US281 HWY over Smoky Hill River Drain
FairRussell County, Kansas · 7.12MI N Barton CO Line · Structure no. 999928100840381
- Built
- 1933
- 92 years old, rebuilt 1960
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected April 2023
- Type
- Culvert
- Concrete
- Length
- 22 ft
- 3 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 1,990
- 2023 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US281 HWY over Smoky Hill River Drain is a concrete culvert carrying US281 HWY over Smoky Hill River Drain in Russell County, Kansas. It was built in 1933 and reconstructed in 1960, so it is 92 years old, older 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 1,990 vehicles a day, roughly 24% of them trucks, projected to reach 2,288 by 2044. The structure is 22 ft (6.8 m) long and 56 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 21.1 mi (34 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 | 8 Very Good | No problems noted. |
| Culvert | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was US281 HWY over Smoky Hill River Drain built?
It was built in 1933, making it 92 years old in 2025. It was reconstructed in 1960.
What condition is US281 HWY over Smoky Hill River Drain 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 US281 HWY over Smoky Hill River Drain carry?
About 1,990 vehicles per day (2023 count), of which roughly 24% are trucks.
How long is US281 HWY over Smoky Hill River Drain?
The structure is 22 ft (6.8 m) long with a longest span of 7 ft (2.1 m) and a deck 56 ft wide.
Who owns US281 HWY over Smoky Hill River Drain?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.