SIKESTON - The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded a contract for improvements to Route 72 in Madison County.  The $1,043,065 contract was awarded to Penzel Construction Company, Inc., Jackson, Mo.

The project includes replacing the Saline Creek Bridge, as well as grading and paving from Route J to east of Saline Creek. 

"The bridge is being upgraded so that it will match the other improvements being made to the Route 72 corridor," said Transportation Project Designer Jeff Wachter.  When completed the new bridge will be 36 feet wide, allowing it to fit with the Route 72 roadway improvements. 

Work could get started as early as this December and is expected to be completed by September 2009. 

During construction, traffic will be shifted to a bypass as the bridge is being replaced on its existing alignment. 

Work zones will be marked with signs as the improvements are being made.   Drivers are urged to use extreme caution in the work zone and plan for possible delays.  MoDOT will alert drivers prior to any change in traffic. 

For more information, please contact Wachter at (573)-472-5294 or MoDOT's Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (1-888-275-6636).