Bridge beam hanging operation planned for US 60 project

PARMER COUNTY – A bridge beam placement operation on US 60 in Parmer County is scheduled to take place overnight on April 10. Motorists should anticipate short-term road closures, in both directions, and delays as crews place bridge beams on the new bridge currently under construction.

“The work will require rolling closures, which are short 15 – 20 minute road closures, that will allow work crews time to set a bridge beam in place,” said Neil Welch, P.E., Littlefield Area Engineer. “The operation is schedule to begin approximately at 7 p.m. and continue throughout the night. Shift changes at the Cargill plant adjacent to the project will be taken into consideration with work being paused to accommodate for the additional traffic traveling through the work zone during these times.”

Drivers are asked for their patience and should consider an alternate route around the work zone.

“Our goal is to make sure we get the beam hanging operation done in the safest and most efficient way possible,” Welch added.

Drivers are reminded that both east- and westbound US 60 traffic, through the construction zone, has been reduced to 60 mph and are asked to use caution through the work zone, since crews will be working in close proximity to traffic, and should continue to keep the following tips in mind:

• Slow down and always follow posted work zone speed limits. Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes. Remember, traffic fines double in work zones.
• Pay attention. Workers and heavy equipment may only be a few feet from passing vehicles.
• Be patient. Delays from highway construction can be frustrating, but it only takes a few extra minutes to slow down for a work zone.

The work is part of $70 million project will build a new bridge at US 60, as well as entrance and exit ramps, and add safety lighting. The project’s completion date is scheduled for spring 2027.