Bob, a piece of art that has become an icon in the Kansas City area, as well as with a cutout of a MoDOT dump truck.

Can't wait to see you there!

Satisfaction

They say there is nothing like a satisfied customer.

MoDOT Interim Director Kevin Keith and members of the Safe & Sound bridge improvement team met three of them last week on a couple of new bridges on Route 127 in Pettis County, south of La Monte.

The two bridges that are just 1,000 feet apart had been been open for less than a week after a 66-day closure. KTU Constructors, MoDOT's design-build contractor for the Safe & Sound program, chose to utilize one road closure to build two new bridges. Their construction schedule called for an 81-day closure -- or roughly equivalent to the typical bridge replacement project.

But KTU was able to finish in 66 days -- 15 days early. In effect, each project took 33 days instead of nearly 90!

Local farmers Charles Reavis and Roy Zeb Thomas and Pettis County Presiding Commissioner Rusty Kahrs couldn't have been happier. Reavis and Thomas both said that the communication with MoDOT prior to the start of construction allowed them to prepare for the closure period. Kahrs explained how important it is to enhance rural infrastructure to support an agriculture-based economy.

Their comments seemed to dovetail with other experiences around the state. It seems that people are willing to accept a little inconvenience to get a new bridge!

Not Even for a Minute

It's a temptation most every parent or caregiver has probably experienced. "I'm just running in for a minute. I'm sure the kids will be okay if I leave them alone in the car. What could possibly happen?"

Fortunately, the vast majority never give in to that temptation. For those who do, the consequences can be devastating. Left alone in a vehicle even for a short time, a child is in danger of dehydration, injury, abduction and death. According to Safe Kids USA, from 1998 to 2009, 443 children died from heat stroke while unattended in a car.

That's why MoDOT and the Children's Trust Fund are teaming up to remind parents and caregivers never to leave children alone in or around vehicles - not even for a minute. MoDOT has placed posters supporting the CTF's Not Even for a Minute public awareness campaign in its 28 rest area locations in Missouri, which are visited by about 20 million people a year. In addition, the department's electronic interstate message boards will carry the reminder through August.

"Keeping Missourians safe is our top priority, and we are pleased to help the Children's Trust Fund remind folks never to leave children alone in or around cars," MoDOT Interim Director Kevin Keith said.

For more information, visit http://www.ctf4kids.org/.

Homegrown Bridge

MoDOT will be displaying its own homegrown, blue-ribbon concrete bridge beam at the State Fair that opens later this week. Needless to say, this display does not have the typical agricultural feel that you would expect at the State Fair. But having new, wider bridges in rural areas is extremely important for Missouri's farmers. And that's why MoDOT is taking this opportunity to showcase the Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Program.

The program is improving 802 of the state's poorest bridges. The vast majority of them are on rural, low-volume roads. Many of them are just one lane wide. And on average they are 60 years old. Already 192 of these projects have been completed, with MoDOT reopening a new bridge ever two-and-a-half days since April 2009.

Precast bridge elements like the beam that will be on display outside the Highway Gardens are a key part of the design and construction strategies being employed on this project by KTU Constructors, MoDOT's design-build contractor that is building 554 new Safe & Sound bridges. This particular one was made by CoreSlab in Marshall and is 30-feet long and weighs 21,000 pounds. "Missouri loves new bridges!" is painted along its side, and visitors may sign the beam to show their support for improved infrastructure across the state. The beam will be used in a new bridge on Pettis County Route U over Spring Fork Creek that will be built next year. Next to the new beam will be an old, rusty steel girder that came out of another Pettis County bridge that is currently under construction. The contrast between the two is dramatic.

Pettis County has 22 bridges on the Safe & Sound program. Nine of them are already complete and all of them will be done this time next year.

MoDOT Cyclist Says People Were Highlight of 2,600-Mile Trek

The trip is over. He cycled nearly 2,600 hundred miles in 29 days with every mile logged under a punishing July sun.

But Kris Sandgren says the most memorable part of the trip was not the heat, but the people he encountered along the way.

“The highlight was defintely the people I ran into,” Sandgren said. “I had people put me up for the night several times. “

Sandgren said meeting these folks wasn’t a problem.

“When you’re wearing spandex shorts and a bike jersey, you stand out. It gets people asking questions.”

While the oppressive heat and humidty took its toll, Sandgren said the only trouble he ran into was a small pack of dogs chasing him down in Nebraska.

Sandgren’s favorite part of his trek? The end.

“I was totally surprised when I saw all the people in Jefferson City waiting to greet me,” he said. “There were probably 50 people and a television station. They even had my wife there to meet me. I got very emotional over it. I was glad to be home.”

Sandgren’s ride was all to help fund the Fallen Workers Memorial, a monument dedicated to the workers who have given their lives working on Missouri’s highways. Sandgren generated around $5,000 for the memorial.

I-49 Coming to Missouri!

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission today approved highway construction resulting in the upgrading of the U.S. 71 corridor between Kansas City and Joplin to interstate standards by the end of 2012. Improvements include removing at-grade crossings and bring Missouri closer to getting an I-49 designation.

This will be a huge safety improvement as at-grade crossings are removed in order to meet interstate requirements. It will mean a smoother and safer ride for long-distance travelers, and enhanced economic development and freight travel.

The original intent was to fund a four-lane bypass of Bella Vista, Ark., creating an interstate from Joplin to Fort Smith, Ark. Once Arkansas decided to move forward with two lanes rather than four for the Bella Vista Bypass, money was available to begin work on U.S. 71.

