US-281 HWY over Elm Creek
FairBarber County, Kansas · 8.31 MI N Ejct US-160 · Structure no. 999928100040381
- Built
- 1995
- 30 years old
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected August 2023
- Type
- Stringer/Multi-beam or Girder
- Prestressed Concrete Continuous
- Length
- 428 ft
- 5 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 2,493
- 2023 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US-281 HWY over Elm Creek is a prestressed concrete continuous stringer/multi-beam or girder carrying US-281 HWY over Elm Creek in Barber County, Kansas. It was built in 1995, so it is 30 years old, younger than the Kansas average of 52.8 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 2,493 vehicles a day, roughly 24% of them trucks, projected to reach 3,042 by 2044. The structure is 428 ft (130.5 m) long and 46 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 65.2 mi (105 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. |
| Channel and channel protection | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was US-281 HWY over Elm Creek built?
It was built in 1995, making it 30 years old in 2025.
What condition is US-281 HWY over Elm Creek 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 August 2023.
How much traffic does US-281 HWY over Elm Creek carry?
About 2,493 vehicles per day (2023 count), of which roughly 24% are trucks.
How long is US-281 HWY over Elm Creek?
The structure is 428 ft (130.5 m) long with a longest span of 86 ft (26.1 m) and a deck 46 ft wide.
Who owns US-281 HWY over Elm Creek?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.