With many local schools heading back into session next week, traffic on the eastbound Missouri River Bridge is likely to increase. MoDOT and Jefferson City police are reminding drivers to slow down and pay attention as they approach and cross the bridge, which is carrying two lanes of traffic in each direction while the westbound bridge is painted.
"We experienced several crashes in the work zone last week that could have been avoided had people been paying attention and driving the speed limit," JCPD Capt. Doug Shoemaker said. "We believe people are letting their guard down now that they've been driving through the work zone for several months, and that's causing problems."
The speed limit drops from 70 mph to 50 mph to 35 mph as motorists travel through the work zone. However, it's apparent many drivers are not adhering to the 35 mph speed limit as they cross the bridge, said Sgt. Scott White with the Missouri Highway Patrol.
"Anyone who drives the bridge on a frequent basis will tell you people are going too fast and hopping back and forth between the lanes," White said. "When these drivers cause a crash, they back up traffic for miles and cause others to be delayed. It's very frustrating for everyone involved, so we're asking folks not to be 'that guy.'"
MoDOT recently announced the bridge work would extend into early fall due to unforeseen structural problems.
"We want to get this project finished just as quickly as everyone else does," said MoDOT Central District Engineer David Sylvester. "However, we need to do it right, and that's going to take some extra time. We appreciate folks being patient with us and driving with care."