A Safer Commute

A safer commute. That's just one benefit residents of Moniteau County are enjoying as the second phase of the U.S. Route 50 relocation project is complete.

The $24.8 million project started in October 2008 and relocated more than eight miles of Route 50, from Route K to just west of California. Residents will see improved traffic capacity and safety.

The first phase of the Route 50 relocation project included the construction of 11 miles of new four-lane highway, from just west of St. Martins in Cole County to Route K in Moniteau County. The project cost $30 million and was completed in October 2008.

Grant Enables Innovative Bridge Design

Innovation has been at the heart of MoDOT's Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Program since it began just under two years ago. Innovative contracting, design, construction methods and materials have allowed MoDOT to pursue the replacement or repair of more than 800 bridges in a short period of time while minimizing inconvenience to drivers and local residents.

Since April 2009, 183 new bridges have been completed and another 48 are under construction. Work on 12 more is to begin next week.

Another innovative bridge design will become a part of the program as a result of a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Sen. Claire McCaskill announced this week that MoDOT would be receiving the grant through the "Highways for Life" program, which is designed to accelerate the adoption of innovations and technologies, improve highway safety and quality, and reduce congestion as a result of construction activity.

MoDOT will use the funds to build three bridges that include Hybrid Composite Beams, or HCBs, a technique never-before used in Missouri. By using the HCBs, construction time can be greatly reduced, future maintenance will be minimized, and the HCB exterior is expected to provide a service life beyond 100 years.

MoDOT's bridge engineers plan to evaluate the HCBs to see if there are further applications for their use on future bridge projects.

One of the bridges to be built with HCBs is on Route 97 in Dade County. Locations for the other two structures are yet to be determined.

Take a Ride to the Fair!

How can you grow great memories this summer? Schedule a trip to the state fair on Amtrak's Missouri River Runner train!

The Amtrak train runs between St. Louis and Kansas City twice a day with stops in Lee's Summit, Independence, Warrensburg, Sedalia, Jefferson City, Hermann, Washington and Kirkwood.

If traveling to the fair for an overnight trip in Sedalia, you can easily take the train, but if only a day trip is planned, the following schedule could be followed. Travelers from Kansas City and western areas of the state would arrive in Sedalia at 9:19 a.m. and depart westbound from Sedalia at 7:39 p.m. Those traveling from St. Louis and eastern portions of the state would arrive in Sedalia at 12:01 p.m. and depart eastbound from Sedalia at 5:49 p.m.

A bus will take fairgoers from the Amtrak station in Sedalia directly to the fair's main gates. The bus runs every 15 minutes for a one-way fare of $1.25.

Hop on the Missouri River Runner and avoid the hassles of traffic and parking. You'll end up with great memories, and have more time to focus on all of the fun foods served on a stick.

Multimodal Goes Beyond Roads and Bridges

MoDOT is about more than roads and bridges. We also have a lot to do with planes, trains, ferries, buses and the freight network that keeps Missouri's economy moving. In the biz, we call those methods of transport “multimodal.”

Our website has a dedicated section to help citizens learn more about our responsibilities to these modes. If you go to www.modot.org/multimodal you can get Amtrak schedules, ferry locations, links to local bus services, aeronautical charts, rural transit info, airport directories, even information on Missouri’s freight system. Links to related websites outside of MoDOT are also conveniently collected to help get you where you need to go. You can even calculate your carbon footprint from the site!

If you want to get a broader picture on MoDOT’s responsibilities, or need info on different modes of transportation, this site might be the one stop you need to make.

Celebrating the Youth

As the 2010 MoDOT Youth Transportation Conference comes to a close, it would be indecent of me not to recognize participating students for their diligence in pursuing knowledge. Noticing the enthusiasm from the participating high school students reminded me of myself as a high schooler and how excited I used to get over math and science.

Now that I am journalism major, math equations and science problems are few and far between. In fact, most of us journalism students try to avoid these two subject areas at all costs. But me, well I guess you could say I’m a rare breed. I loved English, math and science. But my math classes were always the ones I was in a hurry to get to. I imagine that the Youth Conference students are the same way.

The Youth Conference is a six-day camp, free for all high school students in the state of Missouri who may have special interests in mathematics and the sciences. This year’s students had the chance to learn more about the numerous career opportunities in the fields of transportation and civil engineering. They also had the chance to apply the skills they have learned thus far in the areas of math, science and computer concepts to transportation engineering problems that exist today. And let’s not forget about the many exciting field trips and tours that the students got to experience as well.

After finding out about all of the beneficial learning experiences and fun activities that the conference has to offer, I must admit that I’m jealous I didn’t get to take part in an opportunity like this when I was in high school. Nonetheless, I am excited to see so many of Missouri’s students taking an active interest in such honorable fields of study.

Precious Cargo

I’m less than two weeks away from having a baby. Last thing on my to-do list? Install the car seat. Turns out it was a little more complicated than I predicted.

I spent a Saturday morning taking the seat out of the box, reading the car seat instruction manual, looking at my car and referencing the car manual. Both my car seat and car came equipped with LATCH anchors, which are supposed to make installing a car seat a piece of cake.

Not so much. The safest place for a car seat is the center position in the back seat,but my car manual instructed me that my LATCH anchors were on the passenger seats, not the center position. So do I use LATCH and place my car seat in an outboard seat or do I use the seat belt in the center seat?

