Missouri Department of Transportation construction inspectors have found quality issues with the new concrete placed for the 8-mile section of eastbound Interstate 44 between Rolla and St. James. This section is part of a $50.5M project that spans from west of Rolla to Cuba, according to a Tuesday press release.
The contract began in April 2022 and includes major pavement rehabilitation, and the complete reconstruction of the eastbound lanes between Exits 186 and 195. The contract was originally awarded to Lehman Construction LLC, who was bought out by Capital Paving & Construction in May 2023.
During recent routine inspections by the MoDOT team, a quality issue with the concrete joints on the new eastbound lanes was discovered. To ensure the new roadway meets expected construction standards, and ensure the best quality product for Missouri’s taxpayers, the errors will need to be corrected, which will require more time.
“We understand this has been and continues to be an inconvenience for drivers, businesses and residents,” said Central District Engineer Machelle Watkins. “But we are committed that the product we deliver will serve this community well – and reliably - for many years, even if that means it take a little more time.”
The extent of the issue, and the proposed plan for remediation and correction, is unknown at this time. MoDOT is requiring the contractor to complete an in-depth analysis of the full 8 miles of concrete placed for the eastbound lanes and develop a plan to correct these issues. We anticipate it could take several weeks to work through a plan. In the interim, the current traffic pattern for eastbound drivers will remain in place.
Once a remediation plan has been developed, reviewed, and approved, MoDOT will be able to provide an updated projection for completion of the project and date for which traffic will be restored in this section of vital interstate.
