The Missouri Route 28 bridge over Interstate 44 reopened today. According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge, the first of six scheduled for rehabilitation in Phelps and Pulaski counties, had been closed since mid-August. With its reopening, traffic is now moving again as part of the ongoing project to improve infrastructure in the area.
Motorists in Phelps County continue to experience delays as the Route D bridge over Interstate 44 remains closed. The bridge, originally scheduled to reopen by the end of this month, requires additional repairs after workers discovered unexpected structural deterioration. These repairs are necessary to ensure the long-term safety and reliability of the bridge. The Missouri Department of Transportation has indicated that the reopening timeline has been adjusted to accommodate the extensive work needed.
The project covers multiple sites, with additional closures and detours planned. In Rolla, sidewalk removal on Phelps County Route E has been postponed until work on the Route D bridge is completed. Traffic management plans have been announced for other upcoming work, including detours for the rehabilitation of Phelps County Road 8490 and Route J early next year, as well as changes to traffic patterns on Phelps County Business U.S. 44/Kingshighway in Rolla beginning in April 2026.
As infrastructure projects continue across the region, MoDOT advises commuters to follow safety guidelines, including wearing seatbelts, avoiding cell phone use, obeying traffic signs, and exercising caution in work zones to protect both drivers and construction crews. The multi-bridge project, administered under a $3,948,366.99 contract awarded to Concrete Strategies, LLC, is expected to be completed by September 2026, weather permitting.
For those seeking additional information or updates on the project, MoDOT offers an option to sign up for project-specific notifications on its website. Related information and progress for each bridge under rehabilitation can also be tracked through the provided links.
