/news-rss MO.gov News Feed Sat, 20 Dec 2025 05:28:46 +0000 en-us https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-kehoe-announces-seven-gubernatorial-appointments 15611 at https://governor.mo.gov Fri, 19 Dec 2025 16:25:25 +0000 Governor Kehoe Announces Seven Gubernatorial Appointments Madelyn.Warren… Fri, 12/19/2025 - 16:25 December 19, 2025 Jefferson City William Eckart, of Gravois Mills, was appointed to the Elevator Safety Board.Mr. Eckart has over 40 years of experience in elevator and escalator service and repairs. He currently works as a technical compliance corporate auditor at Schindler Elevator Corporation and previously served as an adjuster for the same company in Kansas City. He holds an Elevator Supervisor Class 1 certificate from the National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities and from the City of Kansas City.Steve Hodge, of Sikeston, was appointed to the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council.Mr. Hodge has been employed by Southeast Missouri Residential Services (SEMORS) since 2000. His interest in the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council stems from his desire to help others with developmental disabilities. Hodge graduated from Doniphan High School.Michelle Luster, of St. Louis, was reappointed to the Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners.Luster is a licensed educator and cosmetologist with over 20 years of experience in the industry. She previously served as the owner and operator of Alternative Nail Salon and Spa for over 18 years and taught as an instructor for several years. Luster earned her cosmetology license from Debado’s Hair Academy, her cosmetology educator’s license from Elaine Steven Beauty College, and her associate's degree and teaching certification from Harris-Stowe State University.Eddie Sargent, of Lee’s Summit, was appointed to the Elevator Safety Board.Mr. Sargent served as a mechanic for KONE, Inc. before being elected to serve as business manager of the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) Local #12. He holds a Missouri State Elevator License and has over 28 years of elevator experience in service, repair, and construction.David Scott, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Elevator Safety Board.Mr. Scott serves as the business representative of the IUEC Local #3. In addition to his work with Local #3, he is the director of the St. Louis Building Trades Wellness Coalition. He maintains elevator mechanic licenses in both Missouri and Illinois. Scott holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Fontbonne University.Craig Stevenson, of Hallsville, was reappointed to the Missouri State Foster Care and Adoption Board.Mr. Stevenson is the director of policy and advocacy for Kids Win Missouri. He previously served as the associate director of the Mozambique Initiative for the Missouri Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. He is an active member of his community, serving on the stewardship committee for the Centralia United Methodist Church and as president of the board of education for the Hallsville R-IV Public School District. Stevenson earned his bachelor's degree in political science and his master's degree in public affairs from the University of Missouri.David Williams, of Jefferson City, was appointed to the Board of Probation and Parole.Mr. Williams was a member of the Jefferson City Police Department, where he served for 33 years before retiring as a captain in 2025. He remains an active member of his community, serving on boards for Special Learning Center and Multipli Credit Union. Williams is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, Class #231. He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in criminal justice from Columbia College.### https://www.modot.org/node/81274 81274 at https://www.modot.org Fri, 19 Dec 2025 15:40:02 +0000 Kansas City area maintenance work for Dec. 22-24 Visitor (not verified) Fri, 12/19/2025 - 15:40 LEE’S SUMMIT, MO – The Missouri Department of Transportation will be performing maintenance work throughout the Kansas City region from Dec. 22-24. No work is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 25 or Fri., Dec. 26 due to the holiday. All work is weather permitting. JACKSON COUNTY Interstate 70 westbound near Pittman Rd.: left lane closed on Monday, Dec. 22, from approximately 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., for barrier wall repair. I-70 eastbound between Pittman Rd. and Lee’s Summit Rd.: left lane closed on Tuesday, Dec. 23, from approximately 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., for barrier wall repair. JOHNSON COUNTY Route PP between SE 251 Rd. and SE 371 Rd.: flagging operations on Monday, Dec. 22 and Tuesday, Dec. 23, from approximately 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily, for brush cutting. SALINE COUNTY MO-41 south between MO-240 and Cooper County line: flagging operations on Monday, Dec. 22 and Tuesday Dec. 23, from approximately 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily, for shoulder repair work. Motorists are reminded to slow down and pay attention while driving in work zones. Not all work zones look alike. They can also be short term, temporary lane closures to make quick repairs or remove debris from the roadway. For more information about MoDOT news, projects or events, please visit our website at www.modot.org/kansascity. For