MoDOT offers up two historic southern Missouri bridges for free
MISSOURI -- Two southern Missouri bridges built in 1951 are up for grabs as the Missouri Department of Transportation prepares for their removal ahead of two new bridge projects.
According to federal law, any state proposing the demolition of a historic bridge before its replacement begins must make the bridge available for donation to a state, locality, or "responsible private entity."
The recipient of the bridge will receive the available bridges for free but must agree to maintain the bridge and its historic features while assuming all financial responsibility.
One 444-foot bridge located at U.S. Route 160 Swan Creek near Branson was determined to be eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. MoDOT is currently accepting proposals for its relocation or reuse until Dec. 10.
The 1,816-foot Theodosia Bridge, which crosses Bull Shoals Lake on Highway 160, is available for relocation proposals until January 9, 2026. It is also eligible for the National Register of Historic Places for its significance in engineering.
After accepting a proposal, MoDOT may offer reimbursement equivalent to demolition costs if the recipient takes up responsibility for the removal themselves.
