JEFFERSON CITY, Mo – Due to the forecast of inclement weather, the planned closure of South Outer Road 44 near Exit 135 has been postponed. Because the work is weather dependent, the exact closure date is not yet known, but the earliest the bridge over Bear Creek could close is May 22, 2025. There will be no designated detour, but signs located well ahead of the closure will alert motorists to use an alternate route.
Built in 1923 and rehabilitated in 1972, the South Outer Road 44 bridge over Bear Creek in Laclede County, is in poor condition, showing signs it has reached the end of its useful life, and in need of replacement. The plans for the new bridge, which will be the same width as the existing structure at 26 feet, include raising the bridge 8 inches to provide additional room for water to flow and installing new guardrail. The new bridge is expected to open to traffic at the beginning of September.
MoDOT contracted with Don Schnieders Excavating Company, Inc. to complete the project. All work is weather-permitting, and schedules are subject to change.
For more information, or to sign up for project-specific updates, visit the project’s webpage at https://www.modot.org/projects/outer-road-interstate-44-bridge-replacement-over-bear-creek-laclede-county.
MoDOT asks all motorists to work with us by buckling up, putting your phone down, obeying all traffic signs, and slowing down and moving over in work zones. Motorists are advised to use extra caution through work zones, obey all traffic signs, and avoid any distractions.
For traffic updates or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit our Traveler Information Map. Information is also available 24/7 via social media. Follow the MoDOT Central Missouri District on social media:
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