UPDATE: September 11, 2026

Weather Delays Push I-44 Lane Closure to September 20

MoDOT has advised the City that weather delays have pushed back the start of the final 21-day around-the-clock lane closure on eastbound I-44 near St. Robert and Waynesville.

The closure, originally expected to begin Sunday, September 13, is now scheduled to begin Sunday, September 20.

With the new schedule extending the closure into October, MoDOT is also coordinating with local officials regarding the Waynesville Homecoming Parade on October 2. Traffic-control planning is underway to help manage the additional traffic impacts associated with both the I-44 work zone and the temporary closure of Route 66 for the parade.

Motorists should continue to expect changing traffic patterns and delays as this project moves through its final major phase.

The City of St. Robert will continue to share additional information from MoDOT as it becomes available.

Questions? MoDOT Customer Service: 888-275-6636

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The Missouri Department of Transportation’s project to improve safety and drivability along the Interstate 44 corridor through Pulaski County is entering its final stages, but motorists should prepare for another period of significant traffic impacts in the St. Robert and Waynesville area.

Beginning at approximately 9:00 p.m. Sunday, September 13, an around-the-clock lane closure is expected to begin on eastbound I-44 between mile markers 159.4 and 160. The closure is expected to continue through early October.

The lane closure is part of the ongoing I-44 widening project, which is adding a climbing lane in each direction to improve traffic flow and safety along this heavily traveled section of the interstate.

Motorists should also remember that the eastbound I-44 Exit 159 ramp to Business Loop 44 remains closed as construction continues.

According to MoDOT, the upcoming lane closure, the current Exit 159 ramp closure, and the project's major traffic impacts are expected to wrap up in early October 2026. Some finishing work may continue after that time.

Drivers traveling through the St. Robert and Waynesville area should allow additional travel time and remain alert for changing traffic patterns throughout the construction zone. Please reduce speeds, watch for construction crews and equipment, and use extra caution when traveling through the area.

The City of St. Robert appreciates everyone's continued patience throughout this project as these improvements move closer to completion.

For the latest information regarding this closure, visit the MoDOT I-44 Traffic Update.

Additional information about the overall project is available on the I-44 Widening in Pulaski County project page.

Questions? MoDOT Customer Service: 888-275-6636