MoDOT to Host Hearings on Major I-70 Expansion Near Columbia

Public meetings scheduled for March 2 and 4 to discuss plans for adding a third lane in each direction.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) will host two public hearings in Columbia about the Improve I-70: Rocheport to Columbia project. The hearings will showcase design plans, construction phases, schedules, and other details for the project, which will add a third lane in each direction on Interstate 70 between Rocheport and Columbia.

Why it matters

The I-70 expansion project is part of MoDOT's broader Statewide Improve I-70 Program, which aims to add a third lane in each direction to nearly 200 miles of I-70 across the state. This will help alleviate traffic congestion and improve safety along one of Missouri's major transportation corridors.

The details

The planned improvements include a third lane in each direction on I-70 between the Missouri River Bridge at Rocheport and U.S. Route 63 in Columbia, as well as upgrades to several interchanges and intersections along the route. The project will feature new 11-inch full-depth concrete pavement and 14 new bridge structures.

  • The public hearings are scheduled for 4-7 p.m. on March 2 and 5-7 p.m. on March 4 in Columbia.
  • Construction is expected to begin in spring to summer 2026 and finish by late 2029.

The players

Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT)

The state transportation agency responsible for the Improve I-70: Rocheport to Columbia project.

The ESS Team

The design-build contractor team that will work on the I-70 expansion project.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This I-70 expansion project is a significant infrastructure investment that will improve traffic flow and safety along a crucial transportation corridor in Missouri. The public hearings are an important opportunity for residents, businesses, and travelers to learn about and provide feedback on the planned improvements.