Reimagining the Business Loop

Columbia is taking a new look at the opens in a new windowI-70 Business Loop - not just as a road, but as a place where people want to be.

With support from a $2 million opens in a new windowReconnecting Communities Planning Grant, the City is developing a long-term plan to improve the corridor and better connect the community. This effort represents a partnership with opens in a new windowThe Loop Community Improvement District and the opens in a new windowMissouri Department of Transportation.

Today, much of the Business Loop is focused on vehicles and moving them quickly through the area. Limited sidewalks and aging infrastructure are problematic. These can make it feel less comfortable for people walking, biking or spending time along the corridor.

The improvement plan looks at how we can change that.

Early work has focused on understanding how people use the corridor today and gathering community feedback. This spring, planners are exploring a range of ideas, such as making targeted upgrades to the existing roadway to more significant changes that could include landscaped medians, safer crossings, better bike facilities and more inviting spaces for people.

The City expects the planning process to be complete by winter 2026-27. At that time, the City will have final plan recommendations in hand. The long-term goal is to create a Business Loop that feels more connected, welcoming and active.

With resident input as a guide, The Loop could one day be a corridor that better supports local businesses. The plan would improve safety and give people more reasons to stop, visit and spend time there. The Loop could become a vibrant gateway for Columbia that works for drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists.

Visit the opens in a new windowBeHeard Business Loop Improvement Plan page for more information.