LINN  — New sidewalks are planned in Linn thanks to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), which has awarded State Tech $500,000 through the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP). The college will pay for the remainder of the $673,749 project.

According to State Tech, the plan is to build sidewalks from the Linn campus to apartment complexes to the east and Casper’s 66 to the west. In addition, the sidewalk will also go to the Linn R-2 schools to the south. These sidewalks will connect approximately 1,000 students directly to campus.

“When we evaluated MoDOT’s proposal for the new entrance, the lack of sidewalks jumped out at us,” said State Tech President Dr. Shawn Strong. “Our project was ranked first in our region, likely because of the density of students living near campus. We were surprised by just how many students live within 3,000 feet of the campus. This number will increase as the old retirement home is converted to student housing. We are pleased to partner with MoDOT for the safety of our students and community.”

According to MoDOT, TAP is federally funded through the Infrastructure, Investment, and Jobs Act. The program’s goal is to expand transportation choices and enhance the transportation experience through categories of activities related to the surface transportation system. TAP focuses on non-motorized transportation projects emphasizing bicycle and pedestrian facilities.

State Tech anticipates construction will take place next summer in conjunction with adding turn lanes and stoplights at Rt. CC and the college’s main entrance. Plans for east and west entrances are also being made to help alleviate traffic congestion. 

Dr. Strong noted that MoDOT has indicated support for a new east entrance across from the Linn First Church in a 50/50 cost-share project that will cost the college approximately $400,000.

State Tech’s share of both will come from the special project fund.