Route AB extension grading, paving contract awarded

Emery Sapp & Sons Inc. of Columbia, Mo., has been awarded a contract by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for improvements to Route AB in Cape Girardeau County, according to a Missouri Department of Transportation news release. The $2,551,805 contract includes grading and paving along the Route AB extension. Cape Girardeau County acquired the right of way for the extension, which will connect Highway 25 and Interstate 55. Construction is expected to begin in summer, with completion anticipated by the end of the year. During construction, the effect on traffic will be minimal. However, access to rural roads that cross Route AB will be restricted at times.