Outer-road planning

The new I-55 interchange between Cape Girardeau and Jackson has, appropriately, received considerable attention for several reasons. Chief among them is the potential for development around the interchange, which will connect Jackson's East Main Street and Cape Girardeau's proposed LaSalle Avenue.

There is a companion outer-road system that deserves just as much attention. At a meeting earlier this month, Cape Gir-ardeau presented a plan for an outer road on the east side of I-55 stretching from the new interchange south to Center Junction where North Kingshighway connects with East Jackson Boulevard. Other phases of the proposed outer road would extend south to William Street.

Any successful development depends heavily on access, and the construction of highway interchanges tends to attract secondary streets that provide that access. Much of the planning for development at the East Main-LaSalle interchange has emphasized accessibility. But well-planned outer roads can be equally as important to potential investment, which is why this preliminary stage of planning is so important.

Residents who would be affected the most by the proposed Lewis and Clark Parkway, as the new outer road is being called, indicated their approval of the direction the road is taking so far. There will be another public hearing in December to present refinements in the design phase of the project.

Anyone interested in what is likely to become the next major area of development for both cities is encouraged to become familiar with the outer-road plans and participate in opportunities to give some direction to the process.