Interstate 70 in Cooper County was narrowed to one lane Dec. 8-11, 2025, for core drilling operations. Crews from the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) obtained core samples along I-70 in preparation for future portions of the Improve I-70 program.

The work took place between mile markers 101 (Boonville) and 113 (just west of the Rocheport Bridge).

Core drilling allows for a detailed examination of the layers of roadway and supporting geology below the roadway surface. By studying the core samples, the program team can make more informed decisions on design and material elements as they work to expand I-70 to three lanes in each direction across Missouri.

This work is part of the design process for Improve I-70: Boonville to Rocheport, one project in MoDOT's Statewide Improve I-70 Program. Construction on this section of I-70 is scheduled to begin in 2026 with an anticipated completion in late 2027.

Missouri's FY2024 budget approved through the state legislative process and governor provides $2.8 billion in general revenue to build a third lane of I-70 across the state. The program will plan, design, construct, reconstruct, rehabilitate and add a third lane in each direction on nearly 200 mi. of I-70, from Blue Springs to Wentzville.

For more information on the Improve I-70 Program, visit modot.org/improvei70.  