Many of us just take our transportation system for granted, but when you think about it, transportation is one of the few things in life that affects all of us.
If you ever go anywhere or buy anything, then transportation affects you. Without a dependable transportation system, we couldn’t get to work, visit with friends and family or even get medical care when needed. Transportation is one of those things we rarely consider, but we rely on every day. So it makes sense that we should know what’s happening with transportation in Missouri – even if it’s just the basics.
How can you quickly and easily get basic – yet comprehensive – transportation information that you need to know? I think I can help you out. The MoDOT Express Lane is an electronic newsletter that I put together and send out twice a month directly to your e-mail account. This completely free electronic newsletter gives subscribers quick access to comprehensive, timely and easy-to-read transportation information, in a short, easy-to-read format. We cover topics like changing transportation laws, big projects in your area, statewide programs dealing with various issues like seat belt use, impaired driving and many others.
So, don't miss another issue! If you haven’t already, take a moment and get on the MoDOT Express Lane!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Friday, May 22, 2009
New Bridges Are Popping Up All Over
Since early spring, new bridges have been popping up all over Missouri as work has gotten underway on MoDOT's Safe & Sound bridge improvement program. As the Memorial Day weekend arrives, 23 new bridges have been completed and 26 more are under construction.
This bevy of activity is part of MoDOT's plan to improve or replace 802 of the state's worst bridges by Oct. 31, 2014. It started last fall when the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission directed MoDOT to launch the Safe & Sound program in two phases. The first was to take 248 bridges that could be rehabilitated and begin rolling them out for bids in innovative packages that grouped bridges by size, type or location. The second phase was to begin a design-build procurement to identify a team that could completely replace 554 bridges.
The bridge projects that have been completed so far are all part of that first phase, and they have been done 30 percent below budget.
In the coming months, though, even more bridge construction work is going to start as a result of actions taken yesterday by the Commission. They awarded a design-build contract to KTU Constructors to replace 554 bridges at a cost of $487 million. That price includes design, construction, project management and public outreach activities. It also protects MoDOT against inflation.
To pay for the program, MoDOT will sell bonds and repay them over 24 years within its budgeted amount of annual payments in the neighborhood of $50 million. KTU's price represents a savings in excess of $500 million over the life of the project compared to the prices that were quoted to MoDOT last fall when the department was seeking to launch this program with the contracting team providing private financing and 25-year maintenance.
KTU Constructors is a group of contractors and engineering firms. Kiewit Western Company of Omaha, Neb. is the lead and is joined by Traylor Bros., Inc., of Evansville, Ind., United Contractors, Inc., of Great Falls, S.C., HNTB Corporation of Kansas City, and The LPA Group of Columbia, S.C.
They have commited to completing their work by the end of 2013 -- a full 10 months earlier that required by MoDOT, and to average no more than 45 days closure for each bridge site. That is building at light speed! The normal MoDOT bridge project takes about 90 days.
In the coming weeks, KTU and MoDOT will finalize the design-build contract. KTU has indicated that it will open regional offices around the state to coordinate the complicated logistics associated with the project, and will be seeking Missouri subcontractors and materials suppliers to support their effort.
Besides replacing many of Missouri's worst bridges, Safe & Sound will put people to work. Using the same formula as used by the U.S. government for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act projects, Safe & Sound will support more than 5,300 jobs either directly or indirectly.
To speed construction and to control costs, most of these bridges will be closed for construction. To help motorists, MoDOT has launched an interactive map on its Web site that uses a series of color-coded icons to identify each bridge. Clicking on an icon allows the user to view detour and construction information. At least one of these bridges is located in every one of Missouri's 114 counties.
KTU officials yesterday indicated that once they are up and running, they will be delivering a completed bridge about every two days! That's amazing. They suggested that members of MoDOT's Safe & Sound team may want to purchase new running shoes because they'll be sprinting to keep up with them.
Since MoDOT director Pete Rahn first announced this program in 2006, other states have been watching with interest because a project like this has never been tackled before. Now it's become a reality. Don't be surprised if this type of system-wide bridge improvement project isn't copied by others, because every state struggles with how to manage its inventory of deteriorating bridges.
This bevy of activity is part of MoDOT's plan to improve or replace 802 of the state's worst bridges by Oct. 31, 2014. It started last fall when the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission directed MoDOT to launch the Safe & Sound program in two phases. The first was to take 248 bridges that could be rehabilitated and begin rolling them out for bids in innovative packages that grouped bridges by size, type or location. The second phase was to begin a design-build procurement to identify a team that could completely replace 554 bridges.
The bridge projects that have been completed so far are all part of that first phase, and they have been done 30 percent below budget.
In the coming months, though, even more bridge construction work is going to start as a result of actions taken yesterday by the Commission. They awarded a design-build contract to KTU Constructors to replace 554 bridges at a cost of $487 million. That price includes design, construction, project management and public outreach activities. It also protects MoDOT against inflation.
To pay for the program, MoDOT will sell bonds and repay them over 24 years within its budgeted amount of annual payments in the neighborhood of $50 million. KTU's price represents a savings in excess of $500 million over the life of the project compared to the prices that were quoted to MoDOT last fall when the department was seeking to launch this program with the contracting team providing private financing and 25-year maintenance.
KTU Constructors is a group of contractors and engineering firms. Kiewit Western Company of Omaha, Neb. is the lead and is joined by Traylor Bros., Inc., of Evansville, Ind., United Contractors, Inc., of Great Falls, S.C., HNTB Corporation of Kansas City, and The LPA Group of Columbia, S.C.
They have commited to completing their work by the end of 2013 -- a full 10 months earlier that required by MoDOT, and to average no more than 45 days closure for each bridge site. That is building at light speed! The normal MoDOT bridge project takes about 90 days.
In the coming weeks, KTU and MoDOT will finalize the design-build contract. KTU has indicated that it will open regional offices around the state to coordinate the complicated logistics associated with the project, and will be seeking Missouri subcontractors and materials suppliers to support their effort.
Besides replacing many of Missouri's worst bridges, Safe & Sound will put people to work. Using the same formula as used by the U.S. government for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act projects, Safe & Sound will support more than 5,300 jobs either directly or indirectly.
To speed construction and to control costs, most of these bridges will be closed for construction. To help motorists, MoDOT has launched an interactive map on its Web site that uses a series of color-coded icons to identify each bridge. Clicking on an icon allows the user to view detour and construction information. At least one of these bridges is located in every one of Missouri's 114 counties.
KTU officials yesterday indicated that once they are up and running, they will be delivering a completed bridge about every two days! That's amazing. They suggested that members of MoDOT's Safe & Sound team may want to purchase new running shoes because they'll be sprinting to keep up with them.
Since MoDOT director Pete Rahn first announced this program in 2006, other states have been watching with interest because a project like this has never been tackled before. Now it's become a reality. Don't be surprised if this type of system-wide bridge improvement project isn't copied by others, because every state struggles with how to manage its inventory of deteriorating bridges.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Use Your Head
One of the reasons I'm proud to work at MoDOT is that I've seen first-hand the passion employees at all levels have for safety. Through work with the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety, I've been privileged to witness this in multiple Missouri organizations, and it's staggering to realize how many individuals are truly dedicated to making sure you and your loved ones arrive home safely each night.
