Route 61/27 Avenue of the Saints

A vision of Ernie Hayes

MoDOT’s responsibility to the taxpayers of Missouri is to get people where they need to go safely and directly. While we are not in the business of developing the economy, we understand transportation enhances prosperity for businesses and communities. A four-lane highway does both – it provides a safe, direct route to their destinations AND it is anticipated it will open new avenues for development in Missouri. Maybe this is why Route 61 was coined “Avenue of the Saints”? This vision was actually provided by a man named Ernie Hayes. Mr. Hayes traveled this route several times, coming from St. Louis to visit his daughter in St. Paul, Minnesota. It was Mr. Hayes who helped gain name recognition to the Avenue of the Saints. Even though he passed away in 1990, his “avenue” could become more than just a transportation system – it has potential for many other avenues of development in Missouri.

Construction Photos

Our mission is to provide a world-class transportation experience that delights our customers and promotes a prosperous Missouri.