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Ray County asks Union Pacific to repair Lawson W. 216th Bridge after residents describe safety impacts
Summary
After a public forum with MoDOT and residents about the July 17, 2024 removal of the W. 216th Bridge in Lawson, Ray County Commissioners passed a resolution asking Union Pacific Railroad to repair the bridge and agreed to share the resolution with the press.
Residents and Ray County officials told Missouri Department of Transportation representatives that the W. 216th Bridge in Lawson, removed by Union Pacific Railroad on July 17, 2024, continues to disrupt travel and safety by leaving a single point of entry and exit for the area.
MoDOT representatives Alex Seda and Ravi Neupane attended a March 12 public forum in which residents described daily travel impacts, safety concerns and the bridge’s previous role as a high‑traffic connector. Commissioners said they believe Union Pacific should repair or replace the bridge because the railroad caused the damage; MoDOT staff gathered resident input to help prepare a response to Union Pacific.
Commissioner Max Hockemeier moved a resolution asking Union Pacific Railroad to repair the bridge; Commissioner Bobby Don Davis seconded the motion and the commission voted 3‑0 to adopt the resolution and authorize sharing it with the press. The minutes do not record a timeline for repair or any binding enforcement mechanism; the resolution represents the county’s formal request and support for residents.
The county also noted potential grant opportunities for other county building repairs and said it will explore funding to support infrastructure projects. The minutes indicate next steps include MoDOT compiling resident feedback to inform the county’s communication with the railroad.
