The FM 481 bridge in Uvalde County is set to reopen on Sunday, August 23, following extensive repairs after it suffered significant damage due to severe flooding on July 17. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has completed emergency repairs costing over $3 million, finishing the work ahead of schedule.
During the flooding event, floodwaters eroded a crucial section of the roadway leading to the FM 481 bridge, creating an impassable gap between the bridge and the remaining road. In response, TxDOT mobilized crews to assess the damage and initiate emergency repairs immediately after the incident.
Over the course of 37 days, workers reconstructed the washed-away road approach and reinforced the surrounding infrastructure to ensure the safety of the roadway for drivers. The project was completed earlier than anticipated, allowing for the bridge’s swift reopening.
“FM 481 is a vital connection for the Uvalde community,” stated Charles Benavidez, the San Antonio District Engineer. “We moved quickly to assess the damage and complete repairs, so access could be restored as quickly and safely as possible.”
Images of the damage reveal the extent of the destruction along FM 481. Although the bridge structure itself remained intact, the floodwaters caused significant erosion that severed access from one side, necessitating the rapid reconstruction efforts.
As the reopening date approaches, drivers are advised to exercise caution in the area, as crews will continue to perform minor finishing work on the roadway even after it opens to traffic.
