NEW ALBANY, Ind. (WDRB) -- JD Dotson, the owner of Regalo on Pearl Street in downtown New Albany, is used to construction happening on the nearby Sherman Minton Bridge. But it could have an extra big impact on his holiday profits as more people avoid the area or take detours.
"It's not the most ideal situation, but we are here and we are still ready to go," Dotson said Tuesday. "My hope is that people come in here and forget about the construction, because there is a lot to look at in here."
The latest closure of Interstate 64 eastbound on the bridge connecting New Albany to Louisville is scheduled to start at 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8. The eastbound lanes aren't scheduled to reopen until Dec. 20, a closure of nearly 12 days that officials said is necessary for crews to safely demolish and remove the upper bridge deck as part of Phase 4.
During the closure, the I-64 eastbound entrance ramp from West Spring Street will be closed along with the I-64 eastbound to Interstate 264 eastbound ramp. While the eastbound directional closure is in place, the suggested alternate route will be Interstates 265 to 65. Regional traffic signs and variable message boards will be posted in the project area well in advance, notifying motorists of the closures and alternate route.
The construction work is part of the ongoing Sherman Minton Renewal Project, which is aimed at painting and rehabilitating the now 60-year-old bridge. The project is anticipated to give the bridge up to 30 more years of life.
Across Pearl Street from Regalo on Tuesday, people at The Spice & Tea Exchange didn't know about the upcoming closure. The owners are about to experience their first major shopping holiday at their new location near the bridge.
A drone view of Sherman Minton Bridge on July 20, 2023. (WDRB photo)
"We've actually seen straight increase in our business and sales and things because of the holiday season," said Noah Gettelfinger, who manages the store. "So when this starts, and the bridge does close, it will be interesting to see if it goes down."
Overall, construction of the bridge is expected to be completed in the next several months.
"It is just something everyone is going to have to deal with, and if it is already on top of a busy season, it just makes it extra difficult," Gettelfinger said.
As for a timeline for the completion of the project, leaders said most major work is expected to be completed by early next year, barring any delays. To look at the estimated construction timeline, click here.
For more information about the project and to sign up for updates, click here.
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- Closed WB lane on top deck of Sherman Minton Bridge reopens after weekslong repair
- 'It was heavy' | Man says his car was damaged by object while driving on Sherman Minton Bridge
- New Albany business frustrated by Sherman Minton Bridge closure
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