Multiple lane closures and highway restrictions begin Monday across the St. Joseph area
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — Drivers across St. Joseph and Buchanan County should prepare for several significant traffic changes this week as the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) begins multiple construction and maintenance projects affecting major commuter routes.
The projects include lane reductions on U.S. Highway 36, a temporary closure of U.S. Route 59, and continued overnight restrictions on Interstate 29 south of St. Joseph.
U.S. Highway 36 Lane Reduction Begins Monday
Beginning Monday, August 10, westbound U.S. Highway 36 will be reduced to one lane between 14th Street and 6th Street for bridge maintenance work.
The lane restriction will remain in place around the clock through Thursday, August 13.
Motorists traveling through downtown St. Joseph should expect slower traffic during morning and afternoon commute times and allow additional travel time.
U.S. Route 59 to Close August 12–14
A more significant traffic impact begins Wednesday, August 12, when U.S. Route 59 will close between West Valley Street and West Cliff Street, just south of Route U.
The closure is scheduled to remain in effect through Friday, August 14 as crews continue work on the Route 59/Route 752/Route U intersection improvement project.
Drivers should plan alternate routes and expect detours while the roadway is closed.
Because Route 59 serves as a primary north-south corridor for many Buchanan County residents, delays are expected throughout the project.
Overnight Lane Restrictions Continue on Interstate 29
Construction also continues on Interstate 29 between Pigeon Creek and the Platte County line.
Motorists traveling toward the Kansas City metropolitan area should expect single-lane traffic overnight from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. as resurfacing work continues.
An 11-foot width restriction remains in effect for commercial vehicles and oversized loads.
The project is expected to continue into mid-October.
Plan Ahead Before You Travel
With several major projects occurring simultaneously, WRJE encourages motorists to:
- Allow extra travel time during the morning and evening commute.
- Watch for changing traffic patterns and construction crews.
- Reduce speeds in work zones.
- Consider alternate routes when possible.
- Stay alert for temporary lane shifts and detour signage.
Construction schedules remain weather dependent and may change if conditions warrant.