I didn’t know but luckily I did know that Missouri has a wealth of resources, including certified car seat technicians and inspection stations located across the state. I set up an appointment with one of those techs to help me install my seat.

It took less than 20 minutes and my seat was installed, and most importantly – installed correctly. According to NHTSA, three out of four car seats are installed incorrectly, putting children at risk. After watching her install the seat in my car, I was then able to go home and help my husband install the car seat base in his truck.

Even if you are able to make sense out of the car seat manual and install your car seat yourself, it’s still important to make sure it’s done correctly. Find an inspection station near you and have a car seat technician check to make sure your seat is installed correctly.

You can find a list of inspection stations and also check out the instructional videos located at http://www.savemolives.com/child-passengers.html.

There’s nothing more important than securing your most precious cargo.

Kris Sandgren's Arrival

"Not for himself, but to bring awareness to the 130 MoDOT employees that have been killed in the line of duty." - MoDOT's Interim Director Kevin Keith

Kris Sandgren arrived in Jefferson City yesterday afternoon to applause and cheers from MoDOT employees, including Interim Director Kevin Keith. Kris received a customized bicycle jersey designating him as a "highway hero" and a proclamation from Governor Nixon noting his outstanding accomplishment. Watch below for Kris' own remarks about the true motivation behind this ride.

Kris has done a remarkable job bringing attention to how vital it is to watch out for workers when traveling in a work zone. Across nine states, he was able to meet with citizens and media to offer a personal perspective on how lives can be saved by slowing down and paying attention.

Look for more information and stories from his trip in a future post, as we have a chance to sit down with Kris and hear about what it's really like to pedal so many miles. If his trip inspires you, consider a donation to the fallen workers' memorial honoring the lives that put his pedals in gear.



If you would like to make a donation or pledge by the mile in support of his ride:
Make check payable to:

State Highway & Transportation Employees
Association of Missouri

Mail to:
Fallen Workers' Memorial
c/o District 7 Highway Credit Union
3901 E. 32nd St., Suite A
Joplin, MO 64804
Attention: Dave B. Taylor

Welcome Back Kris Sandgren!

MoDOT employee Kris Sandgren completes day 28 today of his 2,600-mile ride from Anacortes, WA, to Jefferson City, MO, in honor of MoDOT's fallen workers. He will ride into Jefferson City around 1 p.m. today to circle the Missouri State Capitol Building and receive a welcome from MoDOT's Interim Director Kevin Keith and fellow employees.

Watch for an upcoming post where we interview Kris and learn more details and stories from his trip. We're so glad to know he is safely finishing up his journey. His ride has been a truly meaningful way to bring attention to the importance of work zone awareness and to honor his fellow workers that have lost their lives in a work zone.

Below are some updates from his last few days of his trip. Welcome back to Missouri!

Day 23 -- Wednesday, July 14

Kris takes the day off in Omaha, NE, and spends it with the friends he stayed with Tuesday night. He is the guest of Greg and Nancy Schuerman and their two children. "It seems weird to me today to not be pedaling." Instead he accompanies the family to the zoo. It's a very hot day with a hot breeze from the south. He's glad he decided to stay off the road.

Day 24 -- Thursday, July 15

Less wind today and the heat moderates slightly, so his ride south out of Omaha on U.S. 75 goes well. He is about to cross the Missouri River toward Rock Port on U.S. 136 and spots a Welcome to Missouri sign. "I'm just tickled to death." He calls it a day and puts up his tent at a KOA campground at Rock Port.

Day 25 -- Friday, July 16

Out of Rock Port, Kris zig-zags on various roads and winds up having to detour around a flood damaged area and head back into Nebraska at Rulo, NE. He heads south again and, traveling about 70 miles, winds up in Atchison, KS. He notes that Atchison is the girlhood home of famous 1930s pilot Amelia Earhart. Kris stops at a house on the city's outskirts and asks permission of a couple to fill his water bottles from their outside faucet. In easy conversation with the couple, Kris explains the purpose of his bicycle trek. The couple take an interest and invite him to stay with them overnight. That evening, they take him to an outdoor country-music concert at an annual festival in Atchison. "It was .. an offer I couldn't refuse."

Day 26 -- Saturday, July 17

High temperatures, humidity and hilly terrain make the going tough. He rides 73 miles between Atchison, KS, and Holt, MO, northeast of Kansas City. "My eyes were burning like crazy from all the salty sweat." He often stops, wipes his face and puts on his reading glasses. He keeps having to consult a map because of the many different roads he must follow. He finally stops in a shady spot at about 3:30 p.m. and lies down to rest. "It was about to cook me." He resumes riding at 5 p.m. and rolls into Holt where he stops at a small hotel. The air conditioning in his room does not work. The day is "not much to brag about."

Day 27 -- Sunday, July 18

Kris is able to cover 115 miles on another hot, muggy day. The most challenging part is crossing the Laramie River west of Boonville. He uses a wide shoulder on I-70 for a short distance but finds no shoulder on the bridge. He tries to hitch a ride for 30 minutes but no takers. He pedals right up to the bridge and waits another 30 minutes for a break in traffic to pedal across. Almost to the east end of the bridge, he has his first flat tire of the trip. But the tire holds enough air for him to make it across. He pulls off the road and replaces the tire. Kris reaches Boonville in the early evening and spends the night in a nice motel in a room with a working air conditioner. He' looking forward to finishing the ride Tuesday in Jefferson City. "It's almost like I'm going to make it."