That passion could not be hidden at a news conference yesterday where our director released survey results showing Missourians support a mandatory helmet law by more than a 9-to-1 ratio. He urged Gov. Nixon to veto a recently passed bill from the Missouri legislature amending the state's all-rider helmet law, a law that has saved lives for longer than my own lifetime.
Director Rahn was joined by a trauma surgeon, a motorcycle crash survivor and a doctor who lost his father to a motorcycle crash. The video below shares their comments. I hope you'll take a moment and consider the consequences of repealing Missouri's current helmet law. No matter the outcome, maintain your own passion for safety -- buckle up in your car and wear your helmet if you ride.
That passion could not be hidden at a news conference yesterday where our director released survey results showing Missourians support a mandatory helmet law by more than a 9-to-1 ratio. He urged Gov. Nixon to veto a recently passed bill from the Missouri legislature amending the state's all-rider helmet law, a law that has saved lives for longer than my own lifetime.
Director Rahn was joined by a trauma surgeon, a motorcycle crash survivor and a doctor who lost his father to a motorcycle crash. The video below shares their comments. I hope you'll take a moment and consider the consequences of repealing Missouri's current helmet law. No matter the outcome, maintain your own passion for safety -- buckle up in your car and wear your helmet if you ride.
What do you want to see on MoDOT.org?
Hello! Matt Hiebert, MoDOT’s Web Manager here. I’m posting this because I want to get your input on some things. MoDOT’s Web site has more than 6,000 pages. It’s packed with information on projects, road conditions, job openings, MoDOT news, and business guidelines. But we want to know what else you’d like to see. When you visit MoDOT’s Web site at www.modot.org what info do you want available? Blogs dedicated to projects? More detailed contact info? More contests like Name the Train? We want to make sure you’re finding what you need when you need it. Let me know what you think about our current content and what else you want to see. Talk to me, folks!
Monday, May 18, 2009
Look Out! Top Ten Work Zones in Missouri
Just like Late Night With David Letterman, MoDOT has come up with a top 10 list of its own: the top 10 work zones most likely to cause traffic delays this travel season.
The list is ranked in order of impact based on traffic volume, amount of work and level of delay. A clickable map showing the top 10 work zones, along with a printable version of the map and project information, can be found at www.modot.org/.
Drive Smart and Slow Down in Work Zones!
The list is ranked in order of impact based on traffic volume, amount of work and level of delay. A clickable map showing the top 10 work zones, along with a printable version of the map and project information, can be found at www.modot.org/.
Drive Smart and Slow Down in Work Zones!
High-Speed Rail
There was some good media coverage last week out of St. Louis about the Illinois DOT reaching an agreement with Union Pacific on implementing high-speed rail between Chicago - St. Louis. This is good for Missouri's St. Louis - Kansas City service because as their service gets faster and more reliable, it will mean better connections for Missouri riders and more pressure to improve our service. One thing to keep in mind is that the St. Louis - Chicago line has less freight train volume (5-10 trains / day) than our St. Louis - Kansas City line (50-60 trains / day). MoDOT has been a planning partner with Illinois DOT and seven other Mid-western states since 1996 on the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative, which provides a template for all improvements being discussed. Illinois's news is good, we wish them well, and will be hopefully following closely behind!
Brian Weiler, MoDOT Multimodal Director
Brian Weiler, MoDOT Multimodal Director
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Great Partners!
I had the opportunity to participate this week in the second annual MoDOT Day at Thomas Jefferson Middle School in Jefferson City. Several divisions of MoDOT set up presentations and activities for the eighth graders as part of Partners in Education so they could learn about transportation careers and opportunities in a hands-on, interactive way.
Our community relations group set up a camera and teleprompter to let students record a video that could be used for media or the web. Many had never been in front of a camera like that before and it was great to watch them try out a broadcasting career.
Students also had the chance to sift through dirt in a mini-archeological dig, put together truss bridges, run a quick-click relay race and see just how large those stoplights really are.
Looking forward to next year!
Our community relations group set up a camera and teleprompter to let students record a video that could be used for media or the web. Many had never been in front of a camera like that before and it was great to watch them try out a broadcasting career.
Students also had the chance to sift through dirt in a mini-archeological dig, put together truss bridges, run a quick-click relay race and see just how large those stoplights really are.
Looking forward to next year!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Get Your Buckle On
Buckling up is a habit for me. Even if it weren’t, my car would make sure it was with its constant beeping. In the next few weeks, I will have another reminder – red and blue flashing lights.
Law enforcement officers will be cracking down on unbelted drivers May 18-31 for an aggressive national “Click It or Ticket” campaign.
$10 will buy you two Subway footlongs or one Missouri seat belt ticket. I'd prefer my $5 footlongs (cold cut combo, anyone?).
Wearing a seat belt is the most effective way to reduce injuries and fatalities in a crash because it provides protection from being ejected and keeps motorists from smashing into windshields, dashboards and other passengers. Don’t believe me? Watch this video.
This video has left a permanent imprint on my mind. I make sure everyone else in the car is wearing his or her seat belt. Sometimes this can make for an awkward conversation, but it doesn't have to be. Reminding a friend or family member to buckle up has never been easier.
Follow us on Twitter for updates on Click It or Ticket events, weekly citations and unbuckled fatalities. Buckle up and Arrive Alive!
Law enforcement officers will be cracking down on unbelted drivers May 18-31 for an aggressive national “Click It or Ticket” campaign.
$10 will buy you two Subway footlongs or one Missouri seat belt ticket. I'd prefer my $5 footlongs (cold cut combo, anyone?).
Wearing a seat belt is the most effective way to reduce injuries and fatalities in a crash because it provides protection from being ejected and keeps motorists from smashing into windshields, dashboards and other passengers. Don’t believe me? Watch this video.
This video has left a permanent imprint on my mind. I make sure everyone else in the car is wearing his or her seat belt. Sometimes this can make for an awkward conversation, but it doesn't have to be. Reminding a friend or family member to buckle up has never been easier.
Follow us on Twitter for updates on Click It or Ticket events, weekly citations and unbuckled fatalities. Buckle up and Arrive Alive!
Friday, May 8, 2009
How much litter could a litter picker pick if a litter picker could pick litter?
As a kid I was always taught to clean up my trash, or hold onto it until I could throw it away. Unfortunately, not everyone waits until they have a trash can handy, and litter can end up along Missouri highways.The great news is that so many volunteers across the state Adopt-A-Highway in order to keep Missouri roadsides clean. More than 4,000 groups in the state take care of more than 5,700 miles.
Now the St. Louis area is using a cool tool this summer to clean up roadsides safely and efficiently. The Litter Picker can remove retreads, papers, cans, cardboard, cups, wood, road kill and litter. It can hold 50 bags of trash at one time and can cover up to eight acres per hour. The model of the Litter Picker that MoDOT has can be completely operated by one person from a towing tractor.
I wish I could get a smaller version to help pick up all the stray toys at my house.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Get Your Kicks at the I-44 Conway Welcome Center
If you get the urge while motoring west – or east for that matter on Interstate 44, roll into the new Conway Welcome Centers near mile marker 111. The Route 66 themed facilities feature amenities that both casual and commercial travelers enjoy.
