This environmental assessment (EA) provided a platform to align the economic goals of MoDOT—focusing on cost-effective solutions—and the local community, which prioritized riverfront enhancement and economic development, through active public engagement. In collaboration with MoDOT, the project team developed a customized public involvement plan to engage the community and envision a future for downtown St. Joseph. The process began with a visioning session during the initial public meeting, aimed at understanding and incorporating community priorities. By working closely with MoDOT, the City of St. Joseph, and the MPO, the team developed a compromise alternative that satisfied MoDOT, the city, and the community. MoDOT’s next steps will focus on advancing the project with reliable cost data and continued community support, ensuring a collaborative approach to securing and prioritizing future project funding.