The Ozarks Transportation Organization announces a public comment period for the public to review and give input on proposed amendments to two local transportation documents — the 2008-2011 Transportation Improvement Program (or TIP), and the Major Thoroughfare Plan.
The TIP is a schedule of transportation improvements planned by various agencies in the Ozarks Transportation Organization boundary over the next four years. To be eligible for federal funds, a project must be included in the TIP. The amendments will include:
• The addition of a Roadway Prioritization Study within the City of Ozark.
• The addition of City Utilities Transit projects which include the development of a conceptual plan for the fleet management facility, transfer facility improvements, and bus shelter and bench maintenance (2005-2007 TIP).
• The addition of entrance improvements to the Missouri State University Darr Agricultural Facility, including turn lane improvements on Kansas Expressway.
• Additional funding for the Kearney Street Bridge.
• Removal of the planned guard cable project on U.S. 65.
The Major Thoroughfare Plan is one component of the Long Range Transportation Plan. Amendments to the Major Thoroughfare Plan will include:
• The extension of Seminole Street across the West Bypass as a secondary arterial.
• The extension of Battlefield Road across West Bypass and up to U.S. 60 (Sunshine) as a Primary Arterial.
• The relocation of the proposed Golden Avenue extension north of Kearney Street.
• The reclassification of U.S. 60 (Sunshine) from James River Freeway to State Route 174 from a Primary Arterial to an Expressway.
• The relocation of the proposed Highway ZZ extension.
The amendments will be available for review at Ozarks Transportation Organization, 840 Boonville Ave., Third Floor. Comments may be submitted in writing to the Ozarks Transportation Organization, PO Box 8368, 840 Boonville Ave., Springfield, MO 65801; via e-mail to sedwards@ozarkstransportation.org; or by fax to (417) 864-1881.
The public comment period will begin on March 27, 2008 and end on April 17, 2008. The MPO Board of Directors will review and possibly approve the amendments at its meeting at noon, April 17, 2008, in the fourth floor conference room of the Busch Municipal Building. An opportunity for public comment will be available at this meeting. After reviewing recommendations and public comments, the MPO Board of Directors will decide whether to formally adopt the amendments.