I attended the official ribbon cutting for the sites Monday, May 4. Along with hundreds of Route 66 fans, historic car owners and surprised travelers, I boogied to music performed by Conway, Mo., high school students.
After checking out the restroom facilities, I hit the playground, pet areas, and the vending area. Machines offer sandwiches, drinks and snacks – a much better selection than I expected. The picnic shelters seemed the best place to chow down and I had my choice of mini-pavilions built to resemble diners, garages, filling stations and other businesses seen along the “Mother Road”.
Even the parking areas are cool. Dozens of passenger vehicles can park in the car area and drivers of up to 75 large commercial and recreational vehicles can take a break in the large, well-lit “back 40”. My commercial driver friends say that compared to the former rest area at this location, that’s at least three times the number of spaces for them to rest from the road. That’s important. I want everyone driving near me to be well rested and up to the task.
First-day visitors raved about the Route 66 map floor inlay, historical displays and friendly tourist-information aides. While children christened the playground with their antics I heard their elders reminisce about trips taken in years gone by.
Next time you’re traveling on I-44 down from St. Louie or Joplin, Missouri, stop into a modern tribute to a legendary era. It’s so, so pretty!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
New State Transportation Program Presents Uncertain Future
JEFFERSON CITY - Missouri's proposed five-year transportation improvement program includes good news - many new projects will be built next year, and bad news - ahead is little money for more than taking care of the existing system.
Significant highway and bridge improvements in the first year of the program can be attributed to funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Program. Funding for the new Mississippi River Bridge in St. Louis is also included.
However, by 2011, transportation funding drops by more than half and will continue to fall to only one-third of the 2010 amount in subsequent years. At this point, the Missouri Department of Transportation will struggle to keep existing highways in good shape and will have few dollars to build new roads, bridges or other transportation facilities.
"Stimulus money has helped delay falling off the funding cliff by about 12 to 18 months, but we will still fall off that cliff, and the consequences will be a transportation system that is getting worse instead of better," MoDOT Director Pete Rahn said. "Missourians must have a conversation about the future of transportation in our state."
The draft 2010-2014 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program lists all transportation projects planned by state and regional planning agencies for fiscal years 2010 through 2014 (July 1, 2009 - June 30, 2014). It totals $6.5 billion, with approximately $4.91 billion going to 658 highway and bridge projects, about $960 million to other transportation modes and approximately $660 million to local transportation programs.
"We use a transparent and extensive public involvement process to develop this program, and we have worked with our planning partners from communities around the state to identify and prioritize these new projects," Rahn said.
The proposed program is available for public review beginning May 6. Citizens interested in seeing the program or offering comments can contact MoDOT's customer service centers at 1-888 ASK MODOT (275-6636). The program is also available on MoDOT's Web site - http://www.modot.org/ - and at MoDOT's district offices around the state. The formal public comment period ends June 5.
Following the public review, the comments will be presented to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission. The commission will review the comments and the final transportation program before considering it for approval July 8.
The draft 2010-2014 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program includes transportation improvements identified by metropolitan planning organizations in St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, Columbia, Jefferson City, Joplin and St. Joseph. The STIP projects located in these areas are subject to discussion and approval by the appropriate metropolitan planning organization.
###
Significant highway and bridge improvements in the first year of the program can be attributed to funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Program. Funding for the new Mississippi River Bridge in St. Louis is also included.
However, by 2011, transportation funding drops by more than half and will continue to fall to only one-third of the 2010 amount in subsequent years. At this point, the Missouri Department of Transportation will struggle to keep existing highways in good shape and will have few dollars to build new roads, bridges or other transportation facilities.
"Stimulus money has helped delay falling off the funding cliff by about 12 to 18 months, but we will still fall off that cliff, and the consequences will be a transportation system that is getting worse instead of better," MoDOT Director Pete Rahn said. "Missourians must have a conversation about the future of transportation in our state."
The draft 2010-2014 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program lists all transportation projects planned by state and regional planning agencies for fiscal years 2010 through 2014 (July 1, 2009 - June 30, 2014). It totals $6.5 billion, with approximately $4.91 billion going to 658 highway and bridge projects, about $960 million to other transportation modes and approximately $660 million to local transportation programs.
"We use a transparent and extensive public involvement process to develop this program, and we have worked with our planning partners from communities around the state to identify and prioritize these new projects," Rahn said.
The proposed program is available for public review beginning May 6. Citizens interested in seeing the program or offering comments can contact MoDOT's customer service centers at 1-888 ASK MODOT (275-6636). The program is also available on MoDOT's Web site - http://www.modot.org/ - and at MoDOT's district offices around the state. The formal public comment period ends June 5.
Following the public review, the comments will be presented to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission. The commission will review the comments and the final transportation program before considering it for approval July 8.
The draft 2010-2014 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program includes transportation improvements identified by metropolitan planning organizations in St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, Columbia, Jefferson City, Joplin and St. Joseph. The STIP projects located in these areas are subject to discussion and approval by the appropriate metropolitan planning organization.
###
Thursday, April 30, 2009
On Track for Improved Service
Even with the rain, Monday's ground breaking for the new California rail siding was a great event! So many passenger rail advocates worked hard to make this project a reality, and it will hopefully lead to more and larger improvements along the St. Louis to Kansas City corridor. We have heard loud and clear that people want better on-time performance, newer train equipment with more amenities (wireless access, food options, etc.) and more schedule options.Comments below reflect the power of partnerships for improved rail service in Missouri.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Being Green
With temperatures reaching nearly 90 degrees, more than 1,200 fifth graders attended Earth Day 2009 in Jefferson City on April 24. Visitors to MoDOT’s tent received a white pine tree seedling, learned about the No MOre Trash program, signed a No MOre Trash litter pledge and played a ring toss game requiring each player to answer a litter-prevention question.
In case you missed the ring toss ...
How long does it take a plastic milk container to decompose? (one million years!)
What is the maximum fine for littering along Missouri highways? ($1,000 and/or one year in jail)
Learn more about how MoDOT is Being Green.
In case you missed the ring toss ...
How long does it take a plastic milk container to decompose? (one million years!)
What is the maximum fine for littering along Missouri highways? ($1,000 and/or one year in jail)
Learn more about how MoDOT is Being Green.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
MoDOT Delivers First of 802 Better Bridges
JEFFERSON CITY - The Missouri Department of Transportation marked a milestone today in its mission to fix 802 of the state's worst bridges in five years by reopening the first bridge repaired under the Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Program.
This afternoon, MoDOT, Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission and county officials celebrated the rehabilitation of the bridge over Hominy Creek on Route AA north of Route 32 near the city of Halfway in Polk County. The bridge, which had been closed for repairs since Feb. 23, was reopened with a parade of vehicles representing critical services the bridge carries, such as emergency responders and school buses.
Two other Safe & Sound projects are also finishing up this week - one on Route 17 over Eleven Point River in Howell County and the other on Route F over Wolf Creek in St. Francois County. Missourians can track MoDOT's progress through an interactive map at www.modot.org/safeandsound.
"We made a commitment to Missourians that we would improve hundreds of the state's worst bridges, and we are delivering on that promise," said MoDOT Director Pete Rahn. "MoDOT is addressing more bridges than we ever have before thanks to the Safe & Sound initiative, as well as the normal bridge work scheduled in our five-year construction program, ongoing corridor work and now upcoming recovery act projects."
