Counties Impacted
Washington
Route Impacted
C
Work Type
Bridge Replacement
Highway Feature
Big River
Planning Phase

Project Summary

The Washington County Route C bridge over Big River, just east of Belgrade, is 90 years old and in need of replacement. The plans for the new bridge include improvements that will enhance safety, drivability, and traffic flow.

Project Progress

Complete
Planning, Design, and Right of Way Acquisition Phase

The Missouri Department of Transportation designed functionality and safety improvements. These include, increasing the bridge width from 20 to 26 feet, raising the grade on the new bridge and approaches, and installing new guardrail at bridge ends.

As of June 17, 2024, the estimated cost for these improvements, including construction and engineering, is $2.77 million. This cost is subject to change.

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Complete
Public Input
Comment Period: June 27 - July 11, 2024

During the two-week comment period that runs June 27 – July 11, 2024, the community and interested parties have multiple avenues to learn about, ask questions, and submit input regarding the planned work and associated traffic impacts. 

  1. In person - An open-house style public meeting is being held Thursday, June 27, 2024, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Caledonia’s Village Barn, located at 130 County Road 627 in Caledonia. 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.  
  2. Online. All meeting exhibits will be available on this website and feedback will be accepted through July 11, 2024, using the online form below.  
  3. By email – Send your comments by July 11, 2024, to CDCR@modot.mo.gov with the subject line: Washington County Route C Big River Bridge Project. 
  4. By traditional mail – Comments may be mailed (postmarked by July 11, 2024) to Missouri Department of Transportation, 1511 Missouri Boulevard, Jefferson City, MO 65109. Please reference Washington County Route C Big River Bridge Project.
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Complete
Project Letting, Award, and Notice to Proceed

The project was part of MoDOT's February 2025 letting when contractors submitted competitive bids. The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded the $2,088,206.38 contract to Robertson Contractors, Inc. as part of their March 2025 meeting. They plan to begin construction on May 27, 2025. 

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Not Started
Project Construction, Traffic Impacts, and Completion

At this time, construction is anticipated to begin May 27, 2025, and be complete by September 29, 2025. Route C will be closed during the construction of the new bridge and a signed detour will be in place using Routes P, 8, and 21.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why is MoDOT replacing the bridge?

The existing Route C bridge over Big River was built in 1934, is currently narrower than the existing road, and the deck and barriers are showing signs it is nearing the end of its life cycle. The new structure will be up to current standards with a wider bridge deck, new alignment, and upgraded approaches which will improve the drivability and safety for motorists.

The contractor will close the bridge to all traffic through the completion of the project. A signed detour will be posted.

Why not build a bypass?

MoDOT strives to be good stewards of the taxpayer funds entrusted to us. The estimate for this project – without a bypass – was estimated at $2.7 million. Designing and constructing a bypass would have increased that amount by approximately $1 million.

What if I have more questions?

You may email cdcr@modot.mo.gov or call us at 888 ASK MODOT (1-888-275-6636). Please reference Washington County Missouri Route C Big River Bridge Project on your inquiries.

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