SIKESTON - Motorists traveling over the Diversion Channel bridge on northbound Interstate 55 in Cape Girardeau County can expect to see new reflectors and signs this winter season.  This will be the first bridge in the state to have the Bluestar Roadway System installed.

With the Bluestar Roadway System, temperature-sensitive reflectors will be mounted on standard guideposts and placed in front of the bridge.  The reflectors will change from white to blue as temperatures approach freezing.  Signs which read "blue reflectors indicate freezing temperatures" will also be installed near the bridge.

"The reflectors and signs will be installed in advance of the bridge approach to tell drivers that conditions which could result in ice on the road are present," said District Traffic Engineer Craig Compas. 

Compas explained that motorists can easily overlook icy conditions on bridges if roads appear to be clear.  Even if ice is not present on the roadway, it may be present on bridges. 

"The underside of a bridge is exposed to cold air, causing the bridge to freeze first," he said.  "Secondly, unlike the roadway, bridges do not have insulation from the ground."

Installation of the Bluestar Roadway System is expected to occur this week, weather permitting.   

"We hope that the system will serve as a reminder to drivers that icy conditions may be present," Compas said.  "But there is no substitute for safe driving."

He mentioned that drivers should avoid driving until roads are cleared and treated when possible, utilize the Traveler Information Map available at www.modot.org/southeast and refrain from passing other vehicles on or near bridges. 

For more information, please contact Compas at (573) 472-5310, Intermediate Traffic Studies Specialist Seth Bollinger at (573) 472-5257 or MoDOT's Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-888-ASK MODOT. 

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