Motorists should expect detours to continue on State Road 43 this summer as the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) begins additional bridge rehabilitation work in southeastern Owen County.

According to Sidney Nierman, INDOT Southeast Public Relations Director, the S.R. 43 bridge replacement project at Porter Ridge Road over Big Raccoon Creek was nearing completion late last week. The project began in August 2023 as a planned three-month bridge deck replacement by contractor Ragle, Inc., but grew to encompass a full bridge replacement.

Previous delays, Nierman said, were encountered due to weather and design plan changes.

While the reopening of the bridge over Big Raccoon Creek is welcome news for motorists, contractor Ragle, Inc. was scheduled to close another section of State Road 43 on or after June 3rd, shifting their focus to a structure spanning Little Racoon Creek. This closure, which takes place between Stogsdill and Burke Shiloh roads, is expected to be complete by early September, weather permitting.

During the closure, motorists should use the official detour route which follows S.R. 46 to I-69 to S.R. 48.

This latest project is part of a $3.2 million contract awarded to Ragle, Inc. in July 2023.

INDOT reminds drivers to slow down, use extra caution and avoid distractions when traveling near work zones. All work is weather-dependent and schedules are subject to change.