US81 over Elkhorn River
FairMadison County, Nebraska · 2S Norfolk · Structure no. S081 15491
- Built
- 1974
- 51 years old, rebuilt 1992
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected May 2023
- Type
- Stringer/Multi-beam or Girder
- Steel Continuous
- Length
- 333 ft
- 3 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 13,460
- 2018 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US81 over Elkhorn River is a steel continuous stringer/multi-beam or girder carrying US81 over Elkhorn River in Madison County, Nebraska. It was built in 1974 and reconstructed in 1992, so it is 51 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 13,460 vehicles a day, roughly 10% of them trucks, projected to reach 19,517 by 2038. The structure is 333 ft (101.5 m) long and 88 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 80.8 mi (130 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 US81 over Elkhorn River built?
It was built in 1974, making it 51 years old in 2025. It was reconstructed in 1992.
What condition is US81 over Elkhorn 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 2023.
How much traffic does US81 over Elkhorn River carry?
About 13,460 vehicles per day (2018 count), of which roughly 10% are trucks.
How long is US81 over Elkhorn River?
The structure is 333 ft (101.5 m) long with a longest span of 130 ft (39.6 m) and a deck 88 ft wide.
Who owns US81 over Elkhorn River?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.