An initial analysis of damage to the KY 81 Panther Creek Bridge caused by a truck carrying scrap metal on Wednesday indicates the bridge will be unable to reopen to traffic without substantial repairs.
Engineers in the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Bridge Division have determined that the bridge cannot reopen in its present condition, even with a reduced load limit.
At this time, KYTC engineers are continuing to develop a more detailed analysis to determine if the bridge can be repaired, the extent of repairs that may be required, the cost of mounting a repair effort, and the length of time that may be required to complete those repairs.
As that analysis continues, the bridge will likely remain closed for an extended period.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will attempt to provide timely updates as an evaluation of the bridge continues and new information becomes available.
The bridge was damaged Wednesday afternoon by a truck hauling scrap metal. According to early reports, some of the scrap metal hanging off the truck struck and severely damaged the bridge superstructure.
Daviess County Engineer Mark Brasher told Daviess County Fiscal Court at their meeting Thursday that multiple vertical supports were damaged in the accident.
KYTC District 2 traffic established marked detour via KY 554, KY 2127/Todd Bridge Road and Keller Road. The Panther Creek Bridge underwent an extensive painting and maintenance project in the fall of 2018 and the same detour was established for that project.
Opened to traffic in 1934, the 246 foot structure with a 109 foot main span includes a 6-panel Pratt through truss design.
