HANNIBAL – Working closely with the Missouri Department of Conservation since the discovery of falcons and a nest under Mark Twain Memorial Bridge, the Missouri Department of Transportation has been given the green light by the resource agency to proceed with work on top of the bridge sometime within the next week. The bridge inspection that was in operation when the falcons were discovered has been postponed until August.
“The bridge inspection, which involves going under the bridge, has been postponed since there is more of a possibility of disturbing the wildlife,” explained MoDOT District Engineer Paula Gough, P.E. “However, MDC experts have provided guidance to minimize disturbance to the birds so that the work we need to do on top of the bridge can proceed,” she continued. She indicated that all employees who are working on top of the bridge are aware of the falcons and will make great effort to avoid their area. “While we do have some work to do under the bridge with regard to our flushing operation, this work will be a good distance away from the falcons,” she stated. MoDOT environmental specialists will also be on site to monitor falcon behavior during the operation.
After the flushing of the bridge, which is expected to begin sometime next week, weather permitting, and take up to 4 days, MoDOT maintenance crews will seal the bridge. “Again, this work is on top of the bridge, and MDC experts indicate we are in full compliance with federal and state regulations,” Gough explained.
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