Stoddard County explores funding options for urgent County Road 551 bridge replacement

BLOOMFIELD — Stoddard County commissioners received funding advice and cost estimates Monday to replace County Road 551 bridge.

“The bridge is un-travelable and eligible for emerging needs funds that are available through MoDOT (Missouri Department of Transportation),” said Smith & Co. project engineer Colter Gaebler. “Cost estimates range from $750,000 to $1.5 million to repair/replace the bridge.”

According to MoDOT guidelines, an “emerging need” refers to a transportation project that arises unexpectedly due to sudden damage or critical safety concerns. Emerging need projects need to demonstrate a clear and immediate need based on factors like safety hazards, structural damage, or significant traffic disruptions. It was learned this project may be eligible for up to $500,000 in emerging needs funds.

The County Road 551 bridge is permanently closed and barricaded on both sides. To expedite the replacement of this 43-year-old bridge, Smith & Co. recommended forwarding engineers' estimates to MoDOT and advertising the request for bids as soon as possible. The procurement process will take a minimum of 21 days.

The liability of the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers during clearing and snagging activity on the Castor River and Ditch 39 is still to be determined, according to the discussion. Phase 1 of the project (W912EQ24B0006) included clearing trees and vegetation that have grown up within the bottom of the channel footprint or along the channel bench, as to not disturb the trees along bank top.

The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers clearing of timber and spraying of herbicides may have contributed to the large amount of timber debris that struck the bridge causing closure, it was discussed. The liability of the Corps and potential reimbursement is still to be determined.