Work is part of preplanning for replacement bridge

By Kyle Troutman ktroutman@cassville-democrat.com

A bridge closure on Highway 248 in Barry County will affect traffic in the Jenkins area for up to two weeks, as crews are doing site work to prepare for a future replacement of the structure.

The Missouri Department of Transportation has announced the Highway 248 bridge over Flat Creek, the one-lane bridge near the Jenkins Fire Department and Highway 248 and Highway 39 intersection, is closed from 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Monday through Thursday for up to two weeks (Feb. 5-16).

Drivers will have access to driveways and entrances on either end of the bridge, but vehicles will not be able to cross. David Mitchell, senior communications specialist with MoDOT, said maintenance workers will be boring holes below the bridge to test the soil in preparation for a new, two-lane bridge over Flat Creek.

Mitchell said due to recent rains, staff equipment will be on the bridge deck, necessitating the closure. 

There is no signed detour, but eastbound Highway 248 drivers may reach Highway 39 by using Highway C and Farm Roads 1182, 2065 and 1190 to the north, or Farm Roads 1215 and 2135 to the south. 

Highway 39 drivers seeking to access Highway 248 westbound may utilize Farm Road 1190, 2065 and 1182, then Highway C, north of Highway 248, or Farm Roads 2135 and 1215, south of Highway 248

Weather and/or construction delays could alter the work schedule.

Mitchell said plans are in development for the new bridge, with bids expected to go out in October. That schedule is subject to change.

According to MoDOT, the Highway 248 bridge, which is weight-restricted, was built in 1930 and is in poor condition.