Day 28 -- Monday, July 19

Another hot, high-humidity day. Kris is taking his time heading toward Jefferson City. He will stay the night somewhere close.
Kris plans to ride to the Capitol and MoDOT's Central Office by 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 20.

If you would like to make a donation or pledge by the mile in support of his ride:
Make check payable to:

State Highway & Transportation Employees
Association of Missouri

Mail to:
Fallen Workers' Memorial
c/o District 7 Highway Credit Union
3901 E. 32nd St., Suite A
Joplin, MO 64804
Attention: Dave B. Taylor

Barrel Bob Rolls Back Into Town

He may have lost his hard hat, but Barrel Bob was recovered in a field in Johnson County and is now safely back at his Kansas City home. He's resting up for a big engagement in a few weeks at the Missouri State Fair.

Bob had gone missing from his busy work zone at U.S. 50 and Bynum Road in Lone Jack over a week ago. We're so glad to know he's back safely, and hope that's true for all of MoDOT's workers each day on the job.

Barrel Bob, developed as part of the kcICON project, is a creation of Robert Ohl, a Clarkson Construction employee. All labor and materials were donated to create Barrel Bob, which took about ten hours to build. Barrel Betty, also a donation from Ohl and Clarkson Construction, joined Bob on the job this past February.

Welcome Back!

Route 100 Widens

MoDOT and the City of Washington recently celebrated the opening of the new lanes on Route 100 between Interstate 44 and Route 47 in Washington. The widening of Route 100 will improve the capacity and safety of the highway for Franklin County motorists.

The Route was also awarded the special name of Veterans Memorial Highway, honoring those who have served our country. Residents were invited to come and walk, bike or run on the new stretch of road before the ceremony.

Searching for Barrel Bob

Where in the world is Barrel Bob now? What was intended as a fun, but informative safety campaign ended with an act of vandalism this weekend. Bob was taken from his location at U.S. 50 and Bynum Road without authorization on Sunday evening.

Barrel Bob was placed in a very active construction zone to send a safety message - to slow down and drive safely in work zones. Unfortunately his message was not taken seriously.

"We would very much like to see him returned and we are working with the police to find him," said Perry Allen, Construction and Materials Engineer. "Since 2000, 15 MoDOT employees have been killed in the line of duty. Bob is the literal representation of how important driver awareness is to the safety of workers in the construction zone."

Allen encourages anyone with information about Barrel Bob's location to contact the Lone Jack Police Department or MoDOT at 888-275-6636.

While intended to be clever and eye catching, the Barrels also represent a very important message about taking it slow through work zones. With the loss of Barrel Bob an innovative education campaign on safety is no longer available.

Barrel Bob, developed as part of the kcICON project, is a creation of Robert Ohl, a Clarkson Construction employee. All labor and materials were donated to create Barrel Bob, which took about ten hours to build. Barrel Betty, also a donation from Ohl and Clarkson Construction, joined Bob on the job this past February.

A Windy Week

MoDOT employee Kris Sandgren completed day 22 of his 2,600-mile ride from Anacortes, WA to Jefferson City, MO, in honor of MoDOT's fallen workers. Learn more about what inspired his ride, and check back here for more updates as he heads south for the rest of his trip.

Day 21 -- Monday, July 12

Kris keeps traveling east across southern South Dakota and hits Sioux City, IA, just after noon. He's riding in light rain. He skirts Sioux City, pedaling in fast traffic across a bridge over the Missouri River as close to the outer railing as he could. He puts his head down and pushes hard. "I didn't look back," he said.

He continues south on U.S. 75 along the west side of the river. He encounters hills north of Tekamah, NE, and is chased by dogs -- three of them -- for the first time on the ride. He grabs his canine repellent. "I just gave the lead dog a shot and the other two quit on their own." He has dinner at a Subway in Tekamah and checks into a local motel, small but clean. "I seem to be wearing down on the camping thing." Besides it looks like rain again and he doesn't want to be outdoors.

Day 22 -- Tuesday, July 13

Before leaving Tekamah, NE, Kris visits with the editor of the Burt County Plaindealer. Kris hits the road mid-morning and encounters strong head winds as he approaches Omaha, NE. "The wind is tormenting me. It blessed me across Montana. Now it's cursing me." He plans to spend the night with friends in Omaha.

Watch for more details as Kris completes the last days of his journey.
If you would like to make a donation or pledge by the mile in support of his ride:


Make check payable to:
State Highway & Transportation Employees
Association of Missouri
Mail to:
Fallen Workers' Memorial
c/o District 7 Highway Credit Union
3901 E. 32nd St., Suite A
Joplin, MO 64804
Attention: Dave B. Taylor

MoDOT Demolishes, then Recycles, Route 40 Bridge

Everyone knows you can recycle that old cereal box, your soda can from dinner and even a glass bottle, but what about a bridge? Yeah, you can recycle that! On July 10, the MoDOT-Kansas City district demolished the Route 40 bridge over Interstate 435, began the process to recycle 100 percent of the debris.

Built in 1966, the bridge is constructed of materials that are readily recycled today. After demolition, crews will retrieve:

• 2578 tons concrete, which will be used for base rock material or as rock ditch liner,

• 210 tons reinforcing steel, will be collected and delivered to a recycler,

• 579 feet of aluminum handrail, will also be collected and delivered to a recycler.

“Recycling our materials is a priority in this job,” Said MoDOT Construction and Materials Engineer Perry Allen. “One hundred percent of this bridge is recyclable and we plan to salvage all 100 percent.”

