Route 96 bridge in Carthage closed after inspection shows deterioration

(From MODOT)

The Missouri Route 96 bridge over the Missouri and North Arkansas Railroad tracks in Carthage will be CLOSED to all traffic this afternoon, Thursday, September 1, after inspection of the bridge revealed further deterioration, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

The bridge is located just west of Kellogg Lake Park in Carthage.

Drivers are urged to seek alternate routes. There are signed detours for large trucks 10 tons or heavier and detours are being posted for all other vehicles.

Back in October 2014 MoDOT restricted the weight limit to 10 tons, or 20,000 pounds, for vehicles crossing the bridge.

The legal maximum weight limit for vehicles in Missouri is 80,000 lbs.

The bridge was built in 1934 and carries approximately 4,500 vehicles a day.

The bridge is scheduled to be replaced in 2017.

For further updates go to modot.org/southwest.