Scotland County will benefit from three key transportation projects over the next five years, under the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission’s newly approved Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) for fiscal years 2026-2030.
The projects include pavement preservation and improvements on two major routes as well as a rural route upgrade:
· MO Route 15 Pavement Preservation (Award September 2025)
This project will provide a pavement preservation treatment on MO 15 from the Iowa state line to Route 136 east junction in Memphis. The total cost is estimated at $493,000, funded with $381,000 in federal dollars and $95,000 from the state. Construction is scheduled to begin after a September 2025 award.
· MO Route 15 Pavement Preservation (Award September 2025)
Another section of MO 15 will see a preservation treatment from Route 136 west junction at Memphis south to Route 6 north junction at Edina in Knox County. This project carries an estimated cost of $1.037 million, with $797,000 in federal funding and $199,000 from the state.
· Route MM Pavement Improvement (2027)
Route MM will receive pavement improvements from Route 136 in Memphis to Route M. The project cost is $771,000, with $614,000 in federal funds and $154,000 in state contributions. Construction is anticipated to be awarded in 2027.
These projects are part of Missouri Department of Transportation’s (MoDOT) effort to invest $9.5 billion in contractor-awarded road and bridge construction statewide. MoDOT Director Ed Hassinger said the plan represents “unprecedented levels of investments” made possible through increased motor fuel taxes, General Revenue allocations, and federal transportation funding.
The STIP covers improvements to the state’s 33,814 miles of highways and over 10,000 bridges and culverts, ensuring continued economic connectivity and safety for rural counties like Scotland.
The final STIP document, which includes details for non-highway transportation modes and maintenance plans, is available on MoDOT’s website for public review.
