The City of West Plains announced this week it is set to begin construction on a long-anticipated overpass project over the Burlington Northern Railroad line on Independence Drive. The $8.9 million U.S. 160/Independence overpass will stretch between Concord Road and Freedom Drive, addressing both traffic congestion and safety concerns caused by the current at-grade rail crossing.
Construction, led by Capital Paving and Construction of Jefferson City, will begin the week of Oct. 1, and is expected to be completed by Dec. 1, 2025, said officials.
With Independence Drive closed to traffic from Concord Road to Freedom Drive, detours have been established:
- Drivers traveling north of the construction site are encouraged to use Freedom Drive. - Drivers traveling south of the project are encouraged to travel on Missouri Avenue to Thornburgh Avenue.
The city will update detours as needed.
“This overpass is integral to the economic resiliency of our city,” said City of West Plains Planning Director Emily Gibson, “Not only will it alleviate the long-standing traffic issues at the rail crossing on Independence, but it will also ensure that West Plains maintains continuous east-west access during periods of elevated floodwaters from Howell Creek.”
The project is largely funded through grants provided by the Economic Development Administration, Delta Regional Authority, Community Development Block Grant program and Missouri Department of Transportation.
Through the duration of construction, city officials said they will provide regular updates on progress and any necessary traffic detours via the city’s website at www.westplains.gov and on social media channels.
For any questions, concerns or to report issues, contact West Plains City Hall at 417-256-7176.
