Coon Creek bridge nearing completion

McCOOK, Neb. — Construction of a new concrete girder bridge on U.S. Highway 6 and 34 just east of McCook should be complete within 3-4 weeks, according to Nebraska Department of Roads officials. The bridge crosses Coon Creek and replaces a bridge built in 1932.

A temporary traffic signal is being used during bridge construction.

It is one of two bridges being replaced as part of a larger road improvement project which began last year and includes grading and asphalt resurfacing of the highway between McCook and Indianola. The bridge at River Canyon constructed in 1948 is also being replaced with a large concrete box culvert.

“We fully expect to have most of the work completed this year,” said District Engineer Kurt Vosburg earlier this week.

He indicated Department of Roads’ personnel were aware a portion of the roadway already completed, near the former Republican Valley School building, was not done to standard and travelers were experiencing a rough ride.

“The [subcontractor’s] work was less than acceptable,” said Vosburg, adding the initial fix by the contractor temporarily smoothed the ride but also opened the roadway surface up and accelerated the deterioration of the road, “making for a rough ride.”

Vosburg said, weather permitting, a temporary asphalt overlay will be placed over the roughest area starting Friday. He also indicated the work was being done at the contractor’s expense.

Asphalt work for the McCook to Indianola improvement project is expected to begin in July and all but some minor work is projected to be completed before the end of the year.