Jefferson City and Cole County officials report progress on joint transportation projects, note funding and schedule issues

Cole County commissioners heard an update March 25 on a series of city–county cooperative public‑works projects, with staff reporting that most work is underway but that several items still hinge on funding timing, railroad requirements and final design and permitting.

The update, presented by David Bagney, city engineer, and Al Bremer, the city’s new public works director, covered the Capital Area Rail Terminal, the Wildwood Drive extension, Monroe Street reconstruction, the High Street viaduct, proposed roundabouts on West Edgewood and the Chestnut Street and Madison Street projects.

Bagney told the commission the Capital Area Rail Terminal (CART) is effectively closed out and in its contractor warranty period; railcars have begun deliveries and “everything’s up and going like it should,” he said. The CART effort was described as a county‑led project with multiple grants and city partnership on operations and regional economic development.

On the Wildwood Drive extension, staff said the project came in slightly over estimate but a local contractor is on site and clearing is under way. The city has approved sending $2,000,000 toward the county’s agreement for that work; staff said…