JEFFERSON CITY - Up-to-date information about the state's efforts to ensure bridge safety can be found on the Missouri Department of Transportation's Web site:  www.modot.mo.gov/bridgeinspections.

As requested by Gov. Matt Blunt, MoDOT is inspecting 11 state bridges similar in design to the deck arch truss bridge that collapsed last week in Minnesota.  The inspections are expected to take five weeks.  Each bridge will be thoroughly examined by engineers using a Snooper truck - a large truck with a huge mechanical arm and platform that is able to carry inspectors over and under the bridge allowing them to get a close-up look at the structure's underside.

"We want to assure travelers in Missouri that our bridges are safe," said MoDOT Director Pete Rahn.  "We routinely inspect state bridges every other year - more often if necessary.  These inspections are strictly precautionary following the terrible tragedy in Minneapolis.  We just don't want to take any chances."

Visitors to http://www.modot.org/ can find the bridge safety information under the "Ensuring Bridge Safety" banner.  The site lists the 11 bridges to be inspected, gives Missouri bridge facts and provides information about MoDOT's Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Program.  Under that program, 800 of Missouri's worst bridges will be repaired or replaced in the next five years.

Note:  A photo of the Snooper truck MoDOT uses to inspect bridges is attached.  For a high-resolution photo, visit www.modot.org/newsroom.