instant updates, follow MoDOT_KC on X, or share posts and comments on our Facebook at www.facebook.com/MoDOT.KansasCity/. MoDOT Kansas City maintains more than 7,000 miles of state roadway in nine counties. Sign up online for work zone updates or call 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636). Districts Involved Kansas City Published On Fri, 12/19/2025 - 08:32 Matthew Rinehart Senior Communications Specialist Kansas City District Email: matthew.rinehart@modot.mo.govPhone: (816) 282-4685 https://www.modot.org/node/81273 81273 at https://www.modot.org Fri, 19 Dec 2025 15:10:02 +0000 Jade Road in Kingdom City now open at Sallees Creek Visitor (not verified) Fri, 12/19/2025 - 15:10 North Outer Road 70 remains closed Project Improve I-70: Columbia to Kingdom City JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The non-continuous segment of South Outer Road 70 (Jade Road), just west of Kingdom City, is now open.  Construction crews working with the Missouri Department of Transportation closed Jade Road at Sallees Creek in May 2025 to begin replacing the large culvert runs under Interstate 70 and both outer roads. With the portion of the culvert underneath Jade Road and I-70 complete, Jade Road reopened to all traffic on Dec. 19, 2025.   Work continues on the portion of the culvert that runs under North Outer Road 70 at Sallees Creek, and that roadway is expected to remain closed through February 2026. All work is weather-permitting, and schedules are subject to change.   MoDOT asks all motorists to work with us by buckling up, putting your phone down, obeying all traffic signs, and slowing down and moving over in work zones.    This work is part of the first project in MoDOT’s Statewide Improve I-70 Program, Improve I-70: Columbia to Kingdom City, which will add a third lane of travel in each direction to the 20-mile stretch of I-70 between Columbia) and Kingdom City. This $405 million fixed-cost contract includes new pavement on all three lanes of I-70 and will also make interchange improvements to the I-70 interchanges at U.S. Route 63 and U.S. Route 54.   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 miles of I-70, from Blue Springs to Wentzville. For more information on the Improve I-70 Program and to sign up for program e-mails, visit http://www.modot.org/improvei70.  For more information, call MoDOT at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org. To receive the latest statewide news and text alerts, signup for e-updates.  ### Districts Involved Central Published On Fri, 12/19/2025 - 08:01 Links to related information Project Webpage AJ Shurr Senior Communications Specialist Central District Email: cdcr@modot.mo.govPhone: (573) 522-5178 https://dhewd.mo.gov/news/missouri-youth-earn-physical-security-certificates-through-mosoc-program 7331 at https://dhewd.mo.gov Fri, 19 Dec 2025 14:44:56 +0000 Missouri youth earn physical security certificates through MOSOC program Mr. Jason Strickland Fri, 12/19/2025 - 14:44 Date Fri, 12/19/2025 - 12:00 The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) celebrated the graduation of 21 students from the Missouri Security Operations Center (MOSOC) Training Program during three ceremonies held in Columbia, Lee’s Summit, and South St. Louis on Friday. The students completed the eight-week MOSOC Training Program as part of the Career Opportunity Training for Youth (COTY) program, which provides high school seniors and young adults up to age 24 with the opportunity to earn a professional certificate and gain valuable, work-ready skills and workplace experience."We are proud to recognize these students and celebrate their monumental achievement," said Dr. Bennett Boggs, Commissioner of the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development. "The unique hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology provided through the MOSOC Training Program has undoubtedly helped today’s graduates build the skills and confidence needed for success, and we are excited to see what the future holds for them.”The program provided students hands-on training on modern technological tools, including robotics, drones, license plate recognition, video surveillance, gunshot detection, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Students also completed 24 hours of training focused on essential power skills and workforce preparation, as well as additional instruction about how to perform risk assessments and develop standard operating procedures for high-risk and dangerous situations. Graduates will now complete a paid work experience with a partnering employer, with the goal of obtaining gainful, full-time employment upon completion.