Missouri
Both Missouri River bridges now open at Rocheport, MoDOT announces
Both east- and westbound Lance Cpl. Leon Deraps Interstate 70 Missouri River bridges now are open to traffic.
The Missouri Department of Transportation announced the full opening of both bridges Friday. A ribbon-cutting marking the occasion was held Dec. 10 on the eastbound bridge. Prior to the eastbound bridge opening, all traffic, regardless of travel direction, was on the westbound bridge.
The westbound bridge was constructed first, all traffic was shifted to it and then the prior metal girder bridge was demolished. The new eastbound bridge was built in same location as the old bridge. The dual-bridge construction was forward looking in preparation for I-70’s expansion to six lanes statewide.
While the eastbound bridge is open, final touches still are needed and all work should finish by the spring.
“These twin new bridges would not have been possible without the foresight, cooperation and contributions of our federal and state elected leaders as well as the local communities who recognized the long-term value of investing in a bridge that connects their region, the state and the nation,” said Dustin Boatwright, Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission chair at the ribbon-cutting. “This project is a testimony to what’s possible when we work together at all levels.”