Large-scale recycling is not a new concept for the department. MoDOT leads the nation in the number of recycled roof shingles added to asphalt mixtures.

• 325,000 tons of concrete and asphalt were recycled and reused during the reconstruction of a 10-mile stretch of Interstate 64 in St. Louis.

• When the Route 19 Missouri River Bridge near Hermann was taken down, about 2,000 tons of steel from the structure was recycled.

• MoDOT has used enough recycled tires in its construction projects over the past two years to equip 20,000 cars.

• About 70 percent of state highway signs are produced from reclaimed material.

• Using the latest technology, MoDOT can actually recycle entire asphalt roads.

Bridge demolition is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act-funded project to add a third lane to I-70 in each direction and improve the interchange at I-435. It also will include removing and replacing the Blue Ridge Cutoff (George Brett) Bridge over I-70 next year.

More than 50 local citizens and media stayed up into the wee hours on Sunday to watch the explosion, and treated the crew to a rousing round of applause.

The House that Cans Built

When you recycle, you really can make a difference.

Aluminum cans recycled from Amtrak Missouri River Runner trains will now be donated to the River City Habitat for Humanity in Jefferson City, Mo., to help build a house for a deserving family.

Starting this week, aluminum cans collected from the twice-daily St. Louis-Kansas City service will be dropped off daily at the capital city Amtrak station. The River City Habitat for Humanity's Aluminum Can Recycling Committee will use the proceeds from the cans on a home currently under construction at 815 Montana in Jefferson City. The project is known as the "house that cans built" because it's primarily funded by the group's recycling committee and programs such as this one by Amtrak passengers.

"Amtrak is one of the most environmentally friendly modes of transportation and we are striving to make it even greener in Missouri," said MoDOT Rail Administrator Rod Massman. "By implementing a recycling program, we will reduce waste and help protect the environment. At the same time, we will help a family realize the American dream of owning a home."

Eco-savvy Amtrak riders can now recycle aluminum cans across the national network of Amtrak trains. Amtrak is committed to making recycling an integral part of train travel and strives to protect the environment and conserve its resources by reusing material, recycling waste and preventing pollution.

Make Your Own Great Memories at the Missouri State Fair

Ok, usually I try to eat pretty healthy, but every summer I look forward to attending the Missouri State Fair and sampling the foot-long corn dogs, kettle corn, fried Twinkies and other assorted fair food. Whether you visit the fair every summer, or have never been – this summer is a great time to come to the State Fair, and not just for the food!

“Growing Great Memories” is the theme for this year’s fair which runs Aug. 12-22. Besides the concerts, rides, shows and other exhibits, you can come visit MoDOT in our ever-popular shady Highway Gardens and air-conditioned Transportation Exposition Center.

The Expo Center will be fully loaded with interactive displays on the department’s programs and activities including games, contests and giveaways. Kids can participate in a transportation scavenger hunt, and play driving-related computer games. New displays will stress the importance of not texting and driving, a bridge display will feature pieces from an actual bridge, and a couple of other brand new things to see.

Our annual No MOre Trash! Day will be held on Friday, Aug. 13, with special activities including appearances by Buttons the Clown, trash can painting, games, snacks and a puppet show. MoDOT will stress the importance of litter prevention and keeping Missouri’s roadways clean of trash and debris. Adopt-A-Highway and Sponsor-A-Highway tables will be set-up for those interested in signing up to participate in these programs.

So, after you’ve grabbed your corndog and seen a pig race or two, head on over to our building and let us educate and entertain you for a bit. Don’t forget to pick up your FREE state road map.

Admission to the State Fair varies by day and time. Normal daily admission is $8. Visit mostatefair.com to find out more.

Missouri Miles

In part one of Missouri Miles for July, we show you how MoDOT is saving money by cleaning signs instead of replacing them. Then we take you inside a big rig for the Missouri Truck Driving Championship in Springfield, Missouri. In part two, learn everything you need to know about driving around a roundabout. We take you on a bike ride in Jefferson City as a fundraiser for the MoDOT Memorial Fund, as well as remind you that "The Heat is On" this summer!
All that and more in this month's edition of Misouri Miles.

Kris Sandgren's Ride, Day 15

MoDOT employee Kris Sandgren completed day 15 of his 2,600-mile ride from Anacortes, WA to Jefferson City, MO, in honor of MoDOT's fallen workers. Learn more about what inspired his ride, and check back here for more updates as he heads south for the rest of his trip.

After leaving Ray this morning in northwestern North Dakota, Kris pedals south to New Town, ND, where he visits with the weekly New Town News on Main Street across from the Jack and Jill market. His progress slows a bit.

"I'm in really hilly country now," said Sandgren.

It's a rolling, grass-covered landscape. He notices an increase in big-truck traffic related to an oil drilling boom in the region. He catches sight of the Missouri River. Late afternoon, he's fatigued and chilly on an overcast day and decides to hitch a ride. "I cheated. ... I just put my thumb out when I saw a pickup truck coming." The truck stops. An oil field construction inspector from Wyoming gives Kris and his bicycle a lift about 30 miles to Garrison, ND. Kris then pedals 12 miles to the Totten Trail campground east of Garrison. He pitches his tent and turns in. He looks forward to an "easy" 67-mile push further south to Bismarck, ND, on Wednesday, July 7.

