Dedication completed for new highway interchange in Mt. Vernon

Shown cutting the ribbon at the new interchange for Highway 39 and Interstate 44 in Mt. Vernon on Monday, from left, are: David Wilkens, representing contractor APAC Missouri; Becky Baltz, District 7 engineer for MoDOT; Mt. Vernon businessman Dick Healey; Presiding County Commissioner Sam Goodman; Mayor David Eden; State Representative Don Ruzicka; Jane Hood, who worked in economic development for the city when the project began; Holly Elliott, from U.S. Senator Kit Bond's office; Steve McIntosh from Congressman Blunt's office; and State Senator Jack Goodman. [Times Photo by Murray Bishoff] [Click to enlarge]

Ribbon cutting ceremonies were held on Monday for the new highway interchange with Interstate 44 in Mt. Vernon.

The $10.6 million project, with the bridge visible in the background, received $4 million in federal funds earmarked by Seventh District Congressman Roy Blunt. Work on resurfacing the business loop, which added a popular turning lane, cost $538,000.

In comments during the dedication ceremony, Baltz gave a plaque to APAC Missouri for bringing in the project on time and under budget. Sen. Goodman called the project "a great example of how different levels of government can work together."

Property owners and businesses were praised for working with MoDOT to minimize disruption from construction.

Mt. Vernon Mayor David Eden said the city council has embraced the idea that change can lead to prosperity and called the interchange "our new front door," which he considered a catalyst for growth.