Drivers in Moniteau County will need to adjust their routes as the Route U bridge over Howard Creek is set to close for a major overhaul. The bridge, a structure standing since 1968, requires a new bridge deck due to years of weathering and wear. The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has announced that construction teams will shut the bridge down on June 23, with the closure expected to last through August. This will inevitably cause some detours and delays for local traffic.
According to details released by MoDOT, the goal of the project is not simply to replace the aging deck, but also to enhance safety with the installation of new concrete barriers and end guardrails. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and find alternate routes, as all through traffic will be prohibited during the renovation. Despite the inconvenience, such measures are necessary to not only maintain, but to also equally improve the infrastructure for future decades of use.
The work on Route U is part of a broader initiative by MoDOT, which includes improvements on several older bridges in the area. Notably, the Route 179 bridge over Moniteau Creek is also undergoing similar renovations. In a statement obtained by MoDOT, the commission has allocated over $1 million to E & C Bridge, LLC, confirming their commitment to these critical infrastructure projects. The Route 179 bridge closed on May 12 and is expected to open by the end of July, aligning with the Schedule for Route U.
All the scheduled construction work is subject to change, depending on the whims of weather. MoDOT urges drivers to remain vigilant and exercise patience during this time. The standard reminders to "buckle up, put your phone down, and slow down" have been issued, paired with an appeal for heightened caution in work zones. Updates and further information about detours and construction progress can be found on the project's dedicated webpage provided by MoDOT.
