The Missouri Department of Transportation began washing bridges this week on U.S. 60 and 63 in Texas and Howell counties.
Washing bridges removes dirt and debris, which is key in preventing small debris from clogging bridge drains and entering enclosed drainage structures, MoDOT said. The function also aids in removal of snow removal material, which can deteriorate the bridge deck and structure.
Work is scheduled for U.S. 60/63 eastbound from Highway 181 and U.S. 60 to Highway P and U.S. 63.
Also this week, MoDOT crews:
-Performed bridge maintenance on U.S. 63 from Highway E to Highway RA. Bridge maintenance is performed to improve the section where the road and bridge meet and prevent deterioration of the bridge deck or structure.
-Replaced concrete on U.S. 60 from Highway Y in Mountain View to Highway MM in Texas County. Concrete replacement work is key to maintaining a smooth pavement surface, according to MoDOT. Following the concrete repair, drying time is necessary and the lane will remain closed until this process has occurred.
-Repaired shoulders on Highway 17 from Highway W to Highway O. Shoulder repair work involves removing ruts, low areas and high spots on the shoulders.
-Patched Highway C from Highway O in Dent County to Highway 32 in Texas County. Patching restores rideability of the roadway surface.
-Performed edge rut repair on Highway 137. Edge rut repair work requires placing material at the edge of the roadway and is necessary to reduce shoulder drop off.