A damaged bridge in a small Illinois community could remain closed for nearly nine months.
The Illinois Department of Transportation said the Florence Bridge on Illinois routes 100 and 106 over the Illinois River requires extensive repairs.
IDOT closed the drawbridge on June 28 after an inspection revealed structural issues. The bridge that spans the Illinois River is locked in the raised position to allow barge traffic to continue to flow on the river.
IDOT hired a contractor to inspect the structure which agreed that extensive work must be done in order to ensure safety of motorists.
“The consultant is investigating the support column buckling and cause of movement regarding the lift mechanism, and will continue to work with IDOT regarding feasibility and time frame needed to repair the bridge,” an IDOT press release published July 13 said.
On a regular traffic day, some 1,300 motorists use the bridge that connects eastern Pike County and western Scott County.
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