Contract awarded for road improvements on Highway 25 at South Elementary

A project to relieve traffic congestion at South Elementary School took another step forward when the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded a contract for road improvements there.

Lappe Cement Finishing Inc. of Perryville, Mo., will add north and southbound left turn lanes on Highway 25 and traffic signals at the entrance to the school. Parking areas will also be redesigned to include additional parking spaces, a wider entrance for improved access and a traffic circle to connect east and south parking areas.

U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson previously secured $650,000 in federal funding for the project. The Missouri Department of Transportation is responsible for about $1,090,000, most of which is the $1,057,031 contract awarded to Lappe Cement Finishing. The city of Jackson and Jackson Public Schools each are responsible for about $33,000.

Since the school opened in 1998, it has seen a steady increase in enrollment along with accompanying traffic tie-ups at the school entrance. Superintendent Dr. Ron Anderson said the improvements should be effective in reducing the traffic congestion, especially just before or after school.

"Motorists won't be stuck in a traffic jam," Anderson said. "And it should make it safer for the school employees, family and students."

Jackson city administrator Jim Roach said the city has relocated most of its electric and water lines that are in the way of the project, which he said will improve what now could be considered a hazardous situation.

"It should be light years improved and much safer than what's there now," Roach said. "This has been a problem that the public has complained about for years. Now, it's finally gotten to a point where we can begin the work."

Work on the project is expected to begin in May and finish by September. During construction traffic will be reduced to one lane.

bblackwell@semissourian.com

243-8600

Pertinent address:

614 E. Adams St., Jackson, MO

1701 S. Hope St., Jackson, MO