US 281 over Simms Creek
FairLampasas County, Texas · 1.70 MI S of FM 581 · Structure no. 231410025105022
- Built
- 1934
- 91 years old, rebuilt 1963
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected January 2024
- Type
- Stringer/Multi-beam or Girder
- Steel Continuous
- Length
- 224 ft
- 3 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 3,587
- 2020 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US 281 over Simms Creek is a steel continuous stringer/multi-beam or girder carrying US 281 over Simms Creek in Lampasas County, Texas. It was built in 1934 and reconstructed in 1963, so it is 91 years old, older than the Texas average of 44.4 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 3,587 vehicles a day, roughly 17% of them trucks, projected to reach 4,837 by 2038. The structure is 224 ft (68.3 m) long and 44 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 5 mi (8 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 | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Superstructure | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
| Substructure | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
| Channel and channel protection | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was US 281 over Simms Creek built?
It was built in 1934, making it 91 years old in 2025. It was reconstructed in 1963.
What condition is US 281 over Simms Creek 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 January 2024.
How much traffic does US 281 over Simms Creek carry?
About 3,587 vehicles per day (2020 count), of which roughly 17% are trucks.
How long is US 281 over Simms Creek?
The structure is 224 ft (68.3 m) long with a longest span of 90 ft (27.4 m) and a deck 44 ft wide.
Who owns US 281 over Simms Creek?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.