The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is sponsoring its 12th annual bridge building competition for high school juniors and seniors in the Southeast District. The competition challenges students to design and construct the most efficient model bridge using limited materials-15 pieces of balsa wood, thread and glue.

Schools must register by Sept. 8 to compete in the competition. Contest information and registration forms have been mailed to area high schools. If a school is interested in participating and has not received the registration paperwork by Sept. 1, they are encouraged to contact MoDOT. Additionally, an online registration form is available at: www.modot.org/southeast/BridgeBuildingCompetition.htm.

The bridge kits will be delivered to the participating schools on Oct. 5 and 6. Completed bridges will be picked up from participating schools on Nov. 2 and 3.

Bridges entered in the competition will be tested Nov. 19 at Cape West 14 Cine in Cape Girardeau. The lightest bridge to carry the greatest load will ultimately be declared the winner. Prizes will also be awarded for the most aesthetic bridge and to the winner of the electronic bridge competition.

Prizes donated by area businesses and organizations will be awarded to the top bridge building winners.

In addition, MoDOT has partnered with Arkansas State University, Southeast Missouri State University, Missouri University of Science and Technology, University of Missouri-Columbia and Southern Illinois University to offer seniors interested in civil engineering up to $10,000 in scholarships.

For more information about the bridge competition, please contact Senior Highway Designer Anita Clark at (573) 472-5292 or anita.clark@modot.mo.gov, Senior Highway Designer Gretchen Hanks at (573) 472-5294 or gretchen.hanks@modot.mo.gov, or MoDOT's Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-888 ASK MODOT (275-6636). Photos and videos from prior competitions are available at www.modot.org/southeast/programs/BridgeCompetition.htm.