Project Progress
The Missouri Department of Transportation designed a new deck for the bridge on Mercer County Route BB over the Branch of Weldon Fork Creek.
During its Nov. 5, 2020 meeting, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission reviewed all bids submitted for this project and awarded the $760,718.70 project to replace this bridge deck (and a bridge deck on on Putnam County Route Y) to Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc.
The earliest date on which the contractor could begin work (the Notice to Proceed) was Dec. 7, 2020.
The contractor has notified the Missouri Department of Transportation that they plan to close Mercer County Route BB at the Branch of Weldon Fork Creek Bridge on the morning of Tuesday, June 1, 2021. They plan to reopen the bridge on or before July 1, 2021. Schedules are weather permitting and subject to change.
The contractor reopened the bridge on June 29, 2021.
By contract, the contractor must have all work complete on or before Dec. 1, 2021, without incurring possible liquidated damages.
Existing Bridge Deck
Built in 1961, the Branch of Weldon Fork Creek Bridge deck is structurally deficient and is currently load-posted for vehicles 22 tons and heavier.
Plans for the New Bridge Deck
The project will bring the bridge deck, rails and other features up to current standards.
Will MoDOT close the road during construction?
Yes. Route BB will close to all traffic on Tuesday, June 1, 2021.
What is the planned detour?
A signed detour is not planned at this time. Motorists will need to seek an alternate route
Why not build a bypass?
Based on the cost/benefit ratio, building a bypass would not be a prudent use of taxpayer funds. A bypass also could have negative impacts and disruption to private property.
Will MoDOT need to acquire any right of way?
No, MoDOT did not need to acquire any permanent right of way for this project.
How long will construction take?
The contractor plans to reopen the bridge to all traffic on or before July 1, 2021.
Who can I contact if I have further questions?
Questions about the project may left by calling 888 ASK MODOT (1-888-275-6636).
How can I stay updated about the project?
Use the form below to sign up for project-specific updates delivered directly to your email
Project News
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Mercer County Route BB now open after bridge rehabilitation project
St. Joseph, Mo. – The Branch of Weldon Fork Creek Bridge on Mercer County Route BB is now open after a bridge rehabilitation project. The Missouri Department of Transportation contracted with Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc. to replace the bridge’s deck. This...
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Mercer County bridge deck replacement project to begin soon
St. Joseph, Mo. – The Branch of Weldon Fork Creek Bridge on Mercer County Route BB will close soon for a bridge deck replacement project. The Missouri Department of Transportation contracted with Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc. to replace the bridge’s deck...
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Mercer County bridge deck replacement project postponed
St. Joseph, Mo. – The Branch of Weldon Fork Creek Bridge on Mercer County Route BB was to close Monday, May 17, for a bridge deck replacement project. Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc., the contractor working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, has...
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Mercer County bridge deck replacement project to begin soon
St. Joseph, Mo. – The Branch of Weldon Fork Creek Bridge on Mercer County Route BB will close soon for a bridge deck replacement project. The Missouri Department of Transportation contracted with Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc. to replace the bridge’s deck...
For more information about this or other MoDOT projects, please contact our 24-hour Customer Service line at 888 ASK MODOT (1-888-275-6636) or sign up for alerts straight to your inbox at email/text updates.