KYTC Gives Update, Answers FAQs Regarding Carroll Cropper Bridge Project

The overall project will go into the summer months.

(Petersburg, Ky.) - The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has provided an update and answered frequently asked questions regarding repairs being made on the I-275 Carroll Cropper Bridge. 

Crews have been working over the past few weeks on prepping five different locations on the bridge for T-1 steel repairs. In the next few days, the KYTC hopes to have nearly all T-1 steel repairs on the westbound side of the bridge completed. Eastbound side steel repairs are expected to be completed in a few weeks. 

Below are answers to FAQs: 

Why are there lane closures at all hours?

During a 2023 inspection on the Carroll Cropper bridge, engineering firm Michael Baker International tested 600 welds and identified 15 locations that would need future repairs but posed no immediate safety issues. Consultants and KYTC engineers collaborated to create a repair plan to prevent potential fractures and address these findings. These repairs will ensure the bridge can be safely traveled well into the future.

In December 2024, KYTC bridge engineering analysis showed that other repairs – unrelated to T-1 steel issues - would be needed for an expansion joint and floor beam. A reduced weight limit and lane restrictions were put in place as a precaution and to prevent further damage. Once the floor beam repairs are completed, KYTC will lift the emergency vehicle weight limit.

Why did you put heavy concrete barriers on the bridge when you reduced the weight limit on the bridge?

The barrier wall does have additional weight, but what matters when looking at impacts to stress/load is the placement of where that weight is distributed by the floor beam members to the girders supporting the structure. These barriers are crucial to ensure our crews remain safe while working on the repair project, and are not causing any further damage to the bridge.

Where are the workers?

They’ve been actively working on this project from daylight to dark when weather has permitted the work since January. Much of the repairs currently taking place are below the bridge deck... out of sight from passing motorists. Remember, just because you don’t see them, doesn’t mean they aren’t there.

I thought this was supposed to be over in May? Why is it going to take until late Summer?

The original T-1 steel repair project was supposed to be completed in May. Once additional repairs (expansion joint and floor beam) were added to the contract, the timeline for the project was pushed back several months.

Why isn’t this an emergency repair project?

This bridge repair project does not rise to warrant a ‘State of Emergency’ to be declared. The Ohio Department of Transportation declared a 'State of Emergency' following the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge fire. That incident involved an entire highway being shut down. In this instance, a lane of travel remains open in each direction. Folks are encouraged to plan ahead, and leave plenty of time to get through any potential delays during peak travel times.