Route 185 Swan Branch Bridge to Close for Deck Replacement Beginning July 22

Washington Co., Mo. (KFMO) - A bridge improvement project on Missouri Route 185 in Washington County will soon require a lengthy road closure as the Missouri Department of Transportation replaces the driving surface on the Swan Branch Bridge.

MoDOT has awarded the project to Louis-Company, LLC. Once Washington County Route W reopens, Route 185 is expected to close in both directions at the Swan Branch Bridge, located northwest of Potosi, beginning Wednesday, July 22. The roadway is scheduled to remain closed around the clock through the end of September while crews complete the work.

The project focuses on replacing the bridge deck, or driving surface, which has reached the end of its useful life. While the bridge itself was built in 1961, MoDOT says the supporting structure remains in good condition and does not require replacement.

When complete, the new bridge deck will measure 28 feet wide, increasing the bridge width by two feet compared to the existing structure.

During construction, motorists will follow a signed detour using Washington County Routes T and A, along with Missouri Routes 47, 21, and 8.

MoDOT reminds drivers that all work is weather permitting and schedules may change. Motorists are encouraged to buckle up, put their phones down, obey all work zone traffic signs, and slow down and move over when traveling through construction areas.