Letter To Local Officials from Mayor of Moscow Mills

Monday, January 25th, 2016 Ladies and Gentlemen: As I am sure you are all well aware by now, a serious and tragic accident occurred last Thursday along Missouri State Highway 61 in St. Charles County. This horrific accident resulted in the death of 3 members of a family from Lincoln County, a mother and two of her children. There are no words anyone can offer to describe the pain and anguish this has caused these families, as well as citizens from across the region. In my position as Mayor for the City of Moscow Mills, I know all too well the tragic history of Highway 61 and the numerous fatal crashes that have occurred over the past decade. Highway 61 I think we can all agree was NEVER intended to carry the large amounts of traffic it now does. While several overpasses in the Lincoln County area have assisted in helping with traffic safety and flow, it is obvious more must be done to make this vital thoroughfare safer. For years now we have heard from both MoDOT and members of the General Assembly that no money exists to improve roads and bridges. I can tell you from my perspective that this excuse has more than been worn out and carries little legitimacy with citizens in and around my community. The time for excuses has long since expired and there is now action required on your parts at both the state AND federal levels. I would like to propose a public forum or even formal public hearing to be conducted with the residents who live in and along either side of Highway 61. The members of this panel should include all of the elected officials listed as well as members of MoDOT from both the St. Louis and Northeast District. It could be held say at a church or public school in the general vicinity of either Wentzville or Moscow Mills. I could check with the Lincoln County R-III Schools about holding such an event at the Ninth Grade Center in Moscow Mills. There can be little doubt that action MUST be taken to improve the safety and traffic flow along Highway 61 from its intersection with Interstates 64 and 70 at least north to its intersection with Highway 47 in Troy. (Including the Cuivre River Bridges) I would be glad to prepare the ground work for just such a meeting, as long as we can find a mutually agreeable date for all parties. Sincerely, Michael R. Clynch, Mayor City of Moscow Mills