A nonprofit publication of the Kentucky Center for Public Service Journalism

Repair work began on Roebling Suspension Bridge Wednesday; May 1 is targeted completion date


The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet announces repair work began Wednesday on the John A. Roebling Bridge.

The historic structure was struck by a vehicle on the night of March 20. The impact distorted and cracked one of the primary vertical members. This section was added to the Roebling Bridge in the late 1890’s by Wilhelm Hildebrand to help strengthen the original structure.

Once the damage was identified, several steps were required in order to move forward on a repair plan. The KYTC had structural engineering consultants complete an analysis to determine repair needs.

Due to the historic nature of the bridge, the Kentucky Heritage Council also had to approve the repair work in order to preserve the integrity of the national landmark.

A bid package was sent and KYTC received one bid from the state’s two eligible two-prequalified contractors.  To return this critical bridge into operation, the Cabinet pursued an expedited bidding process for emergency repairs with approval from the Kentucky Finance Cabinet and the KYTC Secretary Greg Thomas.

The contract was awarded Friday, April 13 to Cincinnati-based company Evers Steel Construction for a repair estimate of $62,000.  The process is to remove the damaged plate, then heat and straighten the original vertical member and replace a new plate. The bridge is scheduled to open to all traffic by May 1.

“The city wants to thank the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet – and especially Bob Yeager and his staff at District 6 – for their quick response to the need to get the Roebling Suspension Bridge fixed,” Covington Mayor Joe Meyer said. “The bridge is not only an important historic landmark but also a critical link for commuters, shoppers and visitors moving between Covington and Cincinnati.”

To eliminate any additional stress to the bridge, the bridge has been closed to all traffic, pedestrian and vehicular.  The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet understands the inconvenience this closure caused to those who live, work and play on both sides of the river.

“We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and patience while we worked on expediting the repair,”   said Bob Yeager, chief district engineer for District 6.  “The Cabinet’s goal is to ensure public safety and to preserve this historic landmark that has been a staple on the Ohio River for over 150 years.”

 Repairs are subject to change depending on weather conditions. For Kentucky’s latest traffic and travel information, visit goky.ky.gov or navigate traffic by downloading the free Waze app at www.waze.com.

KYTC


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