Route 43/Elk River Bridge Replacement Project to Begin

The $5.1 million project will replace the aging bridge west of Anderson, Missouri.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The Missouri Department of Transportation has announced that a project to replace the Route 43 bridge over the Elk River west of Anderson, near the Cowskin Conservation Area, is scheduled to begin the week of February 16. The current bridge will be demolished and replaced with a new one that is slightly higher, 31 feet longer, and 6 feet wider. The project also includes ditch stabilization along Route 59 near Noel.

Why it matters

The aging Route 43 bridge over the Elk River has become a safety concern, prompting the need for replacement. The project will improve traffic flow and access to the nearby Cowskin Conservation Area, while also addressing drainage issues along Route 59.

The details

Contractor crews will demolish the current bridge and replace it with a new one that is slightly higher, 31 feet longer and six (6) feet wider. The contractor will also add object markers at either end of the bridge, permanent pavement striping and stabilize the Elk River bank near the bridge. The project also includes ditch stabilization along Missouri Route 59 just north of McDonald County Route DD near Noel.

  • The project is scheduled to begin the week of February 16.
  • In mid-March, the contractor will leave the site until approximately the week of May 4 when crews will return and begin demolition.
  • The bridge will be CLOSED for up to 160 days.
  • The project is expected to be completed by December 1, 2026.

The players

West Plains Bridge & Grading LLC

The prime contractor for the $5.1 million project.

Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT)

The state agency overseeing the bridge replacement project.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This project is crucial for improving safety and access in the area, as the aging Route 43 bridge has become a concern. The temporary closure will cause some inconvenience for drivers, but the end result will be a safer and more reliable crossing over the Elk River.