Districts Impacted
The Missouri Route 185 bridge over Swan Branch in Washington County, north of Potosi, is slated for a deck replacement in 2026. Built in 1961, the supporting structures are in good condition, but the bridge deck is in need of replacement.
Construction will require a full roadway closure. A signed detour will direct motorists around the closure via Washington County Route T, Washington County Route A, Washington County Route E, Missouri Route 47, and Missouri Route 8.
Public Meeting
An in-person public meeting will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, at the Washington County Chamber of Commerce from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Members of the project team will be on hand to provide information and answer questions from the community. There will be no formal presentation, so members of the public can come and go as they please. By participating and commenting, the public can help MoDOT determine what best serves the needs of the roughly 700 motorists who use the bridge on an average day while being responsible stewards of available funding.
Meeting Materials
Project Progress
The Missouri Department of Transportation is in the process of designing a new bridge deck on Missouri Route 185 over Swan Branch. The new bridge deck will be the same width as the existing structure. The project also includes new approach pavement and guardrail at the bridge ends.
This project is not expected to require any new right-of-way acquisition.
The estimated total cost (engineering and construction) for this project is $866,000. This cost may change.
During the three-week comment period that is from Oct. 28 – Nov. 18, 2025, the community and interested parties will have multiple avenues to ask questions, submit input, and learn about the planned work and associated traffic impacts.
- In-person - An open-house-style public meeting will be held Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, located at 501 E High Street in Potosi. The project team will be on hand to answer questions, provide information, and receive input about the project. There will be no formal presentation, so attendees may come and go as they please at any time during the advertised hours.
- Online - All meeting exhibits are available on this website, and feedback may be submitted using the form below.
- By email – Send comments to CDCR@modot.mo.gov with the subject line: Washington County Bridge Bundle 2026.
- By traditional mail – Comments may be mailed to Missouri Department of Transportation, 1511 Missouri Boulevard, Jefferson City, MO 65109, postmarked by Nov. 18, 2025. Please reference: Washington County Bridge Bundle 2026.
The project is currently scheduled to be part of MoDOT's March 2026 letting, when contractors may submit competitive bids. The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission may award the contract as part of their April 2026 meeting and, if the contract is awarded, a notice to proceed date will also be given. That is the earliest date the contractor may begin work.
Construction is expected to take place in 2026. The roadway is expected to be closed for 60 days, subject to change.
The current plan is to close Missouri Route 185 during construction with a signed detour via Washington County Route T, Washington County Route A, Missouri Route 47, and Missouri Route 8.
At this time, the new bridge deck is expected to be complete by Dec. 1, 2026.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why is MoDOT replacing the bridge deck?
Built in 1961, the supporting structures are in good condition, but the bridge deck is in need of replacement.
How will this bridge work affect traffic?
Construction will require a full roadway closure. A signed detour will direct motorists around the closure via Washington County Route T, Washington County Route A, Missouri Route 21, Missouri Route 47, and Missouri Route 8.
What if I have further questions?
You may email cdcr@modot.mo.gov or call us at 888 ASK MODOT (1-888-275-6636). Please reference Washington County Bridge Bundle 2026 on your inquiries.
How can I stay updated on the project’s progress?
Sign up for project-specific updates using the form below.
Project News
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