Engineer explains why Fort Gibson Dam Bridge is closed indefinitely: 'Public safety is top priority'

The highway is closed over Fort Gibson Lake Dam after damage to the roadway. The US Army Corps of Engineers has a design for a potential replacement but funding has not been secured.

Tuesday, April 22nd 2025, 4:44 pm

By: Cal Day

FORT GIBSON, Okla. -

Highway 251A over the Fort Gibson Lake Dam is closed. The US Army Corps of Engineers says the shutdown is necessary after years of issues.

>>> Fort Gibson dam bridge closed until further notice due to increased degradation

What caused the entire highway to be closed?

Patrick Shoopman, an engineer and designer for the US Army Corps of Engineers, says the findings from a recent inspection led to the decision. He says there are holes in the concrete and exposed rebar.

There have been issues since 2017. The roadway has gone from partial openings to limited lanes to full closure.

"This last winter did a number on the bridge," said Shoopman.

He says heavy load vehicles also contributed to the deterioration.

How long will the road be closed?

Shoopman says there is no timeline on a repair. It is also unknown if a temporary fix can be made.

The agency is working to secure funding for construction of a bridge replacement.

"We knew this was coming as far as needing to do some larger work," said Shoopman. "We already had a replacement design in place."

Shoopman adds that this will be temporary and the eventual replacement will be a much-needed improvement.

"We understand it's an inconvenience," he said. "Right now, keeping the public safe is really our top priority."

How do drivers get around?

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation says there are some detours around the closed highway.

From Okay, drivers can go north on SH16 to eastbound SH51 in Wagoner to southbound SH80 in Hulbert.

Also, drivers can go south on SH16 to eastbound US62 in Muskogee to northbound US62-B to eastbound SH80-A to northbound SH80 in Fort Gibson.

Is the dam affected?

No. Engineers say the repairs are limited to the roadway.

What do people who use the bridge think of the outage?

News On 6 talked with some people caught by surprise and others who say the closure is an inconvenience.

"A little inconvenience is a whole lot better than trying to keep it open and something happen and you end up taking a swim you weren't wanting to take," said Robert La Grange.