12th Street bridge: Now less structurally deficient

The 12th Street bridge has reopened after being shut down for “emergency repairs.” The bridge was shut down in May after MoDOT inspectors discovered “structural deficiencies” and “extensive deterioration” (earlier in the month it was down to two, multi-metal-plate-covered lanes). It didn’t take an inspector to know that the bridge was a villain’s fantasy death trap.

Bridge repairs were several weeks ahead of schedule, although not totally finished (supposed to be done by fall 2010). The path before you is filled with peril! OK, maybe less peril now. And Beardsley Road between Bluff and 17th streets is also open.