A bridge on Highway  561 northwest of Red Oak will be replaced, but traffic will use a temporary on-site detour during construction.

Built in 1947, the bridge over Fishing Creek is nearing the end of its lifespan. 

Wilson-based S.T. Wooten will replace it with a bridge that meets modern design standards at its current location, after the North Carolina Department of Transportation awarded a $4.2 million contract this week.

The bridge north of Red Oak is on the Nash-Halifax County line and close to the borders of Franklin and Warren counties.

Because the project will take about two years to complete, a temporary bridge will be installed next to the outdated one. 

Drivers should follow all work zone signs and stay alert when crossing the temporary bridge.

S.T. Wooten will begin the project later this fall.