The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is seeking community input on a project to replace the Missouri Route 240 bridge over Salt Creek in Howard County. Replacing the 93-year-old bridge will require a full closure of Route 240 at the bridge, with a signed detour. Construction is expected in 2027.

The bridge, built in 1932, is near what is colloquially known as the “lucky barn” on Hwy—240, about four miles south of Fayette. MoDOT said the 93-year-old bridge is in fair condition but shows signs it has reached the end of its useful life and needs replacement. It was abruptly closed in late Oct. 2022 for about four weeks after a bridge inspection crew noticed that crushing had occurred on two center girders, and one side had sunk about two inches. Engineers encased the deteriorated portions of the bridge in concrete. However, ever since, the cars traveling north across the bridge have encountered a steep bump.

As part of the design process, MoDOT is seeking community input and offers multiple ways for interested parties to provide feedback during the open comment period, Feb. 26-March 19, 2026. An open-house-style public meeting will be held from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, at the Keller Building, 600 W. Morrison Street, in Fayette. The project team will be on hand to answer questions, provide information, and receive input about the project. There will be no formal presentation, so attendees may come and go as they please at any time during the meeting. 

MoDOT is committed to providing equal access to this event for all participants. If you need a reasonable accommodation or translation services, contact MoDOT on Monday, March 2, by calling (573) 522-5178 or by emailing CDCR@modot.mo.gov to make arrangements. 

Comments may also be made by email no later than March 19. Send comments to CDCR@modot.mo.gov with the subject line: Missouri Route 240 bridge replacement over Salt Creek in Howard County. Comments will also be accepted via traditional mail. Mail them to Missouri Department of Transportation, 1511 Missouri Boulevard, Jefferson City, MO 65109. They must be postmarked by March 19. Reference: Missouri Route 240 bridge replacement over Salt Creek in Howard County.

Online meeting exhibits are available at the project’s webpage. Feedback may be submitted using the form at the bottom of the page.