City and county officials press sales tax renewal as highway projects advance

City and county leaders told the Washington Area Highway Transportation Committee on March 31 that early outreach has begun for a potential renewal of the half‑cent transportation sales tax and related capital improvements.

The committee heard that the sales tax has funded many local projects and that organizers plan to present findings at a public "coffee with the mayor" and in other community forums this spring. Committee members said the tax has funded local matches and capital projects and that planning should start early to put renewal measures before voters in April 2026.

Why it matters: Officials said the tax provides predictable local revenue that leverages state and federal matching funds for major projects, including ongoing work on Jefferson Street and future portions of Highway 47.

Details: Committee staff said the MODOT Highway 47 study and community advisory group remain active; a CAG meeting is scheduled in April. Members noted Interstate 70 reconstruction — a multibillion‑dollar MoDOT project under way — will increase regional traffic and pressure local corridors. The Oldenburg turn lane project (off Highway 100 west of KK) is underway and expected to wrap up in May, the committee was told.

Committee members agreed to keep the transportation sales tax and capital improvements as recurring agenda topics. "We should have that as a topic on our agenda," a committee member said, urging monthly review of the presentation and public feedback.

Next steps: Staff will refine outreach materials with the mayor’s office, present at community events this spring, and continue coordination with Cochran and MODOT on cost estimates for local needs.

Ending: Officials said they will bring updated financial estimates and outreach plans back to the committee as the renewal campaign develops.