VIENNA — The Vienna City Council briefly discussed what a four-lane Highway 63 would mean to the little town of Vienna.

The Highway 63 Alliance is looking into adding additional lanes and realigning the roadway in some sections of the highway that is a primary north-south thoroughfare in the south-central region of Missouri. Vienna is a Highway 63 town and the highway plays a role in both business and tax revenue in the city.  For years there has been talk about expanding the number of highway lanes, which will mean realignment in some areas. The last time MoDOT proposed the Highway 63 improvements, Vienna was bypassed in the plan, which upset many within the business community.

Traffic continues to increase in this strategic route as Highway 63 moves freight and people north and south through the seven-county area in the alliance.

The alliance group needs start up money and may ask the counties and cities in the region for a donation to begin with. The alliance is discussing a Transportation Development District (TDD) created for the purpose of raising money for the Highway 63 improvements. At this point in time, a one percent sales tax approved in each county is under discussion. Over a period of years this sales tax would generate enough money in the seven-county region to enable financial partnerships with MoDOT and the federal transportation department.

Mayor Tyler “TC” James said he would be more in favor of it if Vienna could expand the city limits to catch the intersection of the new alignment. Utilities Superintendent Shon Westart said Vienna would still have a business loop through town. He said the trouble with annexing property into the city is that the city would have to provide water and sewer services as well.

South Ward Alderwoman Brenda Davis said when MoDOT began to talk about the Highway 63 improvements and about realigning the highway so it does not pass through Vienna, at first everybody said, “No.” But, she said they have to be careful about that fight because if the city does not work with MoDOT and the progress, they will bypass the city.

Mayor James said Vienna has more to offer than the highway that goes through it. Vienna is the county seat and attracts people to the town. He added an improved Highway 63 has its benefits of getting to Jefferson City and Rolla faster. “We need to think about it and plan for it.”

Davis, who works in Jefferson City and travels Highway 63 North to do it, said every day they encounter big trucks and equipment as the highway is very busy. She said it also can be dangerous.