Districts Impacted
Project Summary
The northbound and southbound Interstate 55 bridges over the Meramec River needs bridge deck repairs, resurfacing treatment and other routine maintenance. The bridge was originally built in 1964; the twin bridges originally carried three lanes of traffic in both directions. In 1993, MoDOT replaced the bridge deck and widened the bridge to five lanes of traffic in both directions. During that time of construction, earthquake restraints were also installed.
Starting early 2026, MoDOT will perform routine repairs to the bridge, including resurfacing and repairing deteriorated sections of the deck.
Project Milestones
Arnold City Hall
2101 Jeffco Blvd, Arnold, MO 63010
Tuesday, June 17 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
I-55 Bridge over the Meramec River
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MoDOT to host Public Meeting on June 17 for Interstate 55 Bridge Rehabilitation over Meramec River
JEFFERSON COUNTY—The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has scheduled an open-house-style public meeting for Interstate 55 Bridge Rehabilitation over the Meramec River. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 17, from 4 to 6 p.m. at...
Project Information
Why is this project needed?
The project is a part of the overall bridge maintenance cycle to help maximize the lifespan of the bridge structure.
What can you expect during construction?
MoDOT's contractor will perform this work while traffic is driving on portions of the bridge. There will be lane closures with a reduction in the number of travel lanes. Lanes will be narrowed along with temporary concrete barriers as necessary, with drivers shifting to different traffic patterns on the bridge as the contractor works its way across the bridge from side to side. Construction is expected to begin in Late 2025.
Where is the exact work zone?
The work zone will extend between the Meramec Bottom Road and Route 141 Interchanges (approximately 2 miles).
Describe the construction work during Stages 1-4:
During all four stages:
- The northbound Route 141 left-turn lane that leads to the on-ramp will be closed.
- Southbound Route 141 drivers must yield before entering the on-ramp.
- I-55 lane closures will vary by stage (1-4).
Stage 1
Crews will be working on the west section of the Meramec River Bridge.
- Three southbound lanes will remain open on the west leg of the bridge. The other two southbound lanes will cross over onto the northbound Meramec River Bridge. (Five total open, lanes just shifted)
- Four northbound lanes will remain open on the bridge.
Stage 2
Crews will continue working on finishing the entire western bridge rehabilitation.
- Two southbound lanes will be shifted onto a section of the completed west portion of the Meramec River Bridge.
- Two additional southbound lanes will be replaced on the east section of the bridge, while the remaining west section of the bridge is completed.
- Four northbound lanes remain open.
Stage 3
Crews will work on the east portion of the Meramec River Bridge.
- Three northbound lanes will remain on the east section of the bridge. An additional two northbound lanes will cross over onto the southbound Meramec River Bridge.
- Four southbound lanes will remain open.
Stage 4
Crews will complete work on the east portion of the Meramec River Bridge.
- Two northbound lanes will be shifted onto the completed eastern portion of the Meramec River Bridge.
- Two additional northbound lanes will be replaced on the west portion of the bridge, while the remaining eastern bridge is rehabbed.
- Four southbound lanes will remain open.
What's the cost of the project?
The total estimated cost of construction is $17.8 million.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the work need to be completed now?
This preventative maintenance is vital to preventing constant repairs and reducing reactive repairs, which can cause unplanned construction and motorist delays. MoDOT will place a new driving surface, bridge joints, and conduct structural repair work to prolong the bridges.
Project Contacts
Aaron Groff, P.E.
Title
Project Manager
Department
St. Louis District
Contact Info
Transportation Project Manager, Franklin & Jefferson County Area
(314) 453-1876
Transportation Project Manager, Franklin & Jefferson County Area
(314) 453-1876
Jordan Dalaviras
Title
Area Liaison -- Franklin and Jefferson Counties
Department
St. Louis District
Contact Info
Phone: 314-453-5021
Email: jordan.dalaviras@modot.mo.gov
Phone: 314-453-5021
Email: jordan.dalaviras@modot.mo.gov