The 142-foot, two-lane bridge over Hominy Creek was built in 1966. Under the Safe & Sound program, Burk Bridge Co. of Brookline, Mo, replaced the deck in just 60 days for a low-bid amount of $225,919.
Immediately after the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission approved the Safe & Sound program on Sept. 18, 2008, MoDOT went to work and was able to get the first bridges under construction within five months.
"Once we commit to a project, it's full steam ahead," Rahn said. "We went to work immediately to get 100 of these projects designed, placed out for bid, awarded and under construction in record time because Missourians simply deserve better bridges. Thanks to the cooperation of our consultant and contractor partners, dozens of these bridges are now under construction and will be fixed by the end of the year."
There are 248 rehabilitation projects being delivered through MoDOT's normal bidding process, with 109 under contract by June. Work on the remaining 139 bridges will be spread out over the next four years. Additionally, the Commission expects to select a team in May to award a single design-build contract for a package of 554 bridge replacements. Some of those bridges will be under construction this year, too. Most bridges will be closed to speed construction and reduce cost.
"I want to thank Missourians for their patience as we fix hundreds of bridges across the state," Rahn said. "There is no way around it, bridge closings are an inconvenience at best. However, there's no other way we can cost-effectively fix such a large number of bridges so quickly."
There are 10,249 bridges on Missouri's state highway system, the seventh largest total in the nation. Approximately 1,200 of them are in poor or serious condition. The Safe & Sound initiative will address many of these bridges. All 802 bridges will be complete by Oct. 31, 2014. The total cost of the program is estimated at $700 million.
This afternoon, MoDOT, Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission and county officials celebrated the rehabilitation of the bridge over Hominy Creek on Route AA north of Route 32 near the city of Halfway in Polk County. The bridge, which had been closed for repairs since Feb. 23, was reopened with a parade of vehicles representing critical services the bridge carries, such as emergency responders and school buses.
Two other Safe & Sound projects are also finishing up this week - one on Route 17 over Eleven Point River in Howell County and the other on Route F over Wolf Creek in St. Francois County. Missourians can track MoDOT's progress through an interactive map at www.modot.org/safeandsound.
"We made a commitment to Missourians that we would improve hundreds of the state's worst bridges, and we are delivering on that promise," said MoDOT Director Pete Rahn. "MoDOT is addressing more bridges than we ever have before thanks to the Safe & Sound initiative, as well as the normal bridge work scheduled in our five-year construction program, ongoing corridor work and now upcoming recovery act projects."
The 142-foot, two-lane bridge over Hominy Creek was built in 1966. Under the Safe & Sound program, Burk Bridge Co. of Brookline, Mo, replaced the deck in just 60 days for a low-bid amount of $225,919.
Immediately after the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission approved the Safe & Sound program on Sept. 18, 2008, MoDOT went to work and was able to get the first bridges under construction within five months.
"Once we commit to a project, it's full steam ahead," Rahn said. "We went to work immediately to get 100 of these projects designed, placed out for bid, awarded and under construction in record time because Missourians simply deserve better bridges. Thanks to the cooperation of our consultant and contractor partners, dozens of these bridges are now under construction and will be fixed by the end of the year."
There are 248 rehabilitation projects being delivered through MoDOT's normal bidding process, with 109 under contract by June. Work on the remaining 139 bridges will be spread out over the next four years. Additionally, the Commission expects to select a team in May to award a single design-build contract for a package of 554 bridge replacements. Some of those bridges will be under construction this year, too. Most bridges will be closed to speed construction and reduce cost.
"I want to thank Missourians for their patience as we fix hundreds of bridges across the state," Rahn said. "There is no way around it, bridge closings are an inconvenience at best. However, there's no other way we can cost-effectively fix such a large number of bridges so quickly."
There are 10,249 bridges on Missouri's state highway system, the seventh largest total in the nation. Approximately 1,200 of them are in poor or serious condition. The Safe & Sound initiative will address many of these bridges. All 802 bridges will be complete by Oct. 31, 2014. The total cost of the program is estimated at $700 million.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
MoDOT, Other Agencies Focus on Improving Rail Safety
April 12 – 18 is Rail Safety Week
JEFFERSON CITY - To draw attention to steps that can help eliminate senseless deaths and injuries at highway-rail crossings and on railroad tracks, April 12 - 18 will be celebrated as Rail Safety Week in Missouri. During this week, the Missouri Department of Transportation will join forces with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri Operation Lifesaver, railroad personnel and local law enforcement agencies to raise public awareness about railroad safety.
Positive enforcement events during Rail Safety Week will take place in Independence, Jefferson City and Kirkwood at the following times and locations:
Independence - 10:30 a.m. to noon Monday, April 13
· Union Pacific line at crossings off Noland Road at Osage St. and 35th St.
· Kansas City Southern line at McCoy Ave.
Jefferson City - 9 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 15
· Union Pacific line at Militia Dr.
Kirkwood - 10:30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, April 17
· Union Pacific line at Taylor Ave. and Leffingwell Ave. (10:30 a.m. - Noon)
· BNSF line at the Holmes Ave. crossing (1 - 2 p.m.)
Highway-rail crossing collisions were down significantly in Missouri in 2008, but it was still another deadly year, according to MoDOT. In 2008, the number of collisions at rail crossings dropped to 33 compared to 46 in 2007. Unfortunately, there were seven fatalities at railroad crossings last year - the same number of lives lost in 2007. Furthermore in 2008, at areas other than at crossings, 10 people were hit and killed and 7 were injured while walking illegally on railroad tracks or railroad property.
"Any rail-related injury or fatality is one too many, so we are combining various engineering, education and enforcement efforts to improve rail safety in Missouri," said Rod Massman, MODOT's railroad administrator. "While accidents at crossings for the most part are decreasing, railroad incidents in which people are struck while walking on the tracks are unfortunately on the rise.
Four people have already been killed while walking on the rails in 2009. We are very concerned with this trend, so we are working even harder to warn Missourians to stay off railroad tracks and, as always, use caution when driving over railroad crossings."
Volunteers and staff from the partnering agencies will share rail safety information and remind drivers to buckle up at the crossings listed above. However, all Missourians should remember the following safety tips at rail crossings and on railroad property:
· Cross tracks only at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings only.
· Never drive or walk around lowered gates - it's illegal and deadly.
· Never race a train to the crossing. It is closer and moving faster than you think.
· If your vehicle stalls on or too near the tracks, get out and move quickly away from the tracks in the direction the train is coming from.
· If you are at a multiple track crossing, watch out for a second train from either direction.
· Be aware that trains cannot stop quickly - it can take a freight train moving at 55 miles per hour a mile or more to stop.
· Do not walk on or over railroad property - this is trespassing!
· Do not hunt, fish or bungee jump from railroad bridges or trestles.
· Do not attempt to hop aboard railroad equipment at any time.
"On average, somewhere in the United States, a vehicle or pedestrian is struck by a train every two hours," said Rick Mooney, Missouri Operation Lifesaver director. "Operation Lifesaver has adopted a new slogan with a clear message intended to help eliminate rail tragedies: ‘Stay Off; Stay Away; and Stay Alive.'"
Counties with the highest number of incidents for the past four years have also been targeted for various education and enforcement actions this year.
