The blast is scheduled to take place at 7:30 a.m., and both directions of traffic will be closed for up to an hour.
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The closure will affect the following areas:
• I-70 between exit 111 (Rocheport) and exit 117 (Monroe City)
• The Katy Trail near the bridge
MoDOT is urging drivers to plan ahead and avoid the area during the closure. Detour signs will be posted, but drivers should expect delays.
The demolition of the old Rocheport Bridge is part of a project to replace the bridge with a new, wider bridge. The new bridge is expected to be completed in 2024.
Safety precautions
MoDOT is taking several safety precautions to ensure the demolition of the old Rocheport Bridge is conducted safely.
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These precautions include:
• Closing the interstate and the Katy Trail in the area of the blast
• Using a rolling lane drop to stop traffic at Exit 111 and Exit 117
• Having the Missouri State Highway Patrol act as a barrier between traffic and the bridge
• Detonators will be placed on the bridge in a specific pattern to ensure that the blast is controlled
• The bridge will be inspected by a structural engineer before the blast to ensure that it is safe to demolish
Public viewing
MoDOT will be live streaming the demolition of the old Rocheport Bridge on its website.
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The live stream will begin at 7:20 a.m. on Sunday, September 10.
MoDOT is also encouraging people to view the demolition from a safe distance. Viewing locations are extremely limited, with the majority on private property. Please be respectful to private landowners, businesses, and first responders.
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Do not block driveways or access roads.
