Public Hearings Set for I-70 Expansion in Columbia

Public Hearings Set for I-70 Expansion in Columbia

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) will host two public hearings next month regarding planned construction along Interstate 70 through Columbia.

The hearings are part of the fourth project in MoDOT’s statewide Improve I-70 program, covering the stretch from Rocheport to Columbia.

Hearing Dates and Locations

Residents can attend open-house style meetings at the following times and locations:

• March 2, 4–7 p.m. at Boone Electric Cooperative, 1413 Range Line St.
• March 4, 5–7 p.m. at Midway Golf and Games, 5500 W. Van Horn Tavern Road

MoDOT officials say there will be no formal presentation. Instead, attendees can review design plans and speak directly with project representatives.

Project Overview

The Improve I-70: Rocheport to Columbia project will:

• Add a third lane in each direction between the Missouri River Bridge at Rocheport and U.S. Route 63 in Columbia
• Improve interchanges and intersections at Route J/O, Midway, Stadium Boulevard, Business Loop 70, Providence Road, Range Line Street, and U.S. 63
• Build new north and south outer road connections across Perche Creek
• Construct 14 new bridge structures

Construction is expected to begin this spring and conclude by late 2029.

MoDOT has committed to keeping two lanes open in each direction during peak travel times to minimize traffic disruptions.

Community Input Encouraged

The hearings are intended to gather public feedback on construction phasing, scheduling and other project details. Residents can share concerns, ask questions and review updated design plans before work begins.

The I-70 corridor is a major east-west route across Missouri, and the expansion aims to reduce congestion, improve safety and support long-term regional growth in the Columbia area.

Originally reported by Andrew Calek, KOMU 8 Digital Producer in KOMU.