News Release

Big Spring Bridge Set to Close for Replacement on August 27

Date: August 17, 2018
Contact: Dena Matteson, 573-323-4814

Van Buren, MO: The National Park Service, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, will soon begin a project to replace the Big Spring Bridge located on State Route 103 over the Big Spring branch. The project will begin on August 27, at which time the existing bridge will be closed to all vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The Big Spring Bridge will be completely replaced, and utility lines that are currently located on the existing bridge will be moved underground. The bridge could be closed for up to one year while construction is completed. 

Visitors to Big Spring, the Big Spring Campground, the boat launch, and both the Peavine and Big Spring pavilion sites can still easily reach those areas via Peavine Road. Travelers should watch for signs on State Route 103 in order to turn onto Peavine Road to enter the Big Spring area. Visitors traveling to the Chubb Hollow group site or pavilion should remain on State Highway 103 until they reach Z Highway.  

The existing bridge over the Big Spring branch was constructed in 1977 and provides access to the Big Spring area from the south. Big Spring is the largest spring in Missouri and one of the largest in the world, and the surrounding area is a significant historic and cultural landscape within Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The project will ensure the new bridge fits aesthetically within the natural and cultural surroundings.  

In addition to closing the bridge, several hiking trails immediately adjacent to the bridge construction site may be partially closed to ensure visitor safety. Signs will be posted advising visitors of any closed areas near the bridge.  

For more information, contact park headquarters at [phone], visit the park’s Facebook page, or website at www.nps.gov/ozar.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways preserves the free-flowing Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, the surrounding resources, and the unique cultural heritage of the Ozark people.

www.nps.gov/ozar

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