MACON - The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission has approved a contractor bid for improvements to Route 5 in Howard County.  The over $1 million contract was awarded to Widel, Inc. of Blackwater, Missouri.

Scheduled improvements include the removal of the aging concrete viaduct structure, which will be replaced with new pavement with curb gutter. These improvements will increase safety and mobility for citizens in New Franklin and the surrounding communities using this stretch of roadway.

Although the contractor could begin the project as early as November 6, it is anticipated the improvements will begin later this winter or early next spring.  During the project, Route 5 will be closed at this location for up to 75 days.  The work will be completed by May 27, 2010.

MoDOT will inform the public when construction dates have been established and when the closure will take place.

For more information, contact the MoDOT District 2 Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-888-ASK MoDOT (275-6636). The center is open Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., or visit our website at www.modot.mo.gov/northcentral/NewFranklinViaduct.

###