Blasting for I-270 Widening Project Starts Next Week

The is warning drivers to expect delays on Interstate 270 as part of its road widening project from Manchester Road to Interstate 44. 

Beginning Tuesday, there will be daily lane closures on I-270 from Manchester to Big Bend roads in both directions for up to 15 minutes at a time all week long. MoDOT spokesperson Kara Price said the closures will take place at approximately 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. During the closures, road crews will blast rock and then clear any rock from the interstate before reopening the lanes. 

The closures are part of the I-270 road widening project that is underway from Manchester Road to I-44. The portion of I-270 near I-44 will remain open next week.

"They're starting up towards the far north of the project next week," Price tells Patch. "They're going to be moving south as they go along with this (blasting) project."

Price said although the entire project will take all summer, the blasting will be done during the next few weeks and in segments between Manchester and I-44.

MoDOT will continue to send Patch updates as the blasting continues to head south on I-270.

Price advises drivers to avoid the Manchester Road to Big Bend Road stretch of I-270 during the blasting times.

"The best thing that people can do is stay away from that area from 9:50 to 10:30 (in the morning), and then again from 1:15 to 2 p.m.," Price warned. "The reason we are saying stay away from that area is because we don't want people trying to get through that last minute and getting frustrated. We're only expecting 15 minutes, but anything can happen."

MoDOT warns drivers they will experience delays in these work zones, so motorists should plan accordingly and are encouraged to use alternate routes.

"We've chosen those times because we've been looking at those traffic counts and that is when the least amount of traffic is coming through that area," Price explained. "And they can't blast at night because of safety reasons."

Drivers should use caution and pay attention in these work zones. There has already been one

"Motorists really need to kep an eye out for law enforcement, flashing lights and emergency vehicles because they will be helping us shut down the road," Prices added.

All of this construction is weather permitting. 

For additonal info on road projects or on how to avoid the work zones, drivers can call 1-888-ASK-MODOT or visit our website at www.modot.org.

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