MoDOT opened the Routes C and J Bridge over Route 71 in Peculiar on Thursday morning, August 2, eight days ahead of schedule!
Why is MoDOT doing this project?
The Route J and C bridge deck over Route 71 has deteriorated. Repeated patching by maintenance crews could not provide a durable, smooth driving surface. A major deck removal and replacement is now fixing this bridge for decades to come.
 On July 5, MoDOT closed the bridge to remove the bridge deck over Route 71 at Peculiar, fully replace the deck and barrier rail with new concrete and add a five-foot-wide, barrier-protected sidewalk on the north side. This extensive work requires weeks of construction.
After discussion with Peculiar city officials and community stakeholders, MoDOT chose full bridge closure. It requires detours that will inconvenience the community, but limit closure to little more than a month and allow the bridge to re-open before school begins.
The project was awarded March 1 to Phillips Grading and Construction Co. The contractor bid the project to conclude in 35 days, with incentives for completing sooner and disincentives for taking longer.
Full closure of the bridge:
· Maximizes safety by eliminating long lines of traffic queueing at the bridge.
· Limits construction - and closure - to 35 days or less.
· All ramps will remain open. Free-flowing right turns for northbound and southbound ramps. No lefts allowed.
· Disruption to the community minimized by quick completion.
· Closure begins after community festivals, Independence Day holiday.
· Bridge reopens before school starts - minor interference with schools or programs.
· Provides the best, longest lasting structure that pushes back future repairs for as long as possible.
· Commuters experience only one detour per day.
· Temporary crossovers will be built at the end of the north and south ramps for emergency vehicle access.
· Traffic impacts are more predictable.
How do I learn more?
For more information, review the project maps and materials listed in the left column. You can also submit a comment, send an e-mail or give us a call. Lend your voice to the transportation process!
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