MISSOURI — The Missouri Department of Transportation is preparing for what officials describe as a “historic” summer construction season, with an unprecedented number of projects set to take place across the state.
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Between now and October, transportation officials expect as many as 1,000 active work zones each day — roughly double the number seen just a few years ago. The announcement came during an event in Grain Valley recognizing National Work Zone Awareness Week.
“I’d say four years ago, it might’ve been half of that,” said Ed Hassinger, director of the Missouri Department of Transportation.
Officials attribute the surge in construction activity to multiple factors, including increased funding from a statewide gas tax that was gradually implemented between 2021 and 2025. The additional revenue has enabled the agency to accelerate long-planned infrastructure improvements.
At the same time, MoDOT is working through a backlog of projects that were delayed during the COVID-19 pandemic, further contributing to the high volume of work scheduled this year.
One of the most significant ongoing efforts is a multi-year initiative to expand approximately 200 miles of Interstate 70 from two lanes to three lanes. The project is aimed at improving traffic flow and long-term reliability on one of the state’s busiest corridors.
With construction activity ramping up, transportation officials are emphasizing the importance of driver awareness and safety in work zones.
“They’re speeding in work zones, and the outcome is not good,” Hassinger said.
According to MoDOT, 24 people were killed in work zone crashes in 2025. All of the fatalities involved drivers or passengers, underscoring the risks faced by motorists as well as construction crews.
Drivers have also expressed concerns about navigating the increased number of work zones. Some described conditions as chaotic, with frequent lane shifts and traffic control devices.
Officials acknowledged the challenges but said efforts are underway to minimize disruptions, particularly during major events such as the upcoming FIFA World Cup. While construction will continue, MoDOT plans to avoid lane closures during peak travel periods associated with the event.
The agency said the long-term benefits of the construction surge — including safer roads and more reliable travel times — will outweigh the short-term inconvenience for drivers.
Originally reported by Charlie Keegan in KSHB.
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