I-270 Project Moves Forward as MoDOT Identifies Additional Funds for Assessment Study

Walsh - Banner - Press Release - 010813 - II

JEFFERSON CITY — State Senator Gina Walsh, D-Bellefontaine Neighbors, is very pleased to announce the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has identified additional funds that will allow the I-270 North Environmental Assessment Study to be completed. The study is the next step in the larger I-270 project, which seeks to address congestion, safety and mobility, accessibility and aging infrastructure along the interstate in north St. Louis County.

“The I-270 project was 90 percent complete and had already cost MoDOT $1.3 million when it was stopped after the department implemented the 325 System,” said Sen. Walsh. “Thanks to an improving economy and the federal highway bill, we once again have the financial means to conduct the I-270 North Environmental Assessment Study.”

The purpose of the assessment is to identify potential improvement alternatives and analyze impacts, such as the effects on neighborhoods, noise, historical sites, etc. The Assessment Study area begins at the I-70 interchange on the west and extends to the Chain of Rocks Bridge on the east. It includes the cities of Bridgeton, Hazelwood, Florissant, Ferguson, Dellwood and Bellefontaine Neighbors.

“The I-270 Corridor is one of the most travelled in the St. Louis metropolitan region. Many of its roads and bridges were constructed in the early 1960s; unfortunately, due to their age they are in desperate need of serious rehabilitation or reconstruction. The improvements we’re hoping to see realized will benefit thousands of St. Louis residents and businesses for years to come,” Walsh said. “Beginning the assessment study is a critical milestone in the larger project. Although we had to hit the pause button, I’m very excited for us to get back on track, and finish what was started.”

For more information on the I-270 North Environmental Assessment Study, please click here or visit the MoDOT website at www.modot.org

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