Beaver River bridge repair narrows US-64 to one lane

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation announced on Jan. 9 that the Beaver River bridge north of Guymon on US-64 has been narrowed to one lane and is under active repair, a change that will affect daily commutes and commercial traffic through Texas County. Temporary signal lights now control alternating traffic while crews reconstruct the bridge in two halves.

"The Beaver River bridge north of Guymon on US-64 is currently narrowed to one lane controlled by temporary signal lights. The bridge is undergoing repairs which include deck replacement, approach slabs, and new asphalt approaches. The bridge is being reconstructed half at a time, with the southbound lane currently closed. The contractor anticipates pouring the southbound deck in the middle of March and plans to switch traffic and begin demo of the northbound lane early May. These dates are dependent on weather conditions. Travelers should note that width restriction of 10’ wide and a height restriction of 14’6” due to the traffic lights is currently in place with DPS. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation urges drivers to use caution in the work zone, obey all posted speed limits and traffic signals, put away distractions, and remain alert for workers and equipment. For questions or concerns, please contact the Guymon ODOT office at (580) 338-3545."

The restricted single-lane configuration and signal timing can reduce throughput and create backups during peak periods. The posted 10-foot width and 14'6" height restrictions, coordinated with the Department of Public Safety, will limit passage of oversized loads and certain agricultural equipment until both lanes are restored. The contractor plans to pour the southbound deck in mid-March, then switch traffic and begin demolition of the northbound lane in early May, though those milestones remain weather-dependent.

For local drivers the immediate impacts are straightforward: slower travel across the bridge, adherence to signal controls, and heightened enforcement of the reduced clearances. For freight operators and haulers who rely on US-64, the restrictions may require route adjustments or rescheduling of wide loads. Motorists are advised to obey posted speeds and to remain alert for workers and equipment in the work zone.

ODOT's notice provides a direct contact for questions. Residents and businesses with scheduling concerns or route-planning needs can reach the Guymon ODOT office at (580) 338-3545. Expect ongoing updates as work progresses and as weather shapes the contractor's schedule; the bridge project will reopen to two-way traffic only after the northbound reconstruction is completed.