The way has been cleared for state transportation officials to move forward with the bidding process for the 800 bridge project. And, the State Transportation Department expects to see construction of new bridges and repairs to existing ones beginning in the spring of next year.

MoDOT Chief Engineer Kevin Keith says there has been a lot of interest from potential bidders wanting to take on the task of replacing, repairing, and maintaining 802 of Missouri’s worst bridges. The winning bid is expected to be between $400-Million and $600-Million, with the contract awarded at the November meeting of the State Transportation Commission.

Legislation was needed to guarantee financing for the winning contractor or contractors over a 30-year period.