US 491 Ml over Coal Bed Creek
PoorDolores County, Colorado · 5.2 MI NW of JCT SH 141 M · Structure no. M-01-G
- Built
- 1970
- 55 years old
- Condition
- Poor
- inspected February 2025
- Type
- Culvert
- Steel
- Length
- 25 ft
- 2 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 2,600
- 2020 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US 491 Ml over Coal Bed Creek is a steel culvert carrying US 491 Ml over Coal Bed Creek in Dolores County, Colorado. It was built in 1970, so it is 55 years old, older than the Colorado average of 42.2 years.
The most recent inspection reported to the Federal Highway Administration rates it in poor condition with a lowest component rating of 4 out of 9. The lowest-rated primary component is rated 4 or below, indicating advanced deterioration. Poor does not mean unsafe; such bridges are inspected more often and may carry load restrictions.
It carries about 2,600 vehicles a day, roughly 24% of them trucks, projected to reach 3,250 by 2040. The structure is 25 ft (7.6 m) long and 150 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 4 or below, indicating advanced deterioration. Poor does not mean unsafe; such bridges are inspected more often and may carry load restrictions.
| Component | Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Channel and channel protection | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
| Culvert | 4 Poor | Advanced section loss, deterioration, spalling or scour. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was US 491 Ml over Coal Bed Creek built?
It was built in 1970, making it 55 years old in 2025.
What condition is US 491 Ml over Coal Bed Creek in?
The National Bridge Inventory rates it in poor condition. The lowest-rated primary component is rated 4 or below, indicating advanced deterioration. Poor does not mean unsafe; such bridges are inspected more often and may carry load restrictions. The last reported inspection was in February 2025.
How much traffic does US 491 Ml over Coal Bed Creek carry?
About 2,600 vehicles per day (2020 count), of which roughly 24% are trucks.
How long is US 491 Ml over Coal Bed Creek?
The structure is 25 ft (7.6 m) long with a longest span of 11 ft (3.4 m) and a deck 150 ft wide.
Who owns US 491 Ml over Coal Bed Creek?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.