PUBLIC HEARING TONIGHT ON OAK RIDGE INTERCHANGE

OAK RIDGE -- The Missouri Department of Transportation will hold a public hearing tonight on the new interchange and roadway improvements at Route E and Interstate 55 at Oak Ridge.

The meeting will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Oak Ridge school cafeteria.

The meeting will be an open-house format. No formal presentation will be made. Displays and informational materials will be available. Individuals will have an opportunity to express their views.

"By providing a direct link to Interstate 55, these improvements will provide much improved access for emergency vehicles and everyone in the area," said project manager Lynelle Luther. "We have worked with the SEMO Regional Planning Commission to identify this project as a regional high priority."

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2000, with completion in 2001.