Bids Come Under Estimates For East Overpass Signalization Project

The much-anticipated signalization of the Interstate 44 east overpass at Highway AF/Flying J exit could begin July 6, as bids have been received through the Missouri Department of Transportation. The project has been coming under bid with estimates of $1 million.

Bids for the project were opened on May 15, with those bidding: Gerstner Electric, Inc., Fenton,  $861,771.50, Reinhold Electric Inc., St. Louis, $866,554.32 and Meyer Electric Company Inc., Jefferson City, $939,534.22.

Robert Schaffer, Sullivan City Engineer, reported that the bids looked very good, competitive and under budget thus far.

The project has not been awarded at press time, but a notice to proceed to the contractor that received the project is scheduled for July 6, with a completion date of December 15, 2020.

The City of Sullivan and Oak Grove Village, are participating in joint funding to help bring the project to this point with a 50/50 cost share with MoDOT. The funds come from a joint transportation fund between the two municipalities totaling $485,000.

The project originated in 2011-12 and has gone through a couple phases of design before the project came to fruition last year.

The project has been needed due to a number of accidents and safety concerns in the area particularly where vehicles cross at the intersection of Highway AF, North Service Rd. and I-44.

Many motorists, mostly not familiar with the area, are often confused as they approach the intersection including tractor trailers that cause serious safety issues.