Expect long backups on eastbound I-70 west of Columbia during Roots ‘N Blues, into next week

State transportation officials are warning you to expect significant backups and delays on eastbound I-70 west of Columbia during the Roots ‘N Blues festival.

The state Department of Transportation (MoDOT) will close one eastbound I-70 bridge over Perche creek Friday evening at 8, and will be putting a concrete barrier up. That lane will stay closed through Tuesday.

The festival is this weekend in Columbia’s Stephens Lake Park.

MoDOT says the closures are necessary to protect workers and to rehabilitate the aging bridge. The bridge project is part of the governor’s $350 million bridge bonding plan.