Missouri road construction encourages the need for infrared heaters

In Branson, Missouri, construction crews are upgrading a major interchange along U.S. Route 65 to make it safer for local commuters. Residents have been waiting for these enhancements for a long time, as the new traffic flow will eliminate the need for two stoplights in a row along the interchange. In order to battle the unseasonably cold temperatures of late summer and fall, crews will need the targeted warmth of infrared heaters.

According to the Springfield News-Leader, this new interchange will be known as the diverging diamond. The preliminary work began on May 16th, and delays are increasing as the development continues. The city of Branson is paying about $4.9 million of the total expenses, while the Missouri Department of Transportation is funding about $1.57 million.

At a cost of less than 14 cents per hour, the energy efficiency of infrared heaters can make it less likely that crews will be delayed due to adverse weather. Alternative sources like propane heaters, on the other hand, typically cost as much as three dollars per hour to operate.