Flooding concerns continue at 31st Street Bridge

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- On Tuesday afternoon, what appeared to be minor flash flooding returned to the bridge connecting Highway 24 and Colorado Avenue along 31st Street.

It's been a trouble spot and prone to flooding for years, but the bridge is supposed to be getting an upgrade from the Colorado Department of Transportation.

"We know the bridge is safe right now but we're looking at investing some funds and making sure we can can extend it's life as best as possible and keep the structure safe as long as possible," explained Dave Watt, an engineer with the Colorado Department of Transportation.

Often during heavy downpour, Watt says that area might experience extra sediment and vegetation floating onto the road.

"We do have those rock outcrops and we're not able to vegetate that very well with such corrosion and when you get an intense rainstorm like yesterday sometimes it brings materials that are up on the hillside down to the road," Watt explained.

Another factor is the Waldon Canyon Burn Scar. Watt says the increased water levels get better every year after the fire, but still, play a role.