Observatory Ave over US 218
FairJohnson County, Iowa · At Hills Ia Interchange · Structure no. 000000000604605
- Built
- 1980
- 45 years old
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected July 2023
- Type
- Stringer/Multi-beam or Girder
- Prestressed Concrete
- Length
- 262 ft
- 4 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 1,580
- 2022 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
Observatory Ave over US 218 is a prestressed concrete stringer/multi-beam or girder carrying Observatory Ave over US 218 in Johnson County, Iowa. It was built in 1980, so it is 45 years old, younger than the Iowa average of 45.5 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 1,580 vehicles a day, roughly 10% of them trucks, projected to reach 1,580 by 2043. The structure is 262 ft (79.9 m) long and 47 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 6.2 mi (10 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 | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Superstructure | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Substructure | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was Observatory Ave over US 218 built?
It was built in 1980, making it 45 years old in 2025.
What condition is Observatory Ave over US 218 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 Observatory Ave over US 218 carry?
About 1,580 vehicles per day (2022 count), of which roughly 10% are trucks.
How long is Observatory Ave over US 218?
The structure is 262 ft (79.9 m) long with a longest span of 92 ft (28 m) and a deck 47 ft wide.
Who owns Observatory Ave over US 218?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.