Innovation Description and Benefit:

This innovation is a median barrier wildlife crossing plan for small mammals, reptiles and amphibians on the McDonald County Interstate 49 project. There are 14 locations along the five-mile I-49 project corridor where the special medians will be placed. These openings are to allow small mammals, reptiles and amphibians a way to cross the barriers without becoming trapped on the Interstate.

 As a state agency, MoDOT is tasked with wisely stewarding state resources while providing “a world-class transportation system that is safe, innovative, reliable and dedicated to a prosperous Missouri”. As a state transportation agency, MoDOT currently ranks 3rd in the nation for highway conditions and cost-effectiveness. This is proof that MoDOT is making the most of every dollar spent on the state transportation system. Following suit, the MoDOT Design/Environmental Section is actively seeking ways to avoid, minimize, or mitigate transportation project impacts on the environment, while providing a great value to Missouri citizens. The wildlife median barrier innovation accomplishes this goal by being a blend MoDOT’s Mission Statement with environmental stewardship, while using innovative and cost-effective ways to benefit wildlife and promote safety of the traveling public.