The three north spans of the 216th Place Des Moines River Bridge off of County Highway T-17 fully collapsed into the river on Sunday.
The bridge, which is also referred to as the Old Dollar bridge, suffered a partial collapse back on March 26th. Marion County Engineer Tyler Christian said that demolition work on the bridge had already begun, but had been paused due to high river levels. Christian also said that the culmination of old age, deterioration, and high levels in the Des Moines river from recent rainfall ultimately lead to the full collapse of the three north spans. Christian adds that the collapse presents a danger to those utilizing the Des Moines River, and urges those planning to be on the river to avoid the area.
“It is a significant river hazard, and there are signs posted on the rivers and at boat ramps up and downstream of that location. So, just please avoid the area with any boat, kayak, or whatever it may be. It is a dangerous situation and we are working with the contractor to get that debris and bridge out of the channel as soon as possible.”…