Attention Chariton County travelers: The Route KK Puzzle Creek Bridge near Keytesville is scheduled for replacement, part of a larger effort to improve the infrastructure in north central Missouri. Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has confirmed that the bridge will be closed starting Nov. 10, with construction expected to last until mid-March 2026. Motorists will need to plan for detours, as the bridge, which sees about 188 vehicles daily, will be inaccessible during this time.
MoDOT's Northwest Bridge Bundle project includes this bridge among the 31 structures targeted for replacement or rehabilitation. "The Northwest Bridge Bundle is a Design-Build project which will replace or rehabilitate 31 poor-condition bridges in north central Missouri," Michael Marriott, Project Manager at MoDOT, explained to the public. The project leverages a design-build approach, a method where the design and construction phases are contracted to a single entity to improve efficiency and cut costs. The Capital – Horner & Shifrin team clinched the design-build contract after being selected by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission back in December 2023.
For those interested, a full list of bridge projects can be found on the Northwest Bridge Bundle web page. As with all construction, the timelines are weather-permitting and subject to change, which is something drivers should keep in mind before hitting the road.
MoDOT has issued a reminder for safety during these developments, asking drivers to take precautions in work zones. "MoDOT asks drivers to work with us by always buckling up, keeping your phones down, slowing down and moving over in work zones," stated an announcement on their website. As work zones may affect your commute, updates can be followed at the MoDOT traveler information page for any possible changes.
