US-421 over Rice Branch
PoorPosted for loadClay County, Kentucky · 1.7 MI SW of S-Jct Ky 66 · Structure no. 026B00012N
- Built
- 1934
- 91 years old
- Condition
- Poor
- inspected October 2023
- Type
- Culvert
- Concrete
- Length
- 27 ft
- 2 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 700
- 2023 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US-421 over Rice Branch is a concrete culvert carrying US-421 over Rice Branch in Clay County, Kentucky. It was built in 1934, so it is 91 years old, older than the Kentucky average of 46.6 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. Its operating status is: posted for load restriction.
It carries about 700 vehicles a day, roughly 5% of them trucks, projected to reach 700 by 2043. The structure is 27 ft (8.2 m) long. If it were closed, the detour would be 36 mi (58 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 | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Culvert | 4 Poor | Advanced section loss, deterioration, spalling or scour. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was US-421 over Rice Branch built?
It was built in 1934, making it 91 years old in 2025.
What condition is US-421 over Rice Branch 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 October 2023.
How much traffic does US-421 over Rice Branch carry?
About 700 vehicles per day (2023 count), of which roughly 5% are trucks.
How long is US-421 over Rice Branch?
The structure is 27 ft (8.2 m) long with a longest span of 12 ft (3.7 m).
Who owns US-421 over Rice Branch?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.