June's Worst Times to Commute on Highway 40 Are Later in Morning, Evening

A month can make a difference—at least when that month means the end of school and start of vacation season.

The Missouri Department of Transportation has released the latest monthly study of the worst times to drive on Highway 40. The study examined typical traffic from Route 94 to Spoede Road, east of I-270. During the morning rush, 6 to 9 a.m., MoDOT examined eastbound traffic. During the evening rush, 3 to 6 p.m., westbound traffic was monitored. 

In June traffic began to slow down later in the morning . The worst time period to commute both ways has shortened too. Here are June's results:

• In the morning, traffic begins to slow between 7 and 7:30 a.m.
• The worst time to travel east is between 7:30 and 8 a.m.
• Traffic begins to improve after 8:30 a.m., but up until then it can be a little slow between Woods Mill and Mason roads.
• In the evening, traffic begins to slow between 4 and 5 p.m.
• The worst time to travel west is between 5 and 5:45 p.m.
• Travel times start to get back to normal at about 6:15 p.m. If you drive over the Daniel Boone Bridge over the Missouri River, traffic may continue to be slow since the narrow bridge has a reduced speed limit.

MoDOT is asking drivers to consider alternate routes—such as Interstate 44 or the Page Avenue Extension. Or, adjust your commute to avoid the peak times if possible.