So far, events are being planned starting in May and throughout the rest of 2009 for the city of St. Louis and the counties of Audrain, Franklin, Greene, Jackson, Jasper, Johnson, Monroe, St. Louis and Stoddard.
Groups interested in scheduling a free rail safety presentation can sign up online at www.showmeol.org/forms/presentation.htm.
For additional information, go to www.modot.org/othertransportation/rail/index.htm.
JEFFERSON CITY - To draw attention to steps that can help eliminate senseless deaths and injuries at highway-rail crossings and on railroad tracks, April 12 - 18 will be celebrated as Rail Safety Week in Missouri. During this week, the Missouri Department of Transportation will join forces with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri Operation Lifesaver, railroad personnel and local law enforcement agencies to raise public awareness about railroad safety.
Positive enforcement events during Rail Safety Week will take place in Independence, Jefferson City and Kirkwood at the following times and locations:
Independence - 10:30 a.m. to noon Monday, April 13
· Union Pacific line at crossings off Noland Road at Osage St. and 35th St.
· Kansas City Southern line at McCoy Ave.
Jefferson City - 9 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 15
· Union Pacific line at Militia Dr.
Kirkwood - 10:30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, April 17
· Union Pacific line at Taylor Ave. and Leffingwell Ave. (10:30 a.m. - Noon)
· BNSF line at the Holmes Ave. crossing (1 - 2 p.m.)
Highway-rail crossing collisions were down significantly in Missouri in 2008, but it was still another deadly year, according to MoDOT. In 2008, the number of collisions at rail crossings dropped to 33 compared to 46 in 2007. Unfortunately, there were seven fatalities at railroad crossings last year - the same number of lives lost in 2007. Furthermore in 2008, at areas other than at crossings, 10 people were hit and killed and 7 were injured while walking illegally on railroad tracks or railroad property.
"Any rail-related injury or fatality is one too many, so we are combining various engineering, education and enforcement efforts to improve rail safety in Missouri," said Rod Massman, MODOT's railroad administrator. "While accidents at crossings for the most part are decreasing, railroad incidents in which people are struck while walking on the tracks are unfortunately on the rise.
Four people have already been killed while walking on the rails in 2009. We are very concerned with this trend, so we are working even harder to warn Missourians to stay off railroad tracks and, as always, use caution when driving over railroad crossings."
Volunteers and staff from the partnering agencies will share rail safety information and remind drivers to buckle up at the crossings listed above. However, all Missourians should remember the following safety tips at rail crossings and on railroad property:
· Cross tracks only at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings only.
· Never drive or walk around lowered gates - it's illegal and deadly.
· Never race a train to the crossing. It is closer and moving faster than you think.
· If your vehicle stalls on or too near the tracks, get out and move quickly away from the tracks in the direction the train is coming from.
· If you are at a multiple track crossing, watch out for a second train from either direction.
· Be aware that trains cannot stop quickly - it can take a freight train moving at 55 miles per hour a mile or more to stop.
· Do not walk on or over railroad property - this is trespassing!
· Do not hunt, fish or bungee jump from railroad bridges or trestles.
· Do not attempt to hop aboard railroad equipment at any time.
"On average, somewhere in the United States, a vehicle or pedestrian is struck by a train every two hours," said Rick Mooney, Missouri Operation Lifesaver director. "Operation Lifesaver has adopted a new slogan with a clear message intended to help eliminate rail tragedies: ‘Stay Off; Stay Away; and Stay Alive.'"
Counties with the highest number of incidents for the past four years have also been targeted for various education and enforcement actions this year.
So far, events are being planned starting in May and throughout the rest of 2009 for the city of St. Louis and the counties of Audrain, Franklin, Greene, Jackson, Jasper, Johnson, Monroe, St. Louis and Stoddard.
Groups interested in scheduling a free rail safety presentation can sign up online at www.showmeol.org/forms/presentation.htm.
For additional information, go to www.modot.org/othertransportation/rail/index.htm.
Monday, April 6, 2009
"Don't Barrel Through Work Zones" and Save Lives
MoDOT Fallen Heroes Honored During Work Zone Awareness Week
JEFFERSON CITY - In work zone crashes everyone loses. Motorists are the ones most likely to be killed or injured in a work zone crash, and too often highway workers are hurt or killed as well. Work Zone Awareness Week is April 6-10, and the Missouri Department of Transportation is reminding drivers: don't barrel through work zones.
In 2008, 12 people were killed in work zones, an increase from 2007 when five people were killed. However, fewer people were injured with approximately 600 serious injuries in work zones in 2008, compared to 792 in 2007. Three MoDOT employees lost their lives on the job during 2008. Speed, inattention and tailgating are cited as the cause of most crashes in areas where roadwork is under way.
"We need drivers to pay attention to highway construction and drive with caution to prevent senseless deaths and injuries," said Pete Rahn, MoDOT director. "We're also asking the public to rate work zones they've driven through. That first-hand information will help us make adjustments and increase safety for motorists and our work crews."
To fill out a Work Zone Customer Survey and help improve MoDOT work zones, visit www.modot.org/workzones/comments.htm.
MoDOT is also working to draw attention to work zone safety and honor its 128 fallen workers through Operation Orange, an initiative to turn significant state landmarks orange during the week.
In addition to MoDOT buildings statewide, other facilities that will be orange include: the Six Flags marquee, Busch Stadium home of the St. Louis Cardinals, the Boone County Courthouse, the Shelter Insurance Gardens in Columbia, Hammonds Field home of the Springfield Cardinals, the Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge and the Branson Landing. More information about Operation Orange can be found at www.modot.org/operationorange.
At a ceremony this evening at MoDOT's headquarters in Jefferson City, a sign will be unveiled marking the location of a future memorial honoring the men and women who have lost their lives improving Missouri's highway infrastructure.
Additionally, MoDOT will remind motorists of the need to drive safely in work zones around the state with radio and internet banner ads, as well as safety advertisements on fuel pump tops at various gas stations and messages on the department's changeable message boards.
The 2009 construction season will be filled with roadwork as MoDOT continues its Better Roads, Brighter Future program to improve 5,600 miles of roadways by 2011. There will also be an increase in work on bridges this year, thanks to the Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Plan.
Additional projects will also be under way due to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
For more information about construction projects statewide, look for work zone locations on MoDOT's interactive traveler information map at http://www.modot.org/ or call 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636).
JEFFERSON CITY - In work zone crashes everyone loses. Motorists are the ones most likely to be killed or injured in a work zone crash, and too often highway workers are hurt or killed as well. Work Zone Awareness Week is April 6-10, and the Missouri Department of Transportation is reminding drivers: don't barrel through work zones.
In 2008, 12 people were killed in work zones, an increase from 2007 when five people were killed. However, fewer people were injured with approximately 600 serious injuries in work zones in 2008, compared to 792 in 2007. Three MoDOT employees lost their lives on the job during 2008. Speed, inattention and tailgating are cited as the cause of most crashes in areas where roadwork is under way.
"We need drivers to pay attention to highway construction and drive with caution to prevent senseless deaths and injuries," said Pete Rahn, MoDOT director. "We're also asking the public to rate work zones they've driven through. That first-hand information will help us make adjustments and increase safety for motorists and our work crews."
