(KAIR)--The removal of Atchison's U Street Bridge, closed in August 2022 after being deemed irreparable, means the needed, overnight closure of U.S. Highway 73, in the area of the removal project, this week.

According to a release from the Kansas Department of Transportation, the work will require the overnight closure of U.S. 73 in the project area, beginning at 7:00 Wednesday evening until 7:00 the following Thursday morning, so long as conditions allow.

During the overnight closure, motorists can follow the signed detour on U.S. Highway 59 and K-192, or use routes that are not marked.

Alternating lane drops on U.S. 73 will occur throughout the project, but traffic impacts should be minimal.

Work will take place during daytime hours, Monday through Friday, and Saturdays as needed.

Julius Kaaz Construction, of Leavenworth, is the prime contractor on the $878,000 project, which is expected to be complete by late May.

The decision to permanently close the bridge was made by KDOT and the City of Atchison.

After the project is complete, U Street will dead end at U.S. 73.