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Route 161 Bridge over Skillet Fork back to two-lane traffic

By Bruce Kropp Apr 29, 2023 | 3:47 PM
Some earlier repairs were made to keep the bridge open, but it is still in a deteriorated state requiring replacement.

The Route 161 Extension bridge over Skillet Fork has been reopened for two-way traffic following the latest round of repairs.

Marion County Highway Engineer Mike McCormick says the traffic control devices that controlled the one-way traffic were removed Friday afternoon.

Even though two-way traffic has resumed, the 15-ton weight limit remains which means no loaded trucks can cross.

McCormick is hopeful the latest repairs will hold four or five years until a new bridge can be built.  The county is currently seeking funding for the replacement.

The two month repair project that reduced traffic to one way was completed by C-Hill of Centralia at a cost of around $200,000.