“This initiative breaks down employment barriers and provides a direct career path within the dynamic high-tech security industry," said Julie Carter, Director of the Office of Workforce Development. "We thank our partners at the University of Central Missouri and Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis for helping us grow this program, and we are hopeful it will continue to expand to other portions of Missouri."Today’s graduation ceremonies were hosted at the Columbia Job Center, the Missouri Innovation Campus in Lee’s Summit, and Urban League – South St. Louis. This was the third cohort of students for the MOSOC program, with 10 students graduating from each of the first two at the Columbia Job Center.The COTY program is federally funded by MDHEWD to provide high school students in Mid-Missouri an opportunity to gain the skills and training they need to prepare for their future careers. For more information, visit cwdregion.com/coty/.Students and employers interested in the program can contact David “DJ” Johnson, Youth Career Coach, by email at david.johnson@dhewd.mo.gov.Photos are available on the MDHEWD Flickr page. https://www.modot.org/node/81272 81272 at https://www.modot.org Fri, 19 Dec 2025 14:34:01 +0000 New Federal Restrictions on Foreign Drones (Effective Dec 22, 2025) keith.jennings Fri, 12/19/2025 - 14:34 Please see below regarding immediate changes to federal regulations that impact the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) supported by FHWA funding.   Effective December 22, 2025, the American Security Drone Act of 2023 (ASDA) and OMB Memorandum M-26-02 strictly prohibit the use of federal funds for UAS manufactured by covered foreign entities. What You Need to Know: The Ban: You may no longer use FHWA funds (including grants, loans, or cooperative agreements) to procure, operate, or maintain "covered UAS." What is "Covered”: This includes any aircraft, flight controller, camera, or ground control station supplied by a manufacturer that is based in, or subject to the control of, a foreign adversary country, specifically the People's Republic of China. Effective Date: This prohibition applies to all costs incurred after December 22, 2025. Required Actions: Stop Procurements: Ensure no pending orders for this equipment will be paid for with federal funds. Cease Operations: If your existing fleet includes these covered UAS, you must cease their operation, maintenance, or data processing on any FHWA funded project or grant. Segregate Assets: We recommend physically quarantining these devices to prevent accidental use on federally funded projects. Published On Fri, 12/19/2025 - 14:34 https://www.modot.org/node/81271 81271 at https://www.modot.org Fri, 19 Dec 2025 11:10:02 +0000 Planned Roadwork for Northwest Missouri, Nov. Dec. 22-28 Visitor (not verified) Fri, 12/19/2025 - 11:10 St. Joseph, Mo. – The following is a list of general highway maintenance and construction work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northwest Missouri region for the week of Dec. 22-28. Work on most maintenance and construction projects will be suspended to accommodate increased holiday travel beginning at noon on Wednesday, December 24, and may resume as early as 6 a.m. Friday, December 26. Some long-term traffic impacts will remain in place. There may be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. Check the MoDOT Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org, or download the app for updated information. MoDOT asks drivers to work with us by buckling up, putting your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones. Atchison County Route F – CLOSED at the Rock Creek Bridge for a bridge rehabilitation project through January 2026. (Contractor: Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc.) Buchanan County Gene Field Road Bridge – CLOSED due to damage from being struck by an oversized load. The bridge is scheduled to be let for contractor bidding in January 2026.: https://www.modot.org/projects/gene-field-road-bridge-replacement-over-interstate-29-buchanan-county Route 752 (Alabama Street) – CLOSED from U.S. Route 59 to Sherman Street for an intersection improvement project through 2025. (Contractor: Amino Bros. Co., Inc.) https://www.modot.org/projects/route-u-missouri-route-59-and-missouri-route-752-intersection-improvements-buchanan-county. Caldwell County Route D – CLOSED for a bridge replacement project at the Shoal Creek Bridge through March 2026. (Contractor: Cale Seymour Construction, LLC) https://www.modot.org/route-d-bridge-replacement-caldwell. Carroll County Route B – CLOSED at the Sambo Creek Bridge through mid-January 2026 for a bridge deck replacement project. (Contractor: E&C Bridge, LLC.) https://www.modot.org/projects/route-b-route-d-route-jj-and-route-kk-bridge-deck-replacement-multiple-counties. Chariton County Route CC – CLOSED at the Yellow Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through December 2025. (Contractor: Capital-Horner & Shifrin) *1 Route PP – CLOSED at the Mid-Fork Chariton River Bridge and Chariton River Overflow Bridge for replacement projects through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through March 2026. (Capital-Horner & Shifrin) *1 Route KK – CLOSED at the Puzzle Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through mid-March 2026. (Capital-Horner & Shifrin) *1 Route O – CLOSED at the Bee Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026. (Capital-Horner & Shifrin) *1 Route KK – CLOSED at the Little Chariton River Bridge, north of Glasgow, for a deck replacement project through March 2026. (Contractor: E&C Bridge, LLC.) https://www.modot.org/projects/route-b-route-d-route-jj-and-route-kk-bridge-deck-replacement-multiple-counties. Harrison County Route W – CLOSED for a culvert replacement from 195th Avenue to Route F, Dec. 22, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Route W – CLOSED for a culvert replacement from 267th Street to 255th Street, Dec. 23, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mercer County U.S. Route 136 – Bridge maintenance at the Weldon River Bridge, Dec. 22, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  