Blackiston Mill Bridge in southern Indiana reopens months after dam collapse

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (WDRB) -- Blackiston Mill Bridge, which connects New Albany and Clarksville, reopened Friday after closing in February.

More than 20,000 drivers used the bridge each day before it abruptly shut down after the dam failed underneath it.

The sudden change in water flow chewed away part of the embankment and eventually collapsed a portion of the roadway, leaving a massive hole and forcing the bridge to close.

Crews started work to remove the dam earlier this month, using the broken concrete and stone to rebuild the eroded embankments. Engineers said the main support structure of the bridge is still in good shape.

The bridge was expected in early July to reopen by the end of the summer but barriers were removed Friday and drivers were allowed to cross.

There's a lot of celebrating going on in southern Indiana now that traffic is flowing again.

"I am just absolutely thrilled, just thrilled," said Felecia Koerber, co-founder of Koerber's Fine Jewelry.

Business owners in the area said it's been a hard five months.

"For the small businesses in this area who have suffered a little bit from less traffic to the residents that use it, it's a great day for them to be able to utilize this bridge again," Floyd County Council President Danny Short said.

Floyd County Commissioner Al Knable said the county took over the project in late May. Since then, they've been pushing to get it done as quickly and safely as possible.

The bridge has passed several inspections.

"I'm very very happy myself, I'm very very happy for the community more so than for me, and the business owners," Knable said.

County commissioners want to remind people there are plans to build a new bridge across Silver Creek about 150 yards upstream. That's expected to be finished by 2028.

Previous Coverage:

Blackiston Mill Bridge in southern Indiana could reopen by end of summer as dam removal begins

Blackiston Mill Bridge could reopen to traffic this summer, but 2 permits stand in the way

Floyd County leaders file application with state to remove Blackiston Mill Dam

Legal battles, safety concerns fuel controversy over low head dams in southern Indiana

Floyd County leaders vote to remove failed Blackiston Mill Dam, but future of bridge uncertain

Blackiston Mill Road Bridge remains closed with no reopening date set

No timeline available for reopening of Blackiston Mill Road Bridge after dam failure

Blackiston Mill Road Bridge over Silver Creek in New Albany closed due to dam failure