To fill out a Work Zone Customer Survey and help improve MoDOT work zones, visit www.modot.org/workzones/comments.htm.
MoDOT is also working to draw attention to work zone safety and honor its 128 fallen workers through Operation Orange, an initiative to turn significant state landmarks orange during the week.
In addition to MoDOT buildings statewide, other facilities that will be orange include: the Six Flags marquee, Busch Stadium home of the St. Louis Cardinals, the Boone County Courthouse, the Shelter Insurance Gardens in Columbia, Hammonds Field home of the Springfield Cardinals, the Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge and the Branson Landing. More information about Operation Orange can be found at www.modot.org/operationorange.
At a ceremony this evening at MoDOT's headquarters in Jefferson City, a sign will be unveiled marking the location of a future memorial honoring the men and women who have lost their lives improving Missouri's highway infrastructure.
Additionally, MoDOT will remind motorists of the need to drive safely in work zones around the state with radio and internet banner ads, as well as safety advertisements on fuel pump tops at various gas stations and messages on the department's changeable message boards.
The 2009 construction season will be filled with roadwork as MoDOT continues its Better Roads, Brighter Future program to improve 5,600 miles of roadways by 2011. There will also be an increase in work on bridges this year, thanks to the Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Plan.
Additional projects will also be under way due to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
For more information about construction projects statewide, look for work zone locations on MoDOT's interactive traveler information map at http://www.modot.org/ or call 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636).
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Commission Approves Final Recovery Act Project List
Transportation Improvements Expected to Directly or Indirectly Support 22,000 Jobs
JEFFERSON CITY – The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission gave approval today to the final list of transportation projects to be funded by economic recovery funds. The transportation improvements are expected to directly or indirectly support 22,000 jobs.
“This final list of economic stimulus projects is all about putting Missourians to work fast,” Missouri Department of Transportation Director Pete Rahn said. “The process for choosing these projects was very complex, and it took a great deal of effort to meet all of the legislative and federal provisions, plus the MHTC funding distribution policies.
The end result is a fair distribution of projects throughout the state that will support jobs and boost our economy.”
The project package totals $577 million, slightly more than the $525 million MoDOT has left to spend. That’s because the department built in additional money to ensure it will qualify for redistribution of funds from other states if they become available. The list of projects and a map showing their location can be found at www.modot.org.
“Our project bids have been coming in 10 percent to 15 percent under budget,” Rahn said. “We built an extra 10 percent into the project list to make sure we could go after funds that other states don’t spend. Even if those funds don’t become available, we’re committed to delivering every project on the list.”
MoDOT first had to meet the requirements of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act when selecting the projects. The act says 50 percent of the stimulus funds must be obligated by June 30, and all money must be obligated by March 2, 2010.
The projects also had to meet all federal regulations, including environmental clearances, contracting requirements and air quality rules. In addition, they had to be included in a long-range, regional and statewide transportation improvement program.
Once those requirements were met, ARRA said consideration should be given to projects that could be completed within three years. It also said consideration should be given to projects that would maximize job creation and economic benefit. Additionally, it said that improvements located in economically distressed areas should be considered.
The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission’s funding formula also dictated which projects were selected. Under the formula, a certain amount of money must go to taking care of the state’s existing highway system and the rest to major projects.
The agency held public briefings around the state on March 10 to share project information with citizens.
“We’ve worked very hard to make the process of selecting these projects open and transparent,” Rahn said. “In this case, we had additional challenges we don’t typically have when identifying project priorities. In the end, we came up with a balanced project list that will put people to work and make our transportation system better and safer.”
The next step will be for MoDOT to put the projects out for bid. The department already has 37 economic stimulus projects totaling about $91 million under way.
JEFFERSON CITY – The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission gave approval today to the final list of transportation projects to be funded by economic recovery funds. The transportation improvements are expected to directly or indirectly support 22,000 jobs.
“This final list of economic stimulus projects is all about putting Missourians to work fast,” Missouri Department of Transportation Director Pete Rahn said. “The process for choosing these projects was very complex, and it took a great deal of effort to meet all of the legislative and federal provisions, plus the MHTC funding distribution policies.
The end result is a fair distribution of projects throughout the state that will support jobs and boost our economy.”
The project package totals $577 million, slightly more than the $525 million MoDOT has left to spend. That’s because the department built in additional money to ensure it will qualify for redistribution of funds from other states if they become available. The list of projects and a map showing their location can be found at www.modot.org.
“Our project bids have been coming in 10 percent to 15 percent under budget,” Rahn said. “We built an extra 10 percent into the project list to make sure we could go after funds that other states don’t spend. Even if those funds don’t become available, we’re committed to delivering every project on the list.”
MoDOT first had to meet the requirements of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act when selecting the projects. The act says 50 percent of the stimulus funds must be obligated by June 30, and all money must be obligated by March 2, 2010.
The projects also had to meet all federal regulations, including environmental clearances, contracting requirements and air quality rules. In addition, they had to be included in a long-range, regional and statewide transportation improvement program.
Once those requirements were met, ARRA said consideration should be given to projects that could be completed within three years. It also said consideration should be given to projects that would maximize job creation and economic benefit. Additionally, it said that improvements located in economically distressed areas should be considered.
The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission’s funding formula also dictated which projects were selected. Under the formula, a certain amount of money must go to taking care of the state’s existing highway system and the rest to major projects.
The agency held public briefings around the state on March 10 to share project information with citizens.
“We’ve worked very hard to make the process of selecting these projects open and transparent,” Rahn said. “In this case, we had additional challenges we don’t typically have when identifying project priorities. In the end, we came up with a balanced project list that will put people to work and make our transportation system better and safer.”
The next step will be for MoDOT to put the projects out for bid. The department already has 37 economic stimulus projects totaling about $91 million under way.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Commission Awards 32 Economic Recovery Projects
Final List Still to be Determined
JEFFERSON CITY – The Missouri Department of Transportation is continuing its push to jumpstart the economy and provide work for Missourians through transportation projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission today approved 32 road resurfacing projects throughout the state that are funded by the federal economic stimulus package. The projects total $38,992,000 and will support an estimated 1,000 jobs.
Most of the work involves laying asphalt to make road surfaces smoother and safer. More than $14 million will be used to resurface sections of Interstate 70 in Lafayette and Cooper counties.
MoDOT is analyzing the provisions of the economic recovery legislation to determine how it will spend the rest of the stimulus money not already obligated. Fifty percent of the funds must be obligated no later than June 17, and the projects must be completed within three years.
In addition, the Federal Highway Administration has said priority should be given to projects that maximize job creation and economic benefit and are located in economically distressed areas. The guidelines can be found at www.fhwa.dot.gov/economicrecovery/guidance.htm.
“The $637 million Missouri received in economic stimulus funds is welcome, but won’t come close to meeting the $31 billion we have in transportation needs over the next 20 years,” MoDOT Director Pete Rahn said. “Still, it’s a step in the right direction.”
The 32 projects awarded today join four projects the Missouri Department of Transportation started Feb. 17 within minutes of President Barack Obama signing the federal economic recovery bill. Missouri was the first state in the nation to have work under way with economic stimulus funds.
