I70 Expansion in Columbia

The Missouri Department of Transportation is hosting two public hearings regarding the  Improve I-70: Rocheport to Columbia project and we think you should attend!

• Monday, March 2, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Boone Electric Cooperative located at 1413 Rangeline St.. 
• Wednesday, March 4, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Midway Golf and Games located at 5500 W. Van Horn Tavern Rd.

These meetings will highlight the basic design plans, construction phasing, schedule, and other detailed information about the project. Construction is expected to start in spring/summer 2026 with the replacement of the Providence bridge and be completed by late 2029. 

The open-house-style hearings will provide the opportunity for nearby residents, businesses, and travelers to learn about and provide comments regarding the planned improvements. No formal presentation will be made so pop in anytime to ask questions of the team.

Some of the planned improvements include: 

• A third lane in each direction to I-70 between the Missouri River Bridge at Rocheport and approximately U.S. Route 63 in Columbia, with all new 11” full-depth concrete pavement. 
• Improvements to the I-70 interchanges/intersections at Route J/O, Midway (U.S. Route 40), Stadium Blvd., Business Loop 70, Providence Rd., Rangeline St., and U.S. Route 63. 
• 14 new bridge structures. 
• New north and south outer road connections across Perche Creek. 
• The team has committed to keeping two lanes of travel in each direction during peak travel times. 

Plans will be released on the I70 Project website prior the public meetings so check back. Comments and questions can also be offered online via the I70 Project website from Monday, Feb. 23 to Wednesday, March 25. 

And spoiler alert: There are some interesting updates planned for a section of the Business Loop that will make travel much easier and safer so come to a meeting and see what they’ve got up their sleeves!