WARSAW, MO — The Missouri Department of Transportation is inviting residents to learn more about planned improvements along the U.S. Route 65 corridor between Buffalo and Warsaw during an upcoming public meeting.
The come-and-go style meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Warsaw High School. Attendees may stop in at any time during the session to review project details, ask questions, and submit feedback. No formal presentation will be given.
A second meeting covering the same information will take place earlier on Tuesday, April 7 at Buffalo High School.
The project marks the third round of public engagement opportunities, following earlier meetings held in both communities in June and October of 2025.
For those unable to attend in person, project materials and exhibits will be available online through MoDOT’s website. Public comments may be submitted online, by email, or by mail through April 28.
Project Overview
The proposed upgrades span portions of U.S. Route 65 in Benton and Dallas counties and are aimed at improving traffic flow, safety, and accessibility.
Key improvements include:
- Buffalo Area
- Construction of roundabouts at Route 65 intersections with Route 73 and Truman Road
- Larger roundabout designs to better accommodate semi-truck traffic
- Addition of pedestrian features and truck aprons for oversized vehicles
- South of Warsaw
- A new roundabout at Route 65 and Route 7, including intersection realignment and added turn lanes
- Corridor Enhancements
- Addition of eight alternating passing lanes between Buffalo and Warsaw
- Adjustments to reduce driveway impacts and improve visibility
- New turn lane accommodations at select intersections
Traffic Impacts
MoDOT officials say U.S. Route 65 will remain open during construction, though drivers should expect lane closures, shifts, and occasional delays. Temporary signals may be used in work zones.
However, Route 73 and Truman Road in Buffalo will be closed during roundabout construction. Drivers are encouraged to plan alternate routes and watch for posted signage and message boards.
Timeline and Costs
Construction on passing lanes and the roundabout south of Warsaw is expected to begin in Spring 2027. Work on the Buffalo roundabouts is scheduled for Winter 2027.
Estimated project costs include:
- Route 65 & Route 73 Roundabout: $6.6 million
- Route 65 & Truman Road Roundabout: $5.6 million
- Route 65 & Route 7 Roundabout and realignment: $10.4 million
- Passing lane improvements: $38 million
MoDOT says the improvements are designed to enhance safety and efficiency along one of the region’s key north-south corridors. Residents are encouraged to participate in the public meeting process and provide input on the project plans.
