Hanley Road south of Manchester has been reduced to one lane in each direction. These lanes will remain closed throughout the evening rush hour and possibly throughout tomorrow (Thursday). Motorists are asked to use alternate routes – fewer cars mean MSD crews can work faster and in a safer work zone. MSD crews will keep as many lanes open as possible during working and non-working hours. However, lane closures are currently expected to last into next week.
Traffic flow will be impacted in the following ways:
- The curbside lanes of northbound and southbound Hanley Road will be closed directly south of Manchester Road. Backups in both directions are expected.
- Drivers traveling north on Laclede Station Road should divert onto South Big Bend Boulevard, unless traveling to a home or business south of Manchester Road.
- Drivers that usually travel south on Hanley Road from I-64/Highway 40 should use either South Big Bend Boulevard or South Brentwood Boulevard, unless traveling to a home or business located north of Manchester Road.
- Drivers on northbound or southbound Hanley Road between I-64/Highway 40 and Laclede Station Road at South Big Bend Boulevard should expect delays.
- Manchester Road remains open in both directions (east-west).
Since 6:00 AM today, MSD crews have been working to secure a safe work zone and dig down approximately 15 to 20 feet to access a collapsed section of 42-inch corrugated metal stormwater sewer located on the east side of Hanley Road. The collapse caused a depression to develop on Hanley Road and led to a lane closure Tuesday evening. The excavation allows MSD crews to visually inspect the scope of the damage and plan appropriate repairs.
During this morning’s work, it was discovered that the outfall of the stormwater sewer is plugged with debris from the collapse. The outfall of the sewer is located on the west side of Hanley Road, discharging into Deer Creek. Repairs and modifications are necessary at the outfall. Thus, the curbside lane of southbound Hanley Road is also closed.
Today’s activities have been focused on covering power lines and removing utility poles to allow excavation of the site. Digging commenced around mid-day and will continue into the evening. Full access to the sewer section in question is expected to occur this afternoon or evening.
As there are numerous overhead utility lines and other obstacles, safety concerns will restrict working hours from sunrise to sunset. Additionally, expected rain in the forecast could cause crews to suspend their work. However, MSD crews will continue working as long as possible each day and throughout the weekend, until repairs are complete.
(Note: The below photos are of Ameren Missouri and Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDot) contractor crews covering power lines and removing utility poles. These steps had to occur to allow for the use of the larger equipment MSD crews need to excavate the site. These types of projects – especially on emergency repairs – are a choreographed ballet amongst many agencies and companies. Special thanks to Ameren, MoDot, the St. Louis County Department of Traffic & Highways, J.H. Berra Construction, Gerstner Electric, Windstar Trucking, and many others for all their help and support today!)
