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Board urged to prioritize traffic signal funding after roundabout costs push transportation fund negative
Summary
Officials said increases to roundabout construction and overlay programs push the transportation sales tax fund below zero in early years; members urged prioritizing a traffic light application and pursuing MoDOT cost‑share instead of immediately funding the 1st & Bridge roundabout.
City staff told the board that cost increases across transportation projects — especially the 1st & Bridge roundabout — have driven the transportation sales tax fund toward a deficit. "That pushes us below 0 for '26," Rick said when illustrating the fund‑balance impact of updated estimates.
Staff and engineers urged pursuing outside cost‑share for some projects. Chuck described a MoDOT cost‑share application that begins with a modest $5,000 application and, if successful, would fund 50% of certain traffic improvements’ engineering and construction. Chuck cautioned that grant timelines can require projects to be completed on a defined schedule, otherwise the funding risk is forfeited.
Members debated priorities. The mayor argued for a traffic signal over the roundabout: "I'm saying prioritize the light over the 1st roundabout. 100%." Several board members and staff noted local development patterns and reimbursement opportunities could change priorities, and that engineering and bid timing mean some projects will spill into later years.
No binding vote was taken; staff were directed to pursue the MoDOT cost‑share application for the signal and to return with prioritized alternatives for the board to consider during the fall budget process.
