Garver recognized with 2026 ACEC Missouri Engineering Excellence Award

Garver received honors in the Studies, Research, and Consulting Engineering Services category at the ACEC Missouri Engineering Excellence Award gala for its Forward 44 Purpose and Need Study. The Study, developed in partnership with the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), identifies key areas of improvement and creates a roadmap for future design and construction projects for Interstate 44 in Missouri to remain a safe and reliable corridor.  

I-44 is a vital east-west corridor that spans over 250 miles. Due to the interstate’s aging interchanges, bridges, pavement, and ramps, combined with the increased freight and traffic volumes, some portions of I-44 are experiencing increased congestion and fatigue. By analyzing roadway characteristics, traffic and safety conditions, environmental constraints, and social and economic influences along the corridor, Garver developed Future Study Sections to move forward into design as funding is identified. The Study outlines a clear path forward, for MoDOT and regional planning partners, by dividing the interstate into 13 segments for prioritized improvements.  

The Study provided the opportunity for public interaction across the entire corridor, and with a successful public involvement plan, Garver secured nearly 1,500 public comments. This feedback confirmed the data that our team collected with firsthand experience and local knowledge from the communities. In addition to the public, close coordination with local, state and federal and transportation officials proved to be vital.

“Forward 44 is a great example of what project teams can achieve when they combine community input and data analysis,” said Deputy Project Manager Griffin Smith, PE. “A successful Study gathers no dust, and it’s exciting to see this one has been put into quick action to support specific projects across Missouri.

This achievement and recognition by ACEC Missouri reflect Garver’s dedication to the infrastructure of our communities, along with a commitment to leveraging data-driven decisions to deliver future-focused improvements.