US 278 over Branch
FairCherokee County, Alabama · 9 MI E JCT SR 9 * 74 · Structure no. 001278
- Built
- 1935
- 90 years old
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected April 2023
- Type
- Culvert
- Concrete
- Length
- 35 ft
- 3 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 1,908
- 2021 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US 278 over Branch is a concrete culvert carrying US 278 over Branch in Cherokee County, Alabama. It was built in 1935, so it is 90 years old, older than the Alabama average of 51.1 years.
The most recent inspection reported to the Federal Highway Administration rates it in fair condition with a lowest component rating of 6 out of 9. The lowest-rated primary component is rated 5 or 6. Minor deterioration is present but the structure is sound.
It carries about 1,908 vehicles a day, roughly 17% of them trucks, projected to reach 1,984 by 2041. The structure is 35 ft (10.7 m) long. If it were closed, the detour would be 8.1 mi (13 km).
Location
Open in Google MapsCondition and inspection
The lowest-rated primary component is rated 5 or 6. Minor deterioration is present but the structure is sound.
| Component | Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Channel and channel protection | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Culvert | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was US 278 over Branch built?
It was built in 1935, making it 90 years old in 2025.
What condition is US 278 over Branch in?
The National Bridge Inventory rates it in fair condition. The lowest-rated primary component is rated 5 or 6. Minor deterioration is present but the structure is sound. The last reported inspection was in April 2023.
How much traffic does US 278 over Branch carry?
About 1,908 vehicles per day (2021 count), of which roughly 17% are trucks.
How long is US 278 over Branch?
The structure is 35 ft (10.7 m) long with a longest span of 10 ft (3 m).
Who owns US 278 over Branch?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.