Damage found to upper deck of Sherman Minton Bridge will close WB lane and New Albany exit for repairs

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- More damage was found on the top deck of the Sherman Minton Bridge's westbound lanes during this weekend's planned closure of the eastbound lanes.

In a release, the Sherman Minton Renewal project said during demolition work, part of the upper bridge deck was found to need repairs before traffic can be allowed to cross.

The lane closure will mean there will be no access from I-64 westbound to the New Albany exit (123) until further notice. One westbound lane will be closed on the upper deck, according to Sherman Minton Renewal spokesperson Andrea Brady.

Delays are expected, and drivers are being asked to find alternate routes when possible.

FILE - The Sherman Minton Bridge (WDRB/archive)

The damage was found during the planned weekend closure of the eastbound lanes of Interstate 64 crossing the bridge into Louisville from New Albany. Eastbound lanes closed around 10 p.m. Friday, June 16 and reopened before morning rush on Monday, June 19.

The afternoon rush on Monday is expected to be a bigger problem with only one westbound lane open to cross the bridge back into Indiana from Kentucky. Drivers are being asked to find alternate routes including Interstate 265.

The ongoing 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.

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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