“We’re aggressive in getting these stimulus projects going for two major reasons: we want to put Missourians to work fast, and we want to show that investing in transportation infrastructure provides immediate economic relief,” Rahn said. “These are projects we could have ready to go quickly to create or maintain jobs. They will make our highway system better and safer and save lives.”
Under the act, Missouri will receive approximately $637 million for road and bridge projects and an estimated $150 million to address air, rail, transit, waterway and pedestrian projects throughout the state. That amount of work will support an estimated 14,000 jobs and have an estimated $2.4 billion impact on the state’s economy.
More information on the second round of economic stimulus projects awarded today can be found at www.modot.org/readytogo.
Editor’s note: Here is the list of economic stimulus projects awarded March 4.
County Route Project Description Cost
Carroll/
Saline 41 Resurfacing $1,569,000
Saline 240 Resurfacing $67,000
Saline 41 Resurfacing $575,000
Macon 156 Resurfacing $544,000
Schuyler /
Putnam 136 Resurfacing $977,000
Schuyler 202 Resurfacing $423,000
Macon D Resurfacing $89,000
Ralls J Resurfacing $412,000
Ralls EE Resurfacing $247,000
Ralls /
Monroe W Resurfacing $212,000
Marion W, 61 Resurfacing $177,000
Lafayette I-70 Resurfacing With Superpave And Bp-1 $6,861,000
Platte I-29 Ultrathin Bonded Wearing Surface Overlay
(Type C) and Optional Paving $11,799,000
Clinton A Resurfacing $577,000
Ray C Resurfacing $182,000
Clay 69 Resurfacing $260,000
Lafayette FF Resurfacing $438,000
Ray M Resurfacing $206,000
Cooper I-70 Coldmilling & Resurfacing With Superpave $7,612,000
Maries/
Pulaski 28 Resurfacing $829,000
Newton 86 1” Resurfacing With Bp-2, New 2’ Shoulders $846,000
Barry 86 1” Resurfacing With Bp-2, New 2’ Shoulders $950,000
Vernon K Resurfacing $125,000
Vernon W Resurfacing $136,000
Vernon BB Resurfacing $282,000
Jasper P Resurfacing $225,000
Jasper JJ Resurfacing $180,000
Barry /
Lawrence 39 Resurfacing $498,000
Stone/
Taney 265 Resurfacing $295,000
Ripley 142 Resurfacing $764,000
Butler M Resurfacing $358,000
Butler 142 Resurfacing $277,000
$38,992,000
JEFFERSON CITY – The Missouri Department of Transportation is continuing its push to jumpstart the economy and provide work for Missourians through transportation projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission today approved 32 road resurfacing projects throughout the state that are funded by the federal economic stimulus package. The projects total $38,992,000 and will support an estimated 1,000 jobs.
Most of the work involves laying asphalt to make road surfaces smoother and safer. More than $14 million will be used to resurface sections of Interstate 70 in Lafayette and Cooper counties.
MoDOT is analyzing the provisions of the economic recovery legislation to determine how it will spend the rest of the stimulus money not already obligated. Fifty percent of the funds must be obligated no later than June 17, and the projects must be completed within three years.
In addition, the Federal Highway Administration has said priority should be given to projects that maximize job creation and economic benefit and are located in economically distressed areas. The guidelines can be found at www.fhwa.dot.gov/economicrecovery/guidance.htm.
“The $637 million Missouri received in economic stimulus funds is welcome, but won’t come close to meeting the $31 billion we have in transportation needs over the next 20 years,” MoDOT Director Pete Rahn said. “Still, it’s a step in the right direction.”
The 32 projects awarded today join four projects the Missouri Department of Transportation started Feb. 17 within minutes of President Barack Obama signing the federal economic recovery bill. Missouri was the first state in the nation to have work under way with economic stimulus funds.
“We’re aggressive in getting these stimulus projects going for two major reasons: we want to put Missourians to work fast, and we want to show that investing in transportation infrastructure provides immediate economic relief,” Rahn said. “These are projects we could have ready to go quickly to create or maintain jobs. They will make our highway system better and safer and save lives.”
Under the act, Missouri will receive approximately $637 million for road and bridge projects and an estimated $150 million to address air, rail, transit, waterway and pedestrian projects throughout the state. That amount of work will support an estimated 14,000 jobs and have an estimated $2.4 billion impact on the state’s economy.
More information on the second round of economic stimulus projects awarded today can be found at www.modot.org/readytogo.
Editor’s note: Here is the list of economic stimulus projects awarded March 4.
County Route Project Description Cost
Carroll/
Saline 41 Resurfacing $1,569,000
Saline 240 Resurfacing $67,000
Saline 41 Resurfacing $575,000
Macon 156 Resurfacing $544,000
Schuyler /
Putnam 136 Resurfacing $977,000
Schuyler 202 Resurfacing $423,000
Macon D Resurfacing $89,000
Ralls J Resurfacing $412,000
Ralls EE Resurfacing $247,000
Ralls /
Monroe W Resurfacing $212,000
Marion W, 61 Resurfacing $177,000
Lafayette I-70 Resurfacing With Superpave And Bp-1 $6,861,000
Platte I-29 Ultrathin Bonded Wearing Surface Overlay
(Type C) and Optional Paving $11,799,000
Clinton A Resurfacing $577,000
Ray C Resurfacing $182,000
Clay 69 Resurfacing $260,000
Lafayette FF Resurfacing $438,000
Ray M Resurfacing $206,000
Cooper I-70 Coldmilling & Resurfacing With Superpave $7,612,000
Maries/
Pulaski 28 Resurfacing $829,000
Newton 86 1” Resurfacing With Bp-2, New 2’ Shoulders $846,000
Barry 86 1” Resurfacing With Bp-2, New 2’ Shoulders $950,000
Vernon K Resurfacing $125,000
Vernon W Resurfacing $136,000
Vernon BB Resurfacing $282,000
Jasper P Resurfacing $225,000
Jasper JJ Resurfacing $180,000
Barry /
Lawrence 39 Resurfacing $498,000
Stone/
Taney 265 Resurfacing $295,000
Ripley 142 Resurfacing $764,000
Butler M Resurfacing $358,000
Butler 142 Resurfacing $277,000
$38,992,000
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Missouri Has First-In-Nation Economic Recovery Project
Construction Begins Immediately Upon President’s Signature
JEFFERSON CITY - In 1956, Missouri became the birthplace of the nation's interstate system by becoming the first state to award a contract under the Federal-Aid Highway Act. Today the Show Me State again made history by being the first state in the nation to award and begin construction on transportation projects funded by the federal economic recovery package signed by President Barack Obama.
The first economic recovery project in the nation is in Miller County on Route 17. Construction began within moments of the president's signature to replace the Osage River Bridge one mile east of Tuscumbia at a cost of $8.5 million. Other Missouri highway projects under construction starting today include:
Barry/Lawrence/Christian/Greene Counties, Route 60 - Construct alternating/intermittent passing lanes from east of Chapell Drive in Monett to Kansas Avenue in Republic. $8.7 million
Clinton County, Interstate 35 - Resurface northbound and southbound lanes from north of Shoal Creek to north of Route 116 near Lathrop. $14.6 million
Pemiscot/New Madrid Counties, Interstate 55 - Pavement rehabilitation on northbound and southbound lanes from I-155 to Scott County. $18.4 million
"Today the Show Me State again showed the nation we are leaders in transportation by having the first economic recovery act project in the country under construction," Missouri Department of Transportation Director Pete Rahn said. "We promised we would be ready to go to make the best use of every dollar we receive through the economic recovery act to create jobs and make our highways safer. We delivered on that promise and then some."
