MoDOT schedules public hearing on Route 53 project in Poplar Bluff

KBSI FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo., (KBSI) — The Missouri Department of Transportation will hold a public hearing Sept. 23 to gather input on proposed improvements to Route 53 in Poplar Bluff.

The open house-style hearing will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, 3019 Fair St. Residents may attend at any time to review the project and speak with MoDOT staff.

The proposal includes adding a center turn lane on Route 53 from Route 142 to County Road 306, building a left-turn lane at Route UU, and implementing access management measures aimed at reducing traffic conflicts along the corridor.

Officials said comments will be accepted during the hearing and through Oct. 14. Participants are encouraged to share feedback on the project’s design, environmental impacts, and economic or social effects.

For more information, residents may contact MoDOT Project Manager Chris Crocker at 573-380-1658, Area Engineer Katy Bower at 573-380-0744, or call MoDOT’s Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636).

MoDOT said it is committed to providing equal access for all participants. Accommodation requests should be submitted by Sept. 18.