US 53 over Rat Root River
FairKoochiching County, Minnesota · 1.5 MI NW of Ericsburg · Structure no. 36005
- Built
- 1976
- 49 years old
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected May 2024
- Type
- Stringer/Multi-beam or Girder
- Prestressed Concrete
- Length
- 108 ft
- 1 main span
- Daily traffic
- 2,833
- 2021 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US 53 over Rat Root River is a prestressed concrete stringer/multi-beam or girder carrying US 53 over Rat Root River in Koochiching County, Minnesota. It was built in 1976, so it is 49 years old, older than the Minnesota average of 38.5 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 2,833 vehicles a day, roughly 16% of them trucks, projected to reach 2,450 by 2041. The structure is 108 ft (32.9 m) long and 50 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 1.9 mi (3 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 | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
| Superstructure | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Substructure | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Channel and channel protection | 8 Very Good | No problems noted. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was US 53 over Rat Root River built?
It was built in 1976, making it 49 years old in 2025.
What condition is US 53 over Rat Root River 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 May 2024.
How much traffic does US 53 over Rat Root River carry?
About 2,833 vehicles per day (2021 count), of which roughly 16% are trucks.
How long is US 53 over Rat Root River?
The structure is 108 ft (32.9 m) long with a longest span of 105 ft (32.1 m) and a deck 50 ft wide.
Who owns US 53 over Rat Root River?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.