The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has closed the KY 81 at the Panther Creek Bridge in southern Daviess County. The bridge was damaged this 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.
This closure at KY 81 Daviess County mile point 6.52 between Calhoun and Owensboro is until further notice. KYTC engineers will evaluate the damage to determine if the bridge can be repaired.
In the next few hours, a KYTC District 2 traffic crew will be providing a marked detour for the site. Meanwhile, motorists may self-detour via KY 554, KY 2127/Todd Bridge Road and Keller Road. Motorists should use appropriate caution along the detour.
Opened to traffic in 1934, the 246 ft. structure with a 109 ft. main span includes a 6-panel Pratt through truss design. The Panther Creek Bridge underwent an extensive painting and maintenance project in the fall of 2018.
Again, the Panther Creek Bridge at KY 81 mile point 6.52 in southern Daviess County will remain closed until further notice while engineers determine if it can be repaired.