If you would like to make a donation or pledge by the mile in support of his ride:

Make check payable to:

State Highway & Transportation Employees
Association of Missouri

Mail to:

Fallen Workers' Memorial
c/o District 7 Highway Credit Union
3901 E. 32nd St., Suite A
Joplin, MO 64804
Attention: Dave B. Taylor

Forewarnings for the Fourth

So I was on the phone with my mom this morning and of course the first thing she said was, “So, what are your weekend plans? You know you need to be careful for the Fourth!”

Now with me being 22 years-old and all you would think she would have given up on worrying about what I’m doing on that particular weekend. But every year around this time I can expect to get that same phone call.

However, thinking about the large amount of traffic accidents and other fatalities that occur during this busy weekend, maybe having a worrisome, cautious mother may actually be a good thing. Last year there were a reported 82 minor injuries and 11 fatalities in Missouri during the Fourth of July weekend.

Many of these injuries were due to complete carelessness while driving. And with so many activities going on this weekend in the bigger cities like St. Louis and Kansas City, a lot of people are just anxious to hop in the car and go. Meanwhile, they are neglecting to take the necessary precautions when they are on the highway.

Not to worry though. Missouri Law Enforcement will be establishing sobriety check points until July 5, making sure to keep drunk drivers from harming others. And let’s not forget that the HEAT is still on. With the HEAT campaign in full effect, speeders, texters and those neglecting to wear their seat belts should be prepared to wipe the sweat from their brow, as they will be caught!

As a final word to the wise, make sure to be extra careful on the highways for the holiday. While you may be taking the appropriate measures to stay safe, others may not. And even if you’re grown, it might be a good idea to listen to your mom, at least this weekend.

Maiden Voyage for the M/V Mary Lynn

Make way for the M/V Mary Lynn and her maiden voyage up the Missouri River!

AgriServices of Brunswick, Missouri continue their waterway shipping efforts with a new 3800 horsepower shallow draft boat that will be used exclusively on the Missouri River. The M/V Mary Lynn's first assignment is a whopper! This powerful boat will bring with it a 160’x100’x8’ Ringer Barge with a Manitowoc 4100 Ringer Crane on it, plus, a 1000 hp push boat called the M/V Cleva Lee that will get dropped off at the Amelia Earhart Bridge Project located at mile marker 422.5 in Atchison, Kanses. Four empty hopper barges will also be in tow that will soon head to Blair, Nebraska to get loaded full of alfalfa pellets.

This new boat for AgriServices of Brunswick will be used for bigger tows. Kevin Holcer, with AgriServices of Brunswick says waterway traffic is increasing and this is another effort to move more freight and encourage more shipping on the Missouri River. Holcer says the waterway shipping year on the Missouri River is going well so far, aside from a few delays due to high water. Though, I'd have to assume a few delays due to high water is far better than extremely low water levels that shippers where plagued with the previous 8 years. Waterway shipping on the Missouri River was basically non-existent since 2002. Not only is river shipping back on the Missouri River, we have new boats like the M/V Mary Lynn that can tow bigger loads to help keep the momentum going for waterway traffic.

The crane the M/V Mary Lynn has on it is quite a sight. You can follow the progress of the M/V Mary Lynn on MoDOT's twitter page, plus, if you time it right through twitter... you can go see this large shipping load on the Missouri River with your own eyes!

Massive Concrete Girders are a Missouri First

The single-longest, precast, concrete bridge girders in Missouri state history were installed this week on MoDOT's kcICON design-build project. The 150-foot girders are part of a new land bridge that will span northbound Interstate 29/35 and carry southbound Interstate 29/35 traffic headed for The Paseo, Independence Avenue, and points beyond.

"Imagine a single, I-shaped piece of concrete that stretches from a football field's end zone to the 50-yard line," said kcICON Project Director Brian Kidwell. "Moving just one of these 150,000 pound girders is like lifting the equivalent weight of 70 classic Volkswagen Beetles."

Learn more about the girders from MoDOT Engineer Tom Skinner in this podcast.

Visit the project Web site at http://www.kcicon.com/ or find them on facebook by searching "kcICON project."
 

BOOM!

The cracks, pops and booms that explode each Fourth of July are much like the fireworks that take place when bridges go down with a bang after new, safer structures have been erected.

Missouri has 10,335 bridges on the state system and the most major river bridges in the nation with 53. The average cost to build a major bridge runs from $30 million to $80 million, with some structures costing as much as $300 million. With bridges playing a major role in the state’s transportation system, Missouri has seen a fair share of bridge demolitions.

In the spirit of Independence Day, MoDOT has pulled together a compilation of bridge demolitions. Let the fireworks begin!
 

Many the Miles

MoDOT employee Kris Sandgren is now on day 10 of his 2,600-mile bicycle ride to raise money for a fallen workers' memorial in Missouri.

Today, Kris Sandgren is pedaling across the Continental Divide on U.S. Route 2 at the south edge of Glacier National Park. This is rugged country in northwestern Montana. His legs are feeling much better after experiencing soreness over the weekend. "I'm in the groove now," he said late Wednesday afternoon. He spoke while sitting outside the Super 1 Foods grocery store in Columbia Falls. He had just replenished his food supply, buying an apple, bananas, granola bars and orange juice.

On Tuesday, June 29, Kris spent the night near Fortine, MT, in an air-conditioned RV. He had asked a couple if he could pitch his tent on their property. They said absolutely not. They told him he could stay in their fifth-wheel travel trailer, having been prepared for out-of-town guests arriving later in the week. "They wouldn't take any money from me," Kris said. A good night's sleep and a hot shower boosted Kris' spirits and energy level. The night before, Kris had been stuck for three hours inside a campground restroom -- wide awake -- where had taken refuge during a severe thunderstorm.

