Some bridges in Texas County are showing their wear, according to a national bridge database gaining attention following a growing awareness of the problem in the country.
Seventeen structures have been labeled by inspectors as “structurally deficient” in Texas County.
The Missouri Department of Transportation says a deficient bridge does not mean an unsafe bridge. But it does mean the structure is deteriorating. “A structurally deficient bridge, when left open to traffic, typically requires significant maintenance and repair to remain in service and eventual rehabilitation or replacement to address deficiencies,” a MoDOT glossary of terms says.
One of the structures on the list is located inside the Houston city limits. The Brushy Creek bridge near the Houston Visitor’s Center is on the list. It was constructed in 1953.
In Missouri, 14.5 percent of bridges are considered structurally deficient. There are 24,334 bridges in Missouri, according to the report.
Last year, MoDOT completed the Safe and Sound Bridge Improvement Program, which replaced or repaired 802 bridges across the state.