Clean bridges, what’s it worth?

[Dutch]

This week’s Stone County Republican news paper has an article about the bridges at Kimberling City and at Shell Knob.  They are going to be washed at a nominal cost of $247,219.50.  Maybe I need to buy a power washer.

[dblades]

The bridge at Shell Knob, washing it will probably finish removing the last paint job. 

[tjm]

Do you think those bridges can be replaced for  $247,219.50?

Most states have some standards or guidelines on when bridges are required to be cleaned in order to prolong their use. Clogged deck drains or other such situations might trigger a wash in between  required maintenance too.

MODOT says

Quote

771.2 Bridge Cleaning and Flushing

Code: R329

Bridge cleaning and flushing is done to remove dirt and debris to allow proper drainage and drying of the deck. The dirt and debris holds moisture and chlorides that cause deterioration. Deck flushing should be done throughout the winter months when needed and temperatures safely permit. Thorough cleaning of entire bridge should be accomplished in the spring following snow season and again in the fall prior to snow season. This cleaning should include deck, piers, abutments, and lower chords of truss bridges.

Federal standards and guides on bridge preservation links are here if you want to read up. https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/bridge/preservation/