The bridge will be narrowed to one lane with temporary traffic signals guiding motorists through the work zone. Nodaway County Route C – Shoulder work from Caravan Road to Route KK heading north out of Elmo, Dec. 22. Sullivan County Route T – CLOSED at the East Locust Creek bridge due to deterioration. The bridge is scheduled to be replaced in the spring of 2026 through the Northwest Bridge Bundle. https://www.modot.org/projects/northwest-missouri-design-build-bridge-bundle Worth County U.S. Route 169 – CLOSED for a bridge deck replacement project at the Middle Fork Grand River Bridge through January 2026. (Contractor: Capital Paving & Construction, LLC.) https://www.modot.org/projects/us-route-169-route-b-and-route-m-bridge-rehabilitation-gentry-and-worth. Route W – CLOSED for a bridge replacement at the West Fork Grand River Bridge through January 2026. (Contractor: Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc.) https://www.modot.org/projects/missouri-route-46-and-route-w-bridge-replacement-worth --- *1 This bridge is part of the NWBB (Northwest Bridge Bundle) program. The design-build team is Capital-Horner & Shifrin. More info: NWBB program web page.   ### Traveler Information Map http://traveler.modot.org Districts Involved Northwest Published On Fri, 12/19/2025 - 04:09 NW Customer Service Northwest District Email: nwcr@modot.mo.govPhone: 816-901-4529 https://www.modot.org/node/81270 81270 at https://www.modot.org Fri, 19 Dec 2025 11:00:02 +0000 WB Route 60 in Carter County Reduced for Pavement Repairs Visitor (not verified) Fri, 12/19/2025 - 11:00 SIKESTON—Westbound Route 60 in Carter County will be reduced to one lane with a 14-foot width restriction as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.  This section of roadway is located from Route J to Route M near Van Buren, Missouri.  Weather permitting, work will take place Tuesday, Dec. 23 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.      The work zone will be marked with signs. Motorists are urged to use extreme caution while traveling near the area.  For additional information, contact MoDOT’s Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (1-888-275-6636) or visit www.modot.org/southeast.     ###  facebook.com/MoDOTSoutheast  twitter.com/MoDOTSoutheast  youtube.com/MoDOTSoutheast    Districts Involved Southeast Published On Fri, 12/19/2025 - 03:51 SE Customer Service Southeast District Email: SECRRep@modot.mo.gov Phone: (573) 472-5333 https://www.modot.org/node/81269 81269 at https://www.modot.org Fri, 19 Dec 2025 09:20:02 +0000 Route 137 in Howell County Closed for Bridge Maintenance Visitor (not verified) Fri, 12/19/2025 - 09:20 SIKESTON– Route 137 in Howell County will be closed as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.  This section of roadway is located from West Valley Street to Main Street in Willow Springs, Missouri.  Weather permitting, work will take place Monday, January 5 through Friday, January 9 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. The work zone will be marked with signs. Motorists are urged to use extreme caution while traveling near the area.  For additional information, please contact MoDOT’s Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-888-ASK-MODOT, or visit www.modot.org/southeast..    ###  facebook.com/MoDOTSoutheast  twitter.com/MoDOTSoutheast  youtube.com/MoDOTSoutheast  Districts Involved Southeast Published On Fri, 12/19/2025 - 02:17 SE Customer Service Southeast District Email: SECRRep@modot.mo.gov Phone: (573) 472-5333 https://www.modot.org/node/81268 81268 at https://www.modot.org Fri, 19 Dec 2025 09:10:02 +0000 MoDOT to close Interstate 70 lanes near Route Z for concrete pavement repairs Dec. 22-23 Visitor (not verified) Fri, 12/19/2025 - 09:10 ST. CHARLES COUNTY – Motorists traveling on eastbound and westbound Interstate 70 near Route Z (near mile marker 209) should be aware of evening concrete pavement repairs Monday, Dec. 22 and Tuesday, Dec. 23. All work is weather permitting. Crews will close one eastbound I-70 lane just east of the Route Z bridge Monday, Dec. 22 from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. On Tuesday, Dec. 23, crews will close one westbound I-70 lane just west of the Route Z bridge from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. During this closure, the left lane of eastbound I-70 temporarily closes from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. to allow for concrete trucks in the work zone. This work is part of the Improve I-70 Warrenton to Wentzville Project covering the eastern portion of I-70. It was awarded in November 2024. Construction is tentatively set to take place 2025-2028. Missouri’s FY2024 budget, approved through the state legislative process and signed into law by the 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 miles of I-70, from Blue Springs to Wentzville. For more information on the Improve I-70 Program and to sign up for program e-mails, visit http://www.modot.org/improvei70.     ### Districts Involved St. Louis Published On Fri, 12/19/2025 - 02:04 Jack Wang Senior Communications Specialist St. Louis District Email: slcommunications@mdoot.mo.govPhone: (314) 648-9783 https://dnr.mo.gov/communications/news/start-2026-right-foot-first-day-hike 295981 at https://dnr.mo.gov Fri, 19 Dec 2025 09:00:55 +0000 Start 2026 on the right foot with a First Day Hike Karen Kremer Fri, 12/19/2025 - 09:00 Release Date Friday, December 19, 2025 JEFFERSON CITY, MO, DEC 19, 2025 – Jan. 1 will ring in America’s semiquincentennial and signal the annual First Day Hikes. The America’s State Parks organization invites you to join in on one or more of the 1,000 plus events taking place at state parks.Many of Missouri’s state parks and historic sites will hold traditional First Day Hikes , which are open to all visitors. Events scheduled throughout Missouri's state park system offer various trail lengths, difficulty levels and time of day. Find a hike near you or plan a cabin, camping or yurt retreat at a state park to extend your First Day Hike experience.“State parks across the country protect and provide access to the landscapes, stories and places that create the fabric of our country,” said America’s State Parks President Paul McCormack. “As our country starts to celebrate its 250th birthday in 2026, we invite you to start your year on a First Day Hike enjoying and celebrating our incredible public lands.”Visit mostateparks.com/FirstDayHikes to find a First Day Hike offering that suits you - whether you’re looking to start a new family tradition, find an accessible trail or get a head start on your New Year’s resolution.First Day Hikes began more than three decades ago, at Blue Hills Reservation in Massachusetts in 1992. Since 2012, all 50 states have participated. America’s State Parks hopes to make 2026 a record-breaking year as the annual event approaches major milestones, including inching closer to 1 million miles hiked and 500,000 participants in the program’s history.The following hikes are planned for Jan. 1 at Missouri’s state parks and historic sites:Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, 800 Guy Park Dr., Wildwood.Take a hike on the moderately difficult Hawthorn Trail. This hike along both sides of a narrow ridge allows hikers to see distinct changes in plants and habitats. Meet at the trailhead near the Alta Picnic Shelter at 10 a.m. for this 1.2-mile hike. Bennett Spring State Park, 26250 Highway 64A, Lebanon.Meet the team at 1 p.m. at the Savanna Ridge Trail trailhead to embark on this moderate 2.5-mile hike. Participants will see a chert woodland that is unique to the area, as well as discuss the importance of prescribed fire. Big Sugar Creek State Park, 6727 Big Sugar Creek Road, Pineville.Celebrate the new year with a 3.4-mile hike on Ozark Chinquapin Trail starting at 10 a.m. The trail is known to have water at several creek crossings during wet weather, so waterproof boots are strongly recommended. Hikers should expect steep terrain as well. Nathan and Olive Boone Homestead State Historic Site, 7850 N. State Hwy. V, Ash Grove.A 2.5-mile hike starts at 10 a.m. at the picnic shelter and will cover portions of all three of the site’s hiking trails. Participants will hike through a once-thriving 19th century homestead and learn about its history and the surrounding area.  Bryant Creek State Park, 1204 Private Drive 3422, 24 miles southeast of Ava.Hikers should meet at the trailhead at noon for a 3.25-mile hike on the Pine Hollow Trail. This trail is a rugged natural-surface trail of easy to moderate difficulty. The hike begins at the park’s main trailhead. Crowder State Park,76 NW Highway 128, Trenton.Beginning at 2 p.m. at the Shelter 3 parking lot, hikers will cover 3.2 miles on the Tall Oaks Trail. This trail traverses a variety of habitats that offer opportunities to see a variety of wildlife. Cuivre River State Park,678 State Route 147, Troy.Start the new year with a 0.6-mile hike on gravel roads for a guided tour of historic Camp Sherwood. Meet at the park’s visitor center at 1 p.m. for hot chocolate and restroom breaks before driving up to Camp Sherwood at 1:30 p.m. First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site and Katy Trail State Park, 1050 S. Riverside Dr., St. Charles.This guided hike will take participants along the iconic Katy Trail, down St. Charles’ historic Main Street, and through Missouri’s first Capitol. Staff will provide a tour as participants take in views of the Missouri River and downtown St. Charles from the Katy Trail and Frontier Park, and discuss the history leading up to Missouri’s struggle for statehood. The hike covers about 2 miles and starts at 10 a.m. at the St. Charles Veterans Memorial near the Lewis and Clark Boat House and Museum at the address listed. Hawn State Park, 12096 Park Dr., Ste. Genevieve.Starting at 1 p.m.., hikers will gather at the Spanish Land Grant Trailhead, 1 mile from Highway 144 on Hawn Park Road for this 3.8-mile hike. Jefferson Landing State Historic Site, 100 Jefferson St., Jefferson City.Join the team at 1 p.m. for an urban exploration around Jefferson Landing State Historic Site, the Missouri State Capitol Complex and Jefferson City Parks’ Deborah Cooper Park on Adrian’s Island. This hike covers 1.5 miles, including the Bicentennial Bridge. Knob Noster State Park, 873 SE 10, Knob Noster.Join us on the Spirit Trail. This hike begins at 1 p.m. at the Clearfork Shelter and covers approximately 1 mile. Lake of the Ozarks State Park, 403 Highway 134, Brumley.Starting at noon, hikers should meet at the Hidden Springs Trailhead (GPS coordinates: 38.08376, -92.56347) for a 2.5-mile hike exploring native Missouri woodlands to bluff tops above Lake of the Ozarks. Mastodon State Historic Site, 1050 Charles J. Becker Drive, Imperial.The team is offering two