Unless you're completely new to St. Louis, or have been out of town for the past two years, you're aware that I-64 (better known as Highway 40) is undergoing a major overhaul. As of January 2, 2008, all lanes of I-64, from the Spoede Road exit to I-170 are closed. Next year, that section of the highway will reopen, but all lanes from I-170 to the Kingshighway Avenue exit will be closed.
It's something we dreaded, but knew was coming for years. Still, there are some simple steps we can take to ease the headaches. Here's a short list of references to help avoid the construction, or to at least minimize its effect on your daily commute.
Know What's Going on with the Construction
The best place to start is with MoDOT's website set up exclusively to track and detail the I-64 construction project. This site's sole purpose is to help you avoid construction zones if at all possible. Click on Current Traffic Impacts to get a full overview of what sections of highway are currently closed or restricted. View the site's Four Year Construction Plan to see what's planned for each stage of the project.Dial 511
When you're on the road, or just don't have access to a computer, you can dial 511 from your mobile phone and receive real-time traffic information about roadways along your route.Consider MetroLink or MetroBus
There's really no better feeling than zipping past a traffic jam while riding MetroLink. Now, with the recent expansion of the Cross County line, and additional stations added in the Metro East, Metrolink is an attractive option for even more area residents. Once you commit to leaving your car behind and taking MetroLink, you won't want to go back to the frustration of languishing in traffic. Planning your route is easy with MetroLink's Trip Planner tool.If there's not a MetroLink station near your home or your work, chances are there are bus stops that are close to both. Although the buses don't get to bypass car traffic, at least it's not you at the wheel staring at red taillights. More importantly, take the time to read the paper or get some work done. Visit the MetroBus website for station locations and schedules.
