The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is urging the public to help stop street sign vandalism in the De Soto area, which is creating a danger for drivers, especially those unfamiliar with the area.
The department said on Tuesday there has been a recent increase in vandalism involving road and traffic signs across the region including a “concerning pattern of intentionally removed or knocked-down stop signs” in the De Soto area along Hwy. 21 over the past several days.
“Street signs are critical safety tools,” said Bob Becker, district maintenance engineer. “When stop signs are vandalized or removed, drivers lose essential guidance that prevents serious or even fatal crashes. We’re asking the community to help protect these resources before someone gets hurt.”
MoDOT maintenance crews are actively repairing and replacing damaged signs; however, each replacement diverts resources from other planned maintenance activities. Depending on the type of sign, replacements can range from $50 to several hundred dollars each.
MoDOT is encouraging residents to report suspicious activity or sign damage immediately by contacting the MoDOT Customer Service Center at 1 888 ASK MODOT or by using the reporting tools at modot.org.