MoDOT to host public open house on I-44 improvements in Laclede County

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -

The Missouri Department of Transportation invites the public to attend an open house to learn about planned improvements along Interstate 44 between the Missouri Route 133 and Route F interchanges in Laclede County (Exit 145-135). The open house will take place on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Wallace Building, 325 Harwood Ave., Lebanon, MO.

MoDOT is planning two coordinated pavement improvement projects within this corridor. These projects will reconstruct and replace portions of both directions of pavement to enhance drivability, improve safety, and address drainage needs along this section of I-44.

Construction will occur in stages to maintain traffic flow. During certain phases of work, motorists will be shifted through temporary crossovers while pavement reconstruction takes place. One lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction during construction. Temporary ramp closures are expected during specific construction phases, including closures at the Route F (Exit 135) and Route T (Exit 140) interchanges. A signed detour will be in place to direct motorists around the temporary ramp closures.

Community members may attend at any time during the two-hour open house to review project information, ask questions, and speak with project staff. There will be no formal presentation. Project information will also be made available online following the meeting.

MoDOT is committed to providing equal access to this event for all participants. If you need a reasonable accommodation or translation services, please contact MoDOT by Wednesday, April 8 by calling 573-522-5178 or by emailing [email protected], so arrangements can be made.

In addition to the public meeting, there will be an open comment period running April 15 - May 15, 2026. Input may be submitted online through a form on the project webpage (https://www.modot.org/projects/interstate-44-corridor-upgrades-laclede-and-phelps-counties), emailed to [email protected], or mailed to 1511 Missouri Boulevard, Jefferson City, MO, 65109. All comments must be received or postmarked by May 15, 2026.

More details about the project and all exhibits from the in-person meeting are available here: https://www.modot.org/projects/interstate-44-corridor-upgrades-laclede-and-phelps-counties.

MoDOT asks all motorists to work with us by buckling up, putting your phone down, obeying all traffic signs, and slowing down and moving over in work zones. Motorists are advised to use extra caution through work zones, obey all traffic signs, and avoid any distractions.

For traffic updates or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit our Traveler Information Map. Information is also available 24/7 via social media. Follow the MoDOT Central Missouri District on social media:

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Take the Challenge! Buckle Up/Phone Down

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