Missouri Route 96 (MO-96) is a state highway located in southwestern Missouri, serving as an important east–west connector between smaller communities and major transportation corridors. Portions of the route also align with historic roadway infrastructure tied to the former U.S. Route 66.
This article provides a factual overview of Missouri Route 96, including its routing, length, historical significance, and modern role in Missouri’s highway system.
Route Overview
Missouri Route 96 runs approximately 52 miles across Jasper, Newton, Lawrence, and Greene counties in southwestern Missouri.
- Western terminus: Route 171 near Carl Junction
- Eastern terminus: Interstate 44 near Halltown
- Primary direction: West–East
The highway connects rural communities to Interstate 44, a major east–west interstate corridor through Missouri.
Counties and Communities Served
Missouri Route 96 passes through or near several towns and unincorporated areas, including:
- Carl Junction
- Carthage (southern outskirts)
- Mount Vernon
- Halltown
The route plays a role in regional mobility by providing access between agricultural areas, small towns, and interstate traffic.
Relationship to Historic U.S. Route 66
A portion of Missouri Route 96 follows or parallels segments of the former U.S. Route 66, particularly in areas near Carthage and Halltown. While Route 66 was officially decommissioned in 1985, remnants of its alignment continue to exist within Missouri’s state highway network.
Because of this overlap, parts of Route 96 are sometimes referenced in discussions of historic Route 66 travel, preservation efforts, and regional transportation history.
Infrastructure and Usage
Missouri Route 96 is maintained by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). The highway consists primarily of a two-lane roadway, with periodic upgrades and maintenance projects addressing pavement conditions, bridges, and traffic safety.
The route supports:
- Local commuting traffic
- Agricultural and commercial vehicle movement
- Regional travel to Interstate 44
MoDOT periodically conducts resurfacing and bridge rehabilitation projects along the corridor as part of statewide infrastructure programs.
Historical Development
The roadway that later became Missouri Route 96 developed incrementally during the early–to–mid 20th century as Missouri expanded its state highway system. As national highways were realigned and Interstate 44 replaced U.S. Route 66 as the primary corridor, Route 96 continued to serve regional transportation needs.
Rather than functioning as a long-distance route, Missouri Route 96 evolved into a connector highway linking communities to larger transportation arteries.
Official Designation and Signage
Missouri Route 96 is officially designated and signed by MoDOT. It appears on state highway maps and transportation planning documents as part of Missouri’s secondary highway network.
Official Sources
- Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) – Official State Highway Maps
- Federal Highway Administration –U.S. Route 66 Historical Overview
- National Park Service –Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program