MoDOT to launch environmental study for US 412 in Dunklin County

DUNKLIN COUNTY, Mo. (KBSI) – The Missouri Department of Transportation is launching an Environmental Study for U.S. Route 412 in Dunklin County.

The study is the first step in planning future capacity improvements for the 20-mile section of U.S. 412 from Route AC near the Arkansas border to just east of Route Y near Kennett.

This section of U.S. 412 is the primary east-west corridor in the bootheel of Missouri, and it is critical to roadway users locally and across the country, according to MoDOT Project Manager David Wyman.

He says the study will help evaluate options for increasing capacity and consider the impact of those options.

The Environmental Study will begin the process of collecting data and gathering public input. These are the first steps in identifying potential project challenges, assessing needs along the corridor, and gauging public sentiment regarding improvements to Route 412. The goal of this work is to establish the purpose of improving Route 412 and what needs drive potential improvements.

MoDOT will work with the Federal Highway Administration on the Environmental Study to make sure it is prepared according to guidelines in the National Environmental Policy Act.

Input from stakeholders and the public will be an important part of the study. MoDOT plans to offer multiple opportunities for public input including a public opinion survey, public meetings, and collaboration with a Citizens Advisory Group of local representatives. All public input opportunities will be posted well in advance through local media and on the project website at modot.org/412.

Public input activities are anticipated to begin in early 2023. Field work and technical analysis will begin this fall.

The Environmental Study is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.

“Although funding has not been secured for future construction on this corridor, it has been designated as an unfunded transportation need by the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission, so we are able to begin the planning process,” said Wyman.

The Dunklin County Commission contributed $500,000 toward the completion of the environmental work.