US 285 Ml over South Arkansas River
FairChaffee County, Colorado · 6.1 MI NW of Chaf-Saguach · Structure no. J-12-A
- Built
- 1938
- 87 years old
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected July 2023
- Type
- Truss - Thru
- Steel
- Length
- 104 ft
- 1 main span
- Daily traffic
- 3,600
- 2020 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US 285 Ml over South Arkansas River is a steel truss - thru carrying US 285 Ml over South Arkansas River in Chaffee County, Colorado. It was built in 1938, so it is 87 years old, older than the Colorado average of 42.2 years.
The most recent inspection reported to the Federal Highway Administration rates it in fair condition with a lowest component rating of 5 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 3,600 vehicles a day, roughly 9% of them trucks, projected to reach 4,536 by 2040. The structure is 104 ft (31.6 m) long and 31 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 123.7 mi (199 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Deck | 5 Fair | All primary structural elements are sound but may have minor section loss, cracking, spalling or scour. |
| Superstructure | 5 Fair | All primary structural elements are sound but may have minor section loss, cracking, spalling or scour. |
| Substructure | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
| Channel and channel protection | 8 Very Good | No problems noted. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was US 285 Ml over South Arkansas River built?
It was built in 1938, making it 87 years old in 2025.
What condition is US 285 Ml over South Arkansas River 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 July 2023.
How much traffic does US 285 Ml over South Arkansas River carry?
About 3,600 vehicles per day (2020 count), of which roughly 9% are trucks.
How long is US 285 Ml over South Arkansas River?
The structure is 104 ft (31.6 m) long with a longest span of 100 ft (30.5 m) and a deck 31 ft wide.
Who owns US 285 Ml over South Arkansas River?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.