guided hikes at the site so everyone can start 2026 in their own way. Both hikes start at 10 a.m. with the Limestone Hill Trail covering 2 miles and meeting at the museum parking lot. A shorter, 0.8-mile hike will follow the Spring Branch Trail with participants meeting at the Spring Branch Trail trailhead (GPS coordinates: 38.38034, 90.39489). Meramec State Park, 115 Meramec Dr., Sullivan.For a 2.5-mile hike, meet at noon at the Visitor Center to use the restrooms and then drive to Fireside Store parking lot. This is a moderately difficult hike, using Bluff View Trail, White Connector 1 and River Trail. Missouri Mines State Historic Site, 4000 State Highway 32, Park Hills.This easy 1-mile hike starts at 9 a.m. and includes interpretation of old mining structures and equipment, as well as the area's development over time. Onondaga Cave State Park, 7556 Highway H, Leasburg.Join the park team as they hike the moderately difficult 1.3-mile Vilander Bluff Trail. Participants should meet at the Vilander Bluff Trail trailhead, located along Thickety Ford Road, north of Highway N, near Bourbon. (GPS coordinates are 38.09788, -91.13083). Roaring River State Park, 12716 Farm Road 2239, Cassville.Starting at 10 a.m., the park team will lead a rugged 1.5-mile hike on Devil’s Kitchen Trail. There you’ll start by hiking up to the limestone bluff, where you’ll have the chance to explore a small cave. Then participants will climb above the limestone bluff into chert woodlands and round out the hike with a view of the Devil’s Kitchen rock feature. Meet at the lower level of the CCC Lodge (GPS coordinates: 36.590278, -93.834167). Robertsville State Park, 902 State Park Dr., Robertsville.Participants will depart from the Lost Hill Trail trailhead in the campground at 10 a.m. to hike the 2.6-mile Lost Hill Trail. During the hike, the guide will discuss the park’s burn unit and the importance of prescribed fire, along with the old oxbow slough of Calvey Creek. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, 5901 S. Highway 163, Columbia.Several options are available here. First is the 1.75-mile hike along Devil’s Icebox Trail. This hike will be interspersed with stops to learn about the history and geology of the area. It will go up one long gradual hill on the dirt and gravel terrain of Sinkhole Trail, through the woods and then use the boardwalk steps of Devil’s Icebox Trail. This hike is not stroller accessible and is not recommended for children under 4 years. Meet at the Devil’s Icebox parking lot at 9:30 a.m. This same hike will be repeated at 12:30 p.m.The Gans Creek Wild Area hike will begin at the Wagon Wheel Trailhead at noon. Participants will learn about local 1800s history during this 2.5-mile scenic hike. This moderately difficult hike will go off-trail through open woods for about half a mile. Participants will enjoy vistas from a 100-foot-high bluff overlooking Gans Creek and from a shelter cave halfway up on a bluff.The Deer Run Trail hike is a hilly 3.75-mile hike beginning at noon and passing through an oak-hickory woodland and alongside Little Bonne Femme Creek for about half a mile.Starting at 2:30 p.m., the bird-watching on Grassland Trail hike will provide views of a restored prairie, open sky and sinkholes. Members of the Columbia Audubon Society will lead this leisurely 2-mile hike. This hike is for ages 8 and up, and it is recommended to leave your pets at home. Meet at the Grassland Trail trailhead. Parking is available at the trailhead and along Rock Bridge Lane, a wide gravel road leading to the trailhead parking lot. Rock Island Trail State Park, Owensville.Celebrate the new year with a guided hike on the newly opened section of the Rock Island Trail in Owensville. This easy 2-mile hike starts at the trailhead near the city hall building at 11 a.m. St. Francois State Park, 8920 US Highway 67N, Bonne Terre.Come out to St. Francois State Park for a First Day Walk in the Big River Day-Use Area. This easy walk consists of a 1.1-mile paved loop and begins at 10:30 a.m. Participants should mee at Shelter 2 (GPS coordinates 37.957917, -90.540517.)If you’re looking for something more challenging, come out to hike on Swimming Deer Trail. This moderately difficult trail travels along the river bottom, along bluffs overlooking the Big River and through the woods. This 3.15-mile hike begins at 1 p.m. and starts at the trailhead in the campground (GPS coordinates 37.955720, -90.532820) St. Joe State Park, 2800 Pimville Road, Park Hills.Starting at Shelter 6 at Monsanto Lake, hikers will meet at 1 p.m. to cover 1.25 miles on Lakeview Trail. Stockton State Park, 19100 S. Hwy. 215, Dadeville.Hike the North Loop of Sortor’s Bluff Trail for a 3.3-mile hike in one of the property’s most remote locations, offering great views of the lake and plenty of chances to experience local wildlife. Meet at Sortor’s Bluff Trail trailhead off County Road 1801 at 9 a.m. (GPS coordinates are 37.59610, -93.75000). Table Rock State Park, 5272 State Highway 165, Branson.At noon, hikers will begin at the Lakeshore Trail Trailhead at State Park Marina to hike 2 miles. Participants will have good views of the lake on the lower side and of 200-plus-year-old oaks on the upper side. Thousand Hills State Park, 20431 State Highway 157, Kirksville.Meet at 10 a.m. at the trailhead by the lake for this leisurely 2-mile Red Bud Trail hike. Harry S Truman State Park, 28761 State Park