Missouri Legislature Wants to Take Closer Look at Converting US Route 36

(Missourinet) A $2.5 million study could be right around the corner to determine whether it’s worth it to spend the money to turn Highway 36 into Interstate 72 in Missouri. The state Legislature has approved the state budget item that awaits a decision from Governor Mike Parson. Highway 36 runs across the northern half of the state – from St. Joseph to Hannibal. Republican St. Joseph Representative Brenda Shields supports the study.

“I think I’ll take a wait-and-see approach. I want to see what the study comes back and tells us. To have an opinion on it before the study is completed, I think is irresponsible. So, I’d like to hear what the study has to say. If it’s viable, how it will affect our farmers along Highway 36 and how it will affect our communities and our businesses as well.”

Shields says bringing Highway 36 up to U.S. Interstate Highway standards would relieve I-70 traffic when that is widened to three lanes from the St. Louis to Kansas City areas.