ROAD ALERT: Interstate work diverts traffic

Construction crews started diverting traffic on Interstate 55 in the vicinity of the East Main Street/LaSalle Avenue interchange project at around 11:30 a.m., according to a statement released by MoDOT.

Northbound traffic diversion started just before lunch, said MoDOT Senior Construction Inspector Rick Lamb, and diversion of southbound traffic should begin later this afternoon or Thursday.

Traffic is being diverted over the new interchange on- and off-ramps on the northbound side of I-55 so MoDOT can begin excavation under the Interstate's old path, allowing the construction of bridges that will carry the road over East Main Street and LaSalle Avenue.

MoDOT is urging local traffic to avoid the area if possible by taking alternate routes. The current diversion is expected to last through November.