Road W, Warsaw.This moderately challenging guided hike will take place on 1000th Mile Trail, covering a distance of 1 mile. This stretch of trail is significant because it was the 1000th miles of trail installed in Missouri’s state park system. Meet at the 1000th Mile Trail trailhead at 1 p.m. (GPS coordinates are 38.27238, -93.44320). Wakonda State Park, 32836 State Park Road, La Grange.Join Ranger Drake Fohey as he leads two hikes. For a shorter hike, meet at 10:30 a.m. at the Jasper Lake Trail parking area for a 1.9-mile hike. This hike is considered moderately difficult and hikers may see a variety of birds including eastern bluebirds, Baltimore orioles and numerous waterfowl.If you’re looking for something longer, join him on the 3.4-mile hike on Agate Lake Trail. This moderately difficult hike takes participants on a natural-surface trail that loops around Agate Lake and shares a section with Jasper Lake Trail. Meet at 2 p.m. at the Agate Lake Trail parking area (GPS coordinates 40.0059510, -91.5111898).Preregistration is required for all hikes as some have a maximum number of hikers who can be accommodated. To register, visit icampmo1.usedirect.com/MSPWeb/ and search for activities.For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Share your Jan. 1 hiking story on social media with #FirstDayHikes. Contact Information Tisha Holden Division Information Officer Address Missouri State Parks P.O. Box 176 Jefferson City, MO 65102 United States Office 573-751-6510 Toll-free 800-334-6946 Email tisha.holden@dnr.mo.gov https://www.modot.org/node/81236 81236 at https://www.modot.org Thu, 18 Dec 2025 16:00:02 +0000 Carroll County Route JJ bridge now open Visitor (not verified) Thu, 12/18/2025 - 16:00 Bridge deck replacement project in Carroll, Chariton, Livingston counties ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Transportation has contracted E&C Bridge, LLC to complete a bridge deck replacement project on four bridges in Carroll, Chariton and Livingston counties. The Carroll County Route JJ bridge over West Fork Wakenda Creek, northwest of Norborne, reopened to traffic yesterday, Wednesday, Dec. 17. The bridge had been closed since Oct. 21. Listed below are the other bridges included in this project: Carroll County Route B over Sambo Creek, south of Wakenda. The bridge is expected to reopen in mid-January 2026. Chariton County Route KK over the Little Chariton River, north of Glasgow. The bridge is expected to reopen in March 2026. Livingston County Route D bridge over the Shoal Creek Drainage Ditch, south of Ludlow. The bridge reopened on Dec. 10. For more information about this project, visit: Route B, Route D, Route JJ, and Route KK Bridge Deck Replacement in Multiple Counties | Missouri Department of Transportation. All work is weather-permitting, and schedules are subject to change. MoDOT asks drivers to work with us by always buckling up, keeping your phones down, slowing down and moving over in work zones. Know before you go and check what work zones you might encounter at traveler.modot.org. Get project and work zone news straight to your email by signing up for eUpdates. Information is also available 24/7 by calling 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visiting www.modot.org/northwest. Facebook | X | Instagram  Take the Challenge! Buckle Up/Phone Down ### Project Webpage Route B, Route D, Route JJ, and Route KK Bridge Deck Replacement in Multiple Counties | Missouri Department of Transportation. Districts Involved Northwest Published On Thu, 12/18/2025 - 08:54 Naomi Daugherty Communications Specialist Northwest District Email: nwcr@modot.mo.govPhone: 816-387-2495 https://www.modot.org/node/81235 81235 at https://www.modot.org Thu, 18 Dec 2025 14:20:02 +0000 MoDOT to close one westbound I-70 lane in Wentzville for concrete pavement repairs TONIGHT, Dec. 18 Visitor (not verified) Thu, 12/18/2025 - 14:20 Project Improve I-70: Warrenton to Wentzville ST. CHARLES COUNTY – Crews with the Improve I-70 Warrenton to Wentzville Project will close one westbound Interstate 70 lane between Wentzville Parkway and David Hoekel Parkway TONIGHT, Thursday, Dec. 18 from 8 p.m. to 9 a.m. for concrete pavement repairs. All work is weather permitting. The new pavement was damaged because of an overturned lumber truck crash that occurred Thursday morning, Dec. 18. This work is part of the Improve I-70 Warrenton to Wentzville Project covering the eastern portion of I-70. It was awarded in November 2024. Construction is tentatively set to take place 2025-2028. Missouri’s FY2024 budget, approved through the state legislative process and signed into law by the 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 miles of I-70, from Blue Springs to Wentzville. For more information on the Improve I-70 Program and to sign up for program e-mails, visit http://www.modot.org/improvei70.     ### Districts Involved St. Louis Published On Thu, 12/18/2025 - 07:18 Jack Wang Senior Communications Specialist St. Louis District Email: slcommunications@mdoot.mo.govPhone: (314) 648-9783 https://www.modot.org/node/81234 81234 at https://www.modot.org Thu, 18 Dec 2025 12:40:02 +0000 MO Route 114 in Stoddard County Reduced for Bridge Maintenance Visitor (not verified) Thu, 12/18/2025 - 12:40 SIKESTON—Route 114 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.     This section of roadway is located from Route 153 to Route AH near Grayridge, Missouri.   