Riverside Bridge in Christian County is Sinking. Tuesday, October 10, 2023
Channel: Buddy Huggins
Date: 2023-10-11

Christian County Highway Department
Phone: (417) 581-2112

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES
1106 W Jackson St
Ozark, MO 65721
Highway Administrator
Miranda Beadles, P.E.
Please call 417-582-4389
County Roadway Superintendent
Brent Young

Presiding Commissioner for Christian County
Lynn Morris
(417)582-4304
lmorris@christiancountymo.gov

Ozark Special Road District
Barbara Hover - PRESIDENT
(417) 581-1632

Open Letter Sent out: 
Sun, Oct 8, 10:07 PM

Dear Lynn Morris, Commissioner of Christian County,  Ozark Missouri

I am writing to you as a concerned citizen and a frequent user of the new Riverside Bridge that spans the Finley River in Ozark, Missouri. I have noticed some signs of settling or movement at the embankment of the bridge, which I believe could pose a potential safety hazard for the bridge users and the nearby residents.

I have done some research on the internet and found some links that show the construction process and the design features of the bridge. Here are some of the links that I found:

[New Riverside Bridge opens in Ozark]: This is a news article that reports the opening of the new bridge on November 7, 2020. It mentions that the bridge has two 12-foot lanes and a 10-foot-wide pedestrian and bike lane. It also states that the bridge is 11 feet higher than the old bridge, which means it is less prone to flooding.
[Riverside Bridge Project]: This is a webpage that provides information about the project background, timeline, funding, and partners. It also has a video that shows the relocation of the old bridge to a nearby site next to the historic Ozark Mill.
[Riverside Bridge Design]: This is a PDF document that shows the design drawings and specifications of the new bridge. It includes details such as the bridge geometry, cross-sections, elevations, foundations, abutments, piers, girders, deck, railings, lighting, and drainage.
Based on these links, I have some questions and concerns about the bridge settling or movement. First of all, I wonder if the bridge has any expansion joints or other devices to accommodate thermal movements due to temperature changes or solar radiation. I know that some bridges do not have expansion joints and use integral abutments and semi-integral piers instead, but I am not sure if this is the case for the new Riverside Bridge. Secondly, I wonder if the bridge has been properly monitored and inspected for any signs of settlement or displacement since its opening. I know that some bridges require periodic surveys and measurements to check for any changes in elevation or alignment. Thirdly, I wonder if the bridge has been designed and constructed to withstand any potential seismic events or soil liquefaction. I know that Missouri is located in a moderate seismic zone and that some bridges require special reinforcement or isolation systems to prevent damage from earthquakes.

I am concerned that if the bridge is settling or moving at the embankment, it could affect its structural integrity and stability. It could also cause cracks or gaps in the pavement or railings, which could pose a risk for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. It could also damage the utilities or drainage systems under or near the bridge, which could affect the water quality or flood control of the Finley River.

Therefore, I urge you to look into this matter as soon as possible and take appropriate actions to ensure the safety and durability of the new Riverside Bridge. I suggest that you hire a qualified engineer to conduct an as-built survey of elevation shots at the bridge site and compare them with the design drawings and specifications. I also suggest that you perform a thorough inspection of the bridge components and systems for any signs of distress or deterioration. I also suggest that you review the design criteria and assumptions for any possible errors or oversights.

I appreciate your attention and cooperation on this issue. Please let me know if you have any questions or need any additional information from me. Thank you for your service to our community.

Sincerely, Buddy Huggins

CC:  Miranda Beadles, P.E. - Highway Administrator - Christian County