Officials involve public in discussion on Scott City interchange options

KELSO, Mo. -- Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation were on hand to discuss a proposed interchange providing access to south Scott City on Thursday evening at the Kelso City Hall. The interchange is part of a three-phase process to ease traffic congestion at Scott City.

MoDOT is examining two options for constructing the interchange. The two alternates include constructing the interchange near the Route PP crossing. Alternate A would add ramps to the existing Route PP overpass and outer roads. This would include construction of approximately 4,000 feet of new roadway from Route 61 at Kelso to the existing Route PP overpass bridge. With this option, approximately 7,500 feet of new outer road east of I-55 would be constructed to connect County Road 311, as well as improvements to the remaining portion of County Road 311 to Scott City. The Route PP bridge will be rebuilt to a width to accommodate turning lanes for the new interchange.

Alternate B would add ramps to the existing Route PP overpass and outer roads. This option would allow use of the existing Route PP, but the bridge would be rebuilt to accommodate turning lanes for the new interchange. This option also would require improvements to approximately 14,500 feet of County Road 311 on the east side of I-55.

Previous plans by MoDOT were to construct an interchange closer to Scott City, but they were nixed when evaluations determined the plans would have a negative impact on surrounding historic properties and the Ramsey Creek and surrounding wetlands.

Michael Harris, senior highway designer, said MoDOT is working to gain environmental clearances and once funding becomes available, the project will be ready to move forward into the design phase.

"Funding has been allotted for 2017 in the amount of 14 million dollars for this project," Harris said.

According to several attending the meeting, discussion of an interchange has been in the works for 40 years.

Presiding Commissioner Jamie Burger said it finally is going to become a reality.

"Plans have been moved up and it's going to be built," Burger said. "This will attract more business and will be great for northern Scott County."

Some aren't as optimistic. In a previous interview with the Southeast Missourian, Scott City Mayor Tim Porch had concerns with the interchange being so far from Scott City.

Kelso Mayor Larry McClain also has his reservations.

"I don't think this option is going to solve a lot of problems," McClain said. "I really hoped it would move farther south."

With the two options on the table, traffic will travel directly in front of the Kelso City Hall. McClain is happier with these choices than a previous option that would have diverted traffic through the middle of town near a school and several businesses.

"That option would have caused a lot of problems, especially with so many pedestrians in that area," he said.

McClain said one option will displace some residents. The residents were not available for comment, but he said they are working with MoDOT and being open-minded about the process.

Harris said the meeting was held to get the public involved. The public has so far been supportive of the project, he said.

Concerns and questions are welcome.

John Moll owns property where the proposed interchange will be built and is welcoming the project.

"It is definitely something that is needed," he said. "Option A makes the most sense, but we will see what happens; either way it's going to go right through the middle of my property."

Pertinent address:

Route PP, Kelso, MO