Yesterday, Kris made the ski resort town of Whitefish, MT, where a friendly photographer at the Whitefish Pilot newspaper took Kris' photo on downtown's Central Avenue. Matt also told Kris of a shortcut out of town, saving him a few miles on his way toward West Glacier, MT.

Kris plans to travel about 65 miles into East Glacier Park by the end of today.

Be on the Watch for Paving Scams

With warmer weather comes the urge to tackle those home improvement projects. And while reputable contracting companies are the rule and not the exception, we want to remind you to be on the lookout for traveling dealers pitching driveway paving offers that are too good to be true.

Specifically, be wary of paving companies that approach your home claiming to have extra asphalt left over from a job and offering to pave your driveway. Workmanship can be poor and the costs can be much higher than what was originally quoted.

Most contractors doing business in Missouri are ethical and reliable and provide quality craftsmanship and service. The traveling dealers give legitimate firms a black eye because it's difficult to follow up with them and they often provide little or no preparation work, use cheap or not enough material and employ untrained or inexperienced workers.

The Better Business Bureau recommends the following steps to protect yourself against less than reputable paving companies:

• Ask for local references and verify that the contractor is in compliance with local licensing, bonding and insuring requirements.

• Ask for identification and make a note of the license plate number on the contractor's vehicle.

• Solicit two or three bids for the work you are planning, but don't automatically accept the lowest.

• Make sure all bids are based on the same materials.

• Read all agreements and guarantees before signing.

• Make sure you understand all terms and conditions.

• Never sign a contract with sections left blank.

• Do not pay for work in advance. Pay by check when the work is completed to your satisfaction.

You can contact the Better Business Bureau with any complaints by visiting http://www.bbb.org/. Consumers can also verify the status of a contractor with the Department of Consumer Protection at 800-842-2649.

Drunk-Driving Memorial Highway Signs Now Available

I’ve never lost a friend or loved one in a traffic crash, so I can only imagine the heartbreak involved. Add to that a senseless and preventable death due to an impaired driver and it’s absolutely heartbreaking.

Well, now families of drunk-driving victims can memorialize their loved ones with signs along our highways. Not only does this offer families a chance to remember their loved ones, but a way to send a message to others about the dangers of impaired driving.

The blue memorial signs read "Drunk Driving Victim" and include the person's initials and the month and year they were killed. At the bottom it reads "Think About It." The signs can be requested and paid for by the family of a drunk-driving victim.

The signs are the result of a new law called, David’s Law. Twenty-six years ago, David Poenicke was 19 when he was killed on his way home from a Cardinals baseball game. He pulled his motorcycle over to the shoulder of I-270 when a passing car struck him and his motorcycle. The driver had a blood alcohol level of 0.14 and was charged with manslaughter and vehicular injury. The first sign from the new program was installed today on Interstate 270 in Florissant in his honor.

Impaired driving continues to be a problem in Missouri. In 2009, 280 people were killed in our state, 1,140 seriously injured and 3,719 received minor injuries in crashes involving an impaired driver. Hopefully these new signs help get people to think twice before driving impaired.

Applications for the memorial signs are available on MoDOT’s website.

Saved by the Heat

Now that Missouri Law Enforcement has taken its mark and the HEAT is On Campaign is in full effect, I started to think about one of the most dreadful road trip experiences I ever had in my life.

One boring weekend in Columbia, 11 of my friends and I decided to take a two- day adventure to St. Louis. I opted out of driving my car, but three others volunteered. So we piled up in all three cars and headed out to the highway. Little did I know that this two-hour car ride was going to be beyond awful!

Not only did my friend do between 85 and 90 MPH the whole way there, but she also decided to text and neglected to wear her seatbelt. We heard the tires hit the rumble strips alongside the highway several times as she almost swerved off of the highway.

All of my friends including myself asked her to slow down, put her seat belt on, and even call instead of texting. But we got the textbook response, “stop being a backseat driver!” In my opinion, she was the one that needed to be in the backseat.

Reflecting on that horrible experience made me wonder if many other drivers my age behave so recklessly on the highways. If so, Missouri Law Enforcement officers have their work cut out for them. And I’m all the more grateful that they are turning up the HEAT this summer, keeping unsafe drivers off the road.

Speeders, texters and drivers who neglect to wear their seatbelts beware, as you will all be under the radar on Missouri highways. Law enforcement will also be cracking down on alcohol offenders.

Although the HEAT campaign will be over in September, Missouri drivers should always drive safely so that experiences like the one had that weekend never occur.

To learn more about “The HEAT is On” Campaign please visit saveMOlives.org.

Saving Signs

Teens and others may think it's a hoot to vandalize highway signs with spray paint and paintballs.

Not us.

We think it's ripping off taxpayers who have to foot the bill for a new sign, and that's money that could go to road repairs.

So we're fighting back. We're the first transportation department in the nation to test various paint removers on highway signs so they can be cleaned rather than replaced. And we're pleased to report our efforts have met with success.

While there are many paint removal products on the market, the trick was finding one that wouldn't render a highway sign "dead," meaning it wouldn't strip away the materials that make the sign reflective at night or leave a shadow where the paint hit. Our crews recently put the products to work on several signs near LaMonte, Mo., with positive results, and we'll be sharing our findings with other states.

