US281 over North Loup River
FairHoward County, Nebraska · 3N ST Paul · Structure no. S281 09667
- Built
- 1955
- 70 years old, rebuilt 1994
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected November 2024
- Type
- Stringer/Multi-beam or Girder
- Steel Continuous
- Length
- 385 ft
- 3 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 2,020
- 2018 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US281 over North Loup River is a steel continuous stringer/multi-beam or girder carrying US281 over North Loup River in Howard County, Nebraska. It was built in 1955 and reconstructed in 1994, so it is 70 years old, older than the Nebraska average of 47.1 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 2,020 vehicles a day, roughly 10% of them trucks, projected to reach 2,929 by 2038. The structure is 385 ft (117.3 m) long and 46 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 167.8 mi (270 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 US281 over North Loup River built?
It was built in 1955, making it 70 years old in 2025. It was reconstructed in 1994.
What condition is US281 over North Loup 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 November 2024.
How much traffic does US281 over North Loup River carry?
About 2,020 vehicles per day (2018 count), of which roughly 10% are trucks.
How long is US281 over North Loup River?
The structure is 385 ft (117.3 m) long with a longest span of 140 ft (42.7 m) and a deck 46 ft wide.
Who owns US281 over North Loup River?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.