US 281 SB over Brazos River
FairPalo Pinto County, Texas · 2.2 MI N of IH20 · Structure no. 021820025002018
- Built
- 1939
- 86 years old, rebuilt 2020
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected March 2023
- Type
- Truss - Thru
- Steel Continuous
- Length
- 1,138 ft
- 3 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 2,163
- 2024 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US 281 SB over Brazos River is a steel continuous truss - thru carrying US 281 SB over Brazos River in Palo Pinto County, Texas. It was built in 1939 and reconstructed in 2020, so it is 86 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 2,163 vehicles a day, roughly 12% of them trucks, projected to reach 4,930 by 2033. The structure is 1,138 ft (346.9 m) long and 27 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 23 mi (37 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 | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Channel and channel protection | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was US 281 SB over Brazos River built?
It was built in 1939, making it 86 years old in 2025. It was reconstructed in 2020.
What condition is US 281 SB over Brazos 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 March 2023.
How much traffic does US 281 SB over Brazos River carry?
About 2,163 vehicles per day (2024 count), of which roughly 12% are trucks.
How long is US 281 SB over Brazos River?
The structure is 1,138 ft (346.9 m) long with a longest span of 252 ft (76.8 m) and a deck 27 ft wide.
Who owns US 281 SB over Brazos River?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.