The Cole County Department of Public Works would like to advise the motoring public that the bridge on Moniteau Creek Road over the Moniteau Creek will be closed permanently. MoDOT officials notified the County this month that the results of a recent critical inspection finding identified that the bridge needed immediate repairs or closure. The location of the bridge is in the northern most part of the county.
The through truss bridge has been posted with a 6 ton weight limit for several years and has a daily traffic count of 20 cars per day or less. It was built in 1915 and was part of the MoDOT highway system until 1967 when Highway 179 was constructed on a new alignment. At that time, ownership of the bridge was transferred to the County for maintenance.
Moniteau Creek Road can currently be accessed from Highway 179 approximately 1.3 miles to the north and the majority of motorists have been using this access due to the poor condition of the bridge. The county will not replace the bridge due to the high cost and reasonable alternate options for access. Removal of the structure will occur when funding can be budgeted for it.
Information about the bridge condition can be obtained from the Cole County Department of Public Works. Historical information can also be found at http://bridgehunter.com/mo/cole/moniteau-road/.
Any questions in reference to this work or the road closure should be directed to Public Works at 636-3614.
