Districts Impacted
The Dent County Route B bridge over Dry Creek, south of Salem, is slated for replacement in 2026. Built in 1939, the bridge is in poor condition, showing signs it has reached the end of its useful life, and in need of replacement. The new structure will be 26 feet wide, 4 feet wider than the current structure.
Construction of a new bridge will require a full roadway closure. A signed detour will direct motorists to use Missouri Route 19, Missouri Route 32, and Missouri Route 72.
Public Meeting
An in-person public meeting will be held on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, at the Salem Public Library from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Members of 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 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 600 motorists who use the bridge on an average day while being responsible stewards of available funding.
Meeting Materials
Current Bridge Conditions
Side view of bridge over Dry Creek.
Deck view of bridge over Dry Creek (2022).
Current conditions under the Dry Creek bridge.
Project Progress
The Missouri Department of Transportation is in the process of designing a new bridge on Route B over Dry Creek. The new bridge will be 26 feet wide, 4 feet wider than the current structure. The project also includes new approach pavement, new guardrail and bridge railing.
This project is not expected to require any new right-of-way acquisition.
The estimated total cost (engineering and construction) for this project is $1 million. This cost may change.
During the three-week comment period running Nov. 13 – Dec. 4, 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 Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Salem Public Library, located at 403 N. Jackson Street, in Salem. 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 Dec. 4, 2025.
- By email – Send comments to CDCR@modot.mo.gov by Dec. 4, 2025, with the subject line: Route B Bridge Replacement over Dry Creek in Dent County.
- By traditional mail – Comments may be mailed to Missouri Department of Transportation, 1511 Missouri Boulevard, Jefferson City, MO 65109, postmarked by Dec. 4, 2025. Please reference: Route B Bridge Replacement over Dry Creek in Dent County.
The project is currently scheduled to be part of MoDOT's May 2026 letting, when contractors may submit competitive bids. The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission may award the contract as part of their June 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 currently planned for 2026. The roadway is expected to close for approximately 124 calendar days during construction, subject to change.
A signed detour will direct motorists around the closure using Missouri Routes 19, 32, and 72.
At this time, the new bridge is expected to be completed by Dec. 1, 2026.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why is MoDOT replacing the bridge?
Built in 1939, the bridge is in poor condition, showing signs it has reached the end of its useful life, and in need of replacement.
How will this bridge work affect traffic?
Construction of a new bridge will require a full roadway closure. The roadway is expected to be closed for 124 calendar days, subject to change. A signed detour will direct motorists to use Missouri Route 19, Missouri Route 32, and Missouri Route 72.
What is the expected completion date for this project?
At this time, the new bridge deck is expected to be completed by Dec. 1, 2026.
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 Route B Bridge Replacement over Dry Creek in Dent County 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
-
Public input sought on Dent County bridge project
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Transportation is seeking community input on a project which will replace the Dent County Route B bridge over Dry Creek in 2026. Built in 1939, the Dry Creek bridge is in poor condition, showing signs...