LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Sherman Minton Bridge is suddenly closed on Thursday due to damage officials have discovered.
Both sides of the I-64 bridge were closed overnight after crews realized a portion of the bridge was in need of immediate repair.
Engineers with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) and the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) are conducting detailed inspections of components of the Kentucky approach to the bridge, identifying repairs necessary to safely reopen the bridge to traffic.
Officials said, as of Friday morning, both decks of the Sherman Minton Bridge remain closed as engineers and contractors continue to evaluate a section of the Kentucky approach to the bridge that is supported by a bearing "in need of repair."
"The issue with the bearing raised concerns about potential damage to other parts of the approach bridge, causing the closure of both the upper and lower deck of the Kentucky approach," they said.
Officials with the KYTC and INDOT expect inspections to be completed late Friday afternoon. They aim to provide a more detailed timeline for the repair schedule on Monday.
The section that is in need of repair is over land on the Kentucky side of the bridge, officials said.
A spokesperson for the Sherman Minton Renewal team said crews are working diligently to reopen the bridge; however, the closure will remain in place until further notice.
Drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes and to expect delays. Officials suggest using I-265 and I-65 instead of I-64.
This is a developing story. It will be updated as more information becomes available.