Missouri will receive approximately $637 million for road and bridge projects and an estimated $150 million to address air, rail, transit, waterway and pedestrian projects throughout the state. That amount of work will create an estimated 14,000 jobs and have an estimated $2.4 billion impact on the state's economy.
"We're taking this aggressive approach to demonstrate that funding for transportation infrastructure can and will provide the direct and immediate economic jumpstart our nation and state need," Rahn said. "We will use every penny sent to our state to improve our roads and bridges and we will be ready to put additional money not used by other states to work in Missouri."
The benefits of this additional work would go beyond those building the projects to suppliers, retailers, restaurants, hotels and other businesses Rahn added.
A complete list of the projects MoDOT is ready to tackle can be found at www.modot.org/firstinnation.
JEFFERSON CITY - In 1956, Missouri became the birthplace of the nation's interstate system by becoming the first state to award a contract under the Federal-Aid Highway Act. Today the Show Me State again made history by being the first state in the nation to award and begin construction on transportation projects funded by the federal economic recovery package signed by President Barack Obama.
The first economic recovery project in the nation is in Miller County on Route 17. Construction began within moments of the president's signature to replace the Osage River Bridge one mile east of Tuscumbia at a cost of $8.5 million. Other Missouri highway projects under construction starting today include:
Barry/Lawrence/Christian/Greene Counties, Route 60 - Construct alternating/intermittent passing lanes from east of Chapell Drive in Monett to Kansas Avenue in Republic. $8.7 million
Clinton County, Interstate 35 - Resurface northbound and southbound lanes from north of Shoal Creek to north of Route 116 near Lathrop. $14.6 million
Pemiscot/New Madrid Counties, Interstate 55 - Pavement rehabilitation on northbound and southbound lanes from I-155 to Scott County. $18.4 million
"Today the Show Me State again showed the nation we are leaders in transportation by having the first economic recovery act project in the country under construction," Missouri Department of Transportation Director Pete Rahn said. "We promised we would be ready to go to make the best use of every dollar we receive through the economic recovery act to create jobs and make our highways safer. We delivered on that promise and then some."
Missouri will receive approximately $637 million for road and bridge projects and an estimated $150 million to address air, rail, transit, waterway and pedestrian projects throughout the state. That amount of work will create an estimated 14,000 jobs and have an estimated $2.4 billion impact on the state's economy.
"We're taking this aggressive approach to demonstrate that funding for transportation infrastructure can and will provide the direct and immediate economic jumpstart our nation and state need," Rahn said. "We will use every penny sent to our state to improve our roads and bridges and we will be ready to put additional money not used by other states to work in Missouri."
The benefits of this additional work would go beyond those building the projects to suppliers, retailers, restaurants, hotels and other businesses Rahn added.
A complete list of the projects MoDOT is ready to tackle can be found at www.modot.org/firstinnation.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Primary Safety Belt Law, Economic Recovery Top Transportation Agenda
JEFFERSON CITY - Missouri Department of Transportation Director Pete Rahn is passionate about transportation. But he says he's never been as dedicated to a cause as he is to persuading the Missouri General Assembly to change the state's existing seat belt law to allow primary enforcement.
"If Missouri legislators had passed a primary safety belt law when I first asked them four years ago, about 360 people would still be alive," Rahn said. "You can be pulled over for a burned out license plate light, but not for endangering your life and the lives of others by driving without a safety belt. It just doesn't make sense to me."
Rahn said changing the law would save an estimated 90 lives a year and prevent 1,000 serious injuries. The state also stands to gain at least $16 million in a one-time federal incentive grant to use for safety enforcement, education and engineering. This is the last year the grant is available.
Rahn said Missouri voters were to thank for recent improvements that have made state highways safer. Their approval of Amendment 3 in 2004 redirected highway user funds to MoDOT and enabled the department to make roads smoother and install median guard cable, rumble stripes, wider striping and larger signs. Those improvements, along with education and enforcement by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and other safety partners, have led to a 24 percent decrease in traffic fatalities over the past three years.
But while the total number of highway fatalities decreased last year, the number of deaths where people were not wearing safety belts increased - from 478 in 2007 to 485 in 2008.
"We need a new approach if we're going to continue to save lives, and that approach needs to be a primary safety belt law," Rahn said.
MoDOT is also looking forward to the possibility of additional funding for transportation projects from a federal economic recovery act. The agency has 34 projects it could be ready to go with upon passage of a federal economic recovery act. The projects, which total $510 million, would create about 14,000 jobs and have a $2.4 billion impact on the state's economy.
While the proposed recovery package would help, Rahn said, it won't stop the slide in transportation funding the state is facing.
"Our budget for construction and maintenance is headed toward levels we haven't seen since 2003 when only 44 percent of Missouri's major roads were in good condition," Rahn said. "Today, 83 percent of our roads are in good condition.
"We have to ask ourselves if we're going to stand by and let our roads fall back into disrepair, or if we're going to do something to make sure we have a transportation system that will create jobs for the state, ease congestion and save lives."
Rahn said there are a variety of ways to increase funding for transportation. The challenge is finding one the public will support.
"If Missouri legislators had passed a primary safety belt law when I first asked them four years ago, about 360 people would still be alive," Rahn said. "You can be pulled over for a burned out license plate light, but not for endangering your life and the lives of others by driving without a safety belt. It just doesn't make sense to me."
Rahn said changing the law would save an estimated 90 lives a year and prevent 1,000 serious injuries. The state also stands to gain at least $16 million in a one-time federal incentive grant to use for safety enforcement, education and engineering. This is the last year the grant is available.
Rahn said Missouri voters were to thank for recent improvements that have made state highways safer. Their approval of Amendment 3 in 2004 redirected highway user funds to MoDOT and enabled the department to make roads smoother and install median guard cable, rumble stripes, wider striping and larger signs. Those improvements, along with education and enforcement by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and other safety partners, have led to a 24 percent decrease in traffic fatalities over the past three years.
But while the total number of highway fatalities decreased last year, the number of deaths where people were not wearing safety belts increased - from 478 in 2007 to 485 in 2008.
"We need a new approach if we're going to continue to save lives, and that approach needs to be a primary safety belt law," Rahn said.
MoDOT is also looking forward to the possibility of additional funding for transportation projects from a federal economic recovery act. The agency has 34 projects it could be ready to go with upon passage of a federal economic recovery act. The projects, which total $510 million, would create about 14,000 jobs and have a $2.4 billion impact on the state's economy.
While the proposed recovery package would help, Rahn said, it won't stop the slide in transportation funding the state is facing.
"Our budget for construction and maintenance is headed toward levels we haven't seen since 2003 when only 44 percent of Missouri's major roads were in good condition," Rahn said. "Today, 83 percent of our roads are in good condition.
"We have to ask ourselves if we're going to stand by and let our roads fall back into disrepair, or if we're going to do something to make sure we have a transportation system that will create jobs for the state, ease congestion and save lives."
Rahn said there are a variety of ways to increase funding for transportation. The challenge is finding one the public will support.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)