Willow Springs, Mo. - The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has announced work has been completed on the bridge on Route K over Spring Creek in Phelps County. The structure had been closed under the Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Program, which includes bridges to be replaced or repaired within the next five years. Construction was completed by Contractor L. Krupp Construction, Inc., of Ellisville, Mo. in 60 days.

Work on the bridge included replacing the bridge deck and widening it from 22 to 24 feet. According to MoDOT District 9 Bridge Engineer Ed Hess, the girders and columns were still in good shape, but the deck needed replacement.

Hess said the district Safe & Sound team is sensitive to the impact felt by motorists during bridge closures. "We initially communicated with many key stakeholders to discuss school bus routes, emergency response and other challenges that may result during construction," he said. "We also place changeable message boards near the bridge to remind motorists of the pending closure. We hope this daily reminder allows those who drive through the area to plan ahead," he said.

A web page has been developed to house the latest information regarding the Safe & Sound program. To view this information, visit www.modot.org/southcentral and click on the Safe & Sound 800 Better Bridges icon.

For additional information regarding the Safe & Sound program or other transportation-related topics, call the MoDOT Customer Service Center, toll-free, at 1-888-ASK MoDOT (275-6636). Customers also may email the center at d9csc@modot.mo.gov.