Missouri DOT Announces New Speed Limits on Rural Interstates
Missouri will raise the speed limit from 70 to 75 mph on eight rural interstate segments across the state this fall, following a review by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT).
Four interstates included
The changes will apply to selected portions of Interstates 29, 35, 49 and 55. The affected corridors are located in northwest, southwest and southeast Missouri.
MoDOT said the speed-limit increases are authorized under a new state law that permits the department to establish maximum speeds of up to 75 mph on eligible rural highways. The legislation was signed by the governor after lawmakers approved the change.
I-29 segment to increase
Approximately 64 miles of Interstate 29 in Andrew County will receive the higher limit. The segment begins at Exit 56 and extends to approximately 2.5 miles south of the Iowa border.
That portion of I-29 currently has a 70 mph speed limit. MoDOT will install new signs when the change takes effect.
MoDOT reviewed eligible corridors
Before selecting the locations, MoDOT conducted a review of eligible interstate segments and evaluated conditions at each site. The department said the new limits will be applied only to selected rural corridors following that review.
Four separate sections of I-55 south of St. Louis are also included in the plan. Additional segments on I-35 and I-49 will receive the higher limit as part of the eight-corridor change.
Changes begin this fall
The new 75 mph limits are scheduled to take effect this fall as signs are replaced. MoDOT said it will continue monitoring crash data and other safety information after the changes are implemented.
