The Kentucky Department of Transportation District 6 office announces plans to reopen the John A. Roebling Bridge and walkways tomorrow afternoon, Friday, Aug. 9 to allow use by vehicles and pedestrians.
The bridge and eastbound walkway were closed in mid-April as a safety precaution after sandstone fell on the roadway and the eastbound walkway. Netting was installed as a temporary measure to safely reopen the structure after several sandstone pieces broke away from the towers.
“Performing emergency work on the 152-year-old historic bridge requires a more extensive process than traditional bridge repairs due to preservation requirements,” said District 6 Chief District Engineer Bob Yeager. “We appreciate the community’s patience as we did what was needed to safely recommission this bridge for daily use.”
The innovative temporary measure involved installing a temporary belting and rigging system to securely hold the nets in place thereby avoiding the use of bolts into the structure.
A restoration project addressing routine maintenance – including permanent repairs to the sandstone towers and pedestrian walkways – is currently in the design phase, with construction estimated to start in the spring of 2020.
Remember, construction and maintenance activities are scheduled on a tentative basis and are subject to change depending on weather conditions, emergencies, and other factors beyond the control of the Department of Highways.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet appreciates your patience during the construction process.
Stay connected with District 6 on social media for updates.
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 6
