Wakefield Bridge Replacement Starts First Week of January

Starting the first week of January, and lasting approximately 3 months, the Wakefield Bridge will close for demolition and reconstruction. The bridge is located on Wakefield Ave near the power plant, and crosses Richland Drainage District Ditch No. 4. Wakefield Ave will be closed to through traffic from Euclid Ave west to State Route BB/Brown Spur Rd. Access to the power plant and residences along Wakefield Ave will be maintained throughout the project.

Throughout Missouri, bridges are inspected every two years by MoDOT. After the most recent inspection of the Wakefield Bridge, the load limit was reduced from 40 tons to 10 tons due to deteriorating conditions caused by wear and tear on the bridge structure. The total replacement of the bridge is projected to cost $407,000, and 80% of that money is coming from MoDOT/FHWA Surface Transportation Program grants. The remaining $81,400 is coming from City of Sikeston funds.

 

Chief Juden named President of Missouri Police Chiefs Association

Sikeston Public Safety Chief Drew Juden was named President of the Missouri Police Chiefs Association last week. Chief Juden has worked for Sikeston DPS for over 35 years, and now oversees all police and fire operations for the city. Congratulations, Chief Juden, we are privileged to have you protecting our community!
http://www.kfvs12.com/story/27634942/veteran-heartland-officer-to-take-over-as-mos-top-chief?autostart=true

Three Rivers College Set to Open in January

I had the pleasure of touring the new Sikeston Campus of Three Rivers College yesterday. Three Rivers staff has been moving from their old building into the new one over the past couple of weeks, and students will begin attending class at the new building on January 12. Enrollment will be around 500 students this semester, and ultimately is hoped to increase to 1,500 - 1,800 students. The state-of-the-art new facility features a library, 4 computer labs, a FEMA certified safe room and more. One of the most exciting elements is the simulator lab for the nursing program, where students will learn in a simulated hospital environment using modern medical equipment and computerized dummies. See below for some pictures of the new facility.  

Front of building, pre-landcaping

Administrative offices

Atrium at front entrance

Simulator lab for the nursing program

Science lab

Science lab

Library

Overlooking the atrium

Computer lab

Conference room (doubles as FEMA certified safe room)