OSBORN, Mo. – The speed limit in the work zone on U.S. Route 36 near Osborn has been reduced.

According to a news release from the Missouri Department of Transportation, in northwest Missouri, driving too fast for conditions continues to be a top contributing factor in 2018 traffic crashes. When that aggressive driving behavior occurs in a work zone, additional safety measures must be put in place.

As part of those safety measures, MoDOT has lowered the speed limit on U.S. Route 36 near Osborn. Eastbound traffic is limited to 55 miles per hour. The speed limit for westbound traffic is reduced to 45 miles per hour, due to the configuration of turn lanes at Route 33 North.

Through the beginning of July, U.S. Route 36 near Osborn is reduced to one lane, each direction, for a rebuilding and resurfacing project. MoDOT contracted with Herzog Contracting Corporation and their sub-contractors to complete the project.

For the duration of the head to head traffic pattern, drivers at the Route 33 North/Route M intersection will be restricted to right turns both onto and off of U.S. Route 36. Additionally, motorists will not be able to cross U.S. Route 36 at this intersection. Towards the end of this part of the project, access to Route 33 North will be closed to all traffic while a new intersection is constructed.

According to MoDOT, the project is an effort to make that section of Route 36 more safe as several crashes have taken place there.

Traffic control, signs and message boards are in place alerting motorists of the work. All work is weather permitting and could be rescheduled.

For more information on this or other MoDOT projects, call 1-888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636) or visit modot.org/northwest and view the online Traveler Information Map.