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County staff recommends closing aging OS63 bridge; short-term repairs cost tens of thousands, replacement estimated at $200K–$300K
Summary
Road and Bridge Director Kurt Demel recommended closing the OS63 bridge after presenting photos showing extensive damage; estimated short-term repair: $50,000–$75,000; estimated replacement: $200,000–$300,000. Commissioners discussed lowering the weight limit to delay closure.
Road and Bridge Director Kurt Demel told Pawnee County commissioners Feb. 2 that the OS63 bridge, built in 1965 and last repaired in 1983, shows substantial deterioration and that staff recommend closure unless repairs are made.
"It would cost $50,000.00 to $75,000.00 for the repair, which would be a short-term remedy," Demel said. He estimated full replacement at about $200,000 to $300,000 and said he could lower the posted weight limit until the bridge must be closed. Commissioners asked whether the damage required immediate closure and requested an estimate to tear the bridge down; Demel did not provide a demolition estimate in the recorded minutes. Local farmer Tom Giessel told commissioners he had never crossed that bridge with heavy equipment during 30 years of farming in the area.
The board did not record a motion to close or fund replacement at this meeting; staff recommended options and follow-up cost estimates for commissioners to consider.
