Despite traffic backups, Highway 65 widening project is right on schedule

CHRISTIAN COUNTY, Mo. — A project to widen Highway 65 through northern Christian County continues.

That stretch of 65 in Ozark has been under construction for nearly two years now.

Neighbors tell Ozarks First while this project is needed, they're ready for it to be done.

"I drive it twice a day," said Ozark resident Jared Robbins. "And I just really wish that it would get done faster."

Robbins says as expected, traffic on Highway 65 is extremely congested during morning and afternoon rush hours.

"We live down here at the last exit," Robbins said. "Sometimes I will drive through town to get the first exit, and even then, sometimes the traffic's backed up there."

MoDOT says they are right on schedule with the road widening project.

"We're getting closer to wrapping up the project," said resident engineer Brad Gripka. "I mean, we're still several months out from final completion."

Gripka says there's only a short distance left before they finish up repaving every night.

"Over the next several months, everything will start opening up and then we'll start bringing it all together," Gripka said.

He says he can understand how the multiple construction projects on major highways in the Ozarks can be frustrating.

"Just give us a few more months, you know, slow down for the work zone," Gripka said. "I know it's probably an inconvenience for everyone, but it's for everybody's safety."

He says the improvements will make it easier for commuters by not having to merge too often.

"All those additional lanes once we get past 14, that third lane will disappear and it'll be two lanes just like we have at CC exiting to that interchange," Gripka said. "But then we'll have these new auxiliary lanes between F and 14, which will make helping with the city of Ozark, you know, and the commuters in between."

Robbins says he believes once the construction wraps up, the highway will be much better.

"I do feel like it's needed," Robbins said. "It's been needed for years. Everyone else has expanded."

Gripka asks drivers for just a little more patience.

"For the most part, we're still keeping traffic flowing and without having any issues," Gripka said.

The Highway 65 road widening project is expected to be done early November 2025.

"Come visit us in Ozark," Robbins said. "Maybe avoid the highway, though."