Legislation that seeks to replace the Riverside Bridge in Ozark passed in committee on Wednesday.
U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., introduced the bill in April which seeks to expedite the construction of a new bridge, adjacent to the Riverside Bridge, by eliminating statutory restrictions that prevent new construction in the area.
Blunt said the bridge will help alleviate flood-related closures to the area businesses and speed up emergency vehicle response times.
“Replacing the Riverside Bridge is a long-term solution to the flood-related closures that are hurting local businesses, increasing emergency response times, and making daily life difficult for families in the community,” Blunt said in a written statement. “I’m glad this bill is another step closer to becoming law, and I urge my colleagues to support it when it comes before the full Senate.”
The century-old bridge has been closed since July 2015.