Speak Up: I-70 Multimodal Improvements!

MoDOT is beginning to engage with the public about next steps for the ‘Improve I-70’ project. With billions of dollars in funding for the project, this is your chance to advocate for multimodal improvements between Missouri’s largest population centers, and for the rural communities in between them.

MoDOT is hosting a number of public meetings and other public engagement to gather feedback on proposed changes along the I-70 corridor. This is an opportunity to speak up for improvements that make it safer and easier to walk, roll, bike, and use public transit across and along the corridor. Use this link to learn more and register for updates to stay informed.

Read on for more information on how to get involved.

The Missouri Department of Transportation has been working over the past year to determine next steps for I-70, one of the main transportation corridors for the Show-Me State. You can learn more about the project by clicking here.

In the 2023 legislative session, lawmakers approved a budget that included $2.8 billion to widen portions of the I-70 corridor. The funding for the expansion was adopted despite concerns from some Missourians that expanding the highway alone won’t address congestion, but will instead increase transportation-related emissions for the state as a whole and communities near the highway in particular.

While the highway expansion focuses on driving alone, there are implications for walking, biking, accessibility, transit, and even land use. This includes:

• Potential for separated and reliable paths on bridges and key crossings for pedestrians and people with disabilities
• Continuation and connectivity of trail and mobility networks across and along the highway corridor
• Ease of access for bus and rail transit
• Preserving land of individual property owners and existing housing stock

Ultimately, the expansion of I-70 should be understood as an opportunity to build Missouri’s transportation system in a way that allows for the freedom of movement for everyone, regardless of their preferred mode. You can advocate for prioritizing safe connections at MoDOT’s upcoming public meetings and other engagements.

How can I get involved?

There are three ways for the public to engage MoDOT about considering multimodal elements along the I-70 corridor:

1. Attend one of the upcoming public meetings: There will be several public meetings where you can learn more and provide feedback to MoDOT. Click here to see the full schedule of meetings.
2. Provide public comment (starting August 28): MoDOT will have a public comment period open from August 28 to September 22. This will be another chance to share your thoughts with MoDOT about I-70 and the need to prioritize multimodal improvements.
3. Sign up for more information: MoDOT has also set up a form where folks can sign up to receive email updates about the project and additional information on public engagement opportunities. Click here to sign up.

While big portions of the I-70 corridor project appear to be moving forward, there is still a chance to tell MoDOT to prioritize making changes in a way that incorporates upgrades for walking, biking, accessibility, and transit. Help us to send that message loud and clear!