Cleaning a sign rather than replacing it saves as much as $1,000 depending on the sign's size. That might not take away the thrill some folks get from hearing the splat of a paintball hitting a highway sign, but it sure makes us feel better.

Reflecting on the Ride for Remembrance

Nothing but beautiful people and beautiful memories graced the Jaycee’s Fairgrounds last weekend as co-workers, friends and loved ones attended the 2010 Ride for Remembrance in honor of MoDOT workers killed in the line of duty.

Although it was scheduled to rain the day of the celebration, attendance was high. I was happy to see the many motorcyclists that came to participate. One of the most memorable moments was when family members released white balloons into the air in honor of their loved ones. Seeing so many people in cheerful spirits reminded me that the day was not meant to mourn losses, but to celebrate lives.

I had never been to such a ceremony and was very touched by all of the activities that took place. As much as I was touched, I was also tickled by the MoDOT Divas performance. The singing group is made up of three MoDOT employees who sang beautifully at the celebration. I must admit that the dunk tank contest was quite amusing as well. The cool water must have felt good to the employees that participated on such a humid and muggy day.

While the Ride for Remembrance celebration has only been around since last year, I am sure it will be an event that co-workers and family members will continue to enjoy throughout the years.

Many of us know what it feels like to lose someone that we love, but a helping hand always eases the pain. The Ride for Remembrance celebration was certainly a very fun and sincere way for MoDOT employees to extend themselves to such deserving families.

All of the funds raised at the Ride for Remembrance celebration went towards the fallen workers' memorial. For more information about the celebration or to donate to the memorial, please visit http://www.moshea.org/.

Sun Power

When the racers in the American Solar Challenge roll into Jefferson City on Tuesday, June 22, for a checkpoint at the Capitol, they will be greeted with a portable highway sign bearing the message, "Welcome Solar Racers."

So what, you might ask?

Well, the cool thing is the sign is powered by the sun just like the cars in the race. Using solar power is just one way MoDOT strives to be energy efficient and a good steward of the environment.

One of MoDOT's hybrid bucket trucks will also be on display at the Energy and Innovation Fair sponsored by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources in conjunction with the race check point. MoDOT was the first government agency in the nation to test the energy-saving diesel-electric truck.

The department is also a leader in using alternative fuels and recycled roof shingles in asphalt. Plus, each year MoDOT crews pick up more than 80,000 tires that are left on state highways. The tires are ground up and used as fuel at power plants.

So it's just natural - no pun intended - that MoDOT is helping sponsor the Solar Challenge Race event. You can find out more about the race at www.dnr.mo.gov/solarrace.htm. More information about MoDOT's green efforts can be found at www.modot.org/goinggreen/conservation.htm.

A Vacation to Remember

When I plan a vacation, it usually involves relaxing and doing as little as possible. For MoDOT employee Kris Sandgren, his plans are much more noble.

Sandgren is a Maintenance Crew Leader with MoDOT and an avid bicyclist from Springfield, Mo.. Today, he began a 2,600 mile bicycle journey today to bring attention to the importance of work zone safety and raise money for a Missouri Fallen Workers' Memorial.

"When I first heard about the monument, I thought it was a great idea," Sandgren said. "Some of our losses were close to home. It made me think about the monument a lot harder when it happened to people I knew."

Sandgren left from Anacortes, Wash., to spend three weeks of his own vacation time pedaling through seven states. He will ride approximately 100 miles per day and end his journey in Jefferson City, Mo. In between, he will travel through Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Iowa.

Since 1932, 130 MoDOT employees have died in the line of duty. Sandgren's ride highlights the importance of slowing down and using extra caution when traveling through a work zone and honors those workers who have lost their lives.

The memorial will be paid for entirely by private donations. About half of the needed $94,000 has been raised. The planned location is near the MoDOT headquarters building in Jefferson City, on the Capitol grounds.

To make a donation or pledge by the mile:

Make check payable to:

State Highway & Transportation Employees

Association of Missouri

Mail to:

Fallen Workers Memorial

c/o District 7 Highway Credit Union

3901 E. 32nd St., Suite A

Joplin, MO 64804

Attention: Dave B. Taylor

Cell Phone Chronicles

Now I know many Missourians think you have it bad ever since the text messaging law went into effect last summer. But Illinois, my friends, is a whole different ball game.
One night, while driving home from the city after a night out with some friends, who else but a Chicago police officer pulls me over while stopped at a red light. And why was I pulled over? Two words: cell phone.
It was brought to my attention that night that the city of Chicago prohibits the use of a mobile device while operating a motor vehicle, PERIOD. Not only are drivers banned from placing or accepting calls without a hands-free device, but they are also restricted from composing or reading messages. These messages can be instant messages, text messages and even emails and Internet content.
Although I was annoyed with being stopped for a cell phone violation, the truth is that I try not to make a habit of using my phone in any way while driving. It is rather distracting.
I must admit that Missouri's new text messaging law somewhat bothers me simply because it only applies to those 21 and under. However, after being stopped I now understand that the true goal behind it is to make Missouri roads safer. Who can truly argue with that?
No matter how mad I must have been after receiving a ticket for using my cell phone, looking back on the experience, I am happy that I did. This year, the National Safety Council reported that 3 percent of all traffic accidents could be caused by texting. This year alone Missouri has experienced about 562 traffic accidents caused by cell phone use.
These numbers are pretty serious and I certainly do not want to contribute to them in any way. And as much as it pains me to see past the irritation that texting and other traffic laws may bring, it made me feel better to think that one less person texting while driving could save one, two or even three more lives.