Cameras to monitor traffic flow problems in Southeast Missouri

By the end of the month closed-circuit television cameras will start monitoring traffic flow on three roadways in Southeast Missouri.

Brian Holt, an engineer with the Missouri Department of Transportation, said crews have installed 13 of the cameras on Interstate 55, Interstate 57 and U.S. 60.

Whenever something disrupts traffic flow, MoDOT staff in St. Louis and Sikeston, Mo., can verify that through the cameras. Staff can then send a traffic update to the nearest of 10 message boards as well as to boards farther away to notify motorists of the problem,

"This allows the public to know far enough ahead of time to take alternate routes," Holt said. "This will hopefully cut down on congestion that could occur and save motorists the possibility of needlessly traveling in that area."

Installation of the cameras in Butler, Cape Girardeau, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry and Scott counties began in September. Crews finished the project in late January. The cameras are near interchanges, either on the median or near an entrance or exit ramp.

The project also includes the addition of four message boards in Charleston, Hayti and Poplar Bluff as part of the $733,778 contract awarded by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission. While the boards have been installed, they have not been activated yet.

Last year six message boards were installed in Benton, north of Cape Girardeau and Sikeston.

Holt said MoDOT has installed such cameras elsewhere, mostly in the St. Louis area.

bblackwell@semissourian.com

388-3628

Pertinent address:

2675 N. Main St., Sikeston, MO