LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Sherman Minton Bridge will not be reopened before rush hour Monday morning, officials say.
A spokesperson said the delay is because of added safety measures and weather delays.
They said crews will be installing stabilizers and bracing as they repair the loose bearing.
Crews will also install a "digital monitoring system" to provide continuous data throughout the rest of the Sherman Minton Renewal Project they added.
Engineers from both the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) said inspections will continue through the rest of the repair work "with safety being the driving factor for opening the bridge."
"The complexity of the bridge structure and repair itself has proven to be an added challenge," the spokesperson said.
In New Albany, disgruntled drivers understood the need to address safety but had been counting down the days until the looming sight of a closed-down Sherman Minton was expected to re-open.
"It really bogs this whole area down. I think they should give us a projected date," Jeff Earhart, a Kentuckiana commuter said. "I mean, just give us an idea."
A spokesperson with the Project said the extended closure is due to weather delays and in order to enhance safety measures.
The bridge was closed due to a problem with a bridge bearing that supports the upper deck of the Kentucky Approach Bridge. The approach essentially connects the roadway pavement to the upper deck.
“This repair, in tandem with the planned rehabilitation, will ensure the safety of the crossing today, throughout the remainder of construction, and for the 30-year service life for which this project was programmed,” Danny Corbin, major project delivery project manager at INDOT, said.
The spokesperson added the top deck of the bridge "is anticipated to open later once further construction can be completed."
No reopening date has been provided.
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