Ledbetter bridge deemed safe despite rumors

State transportation officials assure the Ledbetter bridge is safe

Residents who use the Ledbetter Bridge on a daily basis have expressed concerns about misleading information that has circulated in the area. To alleviate possible distress to the public, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet provided the following statement:

"There is no plan or specified date to close the U.S. 60 Tennessee River Bridge at Ledbetter. KyTC bridge inspectors continue to check the existing bridge on a regular basis to assure it is safe for commuter traffic. If at any time the existing bridge is deemed unsafe for commuter traffic it will be closed immediately. The Ledbetter Bridge remains safe for traffic under the three-ton load limit, such as passenger vehicles and pickup trucks.

"As part of prudent planning, KYTC engineers and area emergency agencies are prepared to take appropriate action should the need arise to close the bridge, whether long-term or short-term. KyTC engineers are optimistic that the existing US 60 Tennessee River Bridge at Ledbetter will remain open to vehicles under the three-ton load limit until the new bridge is ready to handle two-lane traffic.

"To maintain safety on the existing bridge, the load limit is closely monitored by an enhanced enforcement presence. Motorists violating the three-ton load limit will be cited appropriately, with violations bringing fines from $245 to $1,500."