KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The northbound Route 291 bridge over the Missouri River will re-open this weekend, depending on the weather.

Workers began changing traffic control and restriping this afternoon in anticipation of the changeover.

 "We are delighted to repair and re-open this important Missouri River crossing so soon," said Chris Redline, MoDOT assistant district engineer. "Swift action by MoDOT inspectors and the contractor, Wiss, Janney, Elster Associates, Inc., ensures that this bridge is safe."

The three-month closure came after a routine bridge inspection on northbound Route 291 revealed rust damage, prompting MoDOT to close the structure July 7. MoDOT has replaced corroded steel through an emergency contract to strengthen the 60-year-old bridge.

Workers this week are preparing to shift traffic back to the mainline from a temporary bypass that has been used to divert northbound traffic into southbound lanes and onto the eight-year-old southbound Route 291 bridge. Opening the northbound bridge will restore two-lane traffic in both directions on Route 291.

For complete details on the Route 291 Bridge or any MoDOT projects, visit http://www.modot.org/kansascity/index.htm For instant updates, follow MoDOT_KC on Twitter or send questions and comments to kccommunityrelations@modot.mo.gov.