Bridge project to begin May 19

The project to replace the US 287 bridge between Kearney and Gorst Streets will begin May 19, according to information released this week by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Childress District.

The $4.4 million project will replace a bridge on US 287 over Clarendon’s main drainage ditch, which has been in place since at least the 1930s and is possibly closer to 100 years old.

Project engineer Louis McDowell confirmed Tuesday that contractors will set up advance warning signs on May 19. Access to certain city streets will be closed June 3. Access to Kearney Street will be closed on the north and south sides of the highway, and Jefferson and Gorst streets will be closed on the south side of US 287.

The project will be led by general contractor Hodges and Sons and is expected to take approximately 19 months to complete, weather pending. TxDOT says the new bridge structure will improve drainage and help alleviate flooding along this corridor.

The project will unfold in three phases with the first phase beginning on the south side of US 287. Due to the location of the bridge, intersections within the work zone will be closed to ensure the safety of motorists and workers. During the project, the traffic signal at US 287 and Kearney Street will not be functional due to the closure of that intersection.

Drivers are reminded to use caution when traveling through the work zone. Reduce your speed, avoid distractions in your vehicle and watch for slow moving equipment and crews.