NE Missouri News

Congressman Sam Graves, Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, expressed his gratitude for Audrain County Presiding Commissioner Alan Winders' testimony before the Committee. Winders highlighted the challenges faced by rural communities in securing federal transportation grants, noting the ever-changing requirements and complexities involved in implementing projects.

Winders, who also serves as the Highway 54 Coalition Chairman, emphasized the importance of the project aimed at increasing safety in Audrain and Pike Counties. He pointed out the difficulties encountered by the coalition in applying for federal RAISE grants, stating, "Our application rating for RAISE grant funds has declined over the years and the difference has been the raters and the rating criteria that has changed."

The proposed project seeks to enhance safety by adding alternating passing lanes on Highway 54 between Mexico and Louisiana, Missouri, creating a "shared 4-lane." Despite no additional funding being allocated for the project, the coalition has submitted another RAISE grant application. Winders also underscored the coalition's preference for projects without federal strings attached and highlighted the significance of other major unfunded transportation projects in Northeast Missouri, such as the proposed Hannibal bypass.

During the hearing, Winders was joined by other Highway 54 Coalition members, including Pike County Presiding Commissioner Bill Allen, Audrain County Road and Bridge Engineer Brian Haeffner, and Mark Twain Regional Council of Governments Transportation Planner Anna Gill.

The testimony provided a valuable insight into the challenges faced by rural communities in accessing federal transportation grants and the critical need for infrastructure improvements in North Missouri.