West Plains, Mo. – Leonardo DRS was the place for a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, October 3, 2024. Important people from the business, along with the mayor and our governor, were present. They are dedicating land for an overpass.
Brief History
Mayor Mike Topliff greeted the guests and gave a brief history of the significance of this overpass. When the terrible flooding occurred in 2017, the wide-sweeping creek divided the town. At first, that may not seem too serious. However, first responders or any emergency equipment personnel could not reach homes on the other side as the roads were flooded. When the water cleared, those in charge knew an overpass or bridge was necessary to prevent this from happening again. They have requested funding from the state. In Governor Parson’s State of the State address in 2021, he mentioned this overpass. That was when the citizens of West Plains knew this was becoming a reality.
Ceremony
After the mayor gave a brief history, the vice president of Leonardo DRS spoke on his hopes and satisfaction with this coming to pass. Following that, Governor Parson spoke. As his time in office is nearing the end, he joked with the audience and spoke frankly of what was on his mind.
Following this, those in charge dug their shovels into the dirt for the groundbreaking.
Where Will This Be?
The overpass, built next to Leonardo DRS over the railroad tracks on Independence Avenue, is expected to be completed by the end of next year.
Who Was Present?
West Plains Mayor Mike Topliff was the main speaker. Aaron Hankins, Sr., the vice president of Leonardo DRS, also spoke. Governor Parson and his traveling staff were present.
Then, representatives for Senator Hawley, Senator Schmitt, and Representative Jason Smith were there. West Plains city council members were present for this monumental day. A crowd of approximately fifty people showed up. Homeschool families brought their children as an additional way of education.
