SIKESTON-The Missouri Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5 to discuss improving U.S. Route 61 from Donna Drive to Kimbel Lane in Jackson, Missouri. The meeting will be held at Riverside Regional Library, located at 1997 East Jackson Blvd. in Jackson.

The project includes upgrading the traffic signal infrastructure at the U.S. 61 and Donna Drive intersection, addressing two closely spaced intersections, and providing a pedestrian crossing on U.S. 61. This will be accomplished by:

• Widening U.S. 61 with eastbound and westbound right turn lanes at Donna Drive
• Replacing the Donna Drive span wire signals with mast arm mounted signals
• Replacing lighting, signing and pavement markings
• Converting the southern Kimbel Lane approach to a Right In/Right Out intersection
• Providing a north-south pedestrian crossing

Ultimately, the improvements will separate slowing and turning traffic from U.S. 61 main lane traffic, provide dedicated turn lanes and a pedestrian connection, update aging traffic signals, and simplify traffic movements along this stretch of U.S. 61.

Tentatively, the project could be let in April 2027, with construction beginning as early as summer 2027. During this time, motorists should anticipate lane closures with flaggers in place to guide traffic through the work zone. Completion is anticipated in winter 2027.

The public meeting materials, including an opportunity to comment, are available on the project website at modot.org/61DonnaDrive.

The public meeting will be open-house style, and visitors can stop by anytime between 4 and 6 p.m.

For more information, please contact MoDOT Project Manager Seiji Shimbo at (573) 472-5389 or MoDOT's Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-888-ASK MODOT (275-6636).

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