District reports I‑70 interchange progress, ribbon cutting planned and multiple funding sources

MoDOT district staff told the Washington Area Transportation Committee on Oct. 27 that work on several I‑70 components is advancing and that the first completed interchange component of the larger program is scheduled for a ribbon‑cutting ceremony on Nov. 12.

District staff said crews are moving into phase 2 on one corridor segment and are finishing a three‑mile section; the AB interchange at the Flying J will be the district’s first major completed component within the larger program. Work in St. Charles County includes multiple bridge improvements and lane‑widening on an eight‑mile stretch of I‑64 with an aim to open additional lanes before year‑end.

Funding: district staff described the program as a multi‑source effort. The largest single infusion came from approximately $2 billion in state general revenue allocated for the program; STEP (Strategic Transportation) funds were used for some components, and a federal grant provided roughly $80 million for truck parking, intelligent‑transportation systems (ITS) and related improvements. County cost shares also support specific interchange work.

Flood planning and next steps: staff and committee members said they are waiting on an updated flood study (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers work) to establish design elevations for flood‑prone sections; that guidance will inform how much roadway elevation and resiliency work is required. The district continues coordination with first responders on winter access and emergency routing through work zones.

Timing: district staff said the construction schedule is aggressive but ongoing; the AB interchange ribbon cutting is planned Nov. 12, and additional bridge elements and lane openings are expected before year‑end where weather and operations allow.