KYTC Gives Carroll Cropper Bridge Project Update

The KYTC has answered some FAQs local motorists have had.

(Petersburg, Ky.) - Work on the Interstate 275 Carroll Cropper Bridge is now expected to last a little longer than originally planned. 

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet gave an update on the ongoing project over the weekend by answering some frequently asked questions motorists have had. 

One of the main questions is "when will the entire project be completed?" Originally, the work was scheduled to be done by the end of summer, but work is now expected to last into the fall. 

Three expansion joint repairs have been added to the overall project. These repairs will ensure the expansion joints will be in good condition for years to come, according to the KYTC. 

The contractor was originally working on a plan for floor beam repairs that would have created shoring towers at ground level (similar to what was done during the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge fire). This plan did not meet environmental standards — so the contractor is now developing an alternate plan to perform the repairs from the structure itself. The contractor has proposed a working platform concept design. We're reviewing that design and hope to approve it soon to get these repairs underway. The good news? This new shoring plan will save time compared to the original shoring plan from the ground.

Another big question is "where have the workers been?"

They have been making final repairs on the Clay Wade Bailey Bridge, which were supposed to be done last year. Due to the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge fire, the repairs were postponed so emergency repairs could be made to get the Big Mac Bridge reopened to alleviate traffic congestion in downtown Cincinnati. 

Lane closures continue on the Carroll Cropper because the closures are not dictated by crews being present. The closures focus on keeping vehicles off certain portions of the bridge. The concrete barriers are considered a dead load, and are not impacting the bridge's structural integrity. Our focus is on reducing the weight limit, and keeping live loads (traffic) off certain portions of the bridge.

Another holdup on the Carroll Cropper was due to a protected bird species nest underneath a portion of the bridge. The KYTC worked with KY Fish and Wildlife to wait until the nest was clear of eggs and fledglings. Now that the issue has been resolved, crews can complete three T-1 steel repair locations. 

The KYTC District 6 says they are committed to ensuring motorists are kept up-to-date on this project moving forward. More frequent updates will be provided as repair work gets back underway.