The KY 81 Panther Creek bridge in Daviess County is now open to traffic. The bridge was severely damaged in August when the beams were struck by scrap steel hanging off the trailer of a passing commercial truck.
Over the last six weeks, the contractor replaced portions of the sway bracing on the bridge while other sections were heat-straightened back into shape. The sections of the bridge that were damaged were also repainted.
Approximately 5,200 vehicles normally cross the bridge on a daily basis. Opened to traffic in 1934, the 246-foot structure has a 109-foot span and includes a six-panel Pratt style truss design.
Bridges typically have a life-span of 75 years depending on the environmental factors, such as salt, and the amount of weight they carry.
Judy C. Harp Company completed the repairs as part of the $327,000 contract.
