The section of Hwy. M between I-55 and Hwy. 61-67 in Barnhart that has been closed since early May is expected to reopen no later than Nov. 1, the Missouri Department of Transportation reported Wednesday (July 26).
That approximately 1/2-mile stretch of road was closed following heavy rains and flooding in the area that caused a landslide on the north side of the road.
“The slide is over 200 feet long and upwards of 40 feet high in some places,” MoDOT reported in the written statement.
MoDOT representatives said the road is closed because the unstable bank poses a safety hazard since more earth, including trees and boulders, could fall onto the road at anytime.
“This slide was very complicated and not an easy fix,” the agency reported. “MoDOT had to acquire right of way from three land owners and have numerous utilities to relocate and get all environmental clearances. The process is moving as fast as possible.”
MoDOT expects to open bids from construction companies on Aug. 18 and award a contract at that time.
“Once the project is awarded the contractor will have until Nov. 1 to complete the work,” MoDOT reported.
The closure has created more traffic on Imperial Main Street, which could worsen once the school year starts in August.
“MoDOT will continue to monitor traffic flow on Imperial Main Street, especially during school rush hours, to make adjustments to the signals as needed,” MoDOT reported.
Barriers have been installed at each end of the closed stretch of highway and no through traffic is allowed. However, property owners along that section have access from I-55, except for two properties on the east side of the road, which have access from Hwy. 61-67.