July 27, 2023

Sherman Minton Bridge closed for emergency repairs

Article origination Louisville Public Media
The Sherman Minton Renewal project is expected to add up to 30 years of life to the aging bridge. - John Boyle
/
LPM

The Sherman Minton Renewal project is expected to add up to 30 years of life to the aging bridge.

John Boyle / LPM

The Sherman Minton Renewal team, which is rehabilitating the 61-year-old bridge, announced Thursday morning its immediate full closure until further notice, after a part of the deck on the Kentucky span was found to be in need of repair.

Officials have not yet provided details on the issues found or when repairs will be finished. Updates are expected this week.

The closure comes less than 12 hours after project leaders announced the westbound Interstate 64 lane, which provides access to New Albany, would be closing for immediate repairs.

Bridge access has been limited since rehabilitation of the six-lane, double-decker bridge began in 2021. According to the project timeline, construction is expected to be done next year. It’s not clear how the recent discovery may affect that.

The bridge is one of two non-tolled options between Kentucky and Southern Indiana, and the only one connecting to New Albany and Floyd County.

Officials suggest drivers use alternate routes through I-65 and I-265.

This story was updated.

Coverage of Southern Indiana is funded, in part, by Samtec Inc. and the Hazel & Walter T. Bales Foundation.

Copyright 2023 Louisville Public Media. To see more, visit Louisville Public Media.

 

Support independent journalism today. You rely on WFYI to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Donate to power our nonprofit reporting today. Give now.

 

Related News

Officials celebrate Google's $2 billion investment in southeast Fort Wayne
LGBTQ+ advocacy group hosts 'Day of Play' as NCAA board reviews transgender athlete policy
Lawmaker says eliminating sex crimes statute of limitations needs more study after bill dies