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KYTC: Brookport Bridge Repairs Ahead of Schedule

KYTC: Brookport Bridge Repairs Ahead of Schedule
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By West Kentucky Star Staff
Aug. 15, 2019 | PADUCAH
By West Kentucky Star Staff Aug. 15, 2019 | 01:07 PM | PADUCAH
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said Thursday that good progress has been made on the repairs being performed on the Brookport Bridge.

KYTC engineer Kyle Poat said, "The contractor has completed repairs to the metal-grated decking, several bridge bearings, and has completed concrete work on pier 13.  Even with rain and high water hampering progress at times, we believe we are well ahead of schedule and may be able to reopen the bridge ahead of the November target date."

The bridge still lacks a carbon-fiber wrap for added protection on the piers that were repaired. Engineers are working on other ways to strengthen and protect the bridge from overweight trucks.

Poat said lowering the weight limit once the bridge reopens is something they will evaluate in an effort to extend the life of the bridge. The bridge was restricted to vehicles no more than 8 feet wide, which already limited semi truck traffic and most commercial trucks. 

The bridge had originally closed to vehicles on May 9 when illegal truck traffic created safety hazards for workers. The closure of the bridge was extended after inspectors determined additional maintenance was needed.

"We're pleased with the progress at this point," Poat said. "We realize that this extended closure for maintenance and repairs has been an inconvenience for our commuters and businesses at each end of the bridge.  However, the repairs are necessary to maintain the viability of this river crossing for the long term."

Drivers who typically travel the Brookport Bridge are using the I-24 Ohio River Bridge.
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