By Adam Allington, KWMU
St. Louis, MO. – Missouri Congressman Todd Akin says next year's construction closures on Highway 40 should be phased in rather than done abruptly.
In a letter to MoDOT director Pete Rahn, Congressman Akin explained his reasoning for a gradual "phase-in" of lane closures.
"Maybe close a lane and then close a second lane so motorists can start to adjust their driving patters," Akin said.
Akin says immediately closing all of highway 40 would invariably take motorists by surprise and likely overwhelm alternate routes.
The Missouri Republican says he's not asking the state to make big changes; just show a little sympathy for the motorists who travel through his district.
"I'm not asking him to redesign his entire implementation schedule but merely to soften the harsh front-end that they have planned on it," Akin said.
Despite Akins petition, MoDot Director Pete Rahn says lane closures will NOT be phased in.
Construction is set to begin on Highway 40 in January.