Macon Economic Development and MoDOT Partner to
Bring Sidewalk Improvement Project to Bevier 

        MACON – The City of Bevier will receive a much needed improvement to a 200-foot section of sidewalk in the downtown area later this summer.  The improvement is being funded through a $15,000 infrastructure grant from Macon Economic Development Corporation; and a partnering agreement between the Corporation and MoDOT.
        The grant is being provided with monies received from landfill fees approved by Macon County taxpayers last August.  The fees, collected from 14 counties, are used to fund infrastructure grants to cities within Macon County, or to the county itself.
        MoDOT partnered with Macon Economic Development to provide the design plan, labor and equipment for the sidewalk replacement and other improvements; while the monies from the grant are being used to purchase materials.
        According to Macon Economic Development Director Denise Bennett, citizens are now reaping the benefits of the landfill fees as these grants are being provided to communities.  “This sidewalk project is a perfect fit for these grants, and we are very excited to partner with MoDOT,” said Bennett. “The improvements will provide a safe and easy access to these businesses and enhance the appearance through town, elements which are key to attracting and retaining businesses in any community.”
        The project calls for the old sidewalk in front of Matt’s Market and Jackie’s Hair Care to be removed and replaced with a new 5-foot wide ADA compliant sidewalk. The steps into the businesses will be removed as the new sidewalk will be level with the entrances. New curb and gutter and a new asphalt shoulder with a less steep slope will also be included.  The improvements will take place later this summer. “We are happy to have this opportunity to work with Denise and her staff and with the City of Bevier to provide these upgrades,” said MoDOT District Engineer Dan Niec. “Although our resources are limited, when we have an opportunity like this to assist a city or a county with a project, we do everything in our power to try and make it happen.”