MoDOT Wants Information from Public

On Setting Polk/Route AA Bridge Work

DISTRICT 8, SPRINGFIELD - A public meeting to discuss a timeframe for temporarily closing the Polk County Route AA bridge to replace the deck is scheduled for Thursday, June 24, at Halfway.

The open house-style session will be 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Halfway School cafeteria, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

The bridge, about 2-1/2 miles north of Route 32 between Bolivar and Halfway, spans Hominy Creek.

MoDOT engineers want to hear from people who live and do business in the area as to what time of year is best to close the bridge for about two months with good weather.

No timetable is set for the project. No funding is available yet to do the work. However, when money is allocated and the bridge can be rehabilitated, MoDOT wants to be able to set a schedule and let everyone know as far ahead of time as possible.

The deck of the bridge, built in 1966, is deteriorating even though the rest of the structure is in good condition.

The bridge must be closed during the deck replacement to eliminate vibration from traffic and ensure a smooth concrete driving surface.

The project also will be completed faster by closing the bridge.

The 142-foot long bridge will get a new concrete deck and side railing and will be painted. New guardrail will be installed along the highway approaching the bridge.

Those who attend Thursday's meeting will be notified by mail when a construction schedule is set. Information also will be provided through the news media.