FHWA Signs the Project’s Record of Decision (ROD)

The ROD for the East Columbia EIS was signed by the FHWA on June 24, 2010. With this, the preliminary development phase of the project is complete and future work will focus on the design and construction of the Selected Alternative. However, as there is no funding currently identified for the design or construction of the Selected Alternative, a timeline for future project activities has not been established.

The Record of Decision Approves the Selection of the Preferred Alternative

Because of the long-term interest in improving the transportation network of eastern Columbia/Boone County, a multi-component project team was assembled to investigate needs and propose solutions. Through a partnering agreement MoDOT, the City of Columbia and Boone County investigated transportation needs, developed alternatives and evaluated impacts. The Selected Alternative, Alternative SC-2A, is composed of the following elements:

• The extension of Route 740 from its current terminus at US-63, using a new alignment, to the St. Charles Road interchange on I-70
• The improvement of Broadway/Route WW from US-63 to Olivet Road using the existing alignment
• The extension of Ballenger Lane from Clark Lane to the Route 740/Richland Road intersection as a locally sponsored project

An electronic copy of the selected alternative can be found here: Selected Alternative

The selection of this alternative was based on evaluation and consideration of all comments received during the public involvement process, including public hearing testimony and other public comments received during the EC-EIS availability period, comments received from state and federal review agencies, consideration of environmental and engineering factors, consistency with local and regional transportation/land use plans, and documentation on how the proposed improvements will address long-term traffic and safety needs.

What Happens Next?

The environmental analysis and clearance phase of the East Columbia project are now complete. MoDOT, the City of Columbia and Boone County will continue to look for funding to move the project forward into design and eventually on to construction.