Weather permitting, work will take place Monday, Dec. 22 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.   The work zone will be marked with signs and temporary signals will be used to direct traffic. Motorists are urged to use extreme caution while traveling near the area.  For additional information, contact MoDOT’s Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (1-888-275-6636) or visit www.modot.org/southeast.  ###    facebook.com/MoDOTSoutheast  twitter.com/MoDOTSoutheast  youtube.com/MoDOTSoutheast  Districts Involved Southeast Published On Thu, 12/18/2025 - 05:39 SE Customer Service Southeast District Email: SECRRep@modot.mo.gov Phone: (573) 472-5333 https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-kehoe-budget-leadership-announce-fy-2027-consensus-revenue-estimate 15601 at https://governor.mo.gov Wed, 17 Dec 2025 10:00:29 +0000 Governor Kehoe, Budget Leadership Announce FY 2027 Consensus Revenue Estimate Gabrielle.Picard Wed, 12/17/2025 - 10:00 December 17, 2025 Jefferson City Today, Governor Mike Kehoe, along with Senate Appropriations Chairman Rusty Black and House Budget Chairman Dirk Deaton, announced Missouri's Consensus Revenue Estimate (CRE) for Fiscal Year 2027 (FY2027).The annual CRE is a figure established by state budget experts and economists from the University of Missouri and Missouri State University. It serves as one of the foundational assumptions the Governor and Missouri General Assembly use to build a balanced budget."We appreciate the work of our state budget team, House and Senate leaders, and our university economic experts in developing this revenue estimate to guide our budget for the next fiscal year," said Governor Kehoe. "As Governor, I have a constitutional obligation to balance the budget. While Missouri's economy remains strong and solid revenues are expected, the FY2027 budget will be challenging. Spending, not revenues, is the problem facing state government. We look forward to presenting the legislature with a responsible budget that reflects our commitment to fiscal discipline and a long-term vision for growth."The key figure in the CRE is the projected general revenue collections. Net general revenue collections in FY2027 are expected to be $13.65 billion. This represents a 3.8 percent net general revenue growth over the estimated revenue for FY2026.The revised estimate for FY2026, the current fiscal year, assumes a 2.1 percent decrease to $13.15 billion in net general revenue collections."Reaching a consensus revenue estimate is an important step in the budget process," said Senator Black, Senate Appropriations Chairman. "Once the Governor submits his budget, the Senate will diligently evaluate the proposal and work to develop a fiscally responsible budget that reflects the priorities of Missourians.""This past session, we were proud to support critical programs and initiatives while also delivering much-needed tax relief for Missouri families, but any spending does not come without budgetary consequences,” said Representative Deaton, House Budget Chairman. "The House stands ready to work with the Governor and the Senate to deliver a sustainable budget for the people of Missouri."Governor Mike Kehoe will deliver the 2026 State of the State Address, detailing his legislative priorities and his Fiscal Year 2027 budget proposal, on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.### https://dci.mo.gov/node/2436 2436 at https://dci.mo.gov Wed, 17 Dec 2025 08:46:18 +0000 MEDIA ADVISORY: Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance to host media training on key insurance issues for 2026 legislative session katy.linnenbrink Wed, 12/17/2025 - 08:46 WHO: Angela Nelson, Director, Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI)WHAT: An educational opportunity for members of the media who cover health insurance issues, severe weather and other insurance-related topics. Director Nelson will provide a training session to help journalists understand intricate details about homeowners, auto and health insurance. The session will cover background information relevant to potential topics before legislators during the upcoming 2026 legislative session and explore matters such as where Missourians obtain health coverage, when insurance companies can cancel policies, whether there is such a thing as “full coverage,” and more trending topics.WHY: This training is designed to help those reporting on insurance and severe weather issues become more knowledgeable about the concepts involved, enabling clearer and more comprehensive reporting for readers and viewers.WHEN: Monday, January 12, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.WHERE: Harry S Truman State Office Building, Room HST 500 (in-person attendees), 301 W. High Street, Jefferson City, MO, or Teams Event (virtual attendees).RSVP: Please RSVP to news@dci.mo.gov with the names and email addresses of those wishing to attend and whether you will be in-person or virtual attendees.NOTE TO MEDIA: This event is a learning opportunity and a background briefing. Director Nelson will not be available for individual interviews on specific topics during this time. To schedule an interview with Director Nelson or another DCI representative on a particular issue, please contact the Communications Director separately.CONTACT: Lori Croy, DCI Communications Director | news@dci.mo.gov | (573) 751-2562 Published Date Wed, 12/17/2025 - 08:50