US-281 HWY over Smoky Hill River
GoodRussell County, Kansas · 5.60 MI N Barton Coln · Structure no. 999928100840641
- Built
- 2003
- 22 years old
- Condition
- Good
- inspected April 2023
- Type
- Stringer/Multi-beam or Girder
- Prestressed Concrete Continuous
- Length
- 372 ft
- 4 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 1,990
- 2023 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US-281 HWY over Smoky Hill River is a prestressed concrete continuous stringer/multi-beam or girder carrying US-281 HWY over Smoky Hill River in Russell County, Kansas. It was built in 2003, so it is 22 years old, younger than the Kansas average of 52.8 years.
The most recent inspection reported to the Federal Highway Administration rates it in good condition with a lowest component rating of 7 out of 9. All primary components (deck, superstructure, substructure, or culvert) are rated 7 or higher. No significant problems were noted.
It carries about 1,990 vehicles a day, roughly 24% of them trucks, projected to reach 2,288 by 2044. The structure is 372 ft (113.4 m) long and 42 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 1.9 mi (3 km).
Location
Open in Google MapsCondition and inspection
All primary components (deck, superstructure, substructure, or culvert) are rated 7 or higher. No significant problems were noted.
| Component | Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Deck | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Superstructure | 8 Very Good | No problems noted. |
| Substructure | 8 Very Good | No problems noted. |
| Channel and channel protection | 8 Very Good | No problems noted. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was US-281 HWY over Smoky Hill River built?
It was built in 2003, making it 22 years old in 2025.
What condition is US-281 HWY over Smoky Hill River in?
The National Bridge Inventory rates it in good condition. All primary components (deck, superstructure, substructure, or culvert) are rated 7 or higher. No significant problems were noted. The last reported inspection was in April 2023.
How much traffic does US-281 HWY over Smoky Hill River carry?
About 1,990 vehicles per day (2023 count), of which roughly 24% are trucks.
How long is US-281 HWY over Smoky Hill River?
The structure is 372 ft (113.4 m) long with a longest span of 93 ft (28.3 m) and a deck 42 ft wide.
Who owns US-281 HWY over Smoky Hill River?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.