Preparations for an asphalt overlay on U.S. 63 near Licking will begin Friday, the Missouri Department of Transportation announced.
A section of 63 from from Highway 32 in Licking to just south of Highway K will be milled to prepare it for the start of asphalt work, slated for Monday. MoDOT has contracted the project with Ozark Asphalt Co. of West Plains. Work will occur from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day with completion expected by the end of August.
According to MoDOT Resident Engineer Phill Knott, the project includes paving the shoulders to widen the traveling surface. The purpose for widening is to allow enough width to stripe the road for passing and climbing lanes.
“This configuration has been in place for several months now between the communities of Houston and Licking,” Knott explained. “Once complete, traffic will flow in the same way through the section north of Licking.”
Benefits include safer opportunities for motorists to pass other vehicles. In addition, the new asphalt surface will provide an improved driving surface. Rumble stripes also will be added to the project. This feature is designed to help alert motorists if they should leave the travel lane, reducing head-on or run-off accidents.
The total project cost is about $1.2 million.
Motorists can expect minimal delays due to a one-lane restriction in the area of the work. Work zone signage will be in place to warn motorists they are about to approach a moving operation. Drivers are encouraged to exercise caution and pay attention for workers on and near the roadway.
For additional information, contact the MoDOT Customer Service Center at 888-ASK MoDOT. Customers also may email d9csc@modot.mo.gov or visit www.modot.org/southcentral.