Kentucky Transportation Cabinet inspectors are checking a drop on the west end of the Old Ledbetter Bridge.
Two sections of the west approach decking dropped about 2 feet. Inspectors are checking the structure to determine the cause of the drop.
The Transportation Cabinet has already requested bids to demolish the aging structure. However, the bids were above engineer estimate and are being evaluated.
The Old Ledbetter Bridge was opened to traffic in 1931. It was restricted to a 3-ton load limit in January 2012 prompting an effort to expedite construction of the New Ledbetter Bridge just up stream.
U.S. 60 traffic between Livingston County and McCracken County was moved to the new bridge at the end of July 2013, 11 months ahead of schedule.
Inspectors are continuing to evaluated the old bridge. At this time there does not appear to be a threat to river traffic at the site. However, the public is advised to avoid the area around the McCracken County end of the old bridge, including the shoreline of the Tennessee River.
