Jan’s Letter


By now, it’s likely you’ve heard about MoDOT’s bolder attempt to live within its budget in very trying times. MoDOT is in the midst of the largest reorganization it has ever attempted. When all is said and done, 135 facilities will close, 740 pieces of equipment will be sold and 1,200 fewer people will work at MoDOT, a 20 percent reduction. We’ve already reorganized from ten to seven regional dis- tricts. These measures help the department redirect $512 million to road and bridge projects by 2015.


This isn’t easy, but it is necessary. Without these savings, Missouri will not be able to match all available federal funds for projects and would have to turn away money to fix your workplace, the highways. It seems that reau- thorization of a federal transportation bill won’t happen quickly – and it’s not certain that Missouri will receive any more, or even the same amount of funding when the bill does pass.


We have to be ready for anything. And what MoDOT is doing is not unlike the steps many families have had to take in this economy. We’re cutting back to the essentials, taking a second and even third look at everything we do. At the same time, we’re focusing on providing excellent customer service and the best transportation system we can afford.


Tough times call for tough measures. We’re hanging tough.


Find more information about the Bolder Five-Year Direc- tion, including maps of MoDOT’s new district layout, at www.modot.org/bolderfiveyeardirection.


Motor Carrier Services Director


MCS Changes Operations on Federal Holidays


On Columbus Day and Veteran’s Day, (October 10 and November 11) the doors to our Jefferson City office will be closed. Agents will be available by phone dur- ing normal working hours and our online MoDOT Carrier Express system is available 24/7, but because the doors will be locked, no walk-in service will be available on the federal holidays.


The move will keep MoDOT Motor Carrier Services completely accessible to carriers while reducing staff costs and allowing several employees a well-deserved holiday.


Expect the same arrangement on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and President’s Day starting in 2012.


Safety Belt Myths and Truths


Using a safety belt is MY decision. It doesn’t affect any- one else. Using a belt can help you stay upright and avoid losing control of your truck in a crash – preventing injuries to other travelers. Your decision affects them.


Belts prevent escape from burning or submerged vehicles. Safety belts can keep you from being knocked uncon- scious, actually improving your chance of escape.


It’s better to be thrown clear in a crash. It’s worse! Folks thrown from vehicles are four times more likely to die than those who remain in the vehicle’s safety cage.


It’s a hassle to buckle up 20+ times a day Buckling up takes about three seconds. It’s a quick habit to adopt – and is a no